CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Hey Thanksgiving weekend, Chicago! All the holiday festivities in and around Chicago have officially begun! So if you are ready to get into the holiday spirit, don't eat too much turkey and snooze all weekend! And also remember to bundle up, because Jack Frost will be making a visit this weekend, too. The forecast this weekend has highs in the mid to upper 30s and low 40s, and lows in the 20s to low 30s.
Before we get into all the things to do this weekend in Chicago and the suburbs, we want to share with you some reminders ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. First, before you decide to deep fry your turkey, you may want to watch this demonstration from the Chicago Fire Department to avoid any incidents. Second, although your dog may be a beggar, you want to be cautious what you are passing Fido under the table. Here are some tips on what is okay and what to avoid giving your pets this holiday season.
Related
Additionally, are you looking for ways to survive your relatives this holiday season? One expect said you should establish ‘rules and limitations.' Find out more here.
Related
Now onto the events! There are a few new events kicking off this weekend, including Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier; Holiday in the Park Lights at Six Flags Great America; and, Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo!
Additionally, if you are looking for something to do this weekend, remember the Christkindlmarket is open in Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville; and ice rinks are open in Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park.
If you are looking for things to do in the suburbs, the brand new AMAZE Light Festival is now open at Rosemont's Impact Field. Plus, Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum and Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden are also in full swing.
Related
For sports fans, the Chicago Bears travel to Detroit to take on the Lions on Thanksgiving at 11:30 a.m. The Chicago Blackhawks host the St. Louis Blues on Friday noon and the San Jose Sharks on Sunday at 6 p.m. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls travel to Orlando on Friday to take on the Magic at 6 p.m. and then host the Miami Heat on Saturday at 7 p.m.
Related
Here's a look at things to do this weekend in Chicago and the suburbs:
Squid Arcade at Replay Lincoln Park
Replay Lincoln Park has announced their latest pop-up theme: Squid Arcade, which will begin Friday, Nov. 5 and run through Sunday, Nov. 28. The arcade bar, located at 2833 N. Sheffield, will transform its gaming areas into a Squid Game-inspired haven (or hell) with childhood inspired tabletop games throughout. Plus, there will be weekly karaoke, K-Pop DJ guests on select nights, weekly Squid Game-inspired competitions, a themed cocktails and food menu, a Squid Game costume celebration, and a marbles guessing game. MORE INFO.
Where: Replay Lincoln Park, 2833 N. Sheffield
When: Now through Sunday, Nov. 28
Cost: Free
Related
Neon and Light Museum
The new Neon and Light Museum pop-up invites guests to stand in, under and around some 70 professional neon and light-based sculptures in a dazzling and dramatic immersive exhibition.
Among the highlights are certain to be: Breathe, a 14-foot-tall perspective-based neon sculpture created by artist John Bannon; Circle’s Edge, Monika Wulfer’s dynamic installation inviting participation with activated gas trapped in glass tubes; and an iconic neon self-portrait by legendary Beatle John Lennon. Other remarkable talent represented in neon and light includes internationally renowned British artist Sarah Blood, feminist neon artist Zoelle Nagib, pop sign artist Jason Pickleman, neon master bender Jacob Fishman, the digital imagery of Detroit’s Annica Cuppetelli and Cristobal Mendoza, the projected light of Gary Justis, the language play of San Francisco’s Helen Lee, and abstract sculptor Michael Young, and more.
The Neon and Light Museum is an expansion of the successful On Neon show presented here in 2020 by the Ken Saunders Gallery, which, since 1995, has exhibited the most important and innovative artists working with glass in the world. MORE INFO.
Where: 325 West Huron, River North, Chicago
When: Now through Dec. 15
Cost: $25
Related
Holiday in the Park Lights at Six Flags Great America
Who said Six Flags Great America is all about the roller coasters? Holiday in the Park Lights is returning to Six Flags Great America this holiday season where guests can enjoy twinkling lights, spectacular shows, delicious snacks, and holiday shopping.
The event runs Nov. 26 through Dec. 30 and features holiday treats and unique holiday-themed activities. Additionally, while the thrill rides are in "hibernation" until spring, families can still ride the smaller rides like Columbia Carousel, Krazy Kups, ZoomJets, and even The Dark Knight coaster and Justice League: Battle for Metropolis.
And let's not forget about the food! According to Six Flags, Mrs. Kringle has sprinkled unique holiday recipes throughout the park, all bound to leave your stomach as stuffed as your stocking. Be sure to not miss out on the peppermint funnel cake sundae! MORE INFO.
Where: Six Flags Great America, 1 Great America Pkwy, Gurnee
When: Now through Dec. 30
Cost: $24.99+
Related
Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Guests are welcome to join Brookfield Zoo in celebrating the 40 years of festive fun at Holiday Magic, Chicagoland’s longest-running lights festival.
Holiday Magic features over two million twinkling LED lights; and has several new features this year, including the “Sea of Lights," featuring more than two miles of colorful, sparkling lights, the zoo’s entire West Mall has been transformed into a magical creation of waves immersing guests in the holiday spirit. Adjacent to the spectacular display, guests can feel the season’s cheer while strolling through the 600-foot-long “Tunnel of Lights," synchronized to music.
Additionally, guests will be mesmerized as they look up at the zoo’s 41-foot-tall tree. Located at the north entrance, the "show-stopping" attraction is adorned with thousands of brilliantly colored LED lights and choreographed to seasonal tunes, according to the zoo. Plus, the walkways along the zoo’s malls and around Roosevelt Fountain shine with more than 700 community and corporate trees decorated with ornaments. There will also be larger-than-life illuminated animal sculptures, including a giraffe, bison, bear, and reindeer, to add to the ambiance throughout the park. MORE INFO.
Where: Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield
When: Select dates now through Dec. 31
Cost: Reservation times for Holiday Magic are available in 15-minute increments. Zoo admission and parking tickets, which must be reserved in advance at CZS.org/HolidayMagic, are $24.95 for adults, $17.95 for children ages 3-11, and $19.95 for seniors 65 and over. Parking is $15.
Related
Christkindlmarket Chicago
The Christkindlmarket Chicago celebrates its 25th anniversary and will be back in-person, as well as online in 2021!
Stroll through the aisles of the market while taking in the smells of roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, bratwurst, and hot, spiced wine, listening to holiday music play in the background, and gazing at all the sparkling Christmas ornaments - this is the true, Christkindlmarket experience.
Guests can explore all the vendors’ products from all around the world that feature everything from traditional items like nutcrackers and beer steins to everything in between. And once you are done shopping, you may catch yourself watching one of the many performances that take place throughout the season. MORE INFO.
Where: Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St.
When: Now through Dec. 24
Cost: Free
Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville
In addition to its main location in Chicago's Daley Plaza, people can also visit the beloved holiday tradition at Gallagher Way outside Wrigley Field. The Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville is part of the Winterland at Gallagher Way that offers plenty of fun outdoor holiday activities for the whole family. MORE INFO.
Where: Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St.
When: Now through Dec. 31
Cost: Free
Related
WNDR museum
The home of Chicago's only Infinity Mirror Room (created by Japanese Yayoi Kusama) is open to the public once again, presenting a new collection of one-of-a-kind art installations alongside some old favorites. New additions to WNDR Museum include a multi-sensory experience from S̶A̶N̶T̶IA̶G̶O̶X that uses artificial intelligence, sounds, visuals and scents, as well as an installation called I Heard There Was a Secret Chord that allows guests to become part of an evolving virtual choir. MORE INFO.
Where: 1130 W. Monroe St.
When: Tickets available now through Dec. 31
Cost: $30
Related
Light Up the Lake
An all new, holiday experience is coming to Navy Pier this winter season. Light Up the Lake will be an indoor, temperature-controlled experience, featuring large-scale light-sculpture displays, comprising more than 600,000 twinkling lights; a regulation-size Alpine ice rink; an authentic holiday beer garden; kiddie train rides; Santa’s Village; and gift market and other family-friendly events.
Transforming more than 100,000 square feet of Navy Pier’s expansive Festival Hall, Light Up the Lake will also offer sit-down dining with holiday-themed eats, signature cocktails, and seasonal brews. Grab-and-go meals and snacks will be available throughout the event space.
Offering something for everyone, Light Up the Lake will run from Nov. 26 through Jan. 2, in the Festival Hall at Navy Pier. Tickets start at $15 and are on sale now at NavyPier.org; and every ticket comes with a free ride on the Centennial Wheel. MORE INFO.
Where: Festival Hall at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.
When: Now through Jan. 2
Cost: $15+
Related
ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo
ZooLights returns Saturday, Nov. 20, transforming Lincoln Park Zoo into a twinkling winter wonderland, complete with festive activities, such as visits with Santa, a holiday pop-up bar, an Enchanted Forest, Light Maze, sweet treats of all kinds, and much more.
ZooLights runs from 4 to 10 p.m. on Nov. 20-24, 26-30, Dec. 1-23, 26-31, and Jan. 1-2. Tickets to ZooLights are free on Mondays and Tuesdays and are $5 Wednesday-Sunday. Tickets are on sale now and available via Eventbrite at lpzoo.org/zoolights. Note, tickets are required for all guests including infants and children. MORE INFO.
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St.
When: Now through Jan. 2
Cost: $5+; Free on Mondays and Tuesdays
Related
Lightscape
Thousands of twinkling lights and new features that shine with all the colors imaginable will be on display during Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden this holiday season.
Lightscape returns Nov. 12 and will run on select dates until Jan. 2 on an all-new, one-way, 1.25-mile path filled with favorite artistic installations set to seasonal music, along with new and reimagined pieces. More than 80 percent of this year’s trail will feature new installations from Chicago-based and international artists. MORE INFO.
Where: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
When: Now through Jan. 2
Cost: Tickets range from $24-26 for members and $26-28 for non-members. Child tickets range from $12-15 and children under 3 are free.
Related
Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum
Those looking for a unique winter light show this year will find it in the ninth annual Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum, opening Nov. 20 with five new features and a curated selection of music from around the world along the walking path.
Illumination attendees will find familiar favorite features from previous years, as well as the newly created experiences of the Arboretum’s 26-foot tall Human+Nature Hallow sculpture lit at night, a glittering entry gateway, passage through 150 colorful lanterns, a blanket of white lights across a hilltop meadow and a conifer trail lined with dozens of spectacularly colored light reeds. MORE INFO.
Where: Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle
When: Now through Jan. 2
Cost: Ticket prices range from $8 to $24 per person. Children under age 2 will be admitted free of charge.
Related
AMAZE Light Festival
Starting in November, Rosemont's Impact Field will transform into the ultimate holiday destination with the debut of The AMAZE Light Festival. Visitors are welcome to enjoy outdoor holiday activities for all ages amongst an immersive display of more than one million holiday lights.
In addition to enjoying timed light shows and seven theme-based illuminated worlds, AMAZE guests can take advantage of tubing on “Polar Peak,” a holiday market, festive food and beverages, a candy shop, and more. Children can also enjoy visits to Santa's Workshop, holiday craft making, and even festive train rides on the “Arctic Express.” MORE INFO.
Where: Rosemont’s Impact Field, 9850 Balmoral Ave.
When: Now through Jan. 2
Cost: General admission tickets are $23 for adults and $18 for children ages 2-12.
Related
The Dr. Seuss Experience
Welcome to The Dr. Seuss Experience, an imaginative and interactive immersion into the wondrous world of Dr. Seuss! This Seuss-tacular sensory spectacle takes you on an awe-inspiring journey through nine different, visually stunning Dr. Seuss worlds. You can swing among Truffula Trees from The Lorax, make your way through a brilliant balloon-filled maze from Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, stroll through towering clovers listening for a Who from Horton Hears a Who!, or join the Circus McGurkus! Join us and meet the characters, live the stories, and experience Dr. Seuss like never before in this once in a lifetime experience not to be missed! MORE INFO.
Where: Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Ste 100
When: Now through Jan. 2
Cost: $26-$59
Related
Christmas Around The World and Holidays of Light at the Museum of Science and Industry
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light return to the Museum of Science and Industry this November highlighting the rich customs of more than 50 countries and cultures.
Hundreds of volunteers from Chicago's diverse communities use handmade décor and personal mementos to decorate a forest of trees and displays that line the Museum's Rotunda and main floor in a stunning spectacle. Guests can learn why silver spiders are good luck, find out which country celebrates the world's longest Christmas season, marvel at intricate origami ornaments and more. MORE INFO.
Where: Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
When: Now through Jan. 3
Cost: Included in museum entry
Related
The Office Experience
Fans of The Office will be transported to the world of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company, as The Office Experience is set to make its debut in Chicago on Friday, Oct. 15. The interactive two-story experience features 17 rooms filled with original props and costumes, set re-creations, and more as fans visit Scranton Business Park and other sites associated with the beloved series. Guests will be able to take pictures throughout the Dunder Mifflin office including Pam’s desk, Michael’s office, and Ryan’s closet, as well as Schrute Farms. Fans will also relive iconic episodes and memorable moments, such as Kevin’s Chili Spill and Beach Day, in the largest official interactive fan experience based on The Office. MORE INFO.
Where: The Shops at North Bridge on the Magnificent Mile, 540 N. Michigan Ave.
When: Now through Jan. 17
Cost: $37.50 plus taxes and fees
Related
Immersive Van Gogh
Step inside of Starry Night and The Bedroom in Arles with the help of more than 75 digital projectors in this high-tech exhibition that explores the work of Vincent Van Gogh. Designed by the Italian creative team that worked on the "Atelier des Lumières" exhibitions in Paris, "Immersive Van Gogh" covers 35-foot walls with animated versions of the Dutch painters work, accompanied by a score that blends electronic and classical compositions. MORE INFO.
Where: Lighthouse ArtSpace, 108 W. Germania Pl.
When: Now through Feb. 6
Cost: $39.99+
Related
Blue Man Group
Blue Man Group will welcome colder temperatures this fall and holiday season with an expanded performance schedule at Chicago’s Briar Street Theatre. The added performances include Blue Man Group Chicago’s first-ever shows on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, bringing louder drummer boys and not so silent nights to Chicago locals and visitors alike this holiday season.
Blue Man Group originally debuted at the Briar Street Theatre in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood in 1997. A dynamic combination of art, music, comedy and technology, Blue Man Group encourages audiences to reconnect with their inner (and outer) child in order to see the world through a new perspective. Three bald and blue men explore today’s cultural norms with wonder, poking fun at the audience’s collective quirks and reminding them how much they all have in common. The show is continually refreshed with new music, stories, custom instruments and state-of-the-art technology. MORE INFO.
Where: Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted St.
When: Tickets available for select dates now through February 2022
Cost: Ticket prices range from $49 – $89
Related
Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon
The Maggie Daley ice skating ribbon, located at 337 E. Randolph St., is slated to open Nov. 19, weather permitting, with Van Gogh-inspired visuals on the ice provided by Immersive Van Gogh Chicago, the blockbuster immersive experience seen by more than 3.5 million visitors since its North American debut last year.
This year, skaters will be able to glide across sunflowers and 'Starry Night' brush strokes, as they take part in a unique and exciting winter experience for all ages.
Reservations for the opening skate are now available online. The ice will be open seven days a week with four sessions a day; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. MORE INFO.
Where: Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon, 337 E. Randolph St.
When: Now through March, weather dependent
Cost: Prices begin at $16 for skate times Monday through Thursday and $20 for holidays and skate sessions Friday through Sunday. This price includes a skate rental. If you are bringing your own skates, admission is $5, excluding the 11 a.m. session, which is free for anyone with their own skates.
Related
The Infinite Wrench
At The Infinite Wrench, you’ll see 30 original plays in 60 minutes; written and performed by The Neo-Futurist Ensemble. Each play offers something different, be it funny, profound, elegant, disgusting, topical, irreverent, terrifying, or a song; all are truthful and tackle the here-and-now, inspired by the lived experiences of the performers. With new plays every week, The Infinite Wrench is The Neo-Futurists’ ongoing and ever-changing attempt to shift the conventions of live performance and speak to those unreached or unmoved by traditional theater.
The Infinite Wrench is recommended for audience members 14 and older. Performances are weekly on Saturdays at 10:30 p.m. and Sundays at 7 p.m., at The Neo-Futurist Theater, located at 5153 N. Ashland. Performances of The Infinite Wrench are priced at $10. Note: walkup tickets are available with cash or card. MORE INFO.
Where: The Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland
When: Now through 2022
Cost: $10
Related
Teatro ZinZanni
Teatro ZinZanni is pleased to announce its grand reopening with a brand-new show starring veteran performer, Frank Ferrante. An experience unlike any other, Teatro ZinZanni is a whirlwind of international cirque, comedy and cabaret served with a multi-course gourmet feast. Teatro ZinZanni takes place on the 14th floor of the Cambria Hotel Chicago Loop, 32 W. Randolph St. in the heart of Chicago’s Theatre District.
Described as a “feast for the senses” by The New York Times, the fast-paced action unfolds around, above and alongside guests. World-class acrobats, musicians, divas, illusionists, madmen, and aerialists fill the intimate Spiegeltent ZaZou, a unique jewel box mirror tent located in the heart of Chicago’s Downtown Theater District. MORE INFO.
Where: Cambria Hotel Chicago, 32 W. Randolph St. (14th Floor)
When: Tickets available for select dates now through August 2022
Cost: Individual tickets, which include a four-course meal, range in price from $119 - $189. Limited à la carte “show-only” tickets will also be available for $69.
Related
Human+Nature
The Morton Arboretum’s next outdoor art exhibition, Human+Nature, will inspire awe and wonder as it connects people and trees. Internationally renowned artist Daniel Popper created five 15- to 26-foot-tall sculptures exclusively for the Arboretum that will be featured in various locations across its 1,700 acres, leading guests to areas they may not have explored before. It will be his largest exhibition to date anywhere in the world.
On the East Side, a short walk from the Visitor Center, guests will be able to step within a huge female figure, as if into the heart of nature. Continuing along a less than mile-long walk, they will encounter a majestic maternal figure as tall as a tree, and a sculpture of diverse human facial traits interwoven with root structures. On the West Side, two hands joined by intertwining roots will extend near a grove of old oaks, and a towering face will evoke the interconnectedness of humans and trees. Made of concrete, fiberglass, and steel, each sculpture will weigh several metric tons. The largest ground footprint will be 28 feet wide and 37 feet long.
Human+Nature will be included with timed-entry admission to the Arboretum. The exhibition is planned to run for at least one year. MORE INFO.
Where: Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle
When: Now through next year
Cost: Included with timed-entry Arboretum admission
Related
