The weekly column of the news section.
The weekly column of the news section.
As you brave the final days of the semester, remember to take some time to enjoy the beauty and excitement of Chicago during the holidays. We’ve compiled a list of nearby events to help you explore the city and take a break from studying.
For a hyper-local experience, check out the revival of Archies Cafe with their Winter Extravaganza. For a chance to get outside, visit the ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Archie’s Winter Extravaganza: Dec. 5
Archie’s Cafe, rest in peace, and the university have “mended our relationship” and will be hosting a Winter Holiday Extravaganza Thursday, Dec. 5 from 2 to 8 p.m. in the Damen Student Center.
An Artisan Makers Market in the student center, live music in Ireland’s Pub and showings of classic holiday films in Damen Cinema will be open and available for all students, faculty and community members to enjoy free of charge.
Tickets are required to attend, and the doors open at 1:45 p.m. Those interested in attending can book a spot online at Eventbrite.
The itinerary was planned by Archie’s personnel and sponsored by the Office of Neighborhood Initiatives, according to the event announcement.
ZooLights: Now – Jan. 5
Join the zoo animals this holiday season for a festive display of over three million lights, including a light tunnel and iconic ferris wheel at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Enjoy hot cocoa or toasty warm s’mores.
The lights can be viewed Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. for $7 and Friday and Saturdays until 10 p.m. for $10. Mondays are free so long as reservations are made.
There’ll be a Sensory Friendly Night Dec. 4 and an Adults Night Out: Holidaze Dec. 12, which is a ticketed event featuring cocktails and seltzers.
Christkindl Market: Now – Dec. 24
Browse stalls featuring vendors from all over the city and country at this annual German-themed Christmas Market in Daley Plaza.
The vendors range from handmade goods such as ornaments and miniatures to traditional German dishes like bratwurst and sauerkraut.
Admission to the market is free and no reservation is required. It runs every day from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, visit their website.
One of a Kind Holiday Show: Dec. 5 – 8
More than 600 artists will gather on the seventh floor of the Merchandise Mart for the annual One of a Kind Holiday Show. Artists will offer curated goods including ceramics, toys and fine art as well as gourmet food.
Tickets can be purchased through their website for $15, which gives access to all four days of the market. It opens at 10 a.m. every day.
Light Up The Lake: Now – Jan. 5
Navy Pier is offering a light show along the lakefront for the holiday season, which also includes activities such as ice skating and axe throwing for visitors.
The event space opens at 12 p.m. each day, and admission to the general event is free. Ticketing for certain individual activities varies. More information is available at their website.
Joffrey Ballet Nutcracker: Dec. 6 – 28
The Joffrey Ballet’s first performance of this wintertime classic for this season is Friday, Dec. 6 at the Lyric Opera House, and the show will run through the rest of the month till the 28th, according to the ballet’s website.
This iteration lasts two hours and is set in Chicago months before the opening of the 1893 World’s Fair.
Ticket prices for the Friday show range from $92 to $214 and can be purchased individually or at discounted group rates.
CTA Holiday Train: Now – Dec. 23
Returning for its 33rd holiday season, the CTA Holiday Train will run on various lines around Chicago from Nov. 29 until Dec. 23, according to the CTA website. The train is decked out in twinkling lights, seasonal wraps and an open car for Santa and his sleigh as it travels around town.
The train is scheduled to travel the Red Line Dec. 17, 19 and 21 with photo opportunities available with Santa starting around 11:15 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Dec. 21.
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