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10 events,
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
"Four adorable Beatrix Potter favorites come to life in this mesmerizing, interactive trunk and puppet show, complete with original music. Storytellers weave Potter’s classic narration with gentle interactive moments, recruiting young watchers to join the adventure. After the show, head to the lobby to play with the puppets, take pictures with the cast, and join...
$45 – $55
Christkindlmarket
Christkindlemarket is a beloved Chicago tradition! It's an authentic German Christmas market with handmade goods, german delicacies, live music, and the famous mugs that come with hot chocolate and spiced wine. They OG market is in Daley Plaza downtown, but they also have locations outside Wrigley Field and in Aurora. Hours vary depending on location...
Free
Winterland at Gallagher Way
"Gallagher Way and in Wrigley Field turn into a Winter Wonderland Outside at Christkindlmarket, guests can ride the new 40-foot Ferris wheel and see our dazzling tree – set to be lit on opening day of Winterland. As guests continue into the ballpark, they will discover a host of new and captivating experiences, see the...
$5
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights is one of Chicago's best traditions! The Zoo is lit up with holiday cheer, and it's a great opportunity to see the animals in the evening. There's hot chocolate, music, and Santa will be there as well! It's definitely one of the most affordable and kid-friendly light displays in Chicago.
$7
Christmas Around the World at the MSI
The Museum of Science Industry hosts has been hosting this exhibit since 1942. Each Christmas tree is decorated to represent a different country with a 4 story Christmas tree in the center. It's a must-see family tradition and it's indoors!
Included in Museum Entry
Light Up the Lake
Light Up the Lake is Navy Pier's Holiday Festival that includes Indoor and Outdoor Festivities. Some activities are Free, like the outdoor light display, craft workshops, fireworks, and live music. There are optional paid activities like ice skating, the centennial wheel, ax throwing and more!
Free
Happy Holiday Railway
"Embark on a magical 40 minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a 40-minute train ride for the whole family See and visit with Santa Claus on the train Treats and hot chocolate will be served New for 2023:Â an animated light show and holiday song presentation entertaining you during your...
$25
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is covered in two million twinkling lights! Plus: Interactive Displays and Lights: •Holiday Magic Photo Ops: Giant Animals, Tunnel Light Show, Walkthrough Displays & so much more! •Dance Party at Polar Plaza •Letters to Santa and Animals Entertainment from 5-8 p.m. •North Pole at The Pavilions featuring: •Those Funny Little People •Juggling Elves...
Included in admission
Kohlights
Kohlights is a winter light exhibition geared towards younger kids. Kids can play with the hues, patterns, and more in this interactive light display!
$22 – $37
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Day games with an emphasis on youth! They will have special activities to inspire younger generations to love hocky. Blackhawks vs. St. Louis Blues
$49
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7 events,
-
Field Museum Maximo. Photo by Lucy Hewett © 2018 Field Museum "Free Admission Days are the perfect opportunity for Illinois residents to explore our general admission exhibitions with your family or a group of science-loving friends. Or, use these days to check out special ticketed exhibitions or a 3D movie with a discounted Discovery or...
Free
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7 events,
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is covered in two million twinkling lights! Plus: Interactive Displays and Lights: •Holiday Magic Photo Ops: Giant Animals, Tunnel Light Show, Walkthrough Displays & so much more! •Dance Party at Polar Plaza •Letters to Santa and Animals Entertainment from 5-8 p.m. •North Pole at The Pavilions featuring: •Those Funny Little People •Juggling Elves...
Included in admission
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14 events,
Holiday Bricktacular
Celebrate the holiday season at LEGOLAND! Holiday LEGO Builds – Snap a family photo with our GIANT LEGO DUPLO Sleigh, LEGO snowman, Santa all built from LEGO bricks, and more! MINILAND – Winter Wonderland has taken over MINILAND Chicago! Explore wintery city streets featuring iconic holiday scenes. Can you find all of the Gingerbread minifigures? Scavenger Hunt -...
$24
Peppa’s Winter Funtime
"December is a great time to visit us again at Peppa Pig World of Play Chicago. Meet Peppa all dressed up and ready for the holidays! We have lots of special activities in store for you - don't miss out! Meet Peppa in her holiday outfit for a special family photo Watch special holiday-themed Peppa...
$24
Christmas at Cantigny
"The inaugural Christmas at Cantigny celebrates the new McCormick House and brings Christmas lights, music, and family fun to the gardens and grounds. Watch for exciting pop-up attractions and activities during the festival, including photos with Santa (Dec 2-3), musical performances and a new ice skating rink outside the Visitors Center."-From the Cantigny Park website
$5 – $15
Kohlights
Kohlights is a winter light exhibition geared towards younger kids. Kids can play with the hues, patterns, and more in this interactive light display!
$22 – $37
Science Snoozeum
"Join us overnight for a new and improved Snoozeum experience! Spend the evening exploring the Museum, take part in a scavenger hunt and other science activities, take a Coal Mine or U-505 tour, catch a big-screen adventure in the Giant Dome Theater, then curl up next to an iconic exhibit. The Museum is yours for the...
$85
Science Snoozeum
Isn't it every kids dream to sleep in a museum? Well, you can! And the Museum of Science and Industry is one of the best museums out there. Snoozeums are for children ages 6-12 and their adult (18+) chaperones (one required for every five children). The per-person fee includes overnight admission with parking, hands-on science...
$85
"Morning Glories is a free, drop-in program designed for kids ages 0-3 and their caregivers! The lessons will follow themes of science and nature with modifications to focus on motor skill development, sensory exploration, and social interactions between families. A typical Morning Glories session can be expected to include story times, a sensory bin, lots...
Free
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14 events,
Happy Holiday Railway
"Embark on a magical 40 minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a 40-minute train ride for the whole family See and visit with Santa Claus on the train Treats and hot chocolate will be served New for 2023:Â an animated light show and holiday song presentation entertaining you during your...
$25
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13 events,
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
Christkindlmarket
Winterland at Gallagher Way
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Christmas Around the World at the MSI
Light Up the Lake
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Holiday Bricktacular
Peppa’s Winter Funtime
Christmas at Cantigny
Happy Holiday Railway
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Enjoy a holiday tea party featuring: Meet and greet with Anna and Elsa of Arendelle Storytelling Tea service by Carpe Diem Catering Violin performances from Elise Holiday kiddie train rides through Habitat Park Play in the Museum exhibits
$35
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It's every Frozen fan's dream come true! A FairyTale Ballet is hosting a meet and greet with Elsa! This includes storytime, dancing, photo ops & meet and greet time. Each child will receive a take-home favor. Sessions are between 30-45 minutes. Space is limited so sign up soon!
$35
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10 events,
-
Field Museum Maximo. Photo by Lucy Hewett © 2018 Field Museum "Free Admission Days are the perfect opportunity for Illinois residents to explore our general admission exhibitions with your family or a group of science-loving friends. Or, use these days to check out special ticketed exhibitions or a 3D movie with a discounted Discovery or...
Free
|
10 events,
-
Zoo Lights wants to be accessible for all, so on sensory- friendly evening, the blinking lights will remain static and music will be turned off. Capacity is also limited so it is more spacious.
$7
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10 events,
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is covered in two million twinkling lights! Plus: Interactive Displays and Lights: •Holiday Magic Photo Ops: Giant Animals, Tunnel Light Show, Walkthrough Displays & so much more! •Dance Party at Polar Plaza •Letters to Santa and Animals Entertainment from 5-8 p.m. •North Pole at The Pavilions featuring: •Those Funny Little People •Juggling Elves...
Included in admission
|
12 events,
Kohlights
Kohlights is a winter light exhibition geared towards younger kids. Kids can play with the hues, patterns, and more in this interactive light display!
$22 – $37
"Morning Glories is a free, drop-in program designed for kids ages 0-3 and their caregivers! The lessons will follow themes of science and nature with modifications to focus on motor skill development, sensory exploration, and social interactions between families. A typical Morning Glories session can be expected to include story times, a sensory bin, lots...
Free
|
13 events,
Happy Holiday Railway
"Embark on a magical 40 minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a 40-minute train ride for the whole family See and visit with Santa Claus on the train Treats and hot chocolate will be served New for 2023:Â an animated light show and holiday song presentation entertaining you during your...
$25
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Family Days at the MCA are free for families and contain special workshops and activities designed for kids. Today's theme is: "Pocket Con, Chicago’s only comics convention for children and youth, is coming to Family Day at the MCA! Meet creators, attend workshops and panels, play teen-created video games, and try out costuming and art...
Free
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12 events,
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
Christkindlmarket
Winterland at Gallagher Way
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Christmas Around the World at the MSI
Light Up the Lake
Holiday Bricktacular
Peppa’s Winter Funtime
Christmas at Cantigny
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Happy Holiday Railway
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It's a Christmas classic! Enjoy the music from a Charlie Brown Christmas, dance with snoopy, and enjoy eating cookies and drinking hot chocolate. The tickets include admission to zoo lights and you can be the first in line to meet Santa!
$30 – $55
|
10 events,
-
Field Museum Maximo. Photo by Lucy Hewett © 2018 Field Museum "Free Admission Days are the perfect opportunity for Illinois residents to explore our general admission exhibitions with your family or a group of science-loving friends. Or, use these days to check out special ticketed exhibitions or a 3D movie with a discounted Discovery or...
Free
|
10 events,
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is covered in two million twinkling lights! Plus: Interactive Displays and Lights: •Holiday Magic Photo Ops: Giant Animals, Tunnel Light Show, Walkthrough Displays & so much more! •Dance Party at Polar Plaza •Letters to Santa and Animals Entertainment from 5-8 p.m. •North Pole at The Pavilions featuring: •Those Funny Little People •Juggling Elves...
Included in admission
|
12 events,
Kohlights
Kohlights is a winter light exhibition geared towards younger kids. Kids can play with the hues, patterns, and more in this interactive light display!
$22 – $37
"Morning Glories is a free, drop-in program designed for kids ages 0-3 and their caregivers! The lessons will follow themes of science and nature with modifications to focus on motor skill development, sensory exploration, and social interactions between families. A typical Morning Glories session can be expected to include story times, a sensory bin, lots...
Free
|
13 events,
Happy Holiday Railway
"Embark on a magical 40 minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a 40-minute train ride for the whole family See and visit with Santa Claus on the train Treats and hot chocolate will be served New for 2023:Â an animated light show and holiday song presentation entertaining you during your...
$25
-
Bring your kids to a character story time featuring Elsa and Olaf from Frozen! After 30 minutes of reading, Elsa and Olaf will meet and take photos with the kids.
Free
|
||
12 events,
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
Christkindlmarket
Winterland at Gallagher Way
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Christmas Around the World at the MSI
Light Up the Lake
Holiday Bricktacular
Peppa’s Winter Funtime
Christmas at Cantigny
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Happy Holiday Railway
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He's off the shelf for a magical holiday event on Sunday, Dec. 17th! Featuring Story Time, Holiday Songs, Dance Party, Photo Opps and Meet n' Greet Time. And a special Take Home Favor! This event is all ages - all inclusive. Time Slots are 45 minutes!
$35
|
10 events,
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is covered in two million twinkling lights! Plus: Interactive Displays and Lights: •Holiday Magic Photo Ops: Giant Animals, Tunnel Light Show, Walkthrough Displays & so much more! •Dance Party at Polar Plaza •Letters to Santa and Animals Entertainment from 5-8 p.m. •North Pole at The Pavilions featuring: •Those Funny Little People •Juggling Elves...
Included in admission
|
12 events,
Happy Holiday Railway
"Embark on a magical 40 minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a 40-minute train ride for the whole family See and visit with Santa Claus on the train Treats and hot chocolate will be served New for 2023:Â an animated light show and holiday song presentation entertaining you during your...
$25
"Morning Glories is a free, drop-in program designed for kids ages 0-3 and their caregivers! The lessons will follow themes of science and nature with modifications to focus on motor skill development, sensory exploration, and social interactions between families. A typical Morning Glories session can be expected to include story times, a sensory bin, lots...
Free
|
12 events,
-
Bring your kids to a character story time featuring Belle from Beauty and the Beast! After 30 minutes of reading and singing Holiday stories and songs, Belle will meet and take photos with the kids.
Free
|
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8 events,
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
Christkindlmarket
Winterland at Gallagher Way
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Christmas Around the World at the MSI
Light Up the Lake
Holiday Bricktacular
Peppa’s Winter Funtime
|
7 events,
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Brookfield Zoo is covered in two million twinkling lights! Plus: Interactive Displays and Lights: •Holiday Magic Photo Ops: Giant Animals, Tunnel Light Show, Walkthrough Displays & so much more! •Dance Party at Polar Plaza •Letters to Santa and Animals Entertainment from 5-8 p.m. •North Pole at The Pavilions featuring: •Those Funny Little People •Juggling Elves...
Included in admission
|
7 events,
Winter Camp
Looking for a way to keep your kid entertained during Winter Break? Peggy Notebaert's Winter Camp is a great educational opportunity for kids! There are different sessions and options for kids 4-9. Kids will explore outside, make new friends, and learn about nature.
$135 – $320
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8 events,
"Morning Glories is a free, drop-in program designed for kids ages 0-3 and their caregivers! The lessons will follow themes of science and nature with modifications to focus on motor skill development, sensory exploration, and social interactions between families. A typical Morning Glories session can be expected to include story times, a sensory bin, lots...
Free
|
8 events,
-
Bring your kids to a character storytime featuring Anna from Frozen! After 30 minutes of reading, Anna will meet and take photos with the kids.
Free
|
||
8 events,
Winterland at Gallagher Way
Lincoln Park Zoo Lights
Christmas Around the World at the MSI
Light Up the Lake
Holiday Bricktacular
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Winter Camp
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"Spend time together creating lasting memories, taking part in special activities, grooving to good music, exploring the Museum’s hands-on exhibits, and counting down with confetti, bubbles, and more! This annual year-end celebration, now in its 21st year, has become a holiday tradition."- From the DuPage Children's Museum Website |
5 events,
"Free Admission Days are the perfect opportunity for Illinois residents to explore our general admission exhibitions with your family or a group of science-loving friends. Or, use these days to check out special ticketed exhibitions or a 3D movie with a discounted Discovery or All-Access Pass. Tickets for Free Days are only available to Illinois...
Free
|
5 events,
"Morning Glories is a free, drop-in program designed for kids ages 0-3 and their caregivers! The lessons will follow themes of science and nature with modifications to focus on motor skill development, sensory exploration, and social interactions between families. A typical Morning Glories session can be expected to include story times, a sensory bin, lots...
Free
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