1. Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza

German and European traditions are replicated in this holiday market inspired by the Christkindlmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany. Even though the weather may be cold, huddling with loved ones and eating roasted nuts while visiting the European-inspired booths really brings the festive spirit to the city of Chicago. Beginning Nov. 21 and ending Dec. 24, this market is open all throughout the holiday season. From Sunday to Thursday, the market is open 11am to 8pm. From Friday to Saturday, it is open 11am to 9pm.

2. Christmastime at Macy’s

Just seeing the outside of the store covered in wreaths and trumpets, and the enormous windows that animate a special holiday-inspired story, reinforces the familiar holiday spirit. Once you walk in, the decorations are continued all throughout the store, and the signature Walnut Room tree is not to be forgotten. During the holidays, the Chicago Macy’s store is a destination not to be missed.

3. Millennium Park Ice Skating

Take a walk from Macy’s to Millenium Park but don’t forget your ice skates. Right under The Bean, is the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, which opened Nov. 14 this year and will remain open until Mar. 8. This ice rink offers is a unique experience because it gives visitors the opportunity to ice skate in the middle of Chicago surrounded by high-rises and Millenium Park. Admission is free, but ice skate rental costs $12+tax, and locker rental costs $1.

4. Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo

Beginning Nov. 28, the Lincoln Park Zoo “Zoo Lights” will return again for the holiday season, illuminating the entire zoo with festive holiday lights. Admission to this attraction is free and is open to the public every Friday-Sunday until Dec. 12, then the lights will only be on nightly (except Dec. 24 and Dec. 25) until Jan. 4.

5. Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier

From Dec. 5 to Jan. 11, PNC Bank’s Winter WonderFest provides 170,000 square feet of indoor winter fun. With more than twenty-five rides, a Blackhawks inspired ice rink, slides, and crafts, stay warm from the cold Chicago weather and enjoy winter fun at Navy Pier. However, admission is not free. There are two types of tickets: general admission ($3.75 online/$5 walk-up) and activity ticket ($22.50 online/$25 walk-up).