Chicago Holiday Events 2008
If you can't make a trip to downtown Chicago, see the
Magnificent Mile Photo Gallery 

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2008 Holiday Events

November

November & December
Macy's Holiday Happenings
For generations Chicagoans have brought their families to see every floor of our store decked out for the holidays. Marvel at our 45-foot Great Tree decorated with over 1,200 themed ornaments and 25,000 dazzling lights in the Walnut Room. Experience our animated window displays on State Street and enjoy elaborate decorations suspended from our 10-story atrium. Great Tree Lighting and State Street Window unveiling at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 8. 2008. Displays open until Sunday, January 11, 2009. Dine under the Great Tree in the world famous Walnut Room. Additional information on our Holiday Happenings is available in a million reasons to Believe download.

Nov 8 through Jan 11
Macy's 41st Annual Animated Christmas Windows
Experience an original and truly magical tale in the animated windows on State Street this holiday season, inspired by the magical process behind the creation of the decorations on the Great Tree. Each window celebrates the Believe theme and features Chicago sights.

Nov 14 - Jan 4
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
Museum of Science & Industry

The Museum halls will be decked, holiday singers and dancers will be joyously kicking off the festivities and the sparkle of more than 50 trees will greet you at this year’s Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light. We couldn’t resist one more chance to pay homage to our “Diamond Anniversary” and more than seven decades of imagination, invention and inspiration with the theme “Celebrating 75 Years of Museum Memories.”

The Museum’s grand 45-foot tree will be decorated with shimmering ornaments representing the Museum’s iconic exhibits, while fun-loving “penguins” play under the tree and welcome Museum guests to our very own South Pole. (Or maybe just the South Pole of Chicago.)

More than 50 trees—including the new Bulgaria tree—will be beautifully decorated by members of Chicago’s ethnic communities. Stroll through the trees on the Main Level, enjoy intermittent falling “snow” and savor the performances of various dance and choral groups every day of the week on the Holiday Stage, adjacent to the East Court.

More special holiday events, performances and, of course, new memories, await you at this year’s Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light, so be sure to check back here for further details (and to download our Trees and Traditions podcast) as the holidays approach!

Now through December 24
Macy’s SantaLand® at Macy’s on State Street
Fifth Floor Children’s Department
Santa has arrived at Macy’s. Have your picture taken with Santa and tell him what you’re wishing for this Christmas. Santa will be in residence through Wednesday, December 24th.

Now through January 11
The Great Tree at Macy’s on State Street
7th Floor-Walnut Room
Dine under the Great Tree in the world famous Walnut Room. This year’s 45-foot-tall tree will feature iconic ornaments from Great Trees of the past along with toys from Santa’s workshop, red bows and tinsel and thousands of lights. Also, the fairy princess will sprinkle fairy dust and ask for your holiday wish in the Walnut Room.

Nov 19
Glitter: A Holiday Shopping Event
Chicago Cultural Center
78 East Washington St., GAR Hall, 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60602
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs is pleased to present “Glitter: A Holiday Shopping Event” that is free and open to the public. Discover the best gifts of the season when Chicago designers and boutiques take over the second floor of the Cultural Center for one day only! Special holiday items, sales and original fashions from Chicago designers offer unique finds. Glitter is part of the Mayor's Fashion Initiative. The Mayor's Fashion Initiative supports and promotes fashion designers living and working in Chicago through events, seminars, and city programs.

Nov 19 through Mar 15 (tentative opening)
10 am to 10 pm
Millennium Park Ice-Skating
Millennium Park
Chicago, IL 60602
The popular Ice Rink returns, hosting more than 100,000 skaters annually. Skating in Millennium Park is free and open to the public. Skate rental is available for $10. The ice rink is located on Michigan Avenue between Washington and Madison Streets.

The rink is open daily from 10am until 10pm. For the Thanksgiving holiday on November 27, and on Christmas Day, December 25, the rink will be open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

11/20/08-12-20-08
A Christmas Carol
Drury Lane Theatre Oakbrook Terrace
100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois, 60181
A Christmas Carol tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, the miserly old man, who receives a Christmas Eve visit from the ghost of his partner, Jacob Marley, warning him to mend his selfish ways. During the night three spirits appear before Scrooge, showing him visions of Christmas Past, Christmas Present, and Christmas Future, finally revealing the possible results of his unloving, uncaring life. He promises to change as he's not the man he was. This all time favorite play with music is a holiday treat for the whole family.

Nov 20 - Dec 7
Radio City Christmas Spectacular (Find Premium Tickets)
Rosemont Theatre, Rosemont, IL
Each year, the tradition and wonder grows for the Radio City Christmas Spectacular! Celebrate the yuletide wonder as more than 140 people take the stage, including the infamous Rockettes, with spectacular costumes and fan-favorite Christmas tunes enjoyed by people of all ages! Don't miss your chance to ring in the Christmas sprit with the Radio City Christmas Spectacular!

Nov 21 - Dec 31
A Christmas Carol
Goodman Theatre
170 N. Dearborn, Chicago
Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol has delighted Chicago audiences since the very first production thirty-one years ago when the Chicago Tribune raved: “magic took over the show.”

Charles Dickens’ classic story, the exceptional actors and the miraculous stagecraft have made A Christmas Carol a beloved Chicago tradition. Every year, audiences look forward to the “Bah Humbugs,” the arrival of the ghosts, the music and dancing and Scrooge’s joyful discovery of life and love. Whether this is your first or your 31st visit to A Christmas Carol, this timeless play will put the magic in your holiday season!

Nov 21 - Dec 27 (Fridays & Saturdays)
Chicago Christmas Spectacular
The Cornservatory
4210 N Lincoln Ave
Chicago, IL
Look out, it’s coming! Whether we want it to or not…. Ahhhhhhhhh- Christmas! Join A Reasonable Facsimile Theatre Company as they try to survive the Christmas ‘horribles’ with hilarious humor. We take you to Bedford Falls where It’s A Wonderful…. Hanukkah?? See what happens when Mr. Claus takes a different trip-on Acid! Are you ‘Lost’? So are the survivors of Flight #815…till Santa shows up! The Holiday El Train takes a very unscheduled stop! And, don’t forget to check in with those lovable Christmas Zombies! Arftco has a stocking full of dazzling new holiday scripts to delight you. Come once, Come twice, come as often as a Christmas catalog!

Nov 22 - Dec 23
CTA Holiday Train
Various Train Lines

Santa Claus is coming to town - riding the CTA
The Chicago Transit Authority is getting into the holiday spirit with the 2008 version of its popular Holiday Train. Santa and his elves will ride the train passing out candy canes and season's greetings.

The spectacular train is an amazing sight - during the daytime and at night. The outside of the six-car train is adorned with holiday seasonal images. Thousands of twinkling lights outline the shape of the train and windows, with even more lights running across the tops of the cars.

Interiors of the cars are decked out with thousands of multi-colored lights, red bows, garland, and red and green overhead lighting. The hand poles are wrapped to look like candy canes.

As the train pulls into each station, Santa waves to the boarding passengers from his sleigh on an open-air flatcar that carries his reindeer and decorated holiday trees. The Holiday Train will travel all CTA rail lines in November and December as part of regular rail service. Normal CTA fares apply.

The train operates from approximately 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends, and 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on select weekdays (schedules for each individual line will vary), and will make stops at all stations along the respective routes.

On December 2, the train operates around the Loop to coincide with the lighting of Chicago's Holiday Tree in Daley Center Plaza.

Schedule
November 22 -- Red and Purple Lines
November 23 -- Red and Purple Lines
November 26 -- Blue Line
November 29 -- Blue Line
December 2 -- Pink Line and Loop Elevated
December 4 -- Green Line
December 5 -- Green Line
December 6 -- Green Line
December 10 -- Brown and Orange Lines
December 11 -- Brown and Orange Lines
December 12 -- Brown and Orange Lines
December 13 -- Brown and Orange Lines
December 18 -- Purple Line Express
December 19 -- Red Line
December 20 -- Orange Line
December 22 -- Purple Line Express
December 23 -- Yellow Line

Nov 22 - 23
Chicago Toy and Game Fair
Navy Pier Festival Hall A
Chi-TAG, is the only non-hobby toy and game fair open to the public in the United States. In its sixth year, the two day event allows the public to preview, play and purchase the year's hottest new toys and games. The Fair showcases hundreds of companies and thousands of products from around the world including Australia, Asia, Europe and Africa. Raffles, tournaments, prizes, live entertainment, shopping, free gaming areas, Young Inventors' Challenge, 24x7 game playing featuring the coolest new games from Europe's famous Essen Fair, costumed characters, toy drive and live game shows makes Chi-TAG the most fun you can have in one weekend, packed under one roof.

And what a roof! Chi-TAG is held at Navy Pier's Festival Hall B on Saturday and Sunday, November 21st and 22nd, 2008 from 10am-6pm daily. The cost is $10 per adult, $5 per child 13 and under, free for ages 3 and under and scouts in uniform. $10 off parking coupons available at event. For more information please visit http://www.chitag.com  or call 847-677-8277.

Nov 22 - Dec 13
The Evanston Art Center's 2008 Winter Arts and Crafts Expo
The Evanston Art Center
2603 Sheridan Rd., Evanston
For the past six years during the winter holiday season, the Evanston Art Center has presented a high quality exhibition and sale of the finest one-of-a-kind arts and crafts created by local artisans. Discover hand crafted works of jewelry, ceramics, fiber, metal, glass, painting, photography, mixed-media, and more.

Nov 22
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Location: Michigan Ave. from Wacker Dr. to Oak St
FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS, the trees along North Michigan Avenue have been illuminated to signal the official start of the holiday season. Join Mickey Mouse and his pals from the Walt Disney World® Resort for a magical holiday celebration in The Magnificent Mile district. Witness the spectacular lighting of more than one million lights along North Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to Wacker Drive, culminating in a magnificent fireworks show over the
Chicago River. After you enjoy the day’s activities, return to The Magnificent Mile district again and again throughout the season to create your own holiday memories! For additional information see:

• Helpful Hints for the Magnificent Mile 2008 Lights Festival
• Map of the Festival. (includes directions and parking)
• Magnificent Mile Holiday Activity Guide.

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Nov 22 - 23
St Nicholas 25th Annual Christmas Faire
2200 West Rice Street, Chicago, IL, 60622
Join us! Start your holiday shopping / festivities! Professional artisans from our Ukrainian community and other ethnic groups showcase and sell everything from quality gem jewelry, hand painted ceramics /glassware, holiday gifts / gift baskets, cosmetics, fashions, games, raffles, snacks. Feast on delicious dinners served on Sunday, November 23rd from 11:30 a.m. until sold out in the school cafeteria.
Call 773-276-4537 for exhibitor or event info or stnicksfaire@comcast.net

Nov 24 - Jan 4
Star of Wonder
Adler Planetarium
1300 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Chicago, IL 60605
Take a journey back in time this holiday season to rediscover the story behind the Star of Bethlehem in the Adler Planetarium’s Star of Wonder, the museum’s longest-running sky show and one of Chicago’s favorite holiday offerings. Star of Wonder examines various theories behind the celestial event that prompted the Magi (Three Kings) to travel to Bethlehem. Was this heavenly light an exploding star, a brilliant comet, or an unusual grouping of the planets? Carefully exploring modern ideas, this unique sky show presents a surprising and dramatic conclusion based on ancient astronomical records and recent computer calculations of planet positions. Star of Wonder will be presented via the technology of the Zeiss planetarium projector in the Adler’s historic Sky Theater.

11/25/08 - 12/25/08
A Christmas Carol
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre
111 W Campbell, Arlington Heights, IL 60005
An exciting new holiday season bring with it the joyous Christmas classic, A Christmas Carol. You’ll delight in watching old, curmudgeonly Scrooge slowly and surely see the error of his ways with the help of the love, warmth and cheer of Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit and the spirit of Christmas itself. The costumes are spectacular and the music, singing and dancing are enchanting. You’ll love this show, and you’ll be wishing that the season lasted just a few days longer.

Nov 27
Mc Donald's 75th Anniversary Thanksgiving Parade (See the Parade Map)
Location: State St. from Congress Pkwy. to Randolph St.
Date: Thursday, November 27, 2008 Thanksgiving Day
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Are you ready for Chicago's favorite holiday tradition? The 75th Anniversary of the McDonald's Thanksgiving Parade will step off on Thursday, November 27th, with Ronald McDonald, Santa Claus, and thousands of performers marching down State Street in downtown Chicago. Children of all ages, young and old, will be amazed at the high-flying inflatable balloons, melodic marching bands, engaging entertainers and exquisite equestrian units that they will see.

Nov 27 - Dec 24
Daley Plaza Santa's House
Daley Plaza
50 W. Washington St
Chicago, IL 60602
Every day starting November 27 through December 24, Santa will be available for pictures and taking wish lists. Visits with Santa start on Thanksgiving Day, November 27th at 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. For the remainder of the season Santa's House hours are:

November 29 through December 23: 11 am to 6 pm (Sat & Sun 11 am - 8 pm)
December 2: 11 am - 8 pm (closed during tree lighting) reopening from 6 pm to 8 pm
December 24: 11 am to 4 pm

(Note Santa takes a break each day from 3 - 4 pm)

Nov 27 - Dec 24
Christkindlmarket Chicago
Daley Center Plaza
50 W. Washington St.
Visitors from all over the world come to the Christkindlmarket Chicago annually and the numbers continue to grow every year. It is so popular and loved by all that any Chicagoan will tell you that they could not imagine the city without it. It is no longer just a German tradition - it has become a Chicago institution.

Families, friends, co-workers, young professionals, suburbanites, city folk and visitors from all corners of the world enjoy Christkindlmarket Chicago. The unique shopping experience, the typical German food and drinks, the diverse holiday entertainment, and a place to enjoy the city during the winter season, makes this a preferred and popular destination.

Nov 28 - Dec 19 (Fridays only) Free Admission
Caroling at Cloud Gate
AT&T Plaza-Millennium Park Cloud Gate
Millennium Park is home to Chicago's newest holiday tradition - Caroling at Cloud Gate. Chicago’s holiday tradition returns on Friday nights throughout the holiday season. Chicagoans and visitors are invited to hear the beautiful voices of a variety of choral groups and join in a holiday sing-along.

Nov 28 - Jan 4 (not every day, check schedule)
ZooLights
Lincoln Park Zoo
2200 Canon Drive, Chicago IL 60614
312.742.2000
Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a dazzling wonderland with a series of free seasonal festivities.

Enter a winter wonderland illuminated by the laughter of children and more than two million lights at Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual ZooLights Presented by ComEd. This holiday classic has become one of the Windy City’s must-see seasonal events.

Watch live ice carving then escape Jack Frost with an exotic trip past crocodiles, pygmy hippos and meerkats at the Regenstein African Journey. Animal exhibits stay open late as guests roam the beautiful grounds to take photos with Santa, prepare family crafts and enjoy the zoo’s incredible animals immersed in an atmosphere unlike any other.

Nov. 28 – Jan. 11
Holiday Traditions
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily; 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Thursdays
Garfield Park Conservatory
300 N. Central Park Ave., 312-746-5100
All ages, admission free
Garfield Park Conservatory celebrates its last centennial year event in 2008 with the winter flower show, “Holiday Traditions” in the Show House starting Friday, November 28 and running through Friday, January 11, 2009.

The culminating centennial show will use traditional poinsettias (mainly reds) that were popular at the turn of the century, accompanied by flowering plant material in reds, oranges and whites. Festive holiday decorations will also be featured in the show.

Also, check out the Museum of Botany’s Holiday Hybrids in the Show House. As a tribute to the Conservatory’s historic role as Museum of Botany (a name bestowed on the Conservatory by the City of Chicago n 1931), a small section of the Show House to will become a botanical museum. This living time capsule will not only display important plants of past decades, but will also address botanical concepts that bring to the forefront the role a conservatory plays in the enduring connection between people and plants.

The Garfield Park Conservatory was designed by celebrated landscape architect Jens Jensen, who created a horticultural masterpiece and historic landmark located amid the beautiful boulevards of Chicago’s West Side. The Garfield Park Conservatory is the largest public “glass house” in the nation, displaying hundreds of exotic species of palms, ferns, cacti and tropical plants in landscaped settings under sparkling-clear ceilings, as well as a variety of flora showcased in beautiful outdoor gardens.

The Conservatory is open every day of the year, from 9a.m. to 5p.m. and Thursdays, from 9a.m. to 8p.m. with free admission and parking. (Special exhibit and activities fees may apply.) For the latest information regarding Garfield Park Conservatory’s Centennial and programming, call 773-638-1766 extension 13, or visit www.garfieldconservatory.org .

The Conservatory is located just fifteen minutes west of downtown. From I-290, exit Independence Avenue (3800 west) and travel north. Turn east onto Washington Blvd. Turn north onto Central Park Avenue (3600 west). The parking lot will be on the left, just before the conservatory. Alternatively, take the CTA Green line and exit at Conservatory/Central Park Drive.

11/28/08 to 01/04/09
Chicago Botanic Garden Wonderland Express
Glencoe, IL 60022
Take a magical trip this holiday season to a winter wonderland of twinkling lights, garden-scale trains, miniature Chicago landmarks, beautiful horticulture displays and indoor snowfall. For more information, call (847) 835-5440.

Nov 29
Vienna Boys Choir
Symphony Center
220 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60604
An annual Thanksgiving-weekend delight, the Vienna Boys Choir returns to Chicago for a joyful performance on Saturday, November 29, at Symphony Center. The legendary ensemble performs holiday favorites, secular music and popular folk songs.

Founded more than 500 years ago, the beloved choir has worked with musicians including Mozart, Gluck and Bruckner, and it once counted Franz Schubert as one of its boy singers. Today’s ensemble consists of 100 choristers between the ages of 10 and 14, divided into four touring choirs that travel throughout Europe, Asia and North America and perform more than 300 concerts in front of nearly half a million people each year.

December

Dec 1 - 19
City Hall Holiday Concert Series
Young Voices Celebrate the 2008 Holiday Season at City Hall!
City Hall Lobby
121 N. LaSalle St. Chicago, IL 60602
Hours: 12 Noon - 1 pm
Admission: FREE; Accessibility: Yes.
Deck the Halls! Get into the holiday spirit while listening to the classics sung by children's choirs from throughout the city. The City Hall Holiday Concert Series begins December 1 and runs until December 19 with concerts every weekday from Noon to 1 p.m. The concerts will take place in the west end of the City Hall lobby (121 N. LaSalle) near the LaSalle Street entrance. The concert series truly exhibits the talents of children from all over Chicago and warms the hearts of the audience. Below is the schedule (Please note schedule is subject to change):

Monday, December 1 - James E. McDade Classical School Choir
Tuesday, December 2 - Queen of angels Elementary School Choir
Wednesday, December 3 - Holy Cross/IHM Choir & Marimba Ensemble
Thursday, December 4 - Mark T. Skinner Elementary School Chorus
Friday, December 5 - St. Jerome School Choir
Monday, December 8 - Edgar Allan Poe Classical School Choir
Tuesday, December 9 - Misericordia Hertzingers
Wednesday, December 10 - Amos Alonzo Stagg Elementary School Choir
Thursday, December 11 - Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School Bands & Choirs
Friday, December 12 - Les Finch Learning Tree School Choir
Monday, December 15 - Prosser Career Academy School Choir
Tuesday, December 16 - Mary McDowell School of International Studies Choir
Wednesday, December 17 - Robert Healy Elementary School Choir
Thursday, December 18 - Providence St. Mel School Choir
Friday, December 19 - The Celestials (Adult Choir)

Dec 2 12 noon
Chicago's 95th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Daley Plaza, Chicago
50 W. Washington St.
Embrace the warm sounds of holiday music, enjoy a visit with Santa Claus, and shop at the Christkindlmarket, a German Christmas tradition, bringing food, fun and festivities to Daley Plaza during the holidays.

The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is an anticipated family tradition. The holiday season in Chicago officially commences when the switch is flipped and the lights begin to sparkle and shine in Daley Plaza. Chicago's massive 90 foot tall holiday tree is comprised of more than 130 smaller Balsam Fir trees illuminated with thousands of lights and hundreds of ornaments. The tradition of an official City tree was initiated back in 1913 was first lit by Mayor Carter H. Harrison in Grant Park.

December 2-5, 8-10, 12, 13, 15-17, 19
The Day Santa Canceled Christmas
Chicago Center for The Performing Arts
777 N Green Street Chicago, Ill 60622
phone: 312 437 7373, email: studiooneproduct@aol.com
The World seems to have forgotten about Santa. Feeling unpopular he decides to let the elves give him a makeover. Will this be enough to get Santa back on top or will he cancel Christmas? Studio One Productions Presents this Soulful Christmas Tale.

Dec 5 - 20
The Hipmas Carol
The Chicago Center for the Performing Arts
777 N. Green St. Chicago, IL. 60622
Now entering its 9th critically acclaimed season, “The Hipmas Carol” is a hip, unique and wholly original reinterpretation of the Dickens classic that was inspired, in part, by Sir Lord Buckley, and has playful, whimsical notes likened to Dr. Seuss at times. Performed by the black suited Tyler Bohne and Patrick Zielinski, the show is illustrated musically by the exciting and talented, Ritch Valadez.

This hour long, sometimes funny, and at times, striking and dramatic, tribute of “A Christmas Carol” is presented in a refreshingly different and non flashy style that manages to remain warm and wry while never losing its distinctly urban edge. Infused with elements of beat poetry, spoken word and storytelling, the performers deliver a barrage of rhyming couplets over a rich and ever-present live guitar score laced with jazz and blues. Pat and Tyler narrate the piece and effortlessly invoke every character effectively while never changing costume or leaving the stage; creating a playful pattern and rich rhythm for audiences’ ears. Far from a parody, this hip and heartfelt adaptation has enchanted theatergoers and fans of storytelling for years

Dec. 5 - Jan. 3
Silent Night of the Lambs
Mary’s Attic
5400 N. Clark, Chicago, IL
Previews- Dec. 3, 4, ; Opens - Dec.5,
Runs: Dec. 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 16, 17, 20, 23, 26, 27, 30, Jan. 2, 3
All shows at 7:30 Call 312-409-4357 for information or go to www.handbagproductions.org 
A Midwest premiere - a twisted take on two twisted classics with an unforgettable title- Silent Night of the Lambs by the twisted mind of Ryan Landry of the Boston, MA Gold Dust Orphans Theater Company.

Dec 5 - 23
Dream Theatre Presents: COLD
Dream Theatre 556 W 18th Street
Christmas isn’t awful if you find the right person to spend it with.
Two miserable people, who are always alone on Christmas, somehow find one another and fall in love.

Performances run Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00PM, and Sundays at 7:00 PM Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online by visiting www.dreamtheatrecompany.com  or by calling 773-552-8616.

Dec 5 - Jan 4
Bank of America Winter Wonderfest
Location: Navy Pier
The Most Spectacular Holiday Event of the Year Begins its 8th Magical Season with New Attractions and Over 170,000 Square feet of indoor Family Fun.

This spectacular festival provides a breathtaking experience for guests of all ages, with stunning décor, new attractions and popular favorites that are sure to make every visit a magical experience! Over the past eight years, hundreds of thousands of families have made this celebration part of their annual holiday tradition! Decorations feature 750,000 sparkling lights, 25,000 bedazzling holiday ornaments and hundreds of beautifully decorated trees. Dozens of rides, games, music and live entertainment for all to enjoy!

eWish Center
Festival Hall
Daily: Friday, December 5 – Sunday, January 4, 2009
Techie elves assist kids in sending their holiday wishes via "Winternet" to Santa. After the holidays the elves will assist you in writing a thank you note that will be sent straight to the big guy in red!

Santa's Arrival
Grand Staircase
Saturday, November 29, 2008 at 5:00pm
Santa Claus is coming to town! Kids of all ages are invited to Navy Pier's Grand Staircase on Dock Street to welcome the season's most important guest of the year, Santa Claus. At 5:00 p.m., a spectacular fireworks display will mark his appearance and arrival by boat. Be prepared for festive music and dancing. Once Santa docks, he joins the party on the Grand Staircase and will lead the way in a spectacular lighting of the Pier. This lighting ceremony will officially kick off the holiday season at Navy Pier.

Immediately following the lighting ceremony, Santa will proceed to the Family Pavilion Stage. There, along with Mrs. Claus and an entourage of friendly elf assistants, Santa will listen to the holiday wishes of children from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

Join us at Navy Pier on New Year's Eve to experience the Biggest and Most Spectacular Fireworks presentation and festivities of the New Year!

Dec 5 - 7
Lincoln Square Christkindl Market
Leland & Western Avenue, Chicago IL 60625
***Admission Free***
Strolling Musicians * Caroling * St. Nicholas * Shop the Lincoln Square Merchants * Artisan Crafts *

Under the Big “Heated” Tent
German Beer * Glugg * German Food
Kurt Boche * Jimmy’s Bavarians * Dank Schule Children’s Choir & Much More

Friday: Woogie; Saturday: Trash Martini: Sunday: Brent Kimbraugh & Co.

Kids Korner - Giddings Plaza December 5-7 Crafts, entertainment, photos with St. Nicholas
Kids Korner - December 6th
Hansel and Gretel 3:00
The German American Choir 4:00
Christmas tree lighting 4:30 p.m.

December 5, 3:00-10:00pm
December 6, 9:00-10:00 pm
December 7, 11:30-7:00 pm

Dec 6, 7, 13, 14, 20 and 21
Macy’s Santa Breakfasts
Breakfasts at Macy’s on State Street
Seven on State
9am, doors open at 8:45am
You and your family are cordially invited to an exclusive breakfast with Santa Claus. Enjoy a yummy, plated breakfast, children’s entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus himself.

Call 1-800-206-1995 after Sunday November 9 for more information and to reserve your place at the table. Tickets are $16.00 per person, $12.00 for children under 10 years of age. Seating is limited. Remember to bring your camera for photos with Santa.

Dec 6
16th Annual "Joy of Toys"
21 W. Goethe, Chicago, IL 60610
A “Sweet Sixteen” anniversary
Saturday, December 6, will mark the 16th year of the NDA’s annual “Joy of Toys” Holiday Wrap Party. This year’s event will be hosted by Mario’s Ristorante, 21 West Goethe Street, from 1 pm – 3:30 pm. Admission to the party is a new, unwrapped toy valued at $20.00 for a 5-7 year old child.

The toys are later distributed to kindergarten and first grade students at the George Manierre School and the Catherine Ferguson Child Parent Center. Over 4,000 toys have been distributed to needy children through this NDA event.

Dec 6 at 8 p.m.
Christmas with Aaron Neville and the Neville Quintet with Charles Neville
The Center for the Performing Arts at Governor's State University
1 University Parkway, University Park, IL 60466
The celebrated jazz musician Aaron Neville comes to The Center as a part of his third annual Christmas tour with The Neville Quintet, in an exclusive Chicago-area engagement on Saturday, Dec. 6 at 8 p.m. Aaron Neville combines his smooth vocals and piano playing with the tight sounds of his quintet, featuring his brother Charles Neville on the jazz saxophone. Neville will present a night of soulful music and entertainment that includes timeless holiday standards from his bestselling albums “Christmas Prayer” and “Soulful Christmas,” alongside hits from throughout his five decade career.

Dec 6
Chicago Botanic Garden Reindog Parade
1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, IL 60022
Visitors parade their pooches in holiday costume for prizes, awarded by local celebrity judges. Cleverly costumed canines march the parade route – with Santa in the lead carrying a giant rawhide bone-- to celebrate the holiday season.

Dec 6 - 7
10th Annual Bucktown Holiday Artshow
Holstein Park Fieldhouse
2200 N. Oakley Ave., Chicago, IL
The Bucktown Holiday ArtShow (BHAS) celebrates its 10th consecutive year as a venue for holiday shoppers to find unique gifts from both local artists and artists from around the country. The BHAS is a juried show featuring a wide variety of media: from ceramics to photography, watercolors to oils, jewelry to textiles--the BHAS has it all.

The BHAS is the perfect stop to find that perfect something for everyone on your shopping list. Artists feature both big ticket items as well as original art costing only a few dollars. Find pleasure in giving a hand crafted, one-of-a-kind gift, rather than something bought from a department store. If it is the appearance of thought that counts, you’ll be considered genius after buying your gifts from the BHAS.

Dec 6 - 7
Julmarknad (Christmas Bazaar)
Swedish American Museum
5211 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60640
The Swedish American Museum and The Brunk Children's Museum's annual Christmas Bazaar features traditional Scandinavian and modern handicrafts, entertainment, and Swedish kaffestuga. On the first floor of the museum, visit vendors selling traditional Scandinavian and modern handicrafts. Swedish-American organizations will entertain with music, dance and Lucia songs. Enjoy Swedish sandwiches and coffee while listening to the entertainment.

Children are welcome to the third floor for kids crafts and play and a special visit from Santa.

Dec. 6 – Jan 4
Winter Flower and Train Show
9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily
Lincoln Park Conservatory, 2391 N. Stockton Dr., 312-742-7736
All ages, admission free
Several model trains, including an old-fashioned steam engine, freight train and trolley, wind their way through a miniature village set in a field of vibrant red, delicate white and soft pink poinsettias. The village, comprised entirely of natural materials including willow, spruce and birch woods, features a variety of Chicago-style homes and famous buildings such as the neighborhood bungalow, Chicago Theater and Chicago Water Tower Place.

Dec 7
Dance- Along Nutcracker
Chicago Cultural Center
78 E. Washington St., Preston Bradley Hall
Chicago, IL 60602
Sugar-plum fairies and toy soldiers of all ages return once again for the seventh annual Dance-Along Nutcracker. Dance and sing along with instruction from professional dancers and music from the Lakeside Pride Band.

Dec. 7 at 4 p.m.
A Christmas Carol
The Center for the Performing Arts at Governor's State University
1 University Parkway, University Park, IL 60466
TheatreworksUSA’s award-winning production of the Charles Dickens’ classic tale, “A Christmas Carol” captures both the humorous and touching moments of a timeless story with witty dialogue and fresh new songs. The show entertains young audiences by showcasing eccentric characters while conveying Dickens’s original message that the holiday season should be a “kind, forgiving, charitable time.” The New York Times calls the production "A thorough delight – inspired, funny and intimate." And the Elgin Courier News says the production is “so grand…it even could give Scrooge a run for his money.”

Dec 9
CRAVE Holiday Shopping Party
Sidney R. Yates Gallery, Chicago Cultural Center
78 E Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
Ph: 866-931-3988, email: chicago@craveparty.com
Get pampered while you shop 40+ local boutiques and spas. Shop for green gifts. Indulge in free martinis, appetizers and gift wrapping while you shop.

Dec 10 7:30 pm
Holiday Pops Chicago Concert
Harris Theater
205 East Randolph, Chicago, IL 60601
The best loved holiday music and songs performed by the 140 member Holiday Pops Chorus and the the 48 piece Southport Symphony Orchestra with special guests: The Alphonsus Academy and Center for the Arts Children's Chorus, under the direction of Maestro Scott Arkenberg. Tickets-(312)334-7777 or www.harristheaterchicago.org
For concert info and special packages: www.holidaypopschicago.com

Dec 12 -14
TIDINGS OF TAP!
University of Illinois Chicago Theater
1044 W. Harrison, Chicago, Il 60607
Phone: 773-655-1175
Chicago Tap Theatre is proud to present Tidings of Tap!, a dance celebration of all things wintry, including pieces recognizing Christmas, Chanukah and the snowy season. Tidings of Tap! features seasonal standards and lesser-known songs as well as the spectacular dancing of Chicago Tap Theatre, hot off the heels of their performances at the New York Musical Theatre Festival. This unique production is rapidly becoming a tradition for many Chicagoan families, so CTT continues to repeat past favorites like “Name That Tune” while also introducing new dances in the show. Count on humor, excitement and maybe a klezmer surprise!

Dec 13
Polar Adventure Days
Northerly Island
1400 S. Lynn White Dr., on the Museum Campus
The Chicago Park District presents the fourth annual Polar Adventure Days from 12-4 p.m. on three Saturdays, Dec. 13, Jan. 17 and Feb. 21, at Northerly Island, 1400 S. Lynn White Dr., on the Museum Campus. The program is admission free.

Polar Adventure Days offer families the opportunity to explore Northerly Island and come face-to-face with live animals, engage in winter activities, watch ice sculpture carvings, and create nature-inspired crafts.

The following features and activities will be available at Polar Adventure Days:

· The first 500 visitors receive a complimentary Polar Adventure Day mug filled with hot chocolate. Limit one per person.
· Nadeau’s Ice Sculpture carves magical creations on site.
· Various live animals will be on site to discover such as birds of prey.
· An arctic camping demo by Northwest Passage.
· Siberian huskies will be present and adventurers will talk about their Iditarod dog sled race experiences.
· Live entertainment including winter storytelling.
· Arts and craft tables for making nature-inspired creations.
· Free snowshoe rental for exploration of the island (if there is snow).
· REI will discuss winter activities.

Please call to confirm scheduled activities for Polar Adventure Days as activities are subject to change. For more information, call 312-742-PLAY.

Saturday, Dec. 13, 10 a.m.
Breakfast with Santa
United Club at Soldier Field, 1410 S. Museum Campus Dr.
Admission is $50 for adults, $25 for children ages 3-12, and free for children ages 3 and under
Reservations are only available by calling 312-235-7096 or emailing sfspecialevents@dncinc.com 
Enjoy a four-star brunch during one of the few times when the United Club’s fine dining is open to the public. Santa and his elves will be on hand and families can bring an ornament to decorate the stadium’s tree.

Dec 13 - 14
Civic Ballet of Chicago's 'The Nutcracker'
Centre East
9501 Skokie Blvd. Skokie, IL 60077
(847) 679-9501 x3103 email: annf@carolfoxassociates.com
The company that brought you Chicago’s original full-length Ruth Page Nutcracker ballet returns to Centre East with everyone’s holiday favorite. With choreography inspired by the experience and expertise of Larry Long and Dolores Lipinski, exquisite dancing, stunning costumes and magical settings in the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of the Sweets, The Nutcracker promises holiday joy for children of all ages.

Dec 15
Porchlight Music Theatre's First Annual Holiday Sing Along
Theatre Building Chicago
1225 W. Belmont, Chicago
Porchlight Music Theatre, Chicago’s most awarded musical theatre invites guests to enjoy their first annual Holiday Sing Along Monday, December 15 at 7:30 p.m. Porchlight Music Theatre’s award winning actors will sing popular holiday songs and invite guests to join in the fun. Tickets are $20 in advance and may be purchased by calling 773.325.9884 or emailing PorchlightTheatre@yahoo.com . Tickets will be $25 at the door.

Scheduled to perform at the Holiday Sing Along will be award winning cabaret artist Stephen Rader, Lara Filip, Nicholas Foster, Ryan Lanning and Heather Townsend. The show is directed by Christopher Pazdernik with musical direction by Michael Frain.

Tue Dec 16, 7-9 p.m.
Skate with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Daley Bicentennial Plaza, 337 E. Randolph St., 312-742-7648
All ages, admission free and free skate rental
Enjoy refreshments and more at this evening skate.

Dec 18 - 28
The Joffrey Ballet Nutcracker
Is this the year the Mouse King wins?
Auditorium Theatre
500 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago, IL
Chicago's most popular family holiday entertainment: Robert Joffrey's glorious production, with enchanting Victorian scenery and costumes, Gerald Arpino's thrilling waltzes of the Snowflakes and Flowers, dozens of dancing and singing children, and the incomparable Joffrey dancers, creating a spectacle children of all ages will cherish forever.

Dec 26 - Jan 1
14th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program
Malcolm X College
1900 West Van Buren, Chicago
Malcolm X College and the Bolozi Wazee (Council of Elders) - Shule Ya Watoto (School for Children) presents its 14th Annual Kwanzaa Observance Program at Malcolm X College.

Each year, contributors aid in allowing us to inform, entertain and unite the attending community free of charge to the Kwanzaa Observance program held at Malcolm X College. Thousands enjoy creative expression performers with NO Entry Fee (first come - first seated) and shop at the African Marketplace which includes regional vendors.

Visit and Enjoy!

For more information: Jessica Holloway, Kwanzaa Chairperson 312.850.7472 jholloway@ccc.edu

Dec 27 - 29
Mayor Daley's 9th Annual Holiday Sports Festival
McCormick Place – North and South Buildings
Saturday-Monday, Dec. 27-29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
McCormick Place, 2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr., 312-744-3315
All ages, admission free
Admission & interactive zones to the biggest indoor gym are FREE of charge.
Activities take place daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
This all-ages sports festival includes both tournaments and interactive zones. Pre-registered teams compete in tournaments for basketball, soccer, volleyball and table tennis. Interactive activities include wall climbing, football, golf, skateboarding, badminton, boxing, tumbling, fencing and more.

What began as a basketball only tournament named Holiday Hoops in 2000 became Mayor Daley’s Holiday Sports Festival. Envisioned by Mayor Daley, the end result now encompasses both tournaments and interactive zones. Combined, the event attracts approximately 85,000 people annually over a period of three days. The event like its predecessor Holiday Hoops takes place at McCormick Place and is typically a three day event. Produced by the Mayor’s Office of Special Events, other partners include the Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Park District.

Dec 31
New Year's Eve Fireworks
Buckingham Fountain
Grant Park
1001 S Columbus Drive (Columbus Drive and Congress Parkway)
Chicago's official New Year's fireworks celebration at the fountain.

Dec. 31, 1 & 3 p.m.
Rockin’ New Years
Lincoln Park Cultural Center, 2045 N. Lincoln Park West, 312-742-7726
All ages, admission $5; advanced reservations are required
Families enjoy an early countdown to 2008 with pizza, soft drinks, noise makers, party hats and a clown rock and roll band.

Other Chicago Holiday Events Resources:

• Visit Sightseeing Chicago.

HOLIDAY CRUISES

Odyssey, Mystic Blue & Spirit of Chicago Holiday Cruise Schedule

Wednesday, December 31 –
Odyssey – New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise

Wednesday, December 31 –
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with Front Row Fireworks Aboard Spirit

Wednesday, December 31 –
Mystic Blue’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise