CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS: Lincoln Park, Bucktown and Wicker Park, Lakeview, Chicago Loop, Lincoln Square, Oak Park

Lincoln Park: What better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a party that ALSO gives back? It’s time for the Santa Claws Toy Drive on Saturday, December 21 from 5 to 8 pm. At the Tonic Room (2447 N Halsted), you can drink White Claws, take a photo with Santa, listen to music provided by The Bloodshot DJs, and more. It’s free to attend! Just bring a packaged toy for donation. Find more information here.

Bucktown and Wicker Park: Christmas shows aren’t your thing? That’s ok! Check out Always… Patsy Cline at The Den Theatre. Firebrand Theatre presents this musical about the friendship between Patsy Cline and fan Louise Seger. Seger took Cline into her home one night after a show and they struck up an unlikely friendship that lasted until Cline’s death. The show runs Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 pm, Saturdays at 3 and 7:30 pm, and Sundays at 3 pm until December 15. Find more information and get your tickets here.

Lakeview: Wrap up the year with holiday cheer! On Saturday December 14 from 12 to 3 pm, head to the Capital One Cafe on Southport. Here you’ll join your neighbors and friends for an afternoon of holiday gift wrapping. The cafe is hosting a complimentary gift wrapping station and providing refreshments, while supplies last. It’s free to attend! There is a suggested donation of canned goods or non-perishable items for The Lakeview Pantry, but it is not required for participation in the gift wrapping station. For more information, email Kristine Coronado

Chicago Loop: Get yourself to the Goodman Theatre for a Christmas classic- A Christmas Carol! Actor Larry Yando is returning for his 12th appearance as Ebenezer Scrooge in this annual family-friendly show. The show runs Tuesdays through Thursdays at 7 pm, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm, and Sundays at 2 and 6 pm. It runs until December 29. Find more detailed ticket information and pricing here.

Lincoln Square: It’s time for Damen at Night- the Holiday Edition! Stay up late on Thursdays in December with the businesses on Damen Avenue. Participating businesses will be open until 9 pm, serving up refreshments and special deals. Knock out your holiday gift list by shopping locally! Find details about participating businesses and specials here.

Oak Park: Get your farmer’s market fix during the off season with Sugar Beet’s Winter’s Farmer’s Market Series! This monthly market is hosted by Sugar Beet Co-op and is on Saturday, December 14 from 10 am to 2 pm. This is a European style farmer’s market with a variety of producers, growers, and makers selling food, body care, and more. Featured vendors for this month include John Bailey Honey, Chanticlare Farm, Opportunity Knocks Pickles, Sitka Salmon, Little Buddha, and more. Find more information here.

RACHEL HOOVLER & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO