Chicago Holiday Bucket List

Since there’s just under a week left until Christmas, I wanted to hurry up and share my Chicago Holiday Bucket List.

This city REALLY knows how to do Christmas. From the twinkling lights along Michigan Ave. to decorations as big as the skyscrapers themselves, I often feel like I’m living in a real life winter wonderland!

There is still time to be festive so if you’re a Chicagoan or just visiting us this week, here’s how to make the most of the holidays in Chicago:

Christkindl Market

A German tradition that was brought to Chicago over 20 years ago, the Christkindl Market in located in the heart of the loop at the Daley Plaza. It’s tiny decorated wooden huts are meant to mimic the famed Christmas markets in Germany. Wash down potato pancakes and bavarian pretzels with some mulled wine while you shop rare German imports! From gingerbread to tradition steins, porcelain ornaments and mugs you can find some fun gifts for loved ones on your list.

All of the pictures in this post were actually taken at the Christkindl Market with blogger babe Ways Of Style.

Holiday High Tea

Holiday high tea is such an iconic thing to do here in Chicago! It’s a fun excuse to get all dressed up and participate in a tradition that began with the Duchess in 1840! You can even bring along the kiddos for “Little Prince & Princess” tea! Here are the BEST places to enjoy Holiday High Tea in Chicago:

The Drake ( I did this one this weekend! But you know that if we’re friends on Instagram)
The Peninsula
The Langham’s Wonderland Tea

Zoo Lights at The Lincoln Park Zoo

ZooLights is a fun and FREE winter activity that’s perfect the whole family as well as date nights! Wander the exhibits while enjoying a truly luminous display of christmas lights! In fact, this is one mini-tradition my husband and I have kept over the past few years.

See The Nutcracker

Is there anything more classic then seeing The Nutcracker at Christmas time? Some even claim it’s THE number one holiday tradition in Chicago. The Joffrey Ballet is ELITE and this year they’re celebrating the world premiere of new, reimagined version of the classic tale!

Ice Skating at The Peninsula Sky Rink

What’s better than gliding across fresh ice then warming up with a cup of hot coco? Doing so four stories above Michigan Ave., surrounded by Chicago’s skyscrapers! The Peninsula Sky Rink also offers a heated lounge area to rest between skates and ALL proceeds benefit two Chicago’s children charites.