Image of the Scrooge meets the Ghost of Christmas Present on his throne surrounded by gifts and food.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Getting into the Spirit of the Season!

Image of the Scrooge meets the Ghost of Christmas Present on his throne surrounded by gifts and food.

As we inch closer to the Christmas holiday, there is no shortage of holiday activities to get you, your family, and friends in the spirit of the season!

Chicago’s multitude of holiday shows will not only entertain you but will most likely get you into the spirit of the season. Here are just a few –

A holiday tradition since its debut in 1978, A Christmas Carol has entertained millions of Chicagoans, both adults and children alike, for over four decades. This timeless tale of Scrooge and his voyage into Christmas past, present, and future can be seen at the Goodman Theatre (170 N. Dearborn St.) in The Loop now through December 31st. The music, the dance, the awe-inspiring effects that accompany the arrival of the ghosts, and the antics of Scrooge as he rediscovers the joy of Christmas Day will undoubtedly leave the audience with a thrilling experience that can only happen in a live theater performance!

Come and celebrate the magic of the season at the Lyric Opera House (20 N. Wacker Dr.) in the Loop with the production of The Nutcracker now through December 27th. This annual holiday tradition shares the rich cultural heritage of Chicago as it is set against the backdrop of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition as Marie sets out on an unforgettable journey of sights, sounds, and enchantment performed by none other than the Joffrey Ballet!

Experience the enchantment of Christmas at A Magical Cirque Christmas this Saturday and Sunday at the CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe St.) in The Loop.  The world’s greatest entertainers unite for the world’s greatest variety show featuring jaw-dropping, breathtaking circus acts as the audience is transported to the golden age filled with stunning costumes, extraordinary talent, and more! Plus, all your favorite carols will be sung with the assistance of incredible live musicians on stage. This family event will surely get you into the spirit of the season with lasting memories as well!!

Whether you’re just beginning your holiday shopping or need a last-minute gift, check out the Revolution Craft Holiday Show this Saturday (12 p.m.-6 p.m.) at Revolution Brewing (2323 N. Milwaukee Ave.) in the Logan Square neighborhood. This show is free to enter, offers hand-crafted goods from 40+ local artists, and provides a unique mix of crafts, beer from Revolution Brewing, and food trucks!

Journey into the ultimate holiday adventure at Jack Frost’s Winterfest at Goose Island (1265 W. LeMoyne Ave.) now through January 1, 2023. This outdoor winter extravaganza has something for all ages by offering a selection of nine fun-filled outdoor activities featuring a Christmas tree farm, ice skating, snow tubing, bumper cars, after-dark light display, photo ops, and much more! Stroll under 10,000 holiday lights with a festive drink in hand and dive into the seasonal fun offered here!!

A premier holiday destination for families is the Sparkle Light Festival held at Impact Field (9850 Balmoral Ave.) in Rosemont now through January 1, 2023, from 4:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Come explore their five illuminated villages which include the Frozen Forest, Snowflake Circle, Winter Wonderland, the North Pole, and Deck the Walls. Additional attractions include winter tubing on the Alpine Slide and free train rides on the Holly Trolly. New attractions this year include Rudolph’s Kids Zone and a two-story ice slide! Plus, a special menu of festive food and beverages will also be available for purchase. All are sure to enjoy the evening with its breathtaking display of millions of holiday lights!!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago