The 3 Best Things to Do in Chicago During the Holiday Season

Posted by Leo Clark. on Monday, November 26th, 2018 at 9:02am.


Aside from the freezing temperatures and snow-covered sidewalks, Downtown Chicago is a great place to be during the festive holiday season. Countless bars and restaurants around the city serve up some delicious seasonal drinks and cocktails, the long list of theaters all throughout Chicago all have their holiday shows playing right now, and let’s be honest—who doesn’t love to go ice skating in Millennium Park at least once during this time of the year? 

As most Chicagoans know, there’s hardly a shortage of things to see and do during the holiday season. But with everyone’s schedule also being just a little busier over the next several weeks, we also know it’s hard to squeeze in everything. And with that in mind, here’s a quick look at just a few of our favorite things to do in Chicago over the holiday season, just in case you need a little guidance when making your holiday plans. 

Visit the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza 

We know, we know—chances are you’ve been to the Christkindlmarket 1,000 times by now. But it’s just one of those things many of us can’t resist. And those commemorative mugs they have every year also keep bringing us back, which is why a visit to the annual holiday market downtown tops our list. 

Go watch The Nutcracker at The House Theatre  

Another one of our favorite holiday traditions is paying a visit to The House Theatre for a ballet-free version of The Nutcracker. The show is exceptional and fun for all ages. And if you’ve still never been to The House Theatre, we also recommend checking out their shows all year long. Truly one of the Chicago’s hidden gems.

Eat & Drink Inside City Winery’s Heated Domes on the Riverwalk

Is there anything more cozy than those heated, igloo-style domes City Winery puts out every fall? Each dome features a Bluetooth® speaker, a small heater, beautiful lighting and furniture, and of course scenic views of the river. And regardless of the weather conditions outside, the experience inside one of these things never lets you down.