Come Friday, Thanksgiving will be over, but that doesn’t mean the holiday weekend slows down at all. You’ll still need ways to occupy your time (and work off all that turkey!), especially if you have guests in town, so share some of the best our favorite city has to offer. Visit the world’s no. 1 museum for a day of family-friendly activities before spending your evening at one of two beloved holiday traditions. You can also make your way to a suburban museum for a new exhibit where kids can get creative.
Of course, there is also a little thing called Black Friday. If you’re planning on finding the best deals, shop at Bloomingdale’s and receive a free sweet treat from Sprinkles. You can also visit the newest section of our redesigned website to shop and give back, all while lounging around in your pajamas.
Here are five ways to keep your holiday weekend going:
Sprinkles Loves Bloomingdale’s
Nov. 28
Chicago
If you’re one of the brave souls who ventures out on Black Friday, shop at Bloomingdale’s and then stop by Sprinkles, where you can show your receipt for a buy one, get one free cupcake or scoop of ice cream.
23rd Annual Wreathing of the Lions
Nov. 28
Chicago
See the Art Institute’s lions get a festive makeover as you sip free hot cocoa and listen to the Apollo Chorus of Chicago. Then, families are invited to create wreaths inspired by their own traditions.
ZooLights
Opens Nov. 28
Chicago
Lincoln Park Zoo will be all lit up for the holidays starting this weekend. Enjoy photos with Santa, holiday crafts, 3D displays, musical light shows, live ice carving and more.
Wonderland Express
Opens Nov. 28
Glencoe
This family favorite is back! Enjoy caroling all weekend long and Dec. 6, or come back Dec. 13 and 27 for ice sculpting. No matter when you visit, you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of Thomas the Tank Engine and Nik Wallenda walking between the Marina City towers.
Build It!
Nov. 28-30
Glenview
When the temperature drops, the best place to spend your time is inside the warmth of local museums. Check out the newest exhibit at Kohl Children’s Museum, which opened Nov. 25, and lets kids build their own Chicago skyscrapers, check a building’s strength and stability, and more.
Bonus:
- Love deals but hate crowds? Then visit Make It Better’s very own Shop for Good from the comfort of your own home. Ten percent of your purchases will benefit local nonprofits, including our 2014 Philanthropy Awards winners. Now that’s what we call a win-win!
