It’s that time of year again where holiday joy and spirit are being spread around the city of Chicago. Lights and decorated trees are not the only exciting things the city has planned to spread delight this Christmas season. If you’re heading downtown anytime soon check out the Christkindlmarket on Daley Plaza in the Chicago Loop for a truly cultural experience. This outdoor market is free to walk around, but bring extra money if you plan to try one of the many German food venders. Food and beverages are not the only items sold, clothing and other hand crafted German inspired goods can be purchased as well. So if you’re anywhere near Daley Plaza be sure to check out the Christkindlmarket before it closes on December 24th.
If you are already downtown for the day checking out the market, jump on the nearest trolley to the Museum of Science and Industry to see the Christmas Around the World exhibit. Although the 45-foot grand tree is the center of attention, numerous other trees showcasing cultures from around the world will be presented. Tickets are $27 for adults and the exhibit runs until January 5th. So if you’re interested in seeing what Christmas is like from a different cultural perspective, be sure to check out the Christkindlmarket or Christmas Around the World this holiday season.
If you are interested in a beautiful scenery during this Christmas season, head to one of the enchanting Zoo Lights exhibits at one of Chicago’s two zoos. Brookfield Zoo will have indoor animal exhibits open and caroling to the animals available during the lights exhibits. They will also provide spirited live entertainment to enjoy while walking amongst the twinkling lights. It is open from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Saturdays/Sundays from now through Dec. 22, and every day but Wednesdays, Dec. 26-31. Adult admission is $13.
Lincoln Park Zoo is another great option with free admission to its showcase, which is open 5 p.m. until 9 p.m each weekend from now until Dec. 13, from which point the lights will be open each night through Jan. 5 except for Dec. 24/25. Lincoln Park Zoo also has an exciting new addition of ice skating, open from 12 p.m through 9 p.m. each day from now until March 2 except for Dec. 24/25. Go spend time with the polar bears and penguins to truly get in the holiday season!
Feeling nostalgic? Visit the free exhibit in which the classic holiday movie The Christmas Story comes to life. The story returns to the city on which it is based at the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond, Indiana. See the displays of scenes from the movie or take pictures with Santa at the snowy-hill replica from the movie. One may also vote in the Ugly Lamp Contest up until Dec. 16, or admire all the quirky Christmas trees that are decorated by local businesses such as Schoop’s or the boy scouts. Be sure to visit the gift shop on your way out to buy your own leg lamp replica! Open from now until Jan. 5.