Now let the planning begin.
Christmas Tree Farms, Tree Lots, Hayrides, Sleigh Rides and Other Winter Fun
Chicagoland, Illinois http://pickyourownchristmastree.org/ILxmaschicago.php
Where to go for sleigh rides in and around IL
Ben's Christmas Tree Farm - No pesticides are used, Christmas trees-you choose and you cut, Christmas trees- you choose and we cut, Precut Christmas trees, Christmas-themed park Christmas wreaths, Christmas boughs, garlands, Santa appearances, trees tied, tree shaking provided, trees baled, free tree trimmings, saws provided, sleigh rides, winter hay rides, winter wagon rides, free hot coffee, free hot chocolate, gift shop, restrooms, farm animals 7720 Ryan Road, Harvard, IL 60033. Phone: 630-279-0216.
Countryside Christmas - sleigh rides, (No Christmas trees are sold here) 10009 Lilja Rd, Harvard, IL 60033. Phone: 8154019022. Email: contact@countrysidechristmas.com. Open: Friday and Saturdays December 10 and 11 Thursday, 17 and 18th 10am to 6pm Monday - Wednesday December 28 am to 22 12pm to 6pm Monday - Wednesday December 27 am to 29 12pm to 6pm Closed Sundays Open Christmas Day 10am to 7pm. Payment: Fun for the whole family! Old-fashioned horse drawn sleigh rides, sledding hill, gourmet coffee, hot chocolate, cookies, fresh baked goods. Elaborate ginger bread houses. Live Nativity with real animals!.
Long Grove
Shopping, Dining, Holiday Parties, Gift Certificates, Family Traditions and Carolers & Santa Every Weekend!
The magic of the holiday season comes alive in Long Grove from mid-November until January with a full schedule of family friendly activities. Shop till you drop, enjoy an old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage ride, visit with Santa, enjoy strolling carolers, and share a delicious holiday meal with friends, family or business associates at one of Long Grove’s signature restaurants.
Ample free parking, unique gift items, and the relaxed atmosphere of a quaint, historic shopping district make Long Grove a great destination this holiday season. For more information, contact the Long Grove
Visitor’s Information Center (847) 634-0888.
For more information visit http://www.visitlonggrove.com/holidays.html
Cuneo Museum
The Kirk Players are proud to present a wonderfully staged adaptation of THE VELVETEEN RABBIT by Scott Davidson at the Cuneo Mansion and Gardens on Dec 3, 4, 10, and 11th at 2:00 PM. Bring a toy for TOYS FOR TOTS and recieve a free mug of hot chocolate to enjoy before the show! For more information please visit www.kirkplayers.com To purchase tickets please call 847-521-6192
Holiday Open House at the Mansion
Holiday Festivities include:
- Visit with Santa Claus in the Great Hall
- Craft Stations for children
- A Christmas Story movie in the new Pavilion
- Tour of the Mansion
- Hot Chocolate/cookies for the children
- Beer/wine for purchase
- Door prizes
Friday, Dec.16th, 2011 6:30 PM – 9:00PM and the Cost: $5/person (in addition to light show entrance fee)
Location: Cuneo Mansion & Gardens, 1350 North Milwaukee Avenue, Vernon Hills, IL 60061Note: Please bring any canned goods for the Vernon Hills/Libertyville Township and/or unwrapped gift for Toys For Tots.
And our personal family favorite the Cuneo Mansion and Garden’s Annual Holiday Light Show! Bring your entire family and join us for our 6th Annual Light Show in which you can drive through our 97 acres of holiday scenic lights. And the best part...you don't need to leave your car! The kids can be in their jammies!
For more information visit http://cuneomansion.org/?page_id=663
For more information visit http://cuneomansion.org/?page_id=663
Chicago Botanic Gardens
A must do tradition with your children. The gardens have plenty of fun holiday activities that should get you in the spirit of the season.
Marriott Lincolnshire Theater - Lincolnshire, IL
See a holiday classic at Marriott Theater Irving Berlin's White Christmas play until January 1, 2012.
For more information visit
http://www.marriotttheatre.com/show.aspx?show=46
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| Hanukkah Dinner |
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| Hot Chocolate with Mrs. Claus |
A must do tradition with your children. The gardens have plenty of fun holiday activities that should get you in the spirit of the season.
- Wonderland Express holiday train exhibit
- Breakfast with Santa
- Supper with Santa
- Hot Chocolate with Mrs. Claus
- Hanukkah Dinner
Marriott Lincolnshire Theater - Lincolnshire, IL
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See a holiday classic at Marriott Theater Irving Berlin's White Christmas play until January 1, 2012.
For more information visit
http://www.marriotttheatre.com/show.aspx?show=46
Also playing via the Children's Theater Seussical The Musical until December 31, 2011
For more information visit http://www.marriotttheatre.com/.
For more information visit http://www.marriotttheatre.com/.
Santa on the Polar Express
From the popular book “Polar Express" by the author Chris Van Allsburg and the movie based on the book has made Santa train trips all the rage in recent years. These trips have proven to be very popular—be sure to book early, most of these trips sell out weeks or even months in advance. Remember, trains don’t wait for anyone, plan on arriving at the station at least fifteen or twenty minutes before departure time
For More Information visit http://www.santainchicago.com/santaonthetrain/santaandtrains.htm
Cantigny Park - Wheaton, IL
Celebrate the Season Holiday Festival
Saturday, December 3rd
4:00pm - 8:00pm
Free event; parking fee applies
Families and children of all ages are invited to Cantigny Park for the inaugural “Celebrate the Season” holiday festival from 4 – 8pm. The park will be decorated for the holidays, and an assortment of activities and offerings are planned to kick off the season in style.
Attractions will include a Tree Lighting ceremony, ice carving demonstrations, carolers, live reindeer display, children’s craft and facepainting($1/person), sleigh rides ($1/person), and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. This event is free with regular parking admission.
Lunch with Santa
Sunday, December 4
11am and 1pm seatings
For Reservations contact Jeannie Chase at 630-260-8260 or JChase@cantigny.org.
Luncheon buffet featuring: Fruit salad, Tomato soup, Grilled cheese sandwiches, Chicken tenders, Mini Angus beef burgers topped with American cheese, Seasonal salad with mixed greens, candied almonds, goat cheese crumbles and mandarin oranges served with a pomegranate vinaigrette, Baked macaroni casserole with buttered noodles, caramelized onions and broccoli topped with panko crumbs, Christmas cookies, Coffee, tea, hot chocolate and fruit punch
$23/adult
$15/children (3- 12 years)
*includes lunch buffet, tax and gratuity, meet and greet with Santa, a free picture with Santa, balloon twisting entertainment and a Santa hat for children.
No charge for children 2 years and younger
For Reservations contact Jeannie Chase at 630-260-8260 or JChase@cantigny.org.
Lego Train Show Party
December 10
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Adults: $12
Children (3 - 12 years): $7
Children 2 and under are free
Join us for an exclusive event to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Lego Train Show. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the Lego Train Show without the long lines and waiting to view the spectacular LEGO displays.
Guests will enjoy a variety of snacks, deserts and hot chocolate. Cash bar will also be available. Guests will receive a special holiday gift and parking is included in the price of the ticket.
The event is produced by the Northern Illinois LEGO Train Club. " Club members have been building special items and displays especially for Cantigny in celebration of the 10th anniversary.” said Jamie LeBlanc, NILTC president. “Our members are free to create in whatever genre they are interested in, and then we connect it all together with the trains. That’s why you might see a Star Wars stormtrooper drinking coffee and carrying a briefcase while waiting on a train platform. We love the crazy, whimsical stuff that keeps you looking at the display for hours to find new things you may have missed.”
For more information visit http://www.cantigny.org/events/#2011-12
The Morton Arboretum
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November 25, 2011 through January 8, 2012
Daily, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Complimentary timed tickets required for entry to the exhibit
*Exhibit not open on 12/24 & 12/25
A holiday favorite returns! The "Enchanted Railroad" rolls through with model trains of different colors and styles. One train even has a tiny camera on board so visitors can see what it would be like to ride along! Nine trains operate via remote-controlled interlocked signals, allowing them to cross tracks safely, and two trolleys that reverse direction automatically. Bring the kids and spend 30 minutes or more "ooo-ing" and "ahh-ing" at the toy trains.
For more information visit http://www.mortonarb.org/calendar/article/22634/enchanted-railroad.html
Do it yourself Handel's Messiah
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With the introduction of a ticket charge this year, we are able to offer electronic ticketing through the Harris Theater box office.
Tickets cost $10 and may be purchased starting Noon on Tuesday, November 15, 2011. To buy tickets:
On-line, go to www.harristheaterchicago.org at or after noon on November 15 (theater handling fee will apply); or By phone, call the Harris Theater Box Office at 312-334-7777 at or after noon on November 15 (theater handling fee will apply); or In person, from the Harris Theater Box Office at 205 E. Randolph from noon on November 15 (no handling fee).
Because of the length and nature of the event, it is not suitable for young children. Any patron, irrespective of age, must have a ticket to enter the Harris Theater. Seating is general admission by vocal range. Doors to the house open at 6:15 p.m.
Please bring a copy of the Messiah score so you can participate. Scores will also be available for purchase in the lobby at the Harris Theater.
The Drake Hotel/Palm Court
Heavenly sounds of a live harp enhance our daily, traditional English afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, fruit breads, scones, and French pastries. Cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres are served each evening. Families and friends continue long-standing traditions and create new ones at the renowned Palm Court.
Afternoon Tea takes place daily in our traditional Tea Lobby, featuring live harp music performed 365 days a year. There are several seatings per day from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Each seating lasts approximately an hour and a half and reservations are recommended.
Open Daily 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Live Harpist Daily
Weekday- 2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Weekend- 1-5 p.m.
Swedish American Museum
Breakfast with Tomten
Saturday, Dec. 10, 2011, 9 a.m.
Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, 9 a.m.
Traditionally celebrated on Dec. 13 or the weekday prior (if date falls on a weekend).
2011 – Daley Plaza, Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 11:30 a.m.
Swedish American Museum and Andersonville, Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 4:45 p.m.
Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 W. Foster Ave., Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.
This is a traditional Lucia celebration with holiday songs, readings, and Lucia procession. The Swedish tradition calls for the oldest daughter of the household to serve her parents coffee and Lucia buns, while singing the Lucia song. She wears a wreath on her head with candles (or lights) and often leads a singing procession of other girls. The Museum celebrates this with the selection of the annual Lucia representative who leads the processions in Andersonville.
Old Fashioned Swedish Family Christmas Dinner
Middle of December Sunday, Dec. 18, 2011, 5 p.m.
This is a traditional Swedish Smörgåsbord dinner with entertainment. Santa will be attending to give presents (julklappar) to all the children. Reservations are required. Go to Calendar, December and scroll down to Julmiddag to make your reservation on-line or call the Museum at 773.728.8111
Goodman Theater's - A Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens' classic story, the exceptional actors and the miraculous stagecraft have made A Christmas Carol a beloved Chicago tradition. Every year, audiences look forward to the "Bah Humbugs," the arrival of the ghosts, the music and dancing and Scrooge's joyful discovery of life and love.
NOVEMBER 18 - DECEMBER 31, 2011
For more information visit http://www.goodmantheatre.org/season/Production.aspx?prod=132
Holiday Windows at Macy's State Street Store in Chicago
After Thanksgiving head downtown for the windows at Macy's and grabbing a bite to eat at the Walnut Room and maybe grab some fudge too.
For more information visit
http://www.visitmacyschicago.com/events-macys-holiday-celebrations.cfm
As always, the Museum’s 45-foot Grand Tree will take center stage in the Rotunda with more than 30,000 lights and 1,000 ornaments, surrounded by more than 50 smaller trees beautifully decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities to represent their various cultures and holiday traditions. Stroll through the trees, enjoy intermittent falling “snow” and savor the performances on the Holiday Stage. School choral groups will perform during the week, and ethnic song and dance performances will take place on the weekends in conjunction with the exhibit. All performances are also included in general admission. Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light opens on November 17, 2011.
This narrative performance features the beloved Clara, The Mouse King, The Sugar Plum Fairy, Tchaikovsky's unforgettable music, and our own trick riders from around the world! Be swept away by a story straight from a child's dream. See beautiful fairies on horseback, toy soldiers battling the mouse army, and our amazing white stallions. Matinees last approximately one hour. Evening shows are 90 minutes, dinner optional, and are B.Y.O.B
6:00 p.m. - 12 midnight
Noble Horse offers turn of the century, antique horse carriages. Noble Horse Carriages are available at 2 locations: Michigan Avenue: 820 N. Michigan Avenue, the corner of Michigan Avenue and Chicago Avenue
Old Town: 1410 N. Orleans Street, the corner of Schiller and Orleans, 3 short blocks West of Wells Street, and a block South of North Avenue. Free car parking and an indoor waiting area are available at this location.
We also provide a pick up and drop off service from your residence, hotel, and restaurant. Noble Horse provides both open and closed carriages in a variety of colors, including white, for all weather conditions or special occasions.
Christkindlmarket
Nov 23,2011 - Dec 24,2011 - Daley Plaza - Admission is FREE!
Premium Wristband (includes indoor ice skating) $18 at box office / $17 online
Regular Wristband (excludes indoor ice skating) $15 at box office / $14 online
EARLY BIRD SAVINGS: BUY IN ADVANCE & SAVE! Online only - Now through November
On-line, go to www.harristheaterchicago.org at or after noon on November 15 (theater handling fee will apply); or By phone, call the Harris Theater Box Office at 312-334-7777 at or after noon on November 15 (theater handling fee will apply); or In person, from the Harris Theater Box Office at 205 E. Randolph from noon on November 15 (no handling fee).
Because of the length and nature of the event, it is not suitable for young children. Any patron, irrespective of age, must have a ticket to enter the Harris Theater. Seating is general admission by vocal range. Doors to the house open at 6:15 p.m.
Please bring a copy of the Messiah score so you can participate. Scores will also be available for purchase in the lobby at the Harris Theater.
The Drake Hotel/Palm Court
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Heavenly sounds of a live harp enhance our daily, traditional English afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, fruit breads, scones, and French pastries. Cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres are served each evening. Families and friends continue long-standing traditions and create new ones at the renowned Palm Court.
Afternoon Tea takes place daily in our traditional Tea Lobby, featuring live harp music performed 365 days a year. There are several seatings per day from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Each seating lasts approximately an hour and a half and reservations are recommended.
Open Daily 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Live Harpist Daily
Weekday- 2:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Weekend- 1-5 p.m.
Reservations are required
For more information visit http://www.thedrakehotel.com/dine/palm-court/
Swedish American Museum
Julmarknad
Saturday, Dec. 3, 2011, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 4, 2011, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Julmarknad is the Museum’s annual Christmas Bazaar. Traditional Scandinavian and modern handicrafts are available for sale from various vendors, in the Museum’s main floor gallery.Visit the Children’s Museum for crafts, games and a special visit from Santa. Entertainment for the whole family is provided, with kaffestuga, Lucia processions and folk dancers. Admission $2/person.
Saturday, Dec. 3, 2011, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 4, 2011, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Julmarknad is the Museum’s annual Christmas Bazaar. Traditional Scandinavian and modern handicrafts are available for sale from various vendors, in the Museum’s main floor gallery.Visit the Children’s Museum for crafts, games and a special visit from Santa. Entertainment for the whole family is provided, with kaffestuga, Lucia processions and folk dancers. Admission $2/person.
Breakfast with TomtenSaturday, Dec. 10, 2011, 9 a.m.
Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, 9 a.m.
A Swedish pancake breakfast with traditional crafts, dancing around the Christmas tree and a special visit from Tomten (Santa). See calendar for date and cost. Pre-paid reservations are required.
Lucia Celebration
Traditionally celebrated on Dec. 13 or the weekday prior (if date falls on a weekend).
2011 – Daley Plaza, Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 11:30 a.m.
Swedish American Museum and Andersonville, Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 4:45 p.m.
Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1650 W. Foster Ave., Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.
This is a traditional Lucia celebration with holiday songs, readings, and Lucia procession. The Swedish tradition calls for the oldest daughter of the household to serve her parents coffee and Lucia buns, while singing the Lucia song. She wears a wreath on her head with candles (or lights) and often leads a singing procession of other girls. The Museum celebrates this with the selection of the annual Lucia representative who leads the processions in Andersonville.
Old Fashioned Swedish Family Christmas Dinner
Middle of December Sunday, Dec. 18, 2011, 5 p.m.
This is a traditional Swedish Smörgåsbord dinner with entertainment. Santa will be attending to give presents (julklappar) to all the children. Reservations are required. Go to Calendar, December and scroll down to Julmiddag to make your reservation on-line or call the Museum at 773.728.8111
For more information visit http://www.swedishamericanmuseum.org/events/annual.php
The Joffrey Ballet's - The Nutcracker
Joffrey’s production has become America’s #1 Nutcracker—touring coast to coast more than any other. The magical ballet has been captivating audiences for 25 years with brilliant costumes, larger than life scenery, entrancing storytelling and Tchaikovsky’s famous score performed by a live orchestra. Revel in the awe-inspiring Nutcracker performed by the incomparable dancers of The Joffrey Ballet.
The Joffrey Ballet's - The Nutcracker
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Goodman Theater's - A Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens' classic story, the exceptional actors and the miraculous stagecraft have made A Christmas Carol a beloved Chicago tradition. Every year, audiences look forward to the "Bah Humbugs," the arrival of the ghosts, the music and dancing and Scrooge's joyful discovery of life and love.For more information visit http://www.goodmantheatre.org/season/Production.aspx?prod=132
Holiday Windows at Macy's State Street Store in Chicago
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For more information visit
http://www.visitmacyschicago.com/events-macys-holiday-celebrations.cfm
Ice Skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
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The rink, now in its eleventh season, draws more than 100,000 skaters annually and is free and open to the public. Skate rental is available for $10. The ice rink is located on Michigan Avenue between Washington and Madison streets.
For more information visit http://explorechicago.org/city/en/things_see_do/event_landing/events/dca_tourism/mccormick_tribune0.html
Museum of Science and Industry
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Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
As always, the Museum’s 45-foot Grand Tree will take center stage in the Rotunda with more than 30,000 lights and 1,000 ornaments, surrounded by more than 50 smaller trees beautifully decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s ethnic communities to represent their various cultures and holiday traditions. Stroll through the trees, enjoy intermittent falling “snow” and savor the performances on the Holiday Stage. School choral groups will perform during the week, and ethnic song and dance performances will take place on the weekends in conjunction with the exhibit. All performances are also included in general admission. Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light opens on November 17, 2011.
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Make Sure you pick up tickets for the Dr. Seuss exhibit too! MSI makes a great gift too!
For more information visit http://www.msichicago.org/
For more information visit http://www.msichicago.org/
Noble Horse Theater, Chicago
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For those of you seeking something different but enjoy horses, history and a classic story you might be interested in the historical Noble Horse Theater's production of the Nutcracker who is the only theater in North America to perform the historic version of "The Nutcracker" on horseback.
This narrative performance features the beloved Clara, The Mouse King, The Sugar Plum Fairy, Tchaikovsky's unforgettable music, and our own trick riders from around the world! Be swept away by a story straight from a child's dream. See beautiful fairies on horseback, toy soldiers battling the mouse army, and our amazing white stallions. Matinees last approximately one hour. Evening shows are 90 minutes, dinner optional, and are B.Y.O.B
For more information visit http://www.noblehorsechicago.com/nutcracker.html
Noble Horse Carriage Rides in Chicago
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Hours of Operation
10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.6:00 p.m. - 12 midnight
Noble Horse offers turn of the century, antique horse carriages. Noble Horse Carriages are available at 2 locations: Michigan Avenue: 820 N. Michigan Avenue, the corner of Michigan Avenue and Chicago Avenue
Old Town: 1410 N. Orleans Street, the corner of Schiller and Orleans, 3 short blocks West of Wells Street, and a block South of North Avenue. Free car parking and an indoor waiting area are available at this location.
We also provide a pick up and drop off service from your residence, hotel, and restaurant. Noble Horse provides both open and closed carriages in a variety of colors, including white, for all weather conditions or special occasions.
For more information visit http://www.noblehorsechicago.com/carriages.html
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Christkindlmarket in Chicago is a German inspired winter wonderland featuring multiple stores and Christmas themed events and dances. Bring the family and enjoy stunning German themed decorations and a visit from Santa Claus and special German Dance demonstrations.
Nov 23,2011 - Dec 24,2011 - Daley Plaza - Admission is FREE!
50 W Washington Street, Chicago
For more information visit http://www.chicagotraveler.com/christkindlmarket
Enjoy more time to have more fun inside an enchanted 170,000 square foot winter playground! Bring the entire family for days of entertainment, Chicago Blackhawks indoor ice skating, huge inflatable slides, rides, and so much more.
For more information visit http://www.chicagotraveler.com/christkindlmarket
Winter Wonder Fest, Navy Pier, Chicago
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- Sunday through Thursday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- December 18th - January 8th
Sunday through Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
- Special Holiday Hours:
Christmas Eve: Saturday, December 24th – 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Christmas Day: Sunday, December 25th – CLOSED
New Years Eve: Saturday, December 31st – 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Regular Wristband (excludes indoor ice skating) $15 at box office / $14 online
EARLY BIRD SAVINGS: BUY IN ADVANCE & SAVE! Online only - Now through November
28th. Save $5 off box office prices when you purchase individual Premium or Regular Activity
Wristbands online now through Monday, November 28th only. Coupons available online
For more information visit http://www.winterwonderfest.com
Here's some great Hanukkah celebration items too!
Maxwell Street Klezmer Band and Brother Heinrich's Christmas - Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21 The North Shore Performing Arts Center hosts this holiday celebration for people of all faiths.
Car Top Menorah Parade - Sunday, December 21
The parade leaves 8170 N. McCormick Blvd in Skokie at 3 p.m. Then, proceeds south through Rogers Park to Lake Shore Drive, then down Michigan Avenue. Goes to Daley Plaza, then to I-94W, then to the Kohl's Children's Museum at 2100 Patriot Blvd. in Glenview. You can even rent a Car-Top Menorah for the occasion.
Chanukah Wonderland at Kohl Children's Museum - Sunday, December 21
The party continues after the Car-Top Menorah parade with crafts, activities, lighting of an ice menorah, pictures wtih Yehudah HaMacabbee and more. 5:30-7:30 p.m. $5 per person. $25 per family.
Hanukkah Dinner and Concert - Monday, December 22 The Chicago Botanic Garden hosts a traditional Hanukkah buffet featuring the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band and an exclusive tour of the Wonderland Express. 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Blue Line Women's Night - Monday, December 22
Jewish Women's group of Bucktown and Wicker Park hosts latke making night with a Grand Dreidel Game and more.
The Juju Ball Matzo Bash - Wednesday, December 24
Martini Park party and bash runs from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Appetizers, DJ, free drinks for early birds, and more.
Something Else! at the Spertus Museum - Thursday, December 25
An all ages, expanded community festival running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the new Gray Children's Center. $10 per family.
The Bagel Ride - Thursday, December 25
This bike ride begins at the clock tower near Waveland and Lake Shore Drive (3700N) at 10 a.m. They go 12 miles at roughly 10 to 12 mph and end up at the Bagel Restaurant in Lakeview. People of all faiths welcome to ride.
Eight Nights of Joy Hanukkah Concert and CD Release Party - Saturday, December 27
Temple Sholom hosts folk singer Rabbi Joe Black in concert at 7 p.m.
Bucktownukah - Saturday, December 27
Nick's Beer Garden becomes Channukah Central with "all the greasy Channukah food you can eat" plus a free drink and $3 drafts. $15 at the door. $10 advance. 21+. Sponsored by the Chabad of Bucktown/Wicker Park.
Maxwell Street Klezmer Band and Brother Heinrich's Christmas - Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21 The North Shore Performing Arts Center hosts this holiday celebration for people of all faiths.
Car Top Menorah Parade - Sunday, December 21
The parade leaves 8170 N. McCormick Blvd in Skokie at 3 p.m. Then, proceeds south through Rogers Park to Lake Shore Drive, then down Michigan Avenue. Goes to Daley Plaza, then to I-94W, then to the Kohl's Children's Museum at 2100 Patriot Blvd. in Glenview. You can even rent a Car-Top Menorah for the occasion.
Chanukah Wonderland at Kohl Children's Museum - Sunday, December 21
The party continues after the Car-Top Menorah parade with crafts, activities, lighting of an ice menorah, pictures wtih Yehudah HaMacabbee and more. 5:30-7:30 p.m. $5 per person. $25 per family.
Hanukkah Dinner and Concert - Monday, December 22 The Chicago Botanic Garden hosts a traditional Hanukkah buffet featuring the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band and an exclusive tour of the Wonderland Express. 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Blue Line Women's Night - Monday, December 22
Jewish Women's group of Bucktown and Wicker Park hosts latke making night with a Grand Dreidel Game and more.
The Juju Ball Matzo Bash - Wednesday, December 24
Martini Park party and bash runs from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Appetizers, DJ, free drinks for early birds, and more.
Something Else! at the Spertus Museum - Thursday, December 25
An all ages, expanded community festival running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the new Gray Children's Center. $10 per family.
The Bagel Ride - Thursday, December 25
This bike ride begins at the clock tower near Waveland and Lake Shore Drive (3700N) at 10 a.m. They go 12 miles at roughly 10 to 12 mph and end up at the Bagel Restaurant in Lakeview. People of all faiths welcome to ride.
Eight Nights of Joy Hanukkah Concert and CD Release Party - Saturday, December 27
Temple Sholom hosts folk singer Rabbi Joe Black in concert at 7 p.m.
Bucktownukah - Saturday, December 27
Nick's Beer Garden becomes Channukah Central with "all the greasy Channukah food you can eat" plus a free drink and $3 drafts. $15 at the door. $10 advance. 21+. Sponsored by the Chabad of Bucktown/Wicker Park.
