There’s so much more to November than dudes not shaving. Next month is offering tons of amazing activities for anyone who wants to make the most of fall and winter in the city.
From art expos to food fests to the beginnings of holiday cheer, here are 11 things to do in Downtown Chicago in November 2019.
SOFA Chicago
October 31 – November 3 @ Navy Pier
If you’re looking for creative things to do in Chicago this November, we recommend visiting SOFA. SOFA stands for sculpture objects functional art and design, which is an annual expo that showcases the best three-dimensional work. If you’ve never been, it’s pretty cool and a great excuse to hang out at Navy Pier for an afternoon. Single-day tickets are $25 in advance, while a three-day pass is just $35.
Hot Chocolate 15K
November 3 @ Grant Park
Are you looking for sporty things to do in Chicago Illinois this month? Stop by the Hot Chocolate 15K for one of the best races of the year. After a thrilling (re: exhausting) run through the city, you will be rewarded with a piping hot cup (re: bowl) of Chicago’s finest hot chocolate. For those looking to save their legs and breath, the event also offers a 5k route. Buy tickets here.
Christkindlmarket
November 15 – December 24 @ Daley Plaza
November 22 – December 31 @ Gallagher Way
This might be the one we’ve all been waiting for. Christkindlmarket, everyone’s favorite outdoor holiday event, is a cool thing to do in Chicago in November at Daley Plaza. It will feature German and European food, drinks, crafts, and entertainment. Admission is free but prices vary from vendor to vendor.
Festival of Barrel-Aged Beers
November 8 – 9 @ UIC Forum
Endless tastings of wood and barrel-aged craft beers are perfect for cold weather. Brought to you by the creators of Chicago Craft Beer Week, make your way to the UIC Forum to get in on the action and earn your bragging rights for having sampled some of the rarest beers you can find from over 90 breweries.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
November 22 – 23 @ Michigan Avenue
If you don’t want to be disappointed, a highly-recommend thing to do in Downtown Chicago is to attend this all-weekend-long extravaganza on Michigan Avenue. This is the nation’s largest nighttime holiday event, highlighted by the Tree Lighting Parade. Enjoy family activities and tasty holiday treats, parade with your favorite characters, and experience live musical performances.
View our complete guide to the Mag Mile Lights Festival
Are you trying to plan your visit to the Mag Mile Lights Parade in Chicago? View our guide to the Mag Mile Lights Festival!
View the Mag Mile Lights Festival Guide
Chicago Toy & Game Fair
November 21 – 24 @ Navy Pier
Also known as ChiTaG, this annual fair at Navy Pier is a cool thing to do in Chicago with the family. Get a sneak preview of new toys, games, and inventions from across the world and meet the brains behind them, too. Kids can also enjoy a giant bubble show, a young tech challenge, and more. Early bird tickets are $14 and $7 for adults and children, then $15 and $8 at the door.
Randolph Holiday Market
November 23 – 24 @ 1341 W Randolph St
If you’re attempting to develop a list of productive things to do in Downtown Chicago, we recommend getting your holiday shopping done while having fun. Browse a unique selection of antique and vintage items, jewelry, art, and houseware at the Randolph Holiday Market. Parking is free and this is a family-friendly event!
Thanksgiving Parade
November 28 @ State Street
On Thanksgiving morning, watch as marvelous floats and marching troupes flood State Street for one of the best holiday parades in the city. Make sure to get there early to nab a good viewing spot! If you can’t make it, it will be broadcasted on WGN 9 Chicago.
ZooLights
Opens November 29 – 30 @ Lincoln Park Zoo
Opening the last week of November and continuing through all of December, the illuminated display of the year takes place at Lincoln Park Zoo, welcoming the holiday with brilliant lights. This event can be enjoyed by both adults and kids, as it features crafts, pictures with Santa, holiday shopping, live ice carving, train rides, and seasonal beverages. Don’t miss Adults Night Out on November 29, either!
Winter WonderFest
Opens November 30 @ Navy Pier
Throughout the holiday season, Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest delights all ages with indoor attractions and magical experiences. Tickets have yet to go on sale, but you can check back here for more information soon!
Holiday Magic
Holiday Magic
Opens November 30 @ Brookfield Zoo
A cool thing to do in Chicago in November with your kids is attend Brookfield Zoo to watch the holiday lights festival this season, complete with a 41-foot talking tree, a skating rink, carolers, and more! Tickets are $21.95 for adults and $15.95 for kids (and cheaper online!).
What are you excited to do in November? Tell us below!
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