Family, celebrations, and shopping – yes, the holiday season is here. And with one of the country’s largest cities at your fingertips, there are plenty of holiday events to get excited about. From exhibits to shows, here are a few Chicago experiences to get you in the holiday spirit.
Gliding on Ice
What winter is complete without a round of ice-skating? It might not be as iconic as New York’s Rockefeller Center, but there’s still plenty to enjoy at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., the rink is a great place to go with a group of friends or family. Also, check for free performances from Chicago musicians and storytellers. Don’t forget to bundle up.
Where: Millennium Park
When: Nov. 14, 2007 through March 16, 2008
Price: Free Admission, $9 Skate Rental
www.millenniumpark.org
Worldly Lights
Want to know more about global holiday celebrations? Check out the Museum of Science and Industry’s “Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light.” This season the museum continues is 65-year tradition of displaying more than 50 Christmas trees that are decorated by local volunteers to reflect how the holiday is celebrated around the globe. The exhibit also showcases traditions from other holidays, such as Diwali, Kwanzaa and Hanukkah.
Where: Museum of Science and Industry
When: Nov. 16, 2007 through Jan. 6, 2008
Price: $11.00 general admission
www.msichicago.org
O Christmas Tree
Catch Chicago’s 94th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Daley Plaza and see the 90-foot pine in all its glory. Then go back to give your wish list to St. Nick and take pictures with him at Santa’s workshop through December 24th. You can also experience a traditional German Christmas at the 12th Annual Christkindlmarket. The outdoor market has a range of sweats and gifts that are great for giving this season.
Where: Daley Plaza
When: Nov. 23, 2007 through Dec. 24
Price: Free
www.cityofchicago.org
A Christmas Carol (Remix)
“Hipmas Carol” retells Charles Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol” by blending spoken-word, music, and a touch of improv. The show was originally performed to raise money for the writer’s younger sister to have medical treatment and is now in its eighth season. In one hour, two men narrate the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, embodying every character (without costume changes), with jazz and blues as their backdrop.
Where: Apollo Theater Chicago
When: Nov. 23, 2007 – Dec. 30, 2007
Price: $22.00 (adult), $17.00 (seniors), $12 (children under 12) College students half off with current school ID
www.apollochicago.com
Reach Niema Jordan at [email protected].
