Eight Things To Do in the City and Western Suburbs: Dec. 26–28, 2025

Winter weather has arrived! Layer up, follow the holiday lights, and catch a few can't-miss events this weekend.

Shop plant-based at the Vegan in the Burbs Holiday Market.
This holiday market brings together plant-based vendors from across Chicagoland for a one-stop shop that goes well beyond food. Expect a mix of vegan eats, baked goods, wellness products, handmade gifts, and small-batch treats—all curated with the season in mind. 

Date: Dec. 27
Time: 12 p.m.–3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Alter Brewing Company, 2300 Wisconsin Ave., Downers Grove
More Info: facebook.com

Savor the season at Milk & Cookies with Santa.
This sweet, scaled-down holiday stop keeps things simple in the best way: Santa, milk, and cookies. Meet Santa, snap photos, and enjoy delicious treats. The event doubles as a toy drive, inviting guests to bring a gift to support children in need.

Date: Dec 28
Time: 5 9.m.–7 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Vibe, 630 W Lake St., Elmhurst
More Info: instagram.com

Get ready to serve at Rally for a Clause Fundraiser.
This community fundraiser blends friendly competition with purpose through pickleball. Alongside open games, raffles, food, and drinks, the event features paddle-raise auctions supporting youth-focused organizations that champion mentorship, access to sports, and positive coaching.

Date: Dec. 27
Time: 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
Cost: $56
Location: Net Game, 145 Plaza Dr., Westmont
More Info: eventbrite.com 

Feel the Pressure Drop.
Navy Pier closes out the holiday season with a two-night electronic takeover that brings heavyweight names to the lakefront. Night one leans hard into bass with Subtronics headlining alongside Muzz and OkayJake, while night two shifts the energy with Alison Wonderland and a special wholesome riddim set from San Holo. If you're looking to shake off holiday leftovers, this is where the pressure peaks.

Date: Dec. 26–27
Time: 7 p.m–12 a.m.
Cost: $74+
Location: Aon Grand Ballroom, 840 E. Grand Ave.
More Info: navypier.org

Catch a holiday staple at A Christmas Carol.
Goodman Theatre's annual return to Dickens' classic enters its final stretch, offering one of the last chances to catch this season's production. Christopher Donahue reprises his role as Ebenezer Scrooge under the direction of Malkia Stampley, leading a cast that brings renewed warmth and clarity to the familiar tale.

Date: Dec. 26–28
Time: Various Times
Cost: $29+
Location: Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St.
More Info: goodmantheatre.org

Treat yourself to a Kids Night Out.
Parents, get a rare night off while your kids take over the gym for an evening built around movement and play. This drop-off program lets kids burn energy with supervised games, tumbling, and activities, while pizza and drinks keep them fueled. For families navigating the quiet stretch between Christmas and New Year's, this one's for you.

Date: Dec. 27
Time: 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Cost: $25
Location: Morgan Park Sports Center, 11505 S. Western Ave.
More Info: chicagoparkdistrict.com 

Experiment at Linda Summerfield + archKIDecture.
This hands-on Learning Lab invites kids and adults to explore how art and architecture intersect through guided building and design. Led by artist Linda Summerfield, the session encourages participants to create three-dimensional structures using simple materials while thinking about space, balance, and form. Presented alongside the Chicago Architecture Biennial, the workshop balances creative play with thoughtful experimentation. 

Date: Dec. 26–27
Time: 12–2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St.
More Info: chicago.gov 

Take a stroll through Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light.
The Museum of Science and Industry's beloved winter exhibit hits its sweet spot during the quiet weekend after Christmas. More than 50 trees and displays represent holiday traditions from around the globe, from Diwali to Kwanzaa to Hanukkah, all arranged around the towering Grand Tree in the Rotunda. This is peak visiting season—without the peak-season chaos.

Date: Dec. 26–28
Time: Museum Hours
Cost: $10+
Location: Griffin Museum of Science & Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr.
More Info: loopchicago.com