‘Tis the season to be jolly. Or…something like that? 2020 hasn’t exactly been merry and bright, but that doesn’t mean we should celebrate any less. So grab your ugly sweater and heavily spiked eggnog and let’s get this party started. Here are the best things to do in Chicago for next few weeks to have yourself a merry little December.
Catch the dazzling lights at Lincoln Park Zoo
2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Move over, Clark Griswold. The ZooLights boast 2.5 million bulbs of holiday razzle dazzle. Feel free to roam the park and take in all the sparkly lights but heads up, most animals will be indoors. Tickets are $5. Looking for something with less kids? Book tickets for an adult-only night out on December 10th (complete with hot chocolate and mulled wine) featuring A Charlie Brown Christmas tribute concert.
Pop by the Jack Frost Winter Village pop-up
1467 N Elston Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree. If you’re wishing for a heavenly-smelling real pine this year, check out this fun pop-up. Snap a selfie with your besties next to some twinkly lights or explore their full 2-acres in historic Goose Island. Tickets start at $21 per person and come with Jack’s Winter Walk and a delicious donut. Yum.
Sip spirits with Kris Kringle at Santa Baby Bar
3505 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657
He sees you when you’re drinking! The iconic Santa Baby Christmas bar is back with all of the holiday cheer your inner elf desires. Ho-ho-ho your way through their multi-rooms, multi-levels, and the interactive Christmas experience. Just a heads up, after a few of their Instagram-worthy cocktails, you might make naughty list this year.
Bundle up for an architecture tour
Various locations
Oh what fun it is to ride! Get to know your city during this 90-minute boat cruise. It’s a great excuse to snuggle up next to your sweetie and learn about the history of our beautiful downtown. The best part? Colder weather and a global pandemic means less tourists (the Grinch would approve). Tickets and departure times range, learn more here.
Have an Alice in Wonderland gin & tea party
2239 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60616
Join the Mad Hatter and his even madder guests for a 90-minute psychedelic cocktail menu created with Rabbit Hole Bespoke Gin. Three enticing cocktails await you, each carefully construed from curious ingredients that’ll befuddle your tastebuds. Don’t be late for this very important date, or it’ll be ‘off with your head’! Tickets start at $65.00.
Catch a Christmas movie at the Davis Theater
4614 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Load up the kids in your sleigh (aka your car) and head to this drive-in movie theater for a festive night out. Watch classics like Home Alone on December 11th or A Christmas Story on December 19th. Don’t forget the popcorn, hot chocolate, and of course, candy canes.
Things to Do Chicago Featured Image Credit: Jack Frost Pop Up on Facebook
