As the autumn leaves fade and the holiday season begins to unfold, Chicago transforms into a vibrant and festive destination, offering a myriad of activities that cater to all interests. Here are some of the most fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in Chicago this November.
For those who love the outdoors and festive atmosphere, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a must-attend event. Taking place on November 23, 2024, this festival features a parade with marching bands, festive floats, and the lighting of over one million lights along Michigan Avenue. The event includes a visit from Santa Claus and various family activities, making it a perfect outing for all ages.
Another iconic event is the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 28, 2024, which has been a tradition since 1934. Held on State Street, this parade is a great way to kick off the holiday season with colorful floats, marching bands, and appearances by beloved holiday characters.
If you're looking for some winter fun, ice skating is a popular activity in Chicago. The ice skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park offers a unique "alpine in the city" experience, with a winding ribbon of ice that curves around a 40-foot climbing wall. Alternatively, you can skate at Millennium Park, which also hosts the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, usually around late November.
For art enthusiasts, the Morton Arboretum is a hidden gem, especially during November. The arboretum features an installation of large-scale sculptures by Polish American artist Olga Ziemska, titled "Of the Earth," which reflects the connection between nature and human life. Additionally, the Chicago Cultural Center is a stunning building with a Tiffany stained glass dome and hosts various free events, including concerts, dance performances, and film screenings.
Music lovers will enjoy the Candlelight Concerts series, which takes place in beautiful venues bathed in candlelight. This November, you can attend tributes to Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, U2, and Queen, among other performances. These concerts offer a unique and intimate musical experience.
Sports fans can catch a game by one of Chicago's many teams. November is a great time to attend a Chicago Bears football game at Soldier Field or a Chicago Bulls basketball game at the United Center.
Navy Pier is another must-visit destination, especially with the return of the Light Up the Lake holiday spectacle starting November 29, 2024. This event features an immersive holiday light show, a holiday drone display, fireworks, and various festive attractions. You can also enjoy rides, games, and the Chicago Children’s Museum, or take a panoramic ride on the Ferris wheel.
For a unique cultural experience, visit the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza, which runs from November 22 to December 24, 2024. This market is inspired by the Christmas markets of Nuremberg, Germany, and offers traditional German and European ornaments, crafts, food, and drinks like mulled wine and Gluhwein.
Food enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to explore Chicago's diverse culinary scene. The Andersonville Viking Pub Crawl on November 17, 2024, is a fun way to sample local beers and enjoy Scandinavian cuisine. Alternatively, you can visit Costera Cocina Tulum in the Fulton Market District for a Day of the Dead Happy Hour on November 1, 2024, which features a lively atmosphere with a DJ and complimentary Tromba shots.
Lincoln Park Zoo is another festive spot, especially during the ZooLights event, where the zoo is entirely lit up with hundreds of luminous displays. You can enjoy holiday special drinks and snacks, a light maze, an enchanted forest, and even get a picture with Santa Claus.
Finally, for a blend of art and nature, Navy Pier's Pier Pumpkin Lights, although ending early in November, sets the stage for the holiday season with nearly 1000 glowing pumpkins along the pier.
Whether you're interested in holiday festivities, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere, Chicago in November has something for everyone.
