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, Jan. 3 – 5, 2025. Please note that all events are subject to change.
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…
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.
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.
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,…
Fleeced, An Improvised Puppet Show for Adults
FLEECED is an improvised puppet show for adults. Each week the puppets of Fleeced use the old school charm of children’s puppet TV to teach…
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…
Bowie Ball — David Bowie’s 78th Birthday
Chicago it is time to experience Bowie Ball, where we celebrate the legend, the chameleon, and the man... David Bowie. Bowie Ball is being held…
Ferris Bueller in the Art Institute of Chicago – Guided Walking Tour
Calling art enthusiasts and Ferris Bueller fans! Get ready to step into the iconic world of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off on our popular 90-minute guided walking tour…
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.
