Chicago is a city that has a million activities going on during the winter season. From shopping to movies and shows, there is always something new to see. Here are some of the exciting things to do in Chicago this year.
Millennium Park Ice Skating
Ice Skating is a winter activity that is fun for the entire family. No matter how cold it gets, bundling up and enjoying some hot cocoa before gliding across an outdoor skating rink is very enjoyable. If the cold weather is too much to handle, there are plenty of indoor skating rinks in Chicago as well. A well known winter tradition here in Chicago is Ice Skating at Millennium Park. There is nothing more delightful than skating with a breathtaking vista of the skyline of downtown Chicago. Entry to the rink is free, and skate rental is only ten dollars. The rink is open to the public for skating from November 14th until March 8th.
Zoolights at the Lincoln Park Zoo
Zoolights is a great family event that people of all ages can enjoy. This annual winter tradition turns the Lincoln Park Zoo into a winter wonderland of lights and festivities. The animals even stick around to join in the fun. The first thousand people through the gates each night will receive special glasses, through which the spectacular light displays can be viewed. Everyone else can enjoy the lights with normal vision, as well as other activities like ice carving demonstrations. The zoo’s ice skating rink will be open for attendees to enjoy, and there will be lots of hot cocoa to go around. Zoolights will be open from November 28th until January 4th at the Lincoln Park Zoo for anyone living or visiting Chicago to appreciate.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a family tradition for anyone that lives near Chicago. November 22nd will kick off the holiday season with some of the best shopping in the country. The pioneer court will feature live music and plenty of delicious food to go around. Lights Festival Lane will hold an interactive wonderland for children of all ages to enjoy. There will be a tree lighting parade along Michigan Avenue that will be lead by our cherished friends Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. As the night comes to a close, the grand finale will be a fireworks spectacular over the Chicago River.
Macy’s Great Tree Lighting
An unforgettable event to savor is the lighting of the 45 foot tall tree in Macy’s Walnut Room. This will be the 107th year for this event to take place, and Ryan Seacrest will be doing the honors. New this year, the lights will display a color theme change four times an hour. With over 6,000 lights and 3,000 ornaments, it is sure to be incredible. The lighting ceremony will take place November 8th, and American Idol winner Lee DeWyze will be there to delight the attendees with music.
Chicago is a wonderful place, especially in the winter months. There are so many things to see and do that one will never have a chance to do everything. Some of the must see activities being held in Chicago this season are listed here, but do not let that be the limit of your Chicago experience.
