The holiday season is in full swing, and there are an array of holiday and Christmas events for kids in Chicago! Whether you’re visiting the city for the holidays or are looking for something to do with your kids, we have some ideas for you! There’s so much to explore, from Christmas shows to ice skating! Here’s where to discover the magic of the season and have a delightful holiday adventure with your little ones in Chicago!
1. Attend The Nutcracker Ballet
Take your kids to see Joffrey Ballet’s critically acclaimed reimagined classic, The Nutcracker, by Tony Award®-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon. One of the most coveted Chicago Christmas shows, Wheeldon’s American Tale relocates Marie and her immigrant family to the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893, where Marie embarks on a whirlwind adventure with the Nutcracker Prince.
2. Go ice skating
From Maggie Daley Park’s quarter-mile skating ribbon to the McCormick Tribune ice rink, there are a ton of spots to take your kids this holiday season. It’s one of the essential winter activities to do with your kids that help combat the gloom of the season.
3. Head to a Disney Exhibit
The entire family will want to put on those iconic mouse ears at this breathtaking exhibit dedicated to the magic of Disney! Taking over more than 20,000 square feet of space at the Exhibition Hub Art Center Chicago at 2367 W. Logan Boulevard this fall, Disney100: The Exhibition will delight Disney lovers of all ages! Fans will be able to see the ‘Crown Jewels’ of the Walt Disney Archives, including works of art, artifacts, costumes, props and other memorabilia.
4. See the illuminating ZooLights
Lincoln Park Zoo’s much-loved annual ZooLights event has returned, and it’s the perfect spot for a family activity. From a one-of-a-kind light maze to an enchanted forest, this is one of the Christmas events for kids in Chicago that will not disappoint. They can meander among butterflies, flowers, mushrooms, and dripping lights with whimsical music and a magical ambiance—it’s sure to induce laughter and elation from your little ones.
5. Ride a holiday CTA train around Chicago
Santa’s holiday train trip around Chicago is always one of the most eagerly anticipated activities providing affordable fun for people all over the city. The Chicago Transit Authority’s train and bus are decorated inside and out with festive decorations and thousands of lights to make them glow as they glide and glimmer around Chicago.
6. Visit The Great Tree in Macy’s Walnut Room
Macy’s Walnut Room has become synonymous with the holidays with a towering 45-foot Great Tree over the years. The holiday setup changes every year but is always a bright spot during the season. The historic restaurant brings all the holiday cheer with an incredible setup, infusing the entire space with unbeatable magic.