This year obviously looks a bit different, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have any fun! Here’s a list of what’s going on in and around Chicago. Everything is COVID safe and extra festive. Let’s get started:
1. MACY’S WALNUT ROOM & STATE STREET HOLIDAY WINDOWS
When: Now through Jan. 3
Where: 111 N. State St.
Description: The Walnut Room reopened for Great Tree viewing and take-out orders. Macy’s is offering the opportunity to bring the Walnut Room dining to your home through convenient, family-style takeout orders and meal kits. They also have a fairy princess there and don’t make sure to check out all their festive windows on your way in and out.
2. ART ON theMART: THE JOFFREY BALLET’S “THE NUTCRACKER”
When: Now through Dec. 31
Where: 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza
Description: The Nutcracker presentation for Art on theMART, set to the music of Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. The performance runs nightly at 7 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., in partnership with Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. The projections — displayed on theMART’s 2.5 acre river-facade — can be viewed for free from the jetty section of the Chicago Riverwalk on Wacker Drive between Wells Street and Franklin Street.
3. HOLIDAY MAGIC AT THE BROOKFIELD ZOO
When: Now through December 31
Description: The Brookfield Zoo has a brilliantly lit 600 foot long tunnel featuring thousands of colored lights all synchronized to music. They also have lots of other festive decorations as well as LED animal sculptures, a 41 foot tall tree and a 20 foot lit orb that is ideal for Instagram selfies and lots of holiday photos.
4. MAGGIE DALEY PARK SKATING RIBBON
When: Nov. 20-Feb. 28
Where: 337 E. Randolph St.
Description: Come and skate the quarter mile Alpine inspired ice-skating ribbon, while taking in the magnificent views of the Chicago Skyline. Masks and reservations required.
5. ZOOLIGHTS AT LINCOLN PARK ZOO
When: Nov. 21-Jan. 3
Where: 2001 N. Clark St.
Description: Zoolights, a Chicago tradition, is back at Lincoln Park Zoo for a fun and safe holiday activity! Enjoy socially-distant visits with Santa, a holiday pop-up bar, an Enchanted Forest, Light Maze Presented by Invesco QQQ, sweet treats of all kinds, and much more!
6. PRIVATE HOLIDAY LIGHTS TROLLEY TOUR
Where: Aries Charter
Description: Ready to get your family out of the house for some good, old-fashioned holiday fun? Get together safely with those you love and sleigh the season with a Holiday Trolley or bus ride driven by Aries Charter Transportation! Aries Charter can help you experience the magic of holiday light tours without distraction! Allow them to drive while you enjoy the festive light displays. It’s a unique and safe alternative to make 2020’s holiday season brighter. And let’s face it, we could all use a little extra cheer right now!
7. VIRTUAL CHRISTKINDLMARKET
When: Now through Dec. 31
Description: The first-ever virtual Christkindlmarket “Home for the Holidays,” features an online marketplace, family-friendly events, and fun interactive activities. The market features ornaments, gifts, sweets and treats from Germany and beyond, as well as special limited-edition gift box sets, including German holiday favorites and “must-haves.” Other special activities include live online events, prize giveaways, and intercultural storytelling. Visitors can also explore German customs, and participate in giveaway events and a daily Advent Calendar.
8. VIRTUAL “A CHRISTMAS CAROL”
When: Dec. 1-31
Description: Enjoy this gift to the Chicago community. Experience Goodman Theatre’s “A Christmas Carol” anew with a FREE audio streaming version. The voices you love–including Larry Yando as Scrooge–and Goodman Theatre’s signature soundscape come to vivid life in your home. Whether your loved ones are across the miles or across the room–come together and listen to Chicago’s favorite holiday tradition for more than 43 years.
9. LET IT SHINE LIGHTS SHOW
When: Now
Description: The Let It Shine Light Show is North Shore’s largest drive thru world of Christmas lights at Northbrook Court. Guests can stay in their cars and drive through this fun experience. There are 1 million LED lights that to help immerse yourselves into a wonderland of dazzling archways, sparkling candy canes, glowing snowmen, and more! You must have tickets and they are selling fast!
10. CHITOWN HOLIDAY DRIVE-IN MOVIES
When: Now until December 31
Description: The ChiT0wn Movies Drive-In Theater is located at 2343 South Throop Street and his showing classic holiday movies every night in December. Scheduled films include Elf, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, Polar Express, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, The Santa Clause, and more! Tickets are available at www.ChiTownMovies.com. Also another Drive-In option is the Lincoln Yards Drive-In.