The Holiday season is the perfect opportunity to spend time with family and friends. Most families get together at their homes for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. However, there are many fun and affordable events in the Chicagoland area that can get you and your family out of the house.

Thanksgiving: 

Thanksgiving Day Parade:

This year, McDonald’s hosted the 80th annual Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade. Located on State Street, the parade is free and features hundreds of decorative floats and balloons. There is also a huge array of entertainment, from fire dancers to the Jesse White Tumblers. A main stage, located between Washington and Randolph street, features different stage performers. This is a perfect way to experience the different cultures that make up Chicago while celebrating Thanksgiving.

Turkey Trot:

The Turkey Trot is a 5K race that takes place on Thanksgiving in various locations across Chicago. There are spots for every age group and souvenirs for each participant. This is a great way to get some exercise before eating a turkey dinner.

Christmas: 

Winter Wonderfest:

From December 6 to January 12, Navy Pier will host their annual Winter Wonderfest. The festival features a Chicago Blackhawks skating rink, rides, a 42 foot tall Christmas tree, and many more attractions. Winter Wonderfest is perfect for a wintry night downtown with friends and family.

Zoo Lights:

From November 28 to January 4, Lincoln Park Zoo will be full of thousands of light displays to enjoy. Other attractions include ice carvings, ice skating, and musical light shows. Hot chocolate is also served, which is perfect for the chilly weather. Zoo Lights is a fun holiday event for all ages.

Millennium Park Ice Skating:

Chicago is filled with ice arenas, but during wintertime Millennium Park opens an outdoor ice rink. Visitors can experience the excitement of ice skating while enjoying wonderful views of Chicago and Millennium Park. You do not have to own your own ice skates, rental skates are provided. There are also many restaurants surrounding the area, like the Park Grill Cafe, perfect for taking a break from skating to stay warm and grab a bite to eat.

Christkindl Market:

Since 1997, the Christkindl Market has been a tradition at the Daley Plaza. It is based on a tradition that began in Nuremberg, Germany. This is one of Chicago’s most popular holiday attractions. Visitors can shop for fun holiday gifts while trying traditional German food. This is a fun event, perfect for a day out with family.