Chicago Winter Events: A Guide to Fun in the Cold

Chicago hosts plenty of events all winter, inside and outdoors. Except in February, IYKYK. So rather than staying inside and complaining about the cold, do that outside while having fun.

Dec 17, 2024

Posted under Winter Activities

The Chicago Theater during light snowfall
Photo by Rezal Scharfe

Feeling those winter blues? Chicago has you covered! When the Windy City gets chilly, these ongoing events are your ticket to fun and unforgettable memories. Grab your coziest sweater and let's dive into our winter adventure guide!

Navy Pier's Winter Wonderland Extravaganza

November 29, 2024 - January 5, 2025

Navy Pier is about to turn your cold-weather blues into a full-blown celebration of seasonal magic. Light Up the Lake embraces Chicago winter full on and turns the pier into a winter wonderland!

Imagine this: You're racing down an exhilarating ice slide (because adulting doesn't mean losing your inner child), then warming up with some axe throwing. Pro move? Absolutely. Feeling brave? Take a spin on the iconic Centennial Wheel and get those Instagram-worthy panoramic views of wintery Chicago. It's well worth bundling up for.

Winter Hack Alert: Cozy up by the fire-pits in the Beer Garden. Nothing says "winning at winter" like staying warm while looking cool. 🔥

Need more reasons to visit? How about:

  • Craft Workshops: Unleash your inner artist
  • Local Artisan Markets: Unique gifts and last-minute shopping FTW
  • Saturday Fireworks: Nothing like fireworks over Lake Michigan
  • Holiday Drone Shows: Tech meets festive in the most awesome way possible

Pro Tip: Drone shows are basically magic in the sky. Trust me, your inner child (and your actual children) will be absolutely mesmerized!

Note: Some of the events require tickets so make sure to get those in advance using the links below.

References: Details and Tickets, Map of Activities

Christkindlmarket: German Holiday Magic in the Loop

November 22 - December 24, 2024

Picture this: You're sipping a warm drink, surrounded by twinkling lights and the aroma of delicious holiday treats. Welcome to Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza! This isn't just a market—it's a cultural experience that'll transport you straight to a cozy German holiday celebration.

Insider Hack: Come hungry and ready to shop. Handmade gifts, live performances, and mouth-watering treats await you!

Collector's Tip: Get the collectible mug or drink out of a glass boot. Lots of collectible glassware at this event.

References: Christkindlmarket

ZooLights: Where Animals Meet Winter Wonderland

November 15, 2024 - January 5, 2025

Lincoln Park Zoo proves that creative events bring people outside, event when it is freezing. While the light displays are magical, the indoor animal exhibits are your secret weapon against the cold. Outside, look for the reindeer and stop by any of the photo-friendly lighting decorations.

Cozy Bonus: Warm up inside while enjoying up-close animal encounters. But take note that the animals decide if they want to come outside or not.

Note: This event requires a ticket so make sure to get one in advance using the link below.

References: Hours and Tickets

Lit trees in the Chicago loop
Photo by Aric Cheng

Lightscape: An Illuminating Escape

November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025

Chicago Botanic Garden turns into a magical light show that'll make you use up your remaining photo storage. While Lightscape is mostly an outdoor experience, they've got indoor areas perfect for warming up and grabbing some seasonal treats.

Need more reasons to visit? How about:

  • Tuesdays are Glow-in-the-dark Nights
  • Wednesdays are PJ Nights
  • Thursdays are Ugly Sweater Nights

Boozy Bonus: Stroll through the event while sipping handcrafted drinks!

Note: This event requires a ticket so make sure to get one in advance using the link below.

References: Hours and Tickets

Snowflakes and Blooms: Winter Flower Show

November 27, 2024 - January 5, 2025

The Garfield Park Conservatory's Snowflakes exhibit is your emergency botanical rescue mission. Escape the cold into a world of macro snow crystal art and vibrant poinsettias that are part of the annual display. Enjoy that boost of humidity this time of year.

Winter Wonderland Highlights:

  • Over 25 stunning macro snow crystal images
  • Colorful poinsettia varieties include: 'FabYULEous Red', 'Lemon Glow', and 'Frozen'
  • Bonus botanical stars: Edelweiss, Peppermint, white Viola
  • Lighted conifer trees and other winter trees on display

Perfect for plant lovers, photo enthusiasts, and anyone desperate to see something green during Chicago's winter gray.

Note: This event requires a ticket so make sure to get one in advance using the link below.

References: More Details, Tickets

Making the Most of Winter Outdoor Events

1. Dress in Layers: Even indoor venues can vary in temperature with so many people going in an out.
2. Bring Cash: Some vendors and markets prefer cash for quick transactions.
3. Check Event Schedules: Don't get excited about an event that is over!
4. Embrace the Spontaneity: Some of the best memories are unplanned, find a cozy spot to warm up before or after.

Chicago proves that winter isn't about surviving—it's about thriving. These aren't your average events; they're truly special gatherings that Chicago pulls off with style. So bundle up, grab your friends and family, and let the adventures begin!

Disclaimer: Event dates and details are current as of publication. Always check official websites for the most up-to-date information.

ideaschicago

Reference Materials

Choose Chicago is invaluable for finding things to do in the city in addition to what is mentioned here. Visit Choose Chicago