Dec 16, 2015

As they say, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year”. Whether you believe that or not, you definitely won’t want to pass up the fun holiday happenings in the Chicagoland area.

To help you out, we’ve compiled a short list of some things to do, so you can have a little fun this month before the winter months ahead leave you trapped at home.

Check it out:

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Skating Ribbon

Maggie Daley Park from late Nov. – Mar.

Hours: See on website

Head over to the heart of downtown Chicago and get your skate on! A ribbon of ice winds through a rolling landscape that provides you with a skating experience unlike any other. Rent some skates, catch the scenery and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate afterwards.

More info

Naper Lights

Naper Settlement in Downtown Naperville from Nov. 27 – Dec. 31

Hours: 5 PM -9 PM

Free

If you live near the suburbs, you might want to enjoy the Christmas lights extravaganza with a combination of holiday displays for you and your family or friends to enjoy. If you’re looking to take a nice walk and enjoy the sights, then this is a great event for you.

More info

Winter Wonderfest

Festival Hall at Navy Pier from Dec. 14 – Jan. 10

Hours: 10 AM – 8 PM

Free

Enjoy dozens of rides, slides, ice skating, photo opportunities and more all at Navy Pier this Holiday Season. Plus, it’s all indoors so you won’t have to worry about throwing on some extra layers. Expect crowds.

More info

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Morton Arboretum Christmas Lights

Morton Arboretum from Dec. 15 – Jan. 2

Hours: 5 PM – 9:30 PM

This event has been declared a “must-see destination” by the Chicago Tribune. Take a walk and tour the annual display of lights, sights and sounds that will transform a walk in the woods into a colorful and delightful experience. The Morton Arboretum will glow with dazzling LED lights that respond to your touch and voice. Pretty cool, right?

More info 

Blue Man Group

Briar Street Theatre from Dec. 15 – Jan. 10

Blue Man Group returns with a new stage show that combines music, technology and comedy to create a form of entertainment that appeals to all ages. Purchase your tickets and bring the family for a good time.

More info

Wonderland Express

Chicago Botanic Garden from Dec. 18 – Jan. 3

Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM

The Wonderland Express is one of Chicago area’s top holiday “must-sees”. It features a train running through an indoor garden past miniature buildings at Chicago Botanic Garden. A great photo opportunity with this fun holiday exhibition!

More info

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Chicago Scene’s New Years Eve Party

The Drake Hotel on Dec. 31

Hours: 9 PM – 2 AM

This 16th annual New Year’s Eve bash will feature four ballrooms complete with DJs, 45 bartenders and a balloon drop. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate with your friends, then this is it. Make your way to The Drake Hotel for Chicago’s longest running NYE party.

More info

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Navy Pier on Dec. 31

Hours: Midnight

Free

Looking for a place to celebrate New Year’s with the family or someone you love? Bundle up and swing by Navy Pier to catch a gorgeous display of fireworks. It’s Chicago’s only lakefront midnight fireworks show, so be sure to check it out.

More info