The holidays turn into a winter wonderland for the season offering lots of fun things to do and see. In Chicago you can go and see a Christkindlmarket with lots of festive treats and shopping. Go through the shining Christmas lights at the Lincoln Park Zoo or Navy Pier’s Winter Wonder Fest.  

Another idea in Chicago is ice skating in Millennium Park by the bean (Cloud Gate.)  This would be an option to get your energy out after a long day of viewing lights around the city. Don’t miss the tree lighting ceremony that Chicago does every year at Daley Plaza for a magical experience. Visit the trees from around the world at the Museum of Science and Industry.  These places bring the spirit right to you, making them ideal destinations for festive activities. 

If going to Chicago isn’t your thing, you can go and enjoy the local charm by driving around and admiring the festive bright lights at neighborhood houses. Plus, don’t forget the check out the New Lenox Commons, which is filled with colorful lights this time of year. In the Commons, you can also ice skate.  There are many places to ice skate in the area including the hockey rink in Manhattan, Inwood Ice Arena in Joliet, the new Harmony Square in Tinley Park, and Centennial Park in Orland Park.  You can also visit the Christkindlmarket in Aurora instead of traveling to the city or consider going to see the lights at the Morton Arboretum or Brookfield Zoo.   

Want to keep it even more low key and close to home?  Go shopping with friends for presents or sip the holiday drinks at a local coffee shop.  Whatever you do this winter, get out and enjoy the lights and heart of the season.