THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Holiday Shopping Opportunities!
With the Holidays quickly approaching, why not get a head start on your holiday shopping this weekend so you can enjoy the many other holiday events that are coming up!
One of the nation’s top urban vintage and antique markets known as the Randolph Street Holiday Market will be taking place this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) at Plumbers Hall (1340 W. Washington Blvd.) in the West Loop. This November Holiday Market will feature over 125 vendors on three floors featuring vintage holiday décor and collectibles; mid-century and antique furniture and home accents; designer fashion, furs, handbags, and estate jewelry; art, vinyl, rare books, handmade gifts, and much more. In addition, a DIY charm bar, vintage ornament workshops, festive photo backdrops, live DJs, seasonal treats, gourmet bites, bakery favorites, hot drinks, a full holiday bar, and more will add to your festive holiday shopping day!
Celebrating the ingenuity of independent, small businesses who create one-of-a-kind products, the Chicago Artisan Market – Fulton Market will be held this Sunday (11 a.m.-5 p.m.) at Morgan MFG (401 N. Morgan St.) in the West Loop. This indoor market features over 115 talented artisans showcasing their products in fashion, home, art, and more; food; artisan coffee, tea, pastries and desserts; a stocked MFG Bar selling wine, beer and cocktails with the Bears game on; and more. In addition, guests can meet with the artisans and learn how they make their products!
The 21st annual Lycée French Market returns to Chicago’s French international school this Saturday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) at Lycée Français de Chicago (1929 W. Wilson Ave.) in the Ravenswood neighborhood. This bustling French market will feature 75+ local and French artisanal vendors showcasing their wares in apparel, jewelry, accessories, gourmet food, home décor, fine and decorative arts, and more. When you need a break, stop by the French Market’s Bistro for a delicious menu of authentic, hand-crafted French recipes as well as a variety of entertaining activities for all ages!
If you’re not ready to tackle your holiday shopping list just yet, here are a few other events you may enjoy this weekend.
The annual Chicago Reindeer Run takes place this Saturday (5:30 p.m.-9 p.m.) at the Brookfield Zoo (3300 Golf Rd.) in Brookfield. Gather your family and friends and join in some holiday cheer as you run or walk a two-mile course within the Zoo under the lights and being one of the first to see Holiday Magic! Not only will you enjoy scenic views of the Zoo, but you’ll also see some animals along the way. In addition, the pavilions will be open with music along with food and drinks for purchase. Don’t forget your reindeer ears and be sure to have a jolly good time!
If you want to see the official City of Chicago Christmas Tree light up for the first time this season, it will take place on Friday, November 21, with a pre-show at 5:00 p.m. and the tree lighting around 6:25 p.m. at Millennium Park (55 N. Michigan Ave.) in The Loop. There are multiple viewing areas and a fireworks display after the magical illumination of the Christmas Tree!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
