The ultimate Chicago Halloween celebration kicks off with the 30th Annual Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade and costume contest on October 31, 2026. Throw together your most creative, witty costume for the dramatic spectacle of the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade. Prepare to see … [Read more...] about Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade
Holidays
Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade
Head to State Street to celebrate Halloween as the "artist's holiday" with an evening of wonder and creativity at the Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade on October 24, 2026, in the Loop. Recognized as one of the top six Halloween events in the world, the tenth annual Arts in the Dark parade … [Read more...] about Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade
Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Enjoy all that's jolly and bright during the festive season at the beloved Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier. Slide, skate, ride and soak up holiday fun at this indoor fest from December 5, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Head to Navy Pier's Festival Hall and take in the 420-foot holiday … [Read more...] about Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Handmade Market at Empty Bottle
Head to a classic Chicago tradition to supply your shopping for the holidays and beyond at Handmade Market at the Empty Bottle. This month's market opens on December 14, 2024, but the market returns on the second Saturday of the month through April 2025. Handmade Market connects the makers of … [Read more...] about Handmade Market at Empty Bottle
Light up the Lake at Navy Pier
Chicago's largest indoor light experience is a family fun tradition. Light Up The Lake returns to Navy Pier from November 29 to January 5, 2025, for lots of interactive activities. Dive into twinkling holiday magic with Light Up The Lakes light displays, games, visits with Santa and more. This … [Read more...] about Light up the Lake at Navy Pier
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Glide under the sparkling beauty of the Chicago skyline at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park. The free rink is open from November 15, 2024, through February 2, 2025, weather permitting. Whirling around the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink under the city's official … [Read more...] about McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Mercado Navideno at Museum of Mexican Art
Add the colors and traditions of Mexico to your holiday shopping with a visit to the Mercado Navideno at the National Museum of Mexican Art on November 29-December 1, 2024. Explore hand-crafted gifts from Mexico including ornaments, nativity scenes, art, jewelry, apparel and toys. You won't have … [Read more...] about Mercado Navideno at Museum of Mexican Art
Book Your Santa Photos in Chicago – Free Photo
Celebrate the magic of the season with an unforgettable photo experience. With a jolly, authentic Santa and a friendly team that knows how to make families feel at home, you can skip the long lines and stress. The company behind the photos, Cherry Hill Programs, has been taking … [Read more...] about Book Your Santa Photos in Chicago – Free Photo
Autumn Fest at Gallagher Way
The pleasures of the season will fill the field around Wrigley Stadium in celebration of the cooler temperatures and bright foliage, Autumn Fest at Gallagher Way will run from October to November 2024. The Autumn Fest includes activities and offerings like seasonally themed food and drinks, … [Read more...] about Autumn Fest at Gallagher Way
Easter Vintage Eggstravaganza
Hunt for Easter eggs as well as one-of-a-kind vintage finds at the free Easter Vintage Eggstravanganza Fest hosted by Windy City Market on March 30-31, 2024, in the Portage Park neighborhood. Celebrate the Easter holiday by browsing through 100 vendors displaying vintage clothes, housewares, … [Read more...] about Easter Vintage Eggstravaganza
Family Easter Cruise
There's nothing like ushering in Easter and the spring season on the blue waves of Lake Michigan. Climb aboard the 140 ft, three-story yacht Anita Dee II, on March 30, 2024, for an Easter celebration on the water. The Family Easter Cruise supplies bunny ears, crafts and the chance to dance … [Read more...] about Family Easter Cruise
Free Lunar New Year Concert
Experience the beauty and dynamic rhythms of Mongolian music during the Lunar New Year Concert at the Chicago Cultural Center on February 11, 2024. This free event features the world premiere of Lei-Liang's Mongolian Suite for Violin. Listen to the beautiful melodies of acclaimed … [Read more...] about Free Lunar New Year Concert




















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