Five Things To Do in Chicago: Jan. 9 to 11, 2026

New year, fresh plans. Bundle up and make the most of a winter weekend near you.

Roll the dice at Board Game Bash.
Gotham Gaming's monthly Board Game Bash offers a casual, drop-in way to spend an evening around the table. Bring your own games or choose from a library of more than 75 options, ranging from quick party games to longer strategy-based favorites.

Date: Jan. 10
Time: 7–10 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St.
More Info: eventbrite.com

Let your imagination run wild at Myths and Legends.
MCA's Myths and Legends event invites families to explore folklore, fantasy, and storytelling through hands-on artmaking. Inspired by artists Firelei Báez and Yoko Ono, the program encourages young visitors to invent characters, worlds, and myths of their own.

Date: Jan. 10
Time: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 220 E. Chicago Ave.
More Info: visit.mcachicago.org

Meet the makers at Handmade Market.
This recurring market brings together Chicago-area makers selling jewelry, textiles, paper goods, accessories, and more. The emphasis is on small-batch, affordable handmade items, with many vendors creating or demonstrating their work on site. Designed to foster direct connections between shoppers and artists, Handmade Market highlights sustainable practices and supports emerging designers.

Date: Jan. 10
Time: 12–4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave.
More Info: handmadechicago.com 

Spend a day at Winter Wonder Fest.
This winter celebration brings skating, games, and seasonal activities together for a family-focused day outdoors.Skate alongside festive characters, try ice bocce, and warm up with complimentary snacks. Sled-assisted skating options make the rink accessible for participants of all abilities, allowing everyone to take part. 

Date: Jan. 11
Time: 3–6 p.m.
Cost: Free with Registration
Location: Warren Park, 6601 N. Western Ave.
More Info: chicagoparkdistrict.com 

Birding meets bonfire at Winter Waterfowl Watch.
Winter birding takes center stage at this lakefront event hosted by the Chicago Ornithological Society and the Chicago Park District. Rolling bird walks throughout the morning help visitors spot seasonal waterfowl, from loons to mergansers, while telescope stations offer closer looks at harbor birds. Educational sessions, kids' art activities, and a bonfire with marshmallow roasting round out the experience.

Date: Jan. 10
Time: 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Cost: Free with Registration
Location: Northerly Island Visitor Center, 1521 S. Linn White Dr.
More Info: chicagobirder.org