Dive into the fanciful world of puppetry at the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival, which presents master puppeteers from around the world in an array of performances throughout the city. The fest hosts over 100 events in 12 days. Performance tickets range from $15-$48 but the … [Read more...] about Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival Free Events
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Free and Cheap Martin Luther King Day Chicago Events
Martin Luther King Jr. Day offers opportunities to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King by supporting racial justice causes, giving back to the community, and attending events that reflect his fight for equality and civil rights. Chicago boasts a particular connection with the icon because it was … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Martin Luther King Day Chicago Events
Free Polar Adventure Days
Explore the natural beauty of the winter season during the annual Polar Adventure Days on January 24, 2026. Bundle up and enjoy the chilly fun on the 119 acres of Northerly Island Park, located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Connect with nature during a day of … [Read more...] about Free Polar Adventure Days
2026 Free Chicago Museum Days
Chicago boasts an impressive number of acclaimed museums and cultural institutions. All across the city, there are museums to document the history and culture of various people, topics, and interests. Most of these public institutions feature free days at certain times of the year. Check out our … [Read more...] about 2026 Free Chicago Museum Days
Free Kwanzaa Celebration at Malcolm X College
The exuberant seven-day African American tradition of Kwanzaa will be celebrated with seven days of free music, dance, culture and community at Malcolm X College on December 26, 2025-January 1, 2026. The annual Malcolm X College Kwanzaa Celebration honors the theme of … [Read more...] about Free Kwanzaa Celebration at Malcolm X College
Free Tuba Christmas at the Palmer House
Enjoy the sounds of the holiday on the biggest scale ever at the 52nd annual Tuba Christmas at the historic Palmer House Hotel on December 20, 2025. Tuba players from around the world will descend upon the Grand and State Ballroom in the Plamer House to perform a spirited concert of holiday … [Read more...] about Free Tuba Christmas at the Palmer House
Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration and Marketplace
Chicago celebrates the seven-day, African American holiday of Kwanzaa with performances, plays, story-times and festivals throughout the city. Head to the Washington Park refectory for a free day of music, cultural experiences and a marketplace with the Pre-Kwanzaa Holiday Celebration and … [Read more...] about Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration and Marketplace
Skate in the Clouds at Peninsula Sky Rink
Ice skating is a beloved Chicago winter tradition with rinks all over the city but one of the most scenic skating experiences is at The Peninsula Chicago's Sky Rink, perched above the Magnificent Mile with sparkling lights and pine trees. The rink is open through February 16, 2026. Ride up to … [Read more...] about Skate in the Clouds at Peninsula Sky Rink
Ride the CTA Holiday Train
One of the things that makes the holidays in Chicago extra special is the CTA Holiday Train. For 34 years, a festive train carrying Santa and his reindeer runs through all of the CTA lines, carrying joy and food baskets to Chicago community organizations. The train runs through … [Read more...] about Ride the CTA Holiday Train
Garfield Park Conservatory Winter Flower Show
The Chicago holiday season is never complete without the natural beauty of the Garfield Park Winter Flower Show. This year's theme is Merry & Bright, celebrating the festive colors and foliage of the season through January 6, 2025. Stroll through the displays of boldly colored … [Read more...] about Garfield Park Conservatory Winter Flower Show
St. Lucia Festival of Lights
Celebrate the beautiful Swedish tradition of St. Lucia Day at the Swedish American Museum in the Andersonville neighborhood. The annual candlelit procession down Clark Street will take place on December 13, 2025. Starting at sunset around 4:45 pm, specially selected St. Lucia girls" wearing … [Read more...] about St. Lucia Festival of Lights
Lincoln Park Conservatory Holiday Flower Show
Lincoln Park Conservatory's beloved Winter Flower Show will explore the enchanting beauty of fireplaces and poinsettias with this year's show, "Fireside," which runs from November 26, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Cozy up at the enormous brick fireplace centerpiece and check out the thrilling … [Read more...] about Lincoln Park Conservatory Holiday Flower Show
