12.19.2025 |
Living in the heart of downtown at Aqua at Lakeshore East serves up the very best of Chicago’s winter festivities, all easily accessible from your front door. December in the city is synonymous with sparkling lights, holiday celebrations, magnificent sights and indulgent treats. Whether you’re a resident, planning a winter visit, or searching for a new apartment home with incredible amenities and a perfect city location, this guide will inspire your December with festive cheer and unforgettable memories.
Soak Up the Holiday Spirit at Millennium Park
Just steps from Aqua at Lakeshore East, Millennium Park is transformed each December into a winter wonderland. The Millennium Park Holiday Tree lights up the Jay Pritzker Pavilion with a magical glow, accompanied by local choirs and family-friendly programming. Skate under the city skyline at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink or take a selfie at Cloud Gate ("The Bean"), which is often frosted with a light dusting of snow that adds to the city’s holiday charm.
Stroll Through the Chicago Christkindlmarket
The beloved Christkindlmarket in downtown’s Daley Plaza is a taste of German holiday tradition. Explore rows of vendor stalls offering hand-crafted ornaments, unique gifts, and traditional treats like hot chocolate, mulled wine, and warm candied nuts. The smell of roasted nuts and the sound of holiday music swirling through the air make for a festive outing for friends, couples, and families alike.
Take in Dazzling Light Displays
The city’s signature holiday light shows are essential for December fun. Just a short walk from Aqua, Maggie Daley Park and Millennium Park glow nightly with thousands of twinkling bulbs. Head down Michigan Avenue, where The Magnificent Mile is brilliantly illuminated for the holiday season. Zoolights at the Lincoln Park Zoo (a quick drive or transit ride north) is a free annual tradition featuring colorful, themed displays, ice carving demos, live music, and more.
Cheer for the Bears or the Bulls
Chicago’s love for sports is always in season. Stop by Soldier Field to catch the energy of a Chicago Bears football game or head to the United Center to watch the Chicago Bulls or Blackhawks battle it out on their home turf. December sports in Chicago bring electrifying energy and are best paired with one of the city’s classic deep-dish pizzas.
Winter Shopping and Festive Finds
From the high-end boutiques on the Magnificent Mile to State Street’s historic Marshall Field’s building (now Macy’s) complete with iconic holiday window displays, Chicago is a shopping lover’s paradise in December. For those seeking unique gifts, the nearby Randolph Street Holiday Market offers vintage treasures, handmade goods, and gourmet eats to fuel your browsing.
Savor Seasonal Flavors
December is the perfect excuse to get cozy in Chicago’s celebrated culinary scene. Savor rich hot chocolate at Ghirardelli on the Mag Mile or enjoy instant access to crafted cocktails and seasonal comfort food at FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar in the Radisson Blu hotel onsite.
Attend a Holiday Performance
Downtown is alive with the sounds of the season at this time of year. Experience classics like "The Nutcracker" at the Joffrey Ballet, take in a holiday concert at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, or enjoy family-friendly traditions like "A Christmas Carol" at the Goodman Theatre. For a less formal but equally magical evening, Aqua’s own Musician-in-Residence presents live music and festive concerts exclusively for residents.
Relax in Neighborhood Parks
Aqua at Lakeshore East is surrounded by green, open spaces that take on a quiet charm during the winter months. Lakeshore East Park and Grant Park offer scenic views of snowy trees, city skylines, and even the icy blue waters of Lake Michigan. Bundle up for a brisk walk, or take your pup to one of the local pet-friendly areas for some fresh air.
Indulge in Holiday Treats
During the holidays, Chicago bakeries and cafes roll out decadent seasonal pastries and desserts. Residents of Aqua can easily slip down to Eggy’s Diner for pecan rolls and holiday brunches or grab sweet treats at neighborhood cafes. Don’t forget to try traditional stollen or panettone from a local shop.
Host the Ultimate Holiday Gathering
With more than 80,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor amenities, residents at Aqua can host everything from an intimate holiday dinner in a private club suite to a movie marathon in the media room, or a friendly gathering in the billiards room. The dramatic skyline views from home set the perfect backdrop for celebrating together.
Why Choose Aqua at Lakeshore East for December (and Every Month)?
Aqua at Lakeshore East places you at the intersection of luxury living and Chicago’s vibrant December events. Wake up each morning to striking winter views from your panoramic private balcony, unwind after a busy day of holiday shopping in a fully equipped fitness center and sauna, or treat guests to gourmet meals prepared in your modern kitchen with full granite finishes and stainless steel appliances. From studio layouts to spacious two-bedroom homes, every option is tailored for style and comfort.
And with pet-friendly floors, in-home laundry, stunning city and lake views, and access to some of the best winter activities just steps from your door, Aqua at Lakeshore East is where you can truly experience a festive season in the city.
Ready to call Chicago your home for the holidays and beyond? Contact us today to set up a tour or learn more about available homes at Aqua at Lakeshore East Come live where the best of December—and every month—happens right outside your door.
