Holiday Fun
- Millennium Park (Michigan and Randolph) is the centerpiece for downtown holiday fun. The annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place at 6 p.m. Nov. 17 at Michigan and Washington. Also in the park, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink opens (Nov. 17-March 3, free but online tickets required) and a Holiday Art Market takes place Nov. 17-19. Holiday sing-alongs are scheduled from 6-7 p.m. Dec. 1, 8, 15. For more information, visit millenniumpark.org.
- Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival kicks off on Nov. 18 with fun events in Lights Festival Lane (401 N. Michigan) from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The festival parade, featuring floats, balloons and music from Sister Sledge, Colin Stough and The Sugarhill Gang, steps off from Oak and Michigan at 5:30 p.m. The day’s festivities come to an end with a fireworks display over the Chicago River at 7 p.m. All activities are free. For more information, visit themagnificentmile.com.
- The popular holiday outdoor market, Christkindlmarket, returns at three area locations: Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington (Nov. 17-Dec. 24), Gallagher Way at Wrigley Field, 3635 N. Clark (Nov. 17-Dec. 31) and RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora (Nov. 17-Dec. 24). Dozens of vendors sell crafts, ornaments, snacks and those collectible holiday mugs. Admission is free; new this year is a chance to move past the long lines with a $25 fast entry pass purchased in advance at eventbrite.com. For more information, visit christkindlmarket.com.
- ZooLights features a dazzling array of new LED light displays with interactive elements across the Lincoln Park Zoo grounds, including a garden-themed light show on the south lawn. Plus there are photo ops, costumed characters, ice carvers and Victorian carolers, and the Pepper Family Wildlife Center transforms into the North Pole, where Santa will take children’s requests. From Nov. 17-Jan. 7 at 2001 N. Clark. Admission: $7, $10, free on Mondays. Visit lpzoo.org/zoolights.
- With a backdrop of the downtown skyline, the Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon (Nov. 17-March 10) features a winding path unique to the city. It’s a popular outdoor experience, so make reservations in advance. Admission is free Monday-Thursday and for 11 a.m. sessions Friday through Sunday (and $5 for other time slots Friday through Sunday, as well as holidays) if you bring your own skates. Skate rental is $16–$22. For more information, visit maggiedaleypark.com.
