Many of Chicago’s December Events revolve around Christmas – there are shopping events, craft fairs, and festivals.
Things to Do in Chicago in December:
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One of a Kind Show and Sale
When: December 1-3, 2022
Neighborhood: River North
Address: TheMART
This event brings together more than 300 artists, makers, and designers. In addition to shopping, the event has workshops, live music, food, and drinks.
Lightscape
When: November 11, 2022 – January 8, 2023
Neighborhood: Glencoe
Address: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
An event where an illuminated walking trail and light installations take over the grounds of the Chicago Botanic Garden. Tickets sell out every year – they go on sale June 8th.
Garfield Park Conservatory Winter Flower Show
When: TBD
Neighborhood: Garfield Park
Address: Garfield Park Conservatory
The Winter Flower Show starts in late November and is open until early January.
Winterfest
When: December 3-4, 2022
Neighborhood: Roscoe Village
During the event, shops stay open late and there is entertainment.
Holiday Sing-Along (Caroling at Cloud Gate)
When: 6 pm on Fridays from late November through mid-December
Neighborhood: The Loop
Address: Cloud Gate, Millennium Park
A holiday sing-along series that includes different faiths, cultures, and holidays. Each week a different choral group leads the sing-along.
Christkindlmarket
When: from Mid-November until Christmas Eve
Neighborhood: The Loop
Address: Daley Plaza, 50 West Washington Street
A European-style Christmas market that has vendors serving mulled wine, spiked hot chocolate, and a variety of other food and drinks. There are also craftspeople selling holiday ornaments and gifts. Chriskindlmarket has a second location at Winterland at Gallgher Way.
Winterland at Gallagher Way
When: November 29, 2022 through the end of December
Neighborhood: Lakeview
Address: Gallagher Way, 3635 North Clark Street
This large family-friendly event has a Christkindlmarket, an ice rink, and Santa’s Village. It is one of Chicago’s best holiday events.
Zoolights
When: end of November through December
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Address: Lincoln Park Zoo
An annual event during the holiday season, Zoo Lights takes place at the Lincoln Park Zoo and involves elaborate light decorations and light shows. Tickets must be reserved in advance.
Light Up the Lake
When: the end of November through December
Neighborhood: Streeterville
Address: Navy Pier
This indoor winter playground features an ice skating rink, an Arctic Express Train, a Candy Cane Lighthouse, a huge decorated tree, and of course, Santa.
Renegade Craft Fair
When: December 16-17, 2022
Neighborhood: West Loop
Address: Morgan Manufacturing, 401 North Morgan
Renegade brings together a wide range of artists, makers, and food vendors.
New Years Eve Fireworks
When: December 31 at midnight
Neighborhood: Streeterville and River North
Address: along the Chicago River from Wolf Point to Lake Shore Drive
When the clock strikes midnight on New Years Eve, Chicago celebrates with a mile-long show along the Chicago River.