Start the season off right with the McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade. Ronald McDonald leads this parade down State Street with Santa Claus and others on Thanksgiving Day. Families celebrate this tradition by lining State Street and watching as entertainers and gigantic helium balloons make their way down State Street.
McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade
State St. from Congress to Randolph
Chicago, IL 60602
explorechicago.org
While Black Friday shoppers battle the crowds along Michigan Avenue and State Street, stop for a moment at Daley Plaza to visit Santa Claus and watch the Tree Lighting Ceremony. Stick around for hearty German food, mulled wine and shopping, at the Christkindlmarket. Meet people from all over the world at this great German American festival through the month of December.
Daley Plaza
118 North Clark St.
Chicago, Illinois 60611
312-644-2662
christkindlmarket.com
Visit Macy's in the old Marshall Field's building on State and Washington Streets. Dine in the Walnut Room in front of a grand two-story Christmas tree, or visit Santa Claus at the Cozy Cloud Cottage on the fifth floor. Be sure to pay attention to the creative and bright window displays along State Street, featuring charming holiday stories for both children and adults to enjoy. Festivities begin in late November and commence on December 24.
Macy's State Street
111 North State St.
Chicago, IL 60602
312-781-1000
macys.com
Head over to Michigan Avenue the Saturday before Thanksgiving, between Oak Street and Wacker Drive, for one of the greatest holiday traditions in Chicago. Enjoy musical performance and activities along the street, while waiting for the parade. Beginning at 5:30 p.m., Mickey Mouse and friends will stroll down Michigan Avenue, illuminating the trees in lights marking the official start of the holiday season in Chicago. Stay after for fireworks over the Chicago River and visit retailers along Michigan Avenue that will extend shopping hours until 10 p.m.
Magnificent Mile
Michigan Avenue between Wacker Dr. and Oak St.
Chicago, IL 60611
312-327-2300
magnificentmilelightsfestival.com
Meander through Lincoln Park Zoo after dark with the grounds illuminated in sparkling lights. Visit animal exhibits and take in the snow-covered trees, visit Santa Claus and see animal-shaped ice sculptures, all while drinking a delicious cup of hot cocoa.
Lincoln Park Zoo
2001 North Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60614
312-742-2000
lpzoo.com
There is nothing more romantic than ice skating with a loved one beneath the city's skyline in Millennium Park. Opened from November to March--weather-permitting, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink on Michigan Avenue is a popular winter destinations for residents and tourists alike. Stop inside the Park Cafe for hot chocolate and coffee to stay warm. Skating is free and visitor can rent ice skates for a $10 fee.
Millennium Park
201 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60602
312-742-5222
millenniumpark.org
During the holiday season, Navy Pier transforms into a charming Christmas town, featuring hundreds of Christmas trees and lights, and tons of activities for the family to enjoy. The Fest offers indoor carnival rides including a ferris wheel, the Reindeer Express Train Ride, the Pepsi Create-a-Cookie Cottage, and an indoor ice skating rink. Admission to the Winter WonderFest is free, but there is a charge to go on the rides. The Fest runs throughout December.
Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
312-595-PIER
winterwonderfest.com
Celebrate a Chicago winter in style by going to a Chicago Bears game. The only football team in Chicago and the one true love of many Chicagoans, attending a Bears game is a necessity. Make this an experience not to forget--but remember to wear electric socks and many layers.
Soldier Field
425 East McFetridge Dr.
Chicago, IL 60605
312-235-7000
soldierfield.net
chicagobears.com
