Find something for everyone on your list (including yourself) this holiday season at Chicago’s top shopping events, boutiques, outlets malls, and retail districts. Our guide to shopping in Chicago during the holidays has everything you need to find one-of-a-kind gifts, from handmade crafts to artisan chocolate to luxury goods and beyond. Explore holiday markets, unique neighborhood shops, high-end showrooms, and more in Chicago.
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Holiday markets in Chicago
When it comes to shopping for the perfect gift, nothing beats a holiday market. These charming bazaars offer a festive atmosphere and the opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind presents, whether it’s the perfect vintage treasure or a hand-made item from a local artisan. And you’ll find a packed schedule of holiday markets in Chicago all winter long.
Christkindlmarket is the quintessential Chicago Christmas market, where you can celebrate the holiday season with German-American traditions in the heart of downtown. Find ornate, hand-blown glass ornaments, gorgeous nutcrackers, hand-carved cuckoo clocks, and other artisan handicrafts. Don’t forget to grab your keepsake mug filled with hot wine or cocoa.
If you’re looking for artist-focused markets, check out annual favorites like the holiday edition of the One of a Kind Show or the winter Renegade Craft Fair. The city also hosts a variety of cultural markets, like the annual Pre-Kwanzaa Marketplace or the Swedish Julmarknad Handcraft Market and Festival.
Holiday markets in Chicago
Dive into Chicago’s diverse array of winter markets for the best holiday vibes and unique gifts.
Boutique shopping in Chicago’s neighborhoods
Chicago’s neighborhoods are filled with charming boutiques, bookstores, gift shops, and more with only-in-Chicago gifts you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking to shop local this holiday season, head straight to eclectic Andersonville. Forget chain stores — Andersonville’s commercial district is lined with independent boutiques and specialty shops. Pilsen is a local go-to for excellent vintage shopping, Wicker Park offers a funky blend of top brands and local gems, and Roscoe Village has everything from quirky knick-knack shops to upscale baby clothing.
Holiday shopping in Chicago’s neighborhoods
Discover hidden gems and the best small businesses with our guide to neighborhood shopping in Chicago during the holidays.
State Street: Shopping Chicago’s Loop
Chicago’s State Street is a one-stop spot for some of the city’s best shopping, with blocks on blocks of modern malls, historic department stores, specialty shops, bargain options, and more. Plus, it’s home to Macy’s on State Street, an iconic Christmas destination that has become a winter staple for generations of Chicagoans and visitors alike. The historic department store becomes a magical wonderland during the holidays, with its famed holiday window displays and 45-foot Great Tree inside The Walnut Room, which hosts breakfasts with Santa and other festive events.
Shopping on state street
Discover top holiday shopping in the heart of Chicago’s downtown Loop neighborhood.
The Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue
The Magnificent Mile is one of the most famous shopping areas in the world — home to a dizzying array of popular stores, restaurants, and attractions all on one iconic street. During the holidays, the street’s more than 200 trees are covered with millions of twinkling lights for a magical feel. Find something for everyone in one place at top malls and markets like 900 North Michigan Shops, The Shops at North Bridge, Eataly, Water Tower Place, and more. You’ll also find plenty of high-end retailers, top international brands, and locally loved spots.
Explore The Mag Mile
Experience the unmatched energy of this iconic shopping district during the holiday season.
Top Chicago malls
If you want to find something for everyone all in one place, check out Chicago’s many shopping malls. Shoppers can peruse luxury brands at downtown malls or search for great deals at nearby outlets. Explore this guide to the best shopping malls in and around Chicago. Check out favorite brands and special events at the Roosevelt Collection in the South Loop, catch a movie or go bowling after a day of shopping at NEWCITY in Lincoln Park, or take the quick trip to one of the largest shopping destinations in the Midwest at Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg.
Chicago shopping malls
Explore our guide to the best shopping malls in and around the Chicago area.
