Time is running out so here are 1O things you cannot miss on these last days of spooky season!
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up
Returning to a 2-acre plot of land just west of Goose Island, Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-up saves you a trip to the suburbs by bringing a corn maze, thousands of pumpkins and an array of carnival games to the city. This year’s edition of the outdoor event takes a safety-first approach (mandatory timed reservations and masks, no cash transactions, no food and beverages onsite—the list goes on), but you’ll still find classic standbys like a full corn maze, fall-themed photo ops and plenty of plump pumpkins.
Snag a treat and some decorative gourds at the month-long JoJo’s Pumpkin Patch pop-up, an expanded patio adjacent to JoJo’s Shake Bar in River North. Groups of six or fewer people can hang out in the 5,000-square-foot space, which is outfitted with hay bales, festive lights and two “pumpkin domes” containing tables. Guests can enjoy a menu of special seasonal dishes, including caramel apples, pumpkin pie, apple pie, spiked ciders and hot chocolate. There’s also a decadent Pumpkin Patch Shake, topped with a slice of pumpkin pie, a taffy apple, roasted marshmallow and a Reese’s pretzel.
Deuce’s Major League Bar introduces Nightmare on Clark St. Halloween themed cocktails so trick or treat yourself this spooky month! Head on over to Clark Street for some social distancing photo ops with no reservations or tickets! And a doggy friendly patio.
Richardson Adventure farmSpring is definitely one of the best in the entire country, and it’s only an hour and 15 minute drive from Chicago!
Richardson’s is home to the World’s Largest Corn Maze, pumpkin chunkin, pig races, bonfires, a petting zoo, tractor rides, zorbing, ziplining, paintball, giant slides, a gift shop, wine tastings, awesome food and more!
Location: 909 English Prairie Road Spring Grove, IL 60081
Grab your mask, your Ghoul Gang, and head to The World Famous 13th Floor Haunted House. Wearing a mask and practicing social distancing is required. Groups larger than 10 people will be separated into smaller groups for safety measures. Keeping social distance and arriving on time as registered would allow for a safe and enjoyable experience during this spooky halloween season!
Location: 1940 George St., Melrose Park, Illinois 60160
Date: September 17th until November 7th
Tickets: Ticket prices vary depending on attending date (Starting $19.99)
Purchase FASTPASS (+$10) to reduce your wait time or purchase SKIP THE LINE (+$20) to reserve your time and skip the long general admission lines.
The Alley of Darkness Drive-Thru Haunted House (Replay Lincoln Park)
Chicago’s beloved arcade bar, Replay Lincoln Park, has added another event to their amazing Pop-Ups List. Halloween season is not cancelled! Replay has launched a drive-thru haunted house. The Alley of Darkness is set in the shadows of the Red Line. The experience begins with a short drive-in movie before the guests enter a 30 minutes haunted experience filled with demons, fake blood and zombies. Everything needed to enjoy Halloween from a distance.
Location: 2833 N. Sheffield Ave. Chicago, IL. 60657
Date: Until October 31st
Time: 5p.m. – 11p.m.
Tickets: (Reservations Required; Purchase Online)
$75 per car
Additional $25, rent a vehicle from Replay Lincoln Park
Highway of Horror Haunted Drive-In (645 W. Madison; Replay Lincoln Park)
Image via Instagram @thesuzyross
Another Replay Lincoln Park haunted house drive-thru is happening! “Highway of Horror” will consist of up-close zombies, demons, undead, fake blood, and others that will rock the car! The haunted drive-thru will take place at an empty lot at a length of 90-minutes. If you don’t have a vehicle, you could rent a private geodesic dome which is aired out and sanitized before the next group. The dome has the capacity for up to 8 guests. The best part is alcoholic beverages are allowed on the dome!
Location: 645 W. Madison
Date: October 15th – November 1st (Thursday – Sunday)
Music box Theater scary films will take over Chi-Town Movies Drive-In theater for the entire month of October! Expect late-night screenings and double features. The films will be accompanied by pre-show content, specialized intros, filmmaker Q&A’s, and vendors. More spooky things can be expected! Schedule includes Carrie, A Nightmare of Elm Street, 1933’s Mexican film La Llorona, and 1970’s classic Blacula. Horror films have arrived at a drive-in!
Head on over to Time Out Market with your Halloween costume for a combination of dining and bags of candy (for adults and children). Spooks will be experienced with cool photo ops while maintaining social distancing. Tickets include seat reservation and a $5 credit to use that day at the Market.
Whiskey Business Rooftop Movie Night (Classic Halloween Movies)
How does a rooftop Halloween movie sound like? Whiskey Business rooftop movie nights are back! This time the schedule includes classic Halloween favorites like Hocus Pocus, Child’s Play, The Craft and many more! Headphones will be issued to everyone in the audience so you don’t miss a single line. The movies are projected on two 120-inch screens and every ticket includes a bag of popcorn!
Location: 1367 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Date: October 19th – Oct. 29th (Every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday)
Time: All films screen twice; one at 5:30p.m. and 8:45p.m.
Cost:Ticket prices vary depending on attending date (Starting at $19.99)
Wondering how the famous haunted house is handling COVID?
Wearing a mask and practicing social distancing is required. Groups larger than 10 people will be separated into smaller groups for safety measures. Keeping social distance and arriving on time as registered would allow for a safe and enjoyable experience during this spooky halloween season!
Don’t feel like waiting in line?
Purchase FASTPASS (+$10) to reduce your wait time or purchase SKIP THE LINE (+$20) to reserve your time and skip the long general admission lines.
Online ticket purchase is highly suggested because it reduces contact compared to arriving at the haunted house and waiting in line to purchase tickets.
If all tickets are sold out online then tickets will not be available for purchase on-site.
The haunted house will close each day until the final individual or group has gone through both haunted houses.
Wondering where did the 13th floor superstition come from?
Here is an idea…
“Early Christians blamed the Last Supper, at which Judas was the 13th guest. But long before then, Norse mythology was telling of a banquet for a dozen gods that was crashed by an evil spirit, Loki, who killed one of the guests with a poisoned arrow and caused a celestial uproar. And before that, ancient Hindus weren’t fond of the number either; they considered any gathering of 13 people unlucky.
An aversion to 13 at the table became entrenched in the modern world, particularly in France, where if 13 guests somehow ended up on an invitation list a 14th was hurriedly pressed into service. Some Frenchmen—known as quatorzes —earned a living by attending dinner parties to sit in the 14th chair.”– The New York Times
When it comes to bringing outside food to your home during a pandemic, it is impossible not to worry whether or not your food may be contaminated. Fortunately, Makina Sushi, a new Sushi Restaurant that specializes in minimum-contact food preparation is opening on September 15th.
Sean Hannon, owner and chef at Makina Sushi, has launched multiple start ups and has a passion for making sushi fast and fresh. He is now bringing to Chicago a worry-free and delicious menuthat will be delivered straight to your home.
“We specialize in delivering maki to sushi-lovers faster and safer. Fresh ingredients are prepped in our low-touch kitchen to deliver all your favorite rolls on the fly.”
Makina Sushi will be ready to take orders on September 15th and to celebrate they will be giving away delicious rolls to participants on social media. Make sure to follow @MakinaSushion instagram and Facebook@MakinaSushi for offers and giveaways.
You can place your order by visiting www.makinasushi.comor any of your favorite food delivery apps.
Drive-in movie theaters are popping up all over the Chicago land area. Now, we get to watch classic films at the South parking lot of Soldier Field. Yes! A drive-in movie theater is opening up this Wednesday, July 8th, at the home of the Chicago Bears.
When: Wednesday through Sunday (each night beginning at 8:30 p.m.)
Location: Soldier Field South Lot Festival Area.
1410 S Museum Campus Drive, Chicago, IL 60605
Cost: $55 (1 event ticket for up to 6 people per vehicle ticket or per pedestrian ticket) NO TICKETS SOLD ON SITE
Free bucket of popcorn per group!!
The new nightly entertainment event is called “CHI-Together” organized by Fueled Events in panthers with the city. Come early, before the film, and enjoy the music entertainment provided. Either come driving or walking but come and enjoy summer with great music and a great film.
Vehicle ticket: Up to 6 people per vehicle
Pedestrian ticket (non-vehicle): Up to 6 people per spot
7pm: Gates Open 7:00pm – 8:30pm: Music Entertainment Provided 8:30pm: Movie Screening (varies each night) 11pm: Lot Closes
July 8, Groundhog Day
July 9, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
July 10, Fast & Furious
July 11, Grease
July 12, Shrek
CHI-Together are taking healthy measures to keep you and your loved ones safe. The parking lot is divided into four quadrants and each quadrant will have their own restrooms and concessions. People will be advised to stay in their own quadrant to prevent contact. Restrooms will be cleaned and sanitized every 15 minutes. A parking space will be left empty between designated spots (8-foot distance) for social distancing.
Summer has begun! Time to head-out and enjoy this beautiful weather accompanied by a nice cold drink and delicious food. Well, look no further than Whiskey Business.
RESERVATIONS is a must before arriving. Reserve Here
Whiskey Business offers a variety of American style food. Their burgers and tendies will certainly satisfy your tastebuds. Biting into any meal selected from the menu while sitting on the rooftop will make you forget for a second its the year 2020. A couple of drinks accompanying lunch or dinner creates a perfect combination to relax during summer.
You must be thinking; How is Whiskey Business handling social distancing? The tables and sitting areas on the rooftop are arranged by respecting the social distancing guidelines. There is a fair amount of space between tables. Majority of the drinks are served in a plastic cup with straws. Everything is plastic for single use to secure the safety of the customers consuming food and beverages in the establishment; for example the forks come individually wrapped in plastic. The employees at Whiskey Business wear masks and take your temperature before entering.
Neon Reef Nights is a chill and relaxing light show. A perfect way to enjoy a summer night with friends listening to great music as neon lights decorate the rooftop while drinking a beer or a cocktail. Also, be on the lookout for the neon reef octopus alongside the wall dancing. A light show you must definitely experience during this summer in Chicago!
Friendly reminder: Wear your mask and wash your hands!
People across the city will celebrate Juneteenth this Friday with car caravans, rallies and online parties.
Though yet to be recognized as a holiday locally and nationwide, Juneteenth is a holiday that celebrates the day in 1865 when troops arrived in Texas to free enslaved Americans — more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
The holiday is always celebrated on June 19.
Here are this year’s celebrations in Chicago:
South Side
Chicago Peace And Equality Juneteenth Rally & Celebration 2020 Where: South Loop Green Space, 2400 S. State St. When: 6 p.m. Friday What: Roses4Austin and EqualityShouldBeNormal are hosting a rally and celebration. You can email chicagopeacemarch@gmail.com or go to the organizers’ Facebook event page for more information.
Juneteenth Celebration ReBuild Black Wall Street Where: 35th Street and King Drive When: 1-7 p.m. Friday What: There will be a mobile parade with Black-owned business owners, HBCUs and community members. More information here.
Holiday March Where: 5531 S. King Drive When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday What: This is the organizers’ first annual Juneteenth Chicago March. more information here.
Roll N Peace Critical Mass Bike Tour/Juneteenth Celebration Where: Englewood Sqaure, 63rd and Halsted streets When: Registration at 4 p.m. Friday, tour at 8 p.m. What: Participants will take a bicycle tour through Englewood. It will end with a celebration at the Chicago Firehouse Engine Company. Free bike rentals will be provided by Divvy.
UIC’s Bridging The Gap Unity In The Community Juneteenth Event Where: The D Center, 6031 S. Halsted St. When: 2 p.m. Friday What: There will be food, music, giveaways and live entertainment. People are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings.
Juneteenth The Celebration Where: Harold Washington Cultural Center, 4701 S. King Drive. When: 1 p.m. Friday What: There will be African dancing and drumming, food, live entertainment, workshops and giveaways.
Juneteenth Car Parade Where: Meet in one of four locations: South Side (87th and Dan Ryan), East Side (75th and Stony Island), West Side (Hamlin & Madison) or North Side (North Ave. & Halsted) When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday What: Participants should bring flags and families for a car parade that will go through the city, celebrating ancestors and a day of emancipation.
Social Change Juneteenth Giveaway Where: DuSable Museum, 740 E. 56th Place When: 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday What: Families can walk or drive up to get free food. The first 19 families will receive a one-year museum membership.
2nd Annual Juneteenth Family Festival
Where: Dan Ryan Woods, 8700 S. Western Ave. When: noon-5 p.m. Saturday What: There will be live performances, arts and crafts, artists, face painting, food vendors, DJs and games and activities. Admission is free.
Juneteenth 2020 Census and Free Lunch Giveaway
Where: South Central Community Services, 83rd Street and Ellis Ave. When: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. What: Get a free lunch for completing the 2020 Census, compliments of SCCS and BarTucci Italian Foods. Available on a first come, first served basis. Guardians of The Angeles will also be distributing free masks and gloves.
The People’s Free Food Program – Original Soul Food Vegetarian Edition When: Friday, June 19th; noon – 4 p.m. Where: 203 E. 75th Street What: The restaurant will be giving away hot vegan meals, groceries, produce (donated from Gary Come Youth Center’s farm), household essentials, and baby products.
Roseland Matters Juneteenth Celebration
When: June 19th; 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Where: 11040 S. Michigan Ave. What: Organizers will be giving out a variety of foods, including fresh spring rolls, sandwiches, jerk chicken, and a variety of homemade sorbets. Along with these tasty treats, they will also have grocery giveaways, and will be handing out feminine hygiene packs for the ladies. COVID-19 restrictions will be enforced.
West Side
Black Culture Week Juneteenth Caravan When: noon-7:30 p.m. Friday What: The Juneteenth Caravan will start on the West Side and pass through historic neighborhoods and sites on its way to the South Side’s A. Phillip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum. The caravan ends with a recognition ceremony and spoken word concert.
Juneteenth Celebration Where: Grace Memorial Baptist Church, 1457 S. Keeler Ave. When: 2 p.m. Friday What: There will be free food, music and giveaways.
Juneteenth Rally Where: Austin Peoples Action Center, 5125 W. Chicago Ave. When: noon-6 p.m. Friday What: A rally will be held in honor of George Floyd. There will be food, live music and free coronavirus testing.
Juneteenth Celebration Where: Firehouse Community Arts Center, 2111 S. Hamlin Ave. When: 4-8 p.m. Friday What: There will be free food and music.
North Side
DePaul University Students and Service Workers March and Rally Where: Trebes Park, Northeast corner of Webster and Clifton When: Friday, June 19; 3 p.m. – 4 p.m. What: Students and service workers are joining together in the spirit of Juneteenth to commit to supporting each other as family, friends, and co-workers.
Gallery Café Juneteenth Celebration In Wicker Park Where: Gallery Café, 1760 W. North Ave. When: Friday, June 19; 8 a.m.-3 p.m. What: Free coffee and $5 sandwiches; proceeds will benefit My Block My Hood My City
Juneteenth Caravan What: The event is organized by the Northwest Side Coalition Against Racism and Hate. More details to come. Contact the organization here for more information.
Downtown
One Million Man March Where: City Hall, 1224 S. Wabash Ave. When: 11 a.m. Friday What: There will be a march for equality, systemic reform and justice. To register, go here.
Juneteenth Restaurant & Bar Crawl
Where: Varies When: 1-3 p.m. Friday What: There are three routes. One starts at The Grail Cafe, 715 S. Dearborn Ave.; the second starts at Momentum Coffee, 2119 S. State St.; and the third starts at Harold’s Chicken No. 88, 1450 S. Michigan Ave. Participants will go to various restaurants and bars and will meet at the Teapot Brew Bakery, 1803 S. Wabash Ave.
Online
Rebuild Foundation’s Juneteenth Quarantine Concert When: 5:30 p.m. Friday What: The Rebuild Foundation and Edgewater-based Experimental Sound Studio is hosting a special Juneteenth edition of its virtual quarantine concert series. Performers will include YAW, Meagan McNeal and avery r. young. Proceeds will go toward the creation of the Tamir Rice Afrocentric Cultural Center. For more on the event, click here.
Old Town School of Folk Music’s Virtual Juneteenth Concert When: 8 p.m. Friday What: The concert will feature the Live the Spirit Residency and the Great Black Music Ensemble. Proceeds will be donated to the Chicago Torture Justice Center. The concert can be watched online.
Juneteenth Live Discussion With D-Composed When: 6-7:30 p.m. Friday What: Viewers can join John Dunson, Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Overture Council president, for a conversation with D-Composed, a Chicago-based chamber music experience that highlights musicians and composers within the African diaspora. The event will be on Zoom.
Liberatory Practices By Seed Lynn and Sadie Woods When: noon-1:30 p.m. Friday What: Artists Seed Lynn and Sadie Woods will explore diasporic emancipatory celebrations through photography and music. The program will end with a DJ set by Sadie Woods, aka Afrodjia, and the launch of a month-long, Virtual Juneteenth Marketplace supporting Black-owned, South Side businesses. The event will be broadcast on Facebook Live.
Black Census Day Juneteenth Celebration When: 7-8:30 p.m. Friday What: The celebration will feature music and information about the 2020 Census. It will be hosted by DJs Tone Kapone and Sean Mac. Viewers can watch on Instagram Live from either DJ’s account: @ToneKapone33 and @SeanMac.
Source: Blockclubchicago
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5 Things To Do in Chicago for St. Patrick’s Day
1. St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast Buffet and Green Beer
“You can’t drink all day if you don’t start in the mornin’”
On March 14, over a half a dozen bars in Chicago will come together to celebrate St. Patricks Day the Chicago way! They are offering an all-inclusive St. Patrick’s Day experience breakfast buffet!
4 Hour Food & Premium Drink Package
Premium Vodka Bloody Marys, Screwdrivers & Mixed Cocktails
Green Miller Lite & Coors Light Draft Beer
Massive Breakfast Buffet that includes: Scrambled Eggs, Hash Browns, Bacon, Ham or Sausage, Toast and/or Bagels, A Variety of Fruit… and more!
Expedited Guest Entry.
A DJ will spin your favorite hits and mashups to christen the Irish morn’
Beads, Drinking Gloves, Hats, Shamrocks, and more!
Saturday March 14th, Morning start, Early Bird Special $25.
2. Chicago River Dyeing
Photo via Instagram @mike_gano
The’s nothing like the emerald glow of the Chicago River on St. Patrick’s Day. It is best viewed from the east side of Michigan Avenue, the west side of Columbus Drive or upper and lower Wacker Drive between Michigan Avenue and Columbus Drive.
This year, the Chicago Dying starts at 9:00am on March 14th.
How did Chicago started this tradition? The dye originally had a functional use. In 1961, it was being used to avoid leaks into the river, when the plumber’s union manager realized it was the perfect shade of emerald green.
Is it safe for the environment? It’s eco-friendly! The dye itself is an orange powder, derived from an environmentally-friendly vegetable base. The exact formula is a closely guarded secret.
How long does the dye last? The boats will start dyeing at 9 a.m., and the dye only lasts for about five hours
3. Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade
Photo via Instagram @snoylekimchi
The 65th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade will feature variety of entries, including dancing troupes, traditional Irish bands, school marching bands, the parade queen and more.
The procession travels north on Columbus Drive, beginning at Balbo Drive and ending at Monroe Drive. Plan on seeing plenty of colorful floats waving their Irish flags high, troops of Irish step dancers, marching bands, bagpipers, and more during the three-hour celebration.
Just make sure you secure a spot before the parade starts at noon.
4. St. Patrick Festival at Irish American Heritage Center
Photo via irish-american.org
Celebrate all things Irish at the annual St. Patrick’s Fest on Saturday, March 14, 2020. The celebration is one of Chicago’s largest St. Patrick’s Day events and takes place under one roof at the IAHC.
The celebration follows the downtown Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade and runs from 1pm to midnight and features traditional and contemporary Irish music, dance, food and drink for purchase, children’s activities and an Arts and Craft Fair, with vendors selling Irish gifts. Visit the Library, Art Gallery and Museum for programming and exhibits, such as Irish language lessons, a genealogy workshop and a book sale.
Tickets are $15 for adults, or $12 for advance purchase through March 12. Children 12 and under are free.
5. St. Patricks Day at Navy Pier Lunch and Dinner Cruise
Photo via Instagram @navypierchicago
Chicago’s best St. Patrick’s Day party is on the water! Corral your crew and join Spirit of Chicago in your best green gear out on Lake Michigan. Celebrate the luck of the Irish and enjoy a freshly prepared St. Paddy’s Day lunch buffet, green beer* and amazing skyline views, plus dancing and onboard entertainment galore.
Introducing The Top New Years Eve Parties in Chicago
Ring in the New Year with the best of the best New Years Eve parties only at Chicago’s most prestigious venues.
All Inclusive Events:
Multiple Party Rooms & Dance Floors
Chicago’s Most Recognized DJs & Talent
Buffet, Hors d’oeuvres, and Delicacies
Massive Midnight Celebration
Cruise and Fireworks
Food, Drinks, Entertainment & More!
1. Hilton Chicago – Michigan Ave
Top Media Outlets Unite For An Annual New Year’s Eve Party!
All Inclusive Event: Food, Drinks, Entertainment!
3500 Attendees | 3 Events Included | 1 NYE Ticket
4 Hour All Inclusive Top Shelf Package
5.5 Hour VIP All Inclusive Super Top Shelf Package
Buffet, Hot and Cold Hors d’oeuvres, Desserts
12 Party Acts | 7 Party Areas | Massive Ballrooms
Table & VIP Table Packages – Best Ticket Type
Kiss FM’s Hottest DJs and Host
***BREAKING NEWS:*** NBC 5 Chicago will be televising the VIP Room live! Chicago’s most recognized broadcasters will be ringing in 2020 live from the Hilton Chicago VIP Grand Ballroom! With this breaking news, this event will 100% sellout. Get your tickets ASAP!
General Admission: $119
VIP Ticket: $155
Comedy Club: $20
Table Packages: View fuli info and get tickest below
The Congress Plaza Hotel is one of Chicago’s most historic landmarks. With freshly remodeled hotel rooms and the historic ballrooms, the energy can be felt as you walk in the door. The venue is a perfect hybrid between a luxury gala and night club style party making it the ultimate New Year’s Party destination. Ring in 2020 at Chicago’s best New Year’s Eve party.
New Year’s Eve Party Features:
Chicago’s A-List New Year’s Clientele
All-Inclusive Event w/ 2500+ party goers
Multiple Bars (All Drinks Included)
Food Buffet & Appetizers (Included)
Multiple Party Rooms & Dance Floors
Chicago’s Most Recognized DJs & Talent
Discounted Hotel Rooms at $139/night
Massive Midnight Celebration
Complimentary Pre & Post Party included with your ticket
Event Time & General Info:
General Admission: 9pm – 2am
VIP Admission: 8pm – 2am
Dress Code: Upscale Semi-Formal
Age: The Event is 21+ to enter. You must present proper identification at the door.
Ticket Options – Early Bird Pricing – Until Nov 22
General Admission: $89/pp
VIP Admission: $119/pp
Table Service Options
Ticket Sellout Alert: Event will sellout & ticket prices will raise as we near event.
Ring the New Year 2020 with a bang at an extravaganza planned at W Chicago City Center in Chicago. The hotel has made perfect arrangements to ensure that the New Year’s Eve in Chicago turns out to be the most rocking event of the year. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags for Chicago New Year’s Eve Parties at W Chicago City Center. W Chicago City Center in Chicago is one of the most famous hotels in the city and is opening it’s doors for a premier enthralling New Years Event. NYE 2020 in Chicago is going to be huge since the W Chicago City Center is one of Chicago’s trendiest hotel, which makes it an event that you cannot afford to miss. You won’t find a better way to ring in the New Year than to celebrate at the W Chicago City Center that’s located in the heart of Chicago and minutes away from the Magnificent Mile. Enjoy the most memorable party of the year at W Chicago Hotel City Center. Join us in New Year’s Eve Chicago 2020 at W Chicago City Center
4.5 HOUR ALL INCLUSIVE PREMIUM PACKAGE
5.5 HOUR VIP ALL INCLUSIVE TOP SHELF PACKAGE
MULTIPLE PARTY AREAS & ENTERTAINMENT
3 EVENTS INCLUDED IN NYE TICKET
CHICAGO’S HOTTEST DJS & TALENT
DISCOUNTED HOTEL ROOMS
Welcome the New Year with a bang at JW Marriott Chicago New Year’s Eve celebrations. Leave the worries of past year behind and welcome the New Year with full enthusiasm. New Year’s Eve parties in Chicago are quite famous for the extravaganza they offer. And the ones hosted by the iconic JW Marriott in Chicago are an experience that you would never forget. Be a part of Chicago New Year’s Eve Parties 2020 in JW Marriott and have a lifetime experience. We are leaving no stones unturned to make this an unforgettable experience for the crowd and are offering. We are also offering room & ticket packages to make your stay immensely comfortable in JW Marriott for New Year’s Party in Chicago. Book your Chicago New Year’s Eve Packages at JW Marriott Chicago now and have a blast.
4 HOUR ALL INCLUSIVE PREMIUM PACKAGE
MULTIPLE ROOMS OF ENTERTAINMENT
3 EVENTS INCLUDED IN NYE TICKET
CHICAGO’S HOTTEST LIVE MUSIC COVER BAND & DJS
DISCOUNTED HOTEL ROOMS – Only $176/night
w/ 11am check-in & 2pm checkout (based on availability)
Rock ‘Til The Drop at Hard Rock Cafe. Take your New Year’s Eve celebration to this iconic venue and get ready to party with your friends until 4 in the morning! This Chicago New Year’s Eve celebration will have you partying with some of the finest live DJs as you bring in 2020. Get the drinks pouring at the Hard Rock Cafe and cheers to the end of 2019 with an unforgettable celebration! This party includes two floors of entertainment, top shelf cocktails, appetizer buffet, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, desserts and sweets, premium champagne, bottle service, live DJ entertainment + more. Included in the ticket price is a free pre party and post party. Nearby discounted hotel rooms at $159/night. Tickets only $65 right now, but will go up. The party goes until 4am!
All Inclusive Event: Food, Drinks, Entertainment!
650 Attendees | 3 Events Included | 1 NYE Ticket
4.5 Hour All Inclusive Premium Cocktail Reception
Appetizer Buffet, Hot and Cold Hors d’oeuvres, Desserts and Sweets!
Chicago’s Top DJs will have you dancing all night!
Best Talent – Chicago’s Best DJs spinning in the best Clubs!
Best Table Prices – Dare to Compare!
VIP Table & Bottle Service Packages – Best Ticket Type
Free Pre & Post Party in NYE Ticket
Midnight Balloon Drop
Nearby Hotel Accommodations – $159/night – Take an elevator home!
Ring in 2020 on this all-inclusive fireworkscruise on Chicago River & Lake Michigan aboard the luxurious Anita Dee I yacht. Enjoy a four-hour all-inclusive package featuring top shelf drinks, desserts, champagne, party favors and more from Chicago Cruise Events at DuSable Harbor. Celebrate NewYear’sEve with the majestic Chicago skyline as your background.
Ring in 2020 on a yacht with majestic fireworks and the Chicago skyline as your backdrop!
4 Hour All-Inclusive Premium Package featuring Top Shelf Drinks, Desserts, Champagne, Party Favors and more!
The only cruise that will go on the river & lake! Experience the best of both worlds!
Access to the Pre Party on Monday, December 30th 2019
Note: There is no food on the boat. The event is more of a social cocktail cruise with desserts. Please eat dinner before coming.
*Important: Ticketed Passengers MUST be boarded 10 min before departure time! Standby boarding starts 10 min before the departure time. Late ticketed passengers will be placed at the end of the standby line. There are no refunds or if you miss the boarding time indicated above.
Top picks of Things To Do In Chicago for the 2019 Holiday Season!
1. Christkindlmarket
Photo via facebook.com/christkindlmarket
Sipping hot mulled wine out of a boot-shaped mug is a Chicago tradition if there ever was one. This German-inspired open-air market has been bringing holiday joy to locals since 1996. Its flagship location sets up shop in Daley Plaza every winter and runs through December 24. Even if you’ve already wrapped up your holiday shopping for the season, Christkindlmarket’s food and drink options still make it a fun place to wander with someone you’re sweet on. From November 15th -December 24th.
2. Walk The Magnificent Mile & Check Out The Macy’s Window Displays
Photo courtesy of The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Chicago’s Magnificent Mile—the stretch of Michigan Avenue between
Oak Street and the Chicago River—always looks especially stunning during the holidays, with tons of lights, store window displays and carriages lining the streets. It makes for a beautiful nighttime stroll. Don’t forget to make a stop to visit the city of Chicago’s official tree—a 60-foot spruce decorated and on display.
Free, family fun culminates in the grand Tree-Lighting Parade down North Michigan Avenue with grand marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World®
Friday, November 22 4:00 – 8:00PM: Lights Festival Lane in Pioneer Court (401 N. Michigan Avenue) opens the evening before the parade with more than a dozen family-friendly activities from Chicago favorites and popular brands—plus live music and a visit with Santa Claus! Explore an interactive wonderland of holiday-themed activities, and sample treats from crowd favorites Garrett Popcorn, Frango, The Eli’s Cheesecake Company, and more.
Saturday, November 23
11:00AM – 4:00PM: Explore an interactive wonderland of holiday-themed activities at Lights Festival Lane in Pioneer Court (401 N. Michigan Avenue), including the BMO Harris Kid’s Zone. Santa Claus is always ready to greet guests, alongside more than a dozen holiday-themed activities.
Tree-Lighting Parade
North Michigan Avenue, from Oak Street to Wacker Drive.
The tree-lighting parade stepped off at Oak Street on Saturday, November 23, heading south on Michigan Avenue to Wacker Drive.
3. Experience Holiday Lights from the sky with VertiPort.
Image via Instagram @zackkravits
For the best Chicago Holiday Experience make sure you book your helicopter tour and capture the entire view of the holiday lights that decorate the entire city. From The Lincoln Park Zoo Lights, Navy Pier, and downtown buildings and more, you will have front seat to admire Chicago’s architecture as no other season.
Use promo code “thingstodochicago” for a discount when booking your tour.
Enjoy gigantic balloons, the nation’s finest marching bands, majestic horses, festive floats, incredible performance groups, celebrities, and an appearance from Santa Claus! The parade starts at 8:00am Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 28 on State Street in downtown Chicago. Individual Sponsorships for the VIP Experience are available at www.chicagothanksgivingparade. Can’t make it down to State Street? Enjoy #ChiParade at home by watching the live broadcast on WGN 9 Chicago or WGN America.
5. Enjoy Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theater.
Photo Via Facebook.com/goodmantheatre
The story of A Christmas Carol is a classic in any city, but the Goodman’s production is a longstanding favorite and 41 years into its annual run.
We’re always down to hit up Lincoln Park Zoo and hang with snow monkeys and sloths and penguins, but what about when they’re illuminated by 2.5 million holiday lights?! It’s even better. Plus, there are family-friendly activities scheduled throughout the month (and adult beverages for sale, too).
7. Experience The Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Photo Via Facebook.com/mortonarboretum
The Morton Arboretum’s annual tree lighting display, “Illumination,” projects beautiful hues onto the mile-long walking stretch through January 1st. Wintry activities like marshmallow roasting also abound here.
Walking is great and all, but let’s not forget that December is kind of cold. Stay warm(er) with the Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.’s holiday lights tours—bussing you to all of the best displays.
Tours start 11/29/2018. Private rentals are also available. Pre-sale tickets are available only at www.ChicagoTrolley.com. Limited tickets will be available on the day of the tour.
9. Go Ice Skating At Millennium Park
Photo via instagram.com/barrybutler9
The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is one of the most picturesque rinks in the city, surrounded by twinkling skyscrapers and nestled under The Bean. Let’s not forget that admission is also free! (However, skate rentals do cost between $13 and $15.) Thanks to the Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon, you now have another ice skating option nearby if your tradition needs a slight changeup.
$15 Skate Rental Friday–Sunday and Holidays listed below
$10 Skate Aid Rental (for new skaters under 42 inches tall)
$9 Skate Sharpening
Coin-operated locker rentals are available for $1 (4 quarters).
Regular Hours (weather permitting):
Mondays–Thursdays, noon–8pm
Fridays, noon–10pm (ice skating lesson at 11am)
Saturdays & Sundays, 10am–9pm (ice skating lesson at 9am)
Free Ice Skating Lessons:
The Winter Workouts program will offer free skating lessons for all ages and skill levels, one hour before the rink opens, on
Fridays, 11am
Saturdays & Sundays, 9am
Chicago Public School’s Winter Break (December 23—January 3, except December 25 and January 1), 9am
Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 20), 9am
Presidents’ Day (February 17), 9am
10. Watch The Joffrey Ballet’s Performance Of ‘The Nutcracker’
Photo Via Facebook.com/thejoffeyballet
We’ve come to expect a fresh take on old classics from the Joffrey Ballet and they continue to prove us right with the company’s production of The Nutcracker, retold with a Chicago twist.
Journey to Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair with Wheeldon’s holiday masterpiece. Magic is on the horizon for young Marie and her mother, a sculptress creating the iconic Statue of the Republic. As they prepare for their annual holiday celebration, a visit from the charming but mysterious Great Impresario sets off a Christmas Eve dream of whirlwind romance and adventure. Wheeldon’s Nutcracker is a must-see tradition boldly reimagined for a new generation.
It’s the only time of year you’ll race to catch a certain train for reasons other than running late to work. The Chicago Transit Authority’s holiday train and bus are backed and more decked out than ever.
Train schedule
The train will travel all ‘L’ lines in late November and December as part of regular rail service. Normal CTA fares apply.
The train generally operates from about 1pm to 8pm on weekends and 3pm to 7pm on select weekdays (schedules for each rail line will vary), and will make stops at all stations along the respective routes. And every Saturday the Holiday Train is in service, the Elves’ Workshop Train will follow to allow more riders to enjoy this one of a kind holiday experience.
Here’s a look at the full schedules:
BUS:
NOTE: Schedule times are approximate
Tue 11/26
#56 Milwaukee
12:28p
NB from Madison/Wabash
Wed 11/27
#56 Milwaukee
1:15
SB from Jefferson Park Blue Line
Photo session:
Jefferson Park Blue Line
approx. 4:20p-5:20p
Fri 11/29
#22 Clark/#97 Skokie
12:38p
WB as #97 from Howard Terminal to Old Orchard
Photo session:
Old Orchard
approx: 1:35p-2:30p
2:46p
EB from Old Orchard
3:55p
SB as #22 from Howard Terminal to Harrison/Clark
Sat 11/30
#22 Clark
12:30p
SB from Howard Terminal (Red/Purple/Yellow lines)
Photo session:
Howard Terminal
approx: 4:10p-5:05p
Sun 12/1
#92 Foster and #91 Austin
12:13p
WB as #92 from Berwyn Red Line to Jefferson Park Blue line
1:05p
SB as #91 from Jefferson Park Blue Line
5:40p
EB as #92 from Jefferson Park Blue Line to Berwyn Red Line
Tue 12/3
#66 Chicago
12:04p
EB from Chicago/Austin
Photo session:
Navy Pier
approx. 4:15p-5:15p
Wed 12/4
#66 Chicago
12:24p
EB from Chicago/Austin
Thu 12/5
#126 Jackson
1:00p
EB from Jackson/Austin
Fri 12/6
#12 Roosevelt
1:40p
EB from Harrison/Central
Photo session:
Harrison/Central
approx. 4:10p-5:10p
Sat 12/7
#12 Roosevelt
1:10p
EB from Harrison/Central
Wed 12/11
#62 Archer
12:40p
SB from Kinzie/Sate
Thu 12/12
#62 Archer
1:10p
NB from Midway Orange Line
Photo session:
Midway Orange Line
approx. 4:05p-5:05p
Fri 12/13
#49 Western and #X49 Western Exp.
12:39p
NB as #49 from 79th/Western
2:30p
SB as #X49 from Berwyn/Western
5:50p
NB as #X49 from 79th/Western
7:40p
SB as #49 from Berwyn/Western
Photo session:
79th/Western
approx. 4:25p-5:40p
Sat 12/14
#79 79th
12:44p
EB from 79th/Western
1:55p
WB from 79th/Lake Front
to Ford City Mall
Photo session:
Ford City Mall
approx. 3:25p-4:25p
Wed 12/18
#3 King Drive
1:35p
SB from Ontario/Fairbanks
Photo session:
@ 95th/Chicago State U.
approx. 3:20p-4:20p
Thu 12/19
#3 King Drive
12:20p
NB from 95th/Chicago State U.
Fri 12/20
#28 Stony Island
1:10p
NB from Olive Harvey College
to 47th/Lake Park
3:08p
NB from Olive Harvey College
to Union Station
Photo session:
Union Station
approx. 4:45p-5:45p
Sat 12/21
#29 State
12:03p
NB from 95th Red Line
Photo session:
Navy Pier
approx. 4:15p-5:15p
Sun 12/22
#29 State
12:30p
NB from 95th Red Line
Mon 12/23
#J14 Jeffrey Jump
11:17a
NB from 103rd/Stony Island
TRAIN:
* = Elves’ Workshop Train to follow
Green Line & Orange Line Fri 11/29
Green Line Sat 11/30*
Green Line & Orange Line Tue 12/3
Orange Line & Brown Line Wed 12/4
Orange Line & Brown Line Thu 12/5
Orange Line & Brown Line Fri 12/6
Orange Line & Brown Line Sat 12/7*
Pink Line Tue 12/10
Pink Line Wed 12/11
Blue Line Thu 12/12
Blue Line Fri 12/13
Blue Line (+ photo-only stop on Pink Line) Sat 12/14*
Navy Pier’s Festival Hall gets decked out in holiday spirit again this year. Hundreds of trees, thousands of ornaments and a full-sized ice skating rink make up this family fun zone. You can also fill the day with activities like cookie decorating, cliff hanger ride, a festive carousel, and inflatable rides.. Who knows? You might even spot Santa!
DECEMBER 6, 2019 – JANUARY 12, 2020 / FESTIVAL HAL
Packed with indoor family fun, Fifth Third Bank Winter WonderFest is a delightful family tradition featuring 170,000 square feet of attractions, including rides, giant slides, indoor ice skating, and holiday decor that is sure to get you into the holiday spirit!
Photo Via Facebook / Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum Of Science and Industry’s yearly holiday celebrations “Christmas Around The World” and “Holiday Of Lights” are back through
January 5th. More than 50 holiday displays representing cultures and traditions from around the globe are on display now with special performances happening every weekend!
Opening November 14, 2019
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light open on Thursday, November 14 and will run through Sunday, January 5, 2020.
Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. except as noted below.
Extended Hours and Exceptions
November
Thursday, November 28
CLOSEDFriday, November 29 – Saturday, November 30 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.
December 2019
Sunday, December 1 Saturday, December 7 – Sunday, December 8
Saturday, December 14 – Sunday, December 15 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.Saturday, December 21 – Sunday, December 22 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.Monday, December 23 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.Tuesday, December 24 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.Wednesday, December 25
CLOSEDThursday, December 26 – Monday, December 30 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.Tuesday, December 31 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
January 2020
Wednesday, January 1 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.Thursday, January 2 – Friday, January 3 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
15. Attend the “Lightscape” Debut at the Botanic Garden
Image via chicagobotanic.org
Spectacular New Magic for the Holidays
Wander into a festive world of wonder and light. Along a mile-long path, the night comes alive with color, imagination, and sound, from a playful choir of singing trees to a spectacular waterfall of light. At times, you’ll find yourself in the center of it all — stepping inside a cathedral of golden light, walking down an avenue of luminous linden trees, moving through colorful ribbons of light.
Exclusive U.S. Experience
Direct from London, Lightscape is making its U.S. debut at the Garden. An enchanted after-dark illuminated trail. More than one million people in 2018 were delighted by the show across the U.K.
Hours: Friday, November 22, 2019 – Sunday, January 5, 2020
4:30 – 10 p.m. (last entry at 8 p.m.)
Value: Price is dependent on the day you choose to attend.
Adult: $17/$20
Child 3-12: $8/$10
Standard:
Adult: $21/$23
Child 3-12: $10/$12
Peak:
Adult: $23/$25
Child 3-12: $11/$13
Child under 3: free
Tickets purchased the day of the event are an additional $2 per ticket
Parking:
$10 per car (includes tax) One time use only, no refund.
This parking is only for Lightscape ticket purchasers.
16. Holiday-Themed Pop-up Bars – Frosty’s A Christmas Bar
Photo Via facebook.com/frostyschristmasbar
It’s all the rage! Temporary bars themed around your favorite holiday movies, stories and traditions are sprouting up all over town. Step in for spirited food, drinks and an Instagram-worthy experience.
Limited time, 1-of-a-kind, ultimate Christmas pop-up experience! Celebrate the season w/3 levels of festive holiday fun! Book your Holiday Party now!
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Drive-in movie theaters are popping up all over the Chicago land area. Now, we get to watch classic films at the South parking lot of Soldier Field. Yes! A drive-in movie theater is opening up this Wednesday, July 8th, at the home of the Chicago Bears.
People across the city will celebrate Juneteenth this Friday with car caravans, rallies and online parties.
