Christmas In Chicago

Today I’m sharing some of my favorite Chicago Christmas traditions – the city is always a festive place at this time of year and there are so many activities to enjoy. Below are some of my favorite traditions – some are old and from childhood, while some are new. I love my city at this time of year!

Christkindlmarket Market

Located in Daley Plaza – this market is a delight for the senses and brings the wonderful European tradition of Christmas markets to Chicago! Walking around you’ll see gorgeous handmade ornaments and other holiday gifts from overseas. Even better is the smell of the food sold here — feast on tasty meals like cinnamon spiced nuts and potato pancakes while drinking hot wine.

Holiday Shows

Every year Chicago’s theater district offers beloved holiday classics like White Christmas or A Christmas Carol. Even though we know it’s going to be the same stories and have heard the songs before- the interpretations are always fresh and new! Go buy tickets to your favorite show today!

Holiday Windows at Macy’s (formerly Marshall Fields)

It’s an old tradition in Chicago to visit the historic Marshall Field and Company building on State Street and see the holiday windows. Each year there are different themes – one year I remember they did fairy tales and it was just gorgeous. Today the building is inhabited by Macy’s which continues this beloved tradition! Look how cute these little ones are as they look at the magical window scenes !

The Joffrey Ballet’s Nutcracker!

Speaking of new interpretations — I have to highlight Christopher Wheeldon’s The Nutcracker put on by Chicago’s famous Joffrey Ballet. It is absolutely stunning and envisions this classic tale in Chicago during the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. The set design is perfect and magical – this year we are going a second time and are making this a new family tradition!