Chicago is brimming with holiday spirit this weekend. With various events, residents and visitors can immerse themselves in festive activities across the city. Highlights include the highly anticipated Christkindlmarket, which opens in both Downtown and Wrigleyville, and the annual tree lighting ceremony at Millennium Park.
Top Chicago Weekend Activities
Christkindlmarket
- Location: Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St. & Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St.
- Timing: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (Friday-Saturday), 11 a.m.-8 p.m. (Sunday)
- Features: Traditional German street food, handmade gifts, and souvenir mugs.
Millennium Park Tree Lighting
- Date: Friday
- Time: 6 p.m.
- Details: Celebrate the 112th year of Chicago’s official Christmas tree lighting with food, entertainment, and fireworks.
Holiday Markets
- Millennium Park Holiday Market
- Location: 201 E. Randolph St.
- Timing: Noon-8 p.m. (Friday-Saturday), noon-5 p.m. (Sunday)
- Begyle Holiday Market
- Location: 1800 W. Cuyler Ave.
- Timing: 1-7 p.m. (Saturday), noon-6 p.m. (Sunday)
- Vendors: Local goods from Bitter Ex, A. Favorite, and more.
Art on Cardboard Show
- Date: Friday
- Time: 6-9 p.m.
- Location: Project Onward, 1200 W. 35th St.
- Details: Features works by local artists on cardboard; runs through December 6.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival & Parade
- Date: Saturday
- Festival Timing: 1-4 p.m.
- Parade Timing: 5:30-7:30 p.m.
- Location: Starts at Michigan Avenue; ends at Upper Columbus Drive.
- Features: Floats, balloons, performances, and a fireworks finale.
Ukrainian Film Festival
- Date: Saturday
- Time: 2:30-9:30 p.m.
- Location: St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral, 835 N. Oakley Blvd.
- Details: Screenings of documentaries and films celebrating Ukrainian culture.
More Weekend Highlights
- Candle-Making Workshop: Friday at Pilot Project Brewing.
- Christmas Tree & Menorah Decorating: Saturday at Mary Bartelme Park.
- Jazz Concert: Saturday featuring North Park University Jazz Faculty.
- Community Holiday Markets: Sunday at various locations, including the Promontory and Pilot Project Brewing.
- Greektown Christmas Celebration: Sunday evening with a tree-lighting ceremony.
This weekend in Chicago promises a variety of activities. From traditional markets to vibrant festivals and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Make the most of the holiday season with these exciting events!
