Inspired by the traditional Christkindlmarkets of Germany and Austria, the annual market is held from late November through December 24 at Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago. The free event features international vendors selling handcrafted ornaments, gifts and toys as well as traditional German holiday sweets, foods and beverages. In addition to the holiday ambiance, the market offers several special events throughout December, including the tree lighting ceremony as well as live performances by choirs and bands.
Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza
50 W. Washington St.
Chicago, IL 60602
312-494-2175
christkindlmarket.com
For over 50 years, the trees along the Magnificent Mile district have been illuminated to signal the official start of the Chicago holiday season. More than one million lights decorate the area along North Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to Wacker Drive. Celebrate the season with a stroll down the avenue and enjoy the fanciful holiday window displays of the major department stores. The annual event kicks off in late November and lasts until after the New Year. In addition to the holiday decorations, the area offers world-class shopping, special events and activities throughout the season.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60602
magnificentmilelightsfestival.com
Every year the Lincoln Park Zoo is transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland as more than two million lights illuminate the zoo. Along with the festival of lights, a series of free seasonal festivities has made this one of the popular December events in the Windy City. Lions, bears, monkeys, tropical birds and sea lions are among the many animals living at the zoo throughout the year. Visitors may view the animal exhibits as well as special events such as photos with Santa, ice carving demonstrations and making holiday crafts. The zoo is open everyday and admission is always free.
Lincoln Park Zoo
2200 Canon Drive
Chicago, IL 60614
312-742-2000
lpzoo.org
Celebrate the chilly winter weather by ice skating at the McCormick Tribune Plaza and Ice Rink in downtown Chicago. Located within Millennium Park, at Michigan Avenue between Washington and Madison streets, the rink offers unlimited free ice skating when you bring your own ice skates. For visitors who do not have their own, skates are available on-site for a rental fee. The ice rink provides approximately 15,000 square feet of skating surface and views of the city skyline. During the month of December, visitors may enjoy skating to the sounds of Christmas music under the sparkling holiday lights.
McCormick Tribune Plaza and Ice Rink
55 North Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60601
312-742-5222
millenniumpark.org
