Things to Do in Chicagoland This December

Things to Do in Chicagoland This December

It's the most magical time of the year for Chicagoland! Now's the time to get out and enjoy all the festivities the city and its surrounding towns have to offer before those frigid winter days have us inside for the long haul. Many of the events we listed in our November Must Do's are still running through December. So if you missed out last month, now's your chance to check the events out by clicking here. Otherwise, if you're a fan of lights, food, shows, or anything in between, you're going to want to keep reading. 

#1 Visit one of the best Christmas light displays in the country

Did you know the Morton Arboretum's "Illumination" display was just ranked #23 on the best light displays in the entire U.S.? From now through January 7th, the arboretum will be decked out with a mile-long path of Christmas displays, featuring places to sit by a fire and roast marshmallows, snack carts and seasonal music. Learn more about it here! 

#2 Jump onto Wrigley Field (without visiting security)

This year, Wrigley Field is hosting Winterland at Gallagher Way – a holiday experience that takes place on and around the field featuring games, carnival rides, ice bumper cars, drinks and more! If you're looking for a fun day out with your friends or a cozy night complete with firepits and an apres-ski pop-up bar, look no further. 

#3 Catch the holiday train

This one is really just for our city-goers, but if you're catching the L this holiday season, why not catch the holiday train? Starting November 25th, the holiday train will be making its run through all the different lines. Find the full schedule by clicking here! More of a bus rider? Don't worry, CTA is keeping it festive for you as well. Check out the holiday bus schedule here. 

#4 Experience the Pre-Kwanzaa Marketplace

Chicagoland is full of shopping this time of year. From the Chriskindlemarket to the Kwanzaa market and more, nothing lets you experience traditions celebrated around the world easier than jumping right into a market. Check out some live music, food, workshops and handmade goods and memorabilia right next to Harris Park at the Pre-Kwanzaa Marketplace this year! 

#5 Stay warm with a drive-thru light experience

Okay, walking around the frigid Chicagoland night is not for everyone. That's why suburbs like Aurora, Schaumburg and Northbrook are hosting Shine Light Shows – a drive-thru experience that lets goers get the full effect of a light-tastic evening, without the harsh winds. Click here to find a location near you. 

#6 Hang onto spooky season at the Fright Before Christmas 

If you've still got the Halloween blues, the Krampus Fright Experience may be exactly the cure you need to get into the ho-ho horror season. In this Christmas-themed haunted house hosted by The 13th Floor, visitors can wander through an array of evil elves and Christmas lights, take a few pics along the way, and have a cookie or two. Gather your crew and tack on a mini escape room experience while you're there! Check out tickets by clicking here. 

#7 Meet and greet Anna and Elsa (without stepping foot in Disney World)

The snow may be glowing white on a mountain somewhere, but not here in Chicago. But that hasn't stopped Disney's duo Anna and Elsa from stopping by! The Time Out Market Chicago will be hosting character storytimes, complete with a meet and greet, this December 3rd at 11am. Grab your favorite Frozen fan and then swing by JoJo's Winter Wonderland for an elaborate milkshake to fulfill that sugar tooth! 

Lights, snacks, action! No matter what you celebrate, Chicagoland has got something for everyone this December. Dive into everything the city and its surrounding suburbs have to offer this month.