Free Holiday Family Events in the Windy CIty

Celebrating the Holidays in Chicago

  Growing up in Chicago I remember every Field's window display, all the trips to see Santa at Fields on State, and the huge tree in Daley Plaza that my family takes a picture in front of each and every Christmas.  The downtown atmosphere and the magical background provided by all the lights and street music make you forget all about the crowds and the cold. The best part about celebrating Christmas in Chicago is the huge amount of holiday events to choose from that are free to the public.  Even the tightest budget reveler can have a great time if they only take advantage of the free holiday events in the Windy City.

A hugely popular Christmas event in Chicago is the unveiling of the Field (now Macy's) Christmas window displays.  Each year the store fills its storefront windows, that line State Street, with scenes from a classical favorite.  Past years displays have depicted scenes from Cinderella, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and Snow White.  This years window unveiling will take place on November 11 at 9:30 am and stay open through the Christmas season.  The best time to view the windows is anytime after dusk when they really come alive with lights and street performers providing holiday background music.  Soon after the window unveiling Macy's will be having its Tree Lighting event in the Walnut Room.  The tree will remain on display in the Walnut Room from November 12 - January 7.

New to the Chicago scene is the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink which is part of the new Millennium Park along Michigan Avenue.  The new 16,000 square foot rink opens on November 15th and is free to the public, skate rental is available for a fee.  The location of the rink, right along the main thoroughfare in Downtown Chicago and the incredible view of the skyline at night has quickly made it a favorite for tourists and residents.  The ice rink is open every day from 10am-10pm but call ahead to make sure that it will not be closing early for a private event.