THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Experience the Magic of the Holidays!
As we enter the last month of 2017 with the holidays fast approaching, Chicagoans will have an opportunity to experience holiday magic all month long with these events!
Opening December 1st and running through January 1st, Chicago on The Polar Express is a magical one-hour train ride through the tunnels, rail yards, and neighborhoods along the Chicago River departing from Union Station (225 S. Canal St.) in the West Loop. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers are encouraged to wear their pajamas for the ride and relive the magic of this classic story. They will receive hot chocolate and a scrumptious cookie served by dancing chefs, as well as a keepsake sleigh bell. Characters on each car will also lead passengers in caroling and onboard entertainment, just like in the film! Please note that advanced reservations are required since this event is expected to sell out quickly!! Dates, times, and prices are available on the website. So, are you coming?
Opening December 1st and running through January 7th, find thrills without the chills at Fifth Third Bank’s Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall (600 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood. Packed with family fun, this delightful tradition features 170,000 square feet of rides, giant slides, the Chicago Blackhawks Ice Skating Rink, and plenty of holiday décor – all indoors! Attractions include an Arctic Express Train Ride on a trackless train traveling more than 300 feet around a holiday village display; an Artic Plunge; the Aquafina® Create-A-Cookie Cottage; the Candy Cane Lighthouse; a 42-foot magnificent Giant Decorated Tree; the Kringle Carousel; a Snowman Bouncer; visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and much, much more!!
Visit Chicagoland’s largest and longest running lights festival, Holiday Magic, at Brookfield Zoo (8400 31st St.) in Brookfield through December 31st. It features over one million twinkling LED lights, a 41-foot talking tree, a train display, carolers, ice carvers, the Holly Jolly Theater, cookie decorating, singing to the animals, zoo chats and much, much more! The zoo is open from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., festivities begin at 4:00 p.m. and the indoor exhibits remain open for animal viewing until 8:00 p.m.!!
Calling all Christmas lovers who enjoy overplayed holiday music and devouring candy and cookies, come join in the Santa Hustle Chicago 5K on Saturday at Soldier Field (1410 Museum Campus Dr.) in the South Loop at 9:00 a.m. All 5K participants will receive a Santa hat, beard, and shirt to wear while running, a 5K finisher medal, and Candy Cane socks (new for 2017)! Kid participants will receive a Santa hat and beard, a race bib, and finisher ribbon. Afterwards, head over to Navy Pier for an epic after party. It’s not just a race, but a magical experience for a great charity – the American Cancer Society!!
Join the Logan Square neighborhood as they celebrate the holidays and support their local businesses this Saturday at Holidays on the Square (3100 W. Logan Blvd.). Get a head start on your holiday shopping with unique gifts. Stay fueled throughout your shopping spree at one of the local restaurants offering day-of-deals. Need a break? Stop to warm up with a sip of your favorite hot beverage. Then take time to relax, revive, and rejuvenate!!
Enjoy Your Holiday Magical Experience!
