Want to know what’s happening this weekend in Chicago? Look no further. There’s a whole calendar of exciting events, exhibits, and activities taking place all over the city this month in Chicago.
This weekend in Chicago is a jam-packed one, with jaw-dropping art and architecture events, neighborhood festivals, riveting live theatre, family-friendly fun, plus tons of festive happenings like holiday light displays and ice skating in Millennium Park.
Check out just a few of the top things to do this weekend in Chicago, Dec. 27 – 29, 2024. Please note that all events are subject to change.
The Nutcracker
Experience magic this holiday season with two-time Tony Award®-winner Christopher Wheeldon's 'The Nutcracker'. On a magical Christmas Eve, mere months before the opening of Chicago’s…
City of Chicago Christmas Tree
Chicago’s official Christmas Tree will be illuminated on Friday, November 22 at 6pm with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The tree will remain illuminated through…
A Christmas Carol
The “perfect Chicago holiday tradition” (Chicago Parent). Rediscover the magic of Dickens’ classic with a fresh, heartwarming adaptation that “makes you believe kindness can win”…
Lincoln Park Zoolights
Celebrate three decades of priceless holiday memories as Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual ZooLights Presented by ComEd and Invesco QQQ returns for its 30th year this November. This beloved staple of…
Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon
A unique skating experience awaits you in downtown Chicago at Maggie Daley Park. Enjoy skating on a ribbon, surrounded by trees, bushes and other natural…
Illumination: Tree Lights
This annual event is a spectacle of light, sound, and color against a backdrop of nature at the Morton Arboretum. Exciting features and immersive installations in this festive experience will delight all ages along a one-mile path. Warm up by a crackling fire and roast marshmallows for s’mores or stop in at the concession tent on Frost Hill for snacks and beverages.
Kwanzaa Heritage Tour
Celebrate the rich culture, unity and traditions of Kwanzaa as we journey by bus through Chicago’s far south side, exploring iconic sites in South Shore,…
Lightscape
Embrace the spirit and beauty of the season at Lightscape, setting the Garden aglow with light, music and art. This year’s reimagined trail takes our holiday celebration to new heights and lights with dazzling installations debuting in the U.S. for the first time. Leave your to-do list at home and make lasting memories at Lightscape.
McCormick Tribune Ice Rink
Ice skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park is now open for the season! Glide across the ice in the shadow of “The Bean” and the glittering city of Chicago Christmas Tree.
Admission to the ice rink will be free, but reservations are required.
Kimpton Gray Hotel and Center for Native Futures: Indigenous Art
The Kimpton Gray Hotel is proud to partner with the Center for Native Futures art gallery to highlight the work of Indigenous artists in The Gray's Living Room.…
Stand-Up Comedy: Michael Longfellow
Michael Longfellow is a cast member on Saturday Night Live. He joined as one of the new featured players of the show’s current 48th season.…
Les Misérables
Experience one of the greatest musicals ever created, Les Misérables, at the new stunning new Deerfield Performing Arts Center featuring a 20-piece orchestra. Acclaimed producer…
Winterland, a Thrilling and One of a Kind Immersive Holiday Experience
Prepare to step into a whimsical world of festive enchantment at Winterland, where, from the moment guests arrive, they’re transported into a wonderland of holiday delights. Experience…
Resilience—A Sansei Sense of Legacy
In 1942, in response to the bombing of Pearl Harbor by Japanese forces, President Franklin Roosevelt signed into law Executive Order 9066. The law ordered…
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Party
Four adorable Beatrix Potter favorites come to life in this mesmerizing, interactive trunk and puppet show, complete with original music. Storytellers weave Potter’s classic narration…
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Join Brookfield Zoo Chicago for the Chicagoland's longest-running holiday light festival! You'll step into a wonderland of Holiday Magic, where enchanting scenes come to life…
Dressed in History: A Costume Collection Retrospective
What do a red sequin burlesque costume, a pair of original Air Jordan 1s, a baby’s wool bathing suit, and an enormous white tulle Christian…
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
IT’S TIME TO BELIEVE IN MAGIC Broadway’s Spellbinding Sensation Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is coming to Chicago on its first-ever North American Tour. Join the…
Explore our events calendar for more Chicago events and happenings.
