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Christmas in Chicago: Best Festive Things to do

With three weeks left till the best holiday ever, what better way to celebrate it than with everything Chicago has to offer around this time. Chicago really goes all out for the holidays with its pop up bars, thousands of lights, and so much more. Here you will find a quick list of things to do with your loved ones during this time!



Sparkle Light Festival

Address: 9850 Balmoral Ave, Rosemont

Located in Rosemont, home to the new baseball team called Chicago Dogs, is this amazing light show that is loved by everyone. Parking is adjacent to the field so it’s a very quick walk from the car. Tickets start at $25.



 

Ice Castles Geneva

Address: 1221 Geneva National Ave S, Lake Geneva, WI

If you don’t mind driving a bit out of Chicago, make sure to visit this ice fairyland close to the Wisconsin border. They take reservations, so make sure you plan ahead. This place is unlike any other one you will experience with the best backdrop for photos wherever you look. Tickets start at $25.



 

Museum of Ice Cream Chicago

Address: 435 Michigan Ave Suite G, Chicago

Would you try a hot dog flavor ice cream? Well you can here! This place screams photo opps! Right now the museum has lots of holiday exhibits which will be loved by everyone in your group. Enjoy all the different ice cream flavors along with all the festive vibes and feel like a kid again! Tickets start at $25, but earliest and latest times are cheaper! Check out their website for more details.



 

Winterland at Gallagher Way Park

Address: 3635 N Clark St, Chicago

Many Chicagoans, are used to the Christmas market in downtown Chicago, however for couple of years now, there is a sister market in Wrigleyville. The Christmas market is free, but if you’d like to experience more of the festivities like ice skating, games, rides or renting one of the cute chalets for a family party, then head over to Winterland at Gallagher Park, which is right next to the Christmas Market. Tickets start at $5 and all the rides are extra.



 

Shine Light Show

Address: 1999 Springinsguth Rd, Schaumburg

Put on your PJs, grab some hot cocoa and go for this magical ride in either Schaumburg or Northbrook. Enjoy thousands of lights that are synchronized to the top holiday songs, as you drive through this experience. Entry is per car, so grab your entire family and even your pooch and immerse yourself in this wonderland. Tickets start at $32.99 and they are open every evening!



 

Godfrey Igloos

Address: 127 W Huron St, Chicago

Godfrey is one of the most popular hotels in Chicago and no wonder that everyone wants to visit its rooftop due to the cozy vibes! During the holidays, they bring out their cozy igloos which can be rented out for groups up to six people. Snack on their delicious food while drinking a spiked hot chocolate and enjoy Chicago views, even in the coldest months. Check out their website for igloo dining availability.




 

Jack Frost Winterfest

Address: 1467 N Elston Ave, Chicago

Jack Frost is one of the most popular outdoor pop ups in the city. Whether you are checking it out during the day or night, there is plenty to do and the photo opps are endless! Grab your family and enjoy some axe throwing, bumper cars, ice skating, winter tubing, and so much more! Tickets start at $10!




a couple taking a selfie with ice cream

Hope these Christmas activities make your holidays that much more magical. Whether you are spending them with your family or friends, there is plenty to do in Chicago. Wishing you all the best holidays!

XoXo

Adri & Kam


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