5 Things to Do: Dec. 23-25

This weekend, find the perfect hostess gift, entertain out-of-town guests, or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of the season. Happy holidays! Jove T’s Holiday Cookie Shop Dec. 22-23 Chicago If you’re looking for a last-minute gift or treats for your holiday party, visit this Holiday Cookie Shop from Cindy’s Executive Pastry Chef Jove […]

5 Things to Do: Dec. 16-18

It’s the weekend before Hanukkah and Christmas, so take some time to relax (or finish up last-minute shopping) with these events around Chicago. CTA Holiday Train Celebration Dec. 16 Evanston Wherever you’re heading this weekend, take the CTA Holiday Train, which will run on the Purple Line Dec. 16-17. Enjoy free taffy apples (while supplies […]

2016’s Best New Cookbooks for Holiday Giving

Another year, another 3,458 cookbooks (approximately) published. While many books are just peachy on a tablet or e-reader, there’s something about the hands-on approach with cookbooks, and they’re a gift that everyone loves to get. Personally, I read ‘em like novels, and I particularly connect with the authors who really share a part of themselves; […]

5 Things to Do: Dec. 9-11

This weekend, watch a holiday classic with the CSO, build a gingerbread house, meet Santa and more. “It’s a Wonderful Life” in Concert Dec. 9-11 Chicago If this classic movie is always on your holiday must-watch list, do something new this year with a viewing accompanied by Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Gingerbread Jubilee Dec. 10 Glenview Build a […]

Joyce DiDonato: In the Midst of Chaos, How Do You Find Peace?

In the midst of chaos, how do you find peace? This question seems to be written for this particular time — in the aftermath of our election, during an frenetic holiday season. But actually, international opera star Joyce DiDonato penned it immediately following the Paris bombings, more than a year ago. This question also inspired […]

7 Books You Can Gift to Any Reader (or Non-Reader)

A great book is a gift that never goes out of style. Reduce your holiday shopping stress by picking up one of these seven books for every type of person on your list. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone: The Illustrated Edition J. K. Rowling, Illustrated by Jim Kay With the release of “Harry Potter […]

Joffrey Ballet’s Sparkling New 'Nutcracker'

The Joffrey Ballet takes “The Nutcracker” to a dynamically different time and place in its groundbreaking new production of the holiday favorite. Yes, mice will take the stage in The Joffrey Ballet’s new production of “The Nutcracker” at the Auditorium Theatre this December. But Ashley Wheater, the company’s artistic director, declined to reveal the size […]

5 Things to Do: Dec. 2-4

Holiday fun continues this weekend at Navy Pier, Brookfield Zoo and LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago. Plus, stop by two more shopping events. Holiday Bricktacular Opens Dec. 1 Schaumburg LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago is turning into a bricktacular holiday wonderland this month. Visitors can take pictures with the life-sized LEGO Santa, build an ornament for the […]

5 Things to Do: Thanksgiving Weekend 2016

Whether you’re looking for ways to entertain out-of-town guests or work off all that turkey (and stuffing, and mashed potatoes, and pie, and …), here are five things to do this Thanksgiving weekend. Wonderland Express Opens Nov. 25 Glencoe This seasonal favorite is back with model trains, indoor snow, mini Chicago landmarks and more. Throughout […]