The countdown to Christmas and New Year’s Eve continues, which means we have some amazing holiday options in Chicago for all to enjoy this weekend! Whether spending the evening soaking in the activities in Chicago’s Andersonville or taking a tour of downtown’s beautiful lights at night, you’ll find there’s no better place to be. Here are 8 things coming up on the calendar — it’s time to make weekend plans!
Late-er Night Andersonville
December 16
Are you a procrastinator when it comes to holiday shopping? Are you at your most productive when the stress of a quickly approaching holiday is giving you a little extra motivation? Then stop by Andersonville for a “late-er” than usual Late Night Andersonville. Take advantage of 4 more hours of the same discounts from Late Night Andersonville, plus enjoy free entertainment, refreshments and pictures with Santa.
Sidetrack Saturday Market
December 17 // FREE
Looking for more markets in Chicago? Shop local with a Bloody Mary in hand at Sidetrack, Boystown’s flagship bar, at their monthly Sidetrack Saturday Market. You’ll find cheeses, pies, juices, preserves, confections and more.
“Six Stories Up in a Snowstorm”
Now through December 18 // Tickets start at $17
Middle-school kids and their adult mentors with and without disabilities are stranded in a ski chalet haunted by an abominable snow beast. They try to melt his heart with stories and songs of overcoming differences; the result is often moving and hilarious! The 90-minute show at the Athenaeum Theatre can be enjoyed by adults and children ages six and up.
Holiday Celebrations in Millennium Park
Now through December 18 // FREE
Millennium Park will be home to numerous holiday celebrations this season! Santa’s Midwest headquarters will be open to children of all ages, where they can visit and have their picture taken with Santa Claus throughout the holiday season. Snap a selfie in front of the Christmas Tree, on display through the first week of January.
Other events include the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, McCormick Tribune Ice Rink and Caroling at Cloud Gate, the Friday night sing-a-long in front of “The Bean”.
“The Winter’s Tale”
Now through December 21 // $58–$88
In December, the award-winning British company Cheek by Jowl returns during “Shakespeare 400 Chicago” with a new production of one of the bard’s greatest plays. Writing “The Winter’s Tale” after completing his great tragedies, Shakespeare broke new ground.
Unity of time, place and action are hurled aside as we move across Europe—from court to country, from high tragedy to low comedy—in a story that spans 14 years. A delusional and paranoid king tears his family apart, but the struggle for redemption yields flickers of hope. Initial darkness gives way to joy as Time leads the characters to a shattering conclusion.
The Joffrey Ballet’s World Premiere of Christopher Wheeldon’s “Nutcracker”
Now through December 30 // Tickets start at $35
Discover the magic of Chicago’s mysterious 1893 World’s Fair through the eyes of a child in the Joffrey’s astounding new “Nutcracker”—brilliantly reimagined by Tony Award®-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon. Be part of dance history as the Joffrey Ballet celebrates our beloved city and unlocks a world of wonder for the 21st century in an electrifying holiday tale that will leave you breathless.
Holiday Lights, City Lights Tour
Now through December 30 // $30 | $27 for CAF members
See downtown Chicago’s beautiful city lights at night and the holiday lights on Michigan Avenue aboard a heated trolley. The tour includes two stops with views of the city and holiday lights. Learn how both man and nature impacted the development of the city and hear the stories of the architects, developers and leaders who played key roles in shaping the city.
“A Christmas Carol”
Now through December 31 // Prices vary
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with “A Christmas Carol”—Chicago’s favorite holiday tradition! Experience the joy of Charles Dickens’ timeless tale of hope and redemption—now featuring more stage magic and surprises than ever! Join Ebenezer Scrooge as he journeys through his past, present and future to discover the importance of friendship and love.