Chicago Tree Lighting
When: Nov. 23
Cost: Free!
Time: 4:30 p.m.
Where: Daley Plaza at Washington Street and Dearborn Street
What: The Chicago Christmas Tree lighting ceremony is an annual tradition. The ceremony features holiday entertainment, visits with Santa, and, of course, the lighting of the over 50-foot high Christmas tree.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
When: Nov. 19
Cost: Free!
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Where: Michigan Avenue
What: The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Parade is one of the nation’s largest evening holiday event. During the day, visitors enjoy family activities, live entertainment, and shopping on Michigan Avenue. The lighting procession is kicked off by a float carrying Mickey and Minnie Mouse, with Disney characters, musical performances, celebrities, and Santa following. The parade ends in fireworks over the Chicago River.
Ice Skating at Millenium Park
When: Nov. 18, 2011-March 11, 2012, weather permitting
Cost: Free! Skates can be rented for $10
Time: Monday through Thursday: Noon-8 p.m.
Friday: Noon-10 p.m.
Saturday (through Dec.17): 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Saturday (beginning Jan. 7): 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
*holiday hours differ
Where: Millennium Park @ Michigan Avenue & Washington Street, Chicago
What: The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is open annually for all visitors. It is a popular attraction, however, and can become crowded, especially on holidays and weekends.
Winter Wonderfest
When:Dec. 2, 2011-Jan.8, 2012
Cost: prices vary
Time:
Dec. 2-17
Sunday through Thursday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Dec. 18-Jan. 8
Sunday through Thursday: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
Where: Navy Pier
What: An annual winter festival that includes attractions such as an indoor ice rink, amusement rides, an indoor Ferris wheel, a climbing wall and high ropes course, bounce slides and obstacle courses, carousel, and other holiday crafts/activities.
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
When: Nov. 25-27; Dec. 2-4, 9-11, 16-23, 26-31; Jan. 1
Cost: Free!
Time: 5-9 p.m.
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo @ 2200 North Cannon Drive, Chicago
What: Lincoln Park Zoo, which normally closes at sundown, extends its hours from 5-9 p.m. and decorates the zoo with over two million Christmas lights and decorations. As well as regular zoo attractions, visitors are also able to meet with Santa, watch ice carving demonstrations, make holiday crafts, and go on African Safari and Train rides.