12.03.2021 |
A couple weeks back we gave a small preview of Chicago’s holiday spirit with our ice skating post. Today we’ll go through a few more places you should plan to visit this holiday season! The windy city sure knows how to get everyone in the Christmas spirit with its Christmas markets, holiday light tours, city decorations, and of course, the snow! With December now here, it’s only fair to get in that holiday spirit ourselves.
Visit the Christmas Tree at Millennium Park
Chicago Christmas wouldn’t be complete without visiting the iconic Millennium Park Christmas Tree. Spanning all the way back to 1913, this is the longest standing Christmas tradition for the city of Chicago. Every year around mid-November, there is a lighting ceremony that attracts a large part of the city. The event consists of live performances, fireworks, and Christmas carols. Plan a visit and don’t forget to get a picture!
Visit a Holiday Light Tour
Christmas light tours are something everyone can enjoy! Fortunately, there are several places you can check out for this close to home at Aqua at Lakeshore East. The most well-known around the area is the Lincoln ZooLight Festival. Everyday when the sun comes down, more specifically 4-10pm, Lincoln Park Zoo opens its doors to a zoo illuminated with tons of Christmas decorations. In case you’re planning on going make sure to check out their calendar for free nights and events. Other places you can check out for Christmas lights include Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden and Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum.
Christmas Markets
Christmas Markets are a great way to get the full Christmas experience. Originally stemming from European heritage, Christmas markets offer visitors traditional German foods like sausages, pretzels, holiday pastries, and hot red wine, better known as gluhwein. You can also expect to find fun holiday gifts like ornaments, candles, art, and other festive items. Immerse yourself in the full experience with music, lights, and Christmas food aromas at Winterland at Gallagher Way and Christkindlmarket in downtown Chicago. Fun fact, Christkindlmarket was voted the best Christmas market in the United States! Don’t miss it!
Chicago is one of the best cities in the United States to get you in the holiday spirit. With tons of holiday activities throughout the city, there might not be enough time to go through all of them! Let us know how you like to celebrate your holidays!
