Community Corner
Top Classic Chicago Holiday Events
Looking to make the most out of the holiday season? These events will keep you entertained and full of holiday cheer.
Looking for things to do for the holidays in Chicago? Whether you live in the city or the suburbs, remember these Christmas classics.
Christmas Around the World & Holiday of Lights
What: This Museum of Science and Industry event began in 1942 with just one tree dedicated to the Allies of World War II. Today, the event includes a 45-foot tall Grand Tree with more than 30,000 lights and 1,000 ornaments adorning it. Additionally, the event will feature 50 smaller trees representing various cultures and holiday traditions.
Where: Museum of Science and Industry, 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive
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When: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Sunday, Jan. 6
Cost: included with general admission of $15 per adult
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More info: Visit the MSI Chicago website
Ice Skating at Millennium Park
What: The rink has brought together more than 100,000 skaters each year for the past 11 years of operation.
Where: Located on Michigan Avenue between Washington and Madison streets
When: Through mid-March
Cost: Free admission, skate rental for $10
More info: Visit the city's tourism site
More info: Visit The Magnificent Mile's website
Santa in the Sky
What: This event will feature Santa and his special helper, John Hancock Observatory mascot Seemore Miles. Other activities will include free face painting, various holiday activities, free family photos and one free child's ticket to the Shedd Aquarium.
Where: John Hancock Observatory, 875 N. Michigan Ave.
When: 1 to 5 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday in December through Dec. 24
Cost: Free with standard admission to the Hancock
More info: Visit the Santa in the Sky website
Zoo Lights
What: Besides a stunning display of lights, this annual family-oriented event will feature holiday crafts and activities, animal encounters, 3D displays, live ice carving, carousel and train rides, and a musical light show. Santa will be available for photos until Dec. 23, and the first 1,000 attendees each night will receive holiday specs.
Where: 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago
When: Dec. 23, 26–31; Jan. 1–6
Cost: Free
More info: Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo's website
Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier
What: This self-described "winter extravaganza" will feature indoor ice skating, rides, an indoor ferris wheel, an extreme ice trail ropes course, a vehicle display, a Reindeer Express Ride, a Winter Wonderfest Junior and more.
Where: Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
When: Through Sunday, Jan. 6
Cost: Admission is free, but Activity Wristbands will be required for various rides and attractions. Premium wristbands will cost $20; regular wristbands, $16.
More info: Visit Winter WonderFest's website
