Holiday activities in Chicago and beyond? Yeah, we’ve got ‘em.
There’s no shortage of great stuff to do, places to go and people to see this season. From family outings, to date nights and friendly get-togethers, we’ve got plenty of ideas to keep your holidays entertaining.
The Theater Circuit
Hellcab
Profiles Theatre, Chicago
Through January 27
A fantastic play with a Christmas Eve theme—and now running through January 27.
The Second City’s “Holidays in the Heights”
Metropolis Performing Arts Center, Arlington Heights
Through January 4
It’s a theme that makes for perfect comedic fodder—family gatherings at the holidays. Don’t miss this Second City export to the ‘burbs.
Theatre Wit’s “Santaland Diaries”
1229 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago
Through Deecember 30
David Sedaris fans will enjoy this satirical trip down the author’s holiday memory lane.
Music Box Christmas Show: “It’s a Wonderful Life”
3733 Southport Ave., Chicago
Through December 24
Instead of trying to cram around boob tube for this Jimmy Stewart classic, take the family out to see the movie how it was meant to be seen—on the big screen. Jammies and hot cocoa optional. And get ready—there’s a post-screening sing-a-long.
Psst … You can also catch this perennial favorite at Wilmette Theatre on December 21.
Family Fun
The Storybook Mom
Madame ZuZu’s Teahouse, 582 Roger Williams, Highland Park
December 21
Cut back on the holiday crazy time with a Friday night story time at Billy Corgan’s new teahouse in Highland Park.
Friday Night Lights: Polar Party
Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago
December 21
You can make a trip to Lincon Park’s ZooLights even more interactive for your 4- and 5-year-olds with this awesome kids’ program.
Shedd Holiday Breakfasts
Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
Saturday, Dec. 22
Make your reservations for a special treat on Saturday morning at Shedd. The experience includes a private viewing of “Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas 4-D Experience,” a visit with Santa, reserved seats for “A Holiday Fantasea” and more.
Morton Arboretum Gnome Hunt
4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle
Ongoing, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily
Get the kids outdoors to burn off some of that pent up energy with a trip to Morton Arboretum for their Gnome Hunt.
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St. and Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Through January 6
The Museum of Science and Industry does it up right for the holidays. Its annual display of holiday trees is a showstopper and will entertain both the youngest and the oldest in your crowd this weekend.
Chicago Botanic Garden Wonderland Express
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
Through January 6
This North Shore tradition is fun for the whole family. Enjoy a long garden stroll under thousands of twinkling lights, the miniature trains, the gingerbread village and more.
Date Night
Holidays in the Thorne Miniature Rooms
The Art Institute of Chicago, 11 S. Michigan Ave.
Ongoing
For something just a little different, consider an afternoon stroll through the Art Institute and a visit to the Thorne Miniature Rooms, adorned for the holidays.
Christmas Bingo: It’s a Ho-Ho-Holy Night
Metropolis Performing Arts Center, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights
December 17
Here’s your interactive theater fun for the season, from the creators of “Late Nite Catechism.”
Kiss Kiss Cabaret Holiday Spectacular
2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
Through December 21
If your date is feeling cheeky, then head to one of Chicago’s signature cabaret/burlesque shows.
Jingle Jazzin’ Evenings
Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
Through December 23
Spend an evening enjoying the Shedd’s exhibits with live music, a cocktail and food. It’s a great way to experience the aquarium and see it in a whole new light.
