5 Ideas for Christmas in Chicago 2022
Chicago is a unique city that offers an amazing array of holiday experiences. From shopping at the Magnificent Mile to ice skating on the Chicago Riverwalk, there is plenty to do during Christmas in Chicago!
Experience festive displays of lights and decorations throughout the city, eat delicious holiday food and drinks, or join one of the many events and activities available for the whole family to enjoy. And of course, no holiday season in Chicago is complete without a trip to gaze at the impressive Christmas tree at Millennium Park. Whether you want to create your own special memories or keep old traditions alive, Christmas in Chicago 2022 will be a magical and unforgettable experience.
Christkindlmarket Chicago
This beloved traditional German-style holiday market takes place in Daley Plaza every year. Its so popular that it has expanded to Gallagher Way outside Wrigley Field as well. The event features over 30 vendors selling unique gifts, ornaments and food from all around the world. Visitors can find items from Germany as well as products from other countries including Poland, Austria, Switzerland and Hungary.
In addition to shopping for unique items, visitors can also enjoy music, drinks and food from a variety of vendors. Visitors can purchase hand-blown glass ornaments, wooden toys and other gifts to take home for their families and friends. The event also features live entertainment nightly including traditional German carolers, bands and brass ensembles. This festive and fun holiday market is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Whether you are looking for unique gifts, festive entertainment or delicious food and drink, the Christkindlmarket Chicago has something to offer everyone!
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Founded in 1868, the Lincoln Park Zoo presents an inspiring, magical, and family-friendly holiday lights display. For $5 (although some evenings are free!) families, couples, and friends can gaze at hundreds of luminous colors alongside world-class animal exhibits. With an additional ticket, adults enjoy festive spirits and warm snacks at Snowy’s Spirits & S’mores pop-up. Proceeds raised from this event will support the zoo’s conservation efforts.
JoJo’s Shake Bar
JoJo’s Shake Bar, located in the trendy River North neighborhood, creates an Instagram perfect holiday wonderland to get you in the spirit! Their 5,000 square-foot outdoor heated patio is filled with lights, music, and decorations sure to brighten up your holiday feed. Besides the good looks, JoJo’s offers over-the-top delicious holiday shakes, milk and cookie flights, baked hot chocolate and so much more.
Christmas Club Pop-Up
Get a free drink on December 14!
Stop by Wrigleyville's original Christmas Club pop-up! Running through late January, this pop-up offers patrons festive cocktails in a cozy, holiday-themed environment.
Swing by the Christmas Club on December 14th to hang out with Vibemap ambassadors and users. The first ten folks to check in on the Vibemap app will receive a free beverage! Learn more and RSVP here.
Enjoy Dinner at the Iconic Walnut Room
Dinning at the historical Walnut Room in Macys is a must-do in Chicago. Step into the grand dining room and take in the festive decorations, enjoy live music and be taken away to a different time. The restaurant has all your favorite holiday foods like roasted turkey, honey ham, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans and more. Finish off your meal with one of their delicious desserts like pumpkin cheesecake, apple pie or even a peppermint sundae. Make your holiday season extra special with dinner at the iconic Walnut Room. Enjoy the ambiance and traditional flavors that you can only find in this historic restaurant
Go Iceskating on the Maggie Daley Ribbon
If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to spend the day, why not go iceskating on the Maggie Daley Ribbon? Located in Millennium Park, this skating ribbon is located beneath the stunning Chicago skyline. It offers a unique experience of skating around a looped path that overlooks Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago.
