THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – It’s Christmas Market Time Again!
Ok everyone, we have only three weekends before Christmas to get into the spirit of the holidays! This weekend we’ll focus on various Christmas markets throughout Chicago. Who’s with me?
After going virtual in 2020, the Christkindlmarket Chicago returns to the Daley Civic Center (50 W. Washington St.) in The Loop now through December 24th. This iconic German-inspired holiday market offers the smell of roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, bratwurst, hot spiced wine, the sound of festive music, the glimmer of sparkling Christmas ornaments, a unique shopping experience, and family-friendly events & intercultural activities all in a cozy atmosphere! Organizers have announced as well that they’ll bring back a virtual component to the market for those who still prefer to stay away from crowds but wish to partake in the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe!
Chicago’s favorite holiday tradition is back and better than ever in 2021! ZooLights returns to Lincoln Park Zoo (Cannon Dr. at Fullerton Pkwy.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood now through January 2 (4 p.m. – 10 p.m.). This event will again feature hundreds of luminous LED displays and seasonal experiences all under the glow of millions of lights. New features this year include the Zoo’s new Pepper Family Wildlife Center at the heart of the zoo, a new holiday lights experience on the Main Mall, an exciting new light show on the South Lawn, and an 18-foot holiday tree! ZooLights will take place on select dates so check out the Zoo’s website for information on special ticketed events during ZooLights which include the BrewLights beer festival and a musical tribute to “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Where else can you find a cheerful, family-friendly holiday event in the heart of the city?
After a two-year pandemic hiatus, the Randolph Street Market returns to Chicago at a new location and will be decking the halls this holiday season on the ground floor of the massive space that once housed Topshop (830 N. Michigan Ave.) on the Magnificent Mile for the next three weekends. This European-style market will feature more than 75 vendors with a stylishly crafted mix of vintage and modern decorative objects, housewares, fashion, jewelry, art, and more at all price points for all ages. Plus, the festival fun continues with music, food, and drink. So, make your gift giving special this year since you never know what you’ll find at the Randolph Street Market!
The Andersonville neighborhood will be celebrating the holidays with its first-ever Winter Market on Catalpa Street between Clark Street and Ashland Avenue this Saturday (11 a.m. – 7 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.). This tented outdoor bazaar will be stocked with holiday gifts, handcrafted goods, vintage items, and other treasures from over 20 local artisans, Swedish makers, and collectors! Don’t forget to nab a cup (or two) of Simon Tavern’s revered Glögg to sip and warm you up as you walk around and browse through the market. After all, it’s an Andersonville tradition!
Join the Roscoe Village neighborhood and its businesses as they kick off their Winterfest on Saturday (5 p.m. – 9 p.m.) with a tree lighting ceremony followed by holiday shopping and festivities at local businesses. Enjoy special discounts and treats as well as participate in the window decorating contest by voting for your favorite window! Then on Sunday (1 p.m. – 5 p.m.) the festivities continue with carolers, Santa, and sleigh rides along with family-friendly festivities and special discounts offered again at local businesses!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
