THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – GUESS WHO’S COMING TO TOWN!
Guess who’s coming to town? Looks like Santa Claus will be here this weekend but won’t be delivering any gifts, yet!
Thousands of Santas will hit the streets of Chicago for the 11th annual Santa Hustle® Chicago 5K and Kids Dash this Saturday at Soldier Field (1410 S. Museum Campus Dr.) in the South Loop. Santa Hustlers will jingle their way through cookie and candy stations along the course to fuel their holiday cheer! They will also receive a Santa hat, beard, and a finisher’s medal – and new this year – men’s, women’s or unisex hoodies, along with an option to add a Santa shirt, full Santa suit, or Mrs. Claus packages. The Kids Dash (known as the Rudolph Run) is recommended for ages 2-10 years old. Kid participants will receive a Santa hat, Santa beard, a race bib, and a finisher’s ribbon. Afterwards, head on over to Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood for the traditional after party which includes an awards ceremony, medals for top finishers, drinks, and food. It’s a magical experience and really has something for everyone!!
Santa is not done yet! He’ll then be heading over to the 14th annual SantaCon Chicago this Saturday at the Tavern Tap Pub, Congress Plaza Hotel (520 S. Michigan Ave.) in the South Loop. This is a weird and wonderful annual bar crawl through the heart of downtown Chicago. Everyone 21+ is welcome, and you can join the festivities at any point and at any time! You just need to check in or register and the key is to show up in a full Santa suit. But if you haven’t had time to grab a Mr. or Mrs. Claus costume, just get into the spirit of the event and join the fun! Be sure to check the website for the complete schedule.
Too early for Santa Claus? Perhaps one of these events will suit your weekend needs:
See 90 small Christmas trees and religious displays at the 16th annual Christmas Trees from Around the World highlighting different ways of celebrating the holidays at the County Treasurer’s Office (118 N. Clark St., Rm. 112) in The Loop through January 2nd. Three-foot-high trees are decorated by members of ethnic and religious communities to represent their heritage. Also, on display are a Christian Nativity scene, an African American Kwanzaa Kinara, a Hindu Prayer Thali and a Jewish Menorah!
Don’t feel like going to The Loop for your glühwein fix? Then head on over to the Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville at Gallagher Way (3637 N. Clark St.) now through December 31st. This authentic German-style outdoor market gives visitors the opportunity to continue their holiday shopping and tasting of traditional German and international foods while enjoying family-friendly entertainment! The Christkindlmarket has been a winter mainstay since its debut in the Chicago Loop in 1996!!
The Swedish American Museum (5211 N. Clark St.) will be hosting their Julmarknad this Saturday and Sunday in the Andersonville neighborhood. This annual Christmas Bazaar features traditional Scandinavian and modern handicrafts for purchase, Scandinavian food, and traditional entertainment. Visit the Children’s Museum for crafts, games and a special visit from Santa! It’s entertainment for the whole family!!
Ho-Ho-Ho!
