The holidays are a magical time in the city, especially with young children. There are so many fun things to do with kids in Chicago, and each one of them is an opportunity to create a lasting vacation memory. The whole family will be dazzled by the city's massive Christmas tree, the historic zoo covered in millions of lights, and the whimsical holiday parade starring both Santa and Mickey Mouse. Here's a list of the best kid-friendly holiday activities and events in Chicago.
Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a can't-miss holiday event. The nation's largest evening holiday celebration, the cherished annual event includes family-friendly activities, live performances and a spectacular fireworks display over the Chicago River.
The main event is the magical evening show with festive floats, giant helium balloons, live bands, celebrities, musical performances, Minnie and Mickey Mouse, and more. It all leads up to the dazzling moment when more than a million lights illuminate the trees along iconic Michigan Avenue.
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
In the winter, the historic Lincoln Park Zoo is covered in more than 2 million twinkling lights for a breathtaking holiday display. ZooLights is a beloved annual spectacle that covers the lakeside zoo in moving light displays choreographed to festive music. The family-favorite event also includes holiday crafts, photos with Santa, snacks, live ice sculpting, animal encounters, train rides, a carousel, and much more. Make sure to get your tickets in advance.
Christmas around the world
Christmas Around the World and the Holidays of Light is an annual celebration of the holiday at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. The exhibit features the stunning Grand Tree, surrounded by more than 50 decorated trees representing Chicago's diverse international communities and their holiday traditions. Indoor snow showers will also take place.
Tip: The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is a treasure trove of hands-on, kid-friendly exhibits, so leave plenty of time to explore.
Ice skating at Millennium Park
Chicago's famous Millennium Park is a winter wonderland for families, featuring two unique ice skating rinks on the park's lakefront grounds. First, take a spin around the famous ice skating rink in the city's Millennium Park, which is located directly below the famous Cloud Gate statue (also known as “The Bean”). You will enjoy views of the snow-covered city skyline. Next, head to Maggie Daley Park to skate along the quaint skating strip that winds through frosty pines.
The lake lights up
With lots of holiday-themed fun,The lake lights up inMarine pier It really has something for the whole family. This is an indoor/outdoor winter wonderland It will include twinkling light displays, a lakeside ice skating rink, cozy outdoor fire pits, live performances, artisan markets, art demonstrations, craft workshops, ax throwing, and more.
Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park
Start the holiday with the 111th annual lighting of Chicago's official Christmas tree in Millennium Park, complete with music, special guests and fireworks. The towering tree, decorated with thousands of twinkling lights, is sure to dazzle children of all ages. You can catch them shining near the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Washington Street from November through January.
Winterland on Gallagher Road
Celebrate the season at Lakeview's iconic Wrigley Field. Winterland on Gallagher Road It takes place just outside the stadium and includes an ice rink (with sleds and cars galore), an ice slide, rides, Santa's workshop, and more. Enjoy plenty of family-friendly holiday activities, including wreath making, menorah lighting and holiday workshops Movie screenings.
Black Wreath at the Art Institute of Chicago
The annual black wreath was carried out The Art Institute of Chicago for over 30 years. This beloved Chicago tradition involves placing giant holiday wreaths on the massive lions that flank the museum's grand entrance on Michigan Avenue. And if you're thinking of visiting an art institute, take advantage Opportunities for free admission. All Chicago children under 14 and teens 17 and under can enjoy free tickets year-round.
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Create unforgettable vacation memories with a trip to one of Chicago's famous theaters. There are plenty of winter and holiday shows for the whole family, from classic Christmas plays to enchanting ballets. You could even start a new holiday tradition.
Holiday events at Macy's on State Street
Every winter, Macy's on State Street transforms its storefront windows into a fantasy holiday world. Combining traditional old school art with gorgeous visual elements, the windows are decorated with intricate and imaginative scenes that will fill little ones with wonder. Last year's themes included Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Paddington Bear, The Nutcracker, and more.
Tip: Stop for lunch in the historic Walnut Room inside Macy's to see the 45-foot-tall great tree decorated with more than 1,200 ornaments and 25,000 twinkling lights.
Vacation Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Hidden in the suburbs just outside Chicago, Brookfield Zoo Great place for a long time Holiday Magic Light Festival.Be dazzled by the illuminated colorful displays featuring over 2 million sparkling LEDs A full schedule of live entertainment like ice sculpting demonstrations, carolers, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus and more.
Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden
Stroll through an enchanting, illuminated corridor during Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden. This special after-dark event turns the mile-long trail into a holiday wonderland, complete with a chorus of singing trees, a waterfall of cascading light, a towering cathedral of thousands of twinkling lights, dazzling light displays, and more.
CTA Vacation Train
Every winter, you can find Santa zipping through town on the city's elevated train system. The CTA Holiday Train is one of Chicago's most unique holiday traditions. The entire “L” train, towing Santa and his sleigh, is decorated with twinkle lights, red bows and more holiday decor. Climb aboard the ship and you'll be greeted by dwarves handing out candy canes. The train runs from late November to late December. Check the CTA website for an updated schedule.
Tip: The CTA Holiday Bus brings the same holiday spirit to bus riders as it travels through Chicago neighborhoods.
Lighting at Morton Arboretum
This living, outdoor museum hosts a spectacular winter light show every year. Lighting: tree lights At Morton Arboretum It features interactive light effects that highlight the natural beauty of hundreds of towering trees. There are also crackling fires with mini drinks for the little ones and seasonal drinks for the parents.
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