[Skip to Content]

Holiday Traditions in the Chicago Loop

Posted  11 months ago  in  Trending

Create lasting memories with the whole family downtown at the Loop’s must-see holiday destinations.


The Joffrey Ballet's "The Nutcracker" at Lyric Opera House

The Joffrey Ballet's The Nutcracker is a must-see tradition boldly reimagined for a new generation.

Holidays at the Art Institute of Chicago

Passion, inspiration, creativity, wonder—these are just a few of the experiences you’ll discover in your Art Institute stocking this holiday season.

Art on theMART: The Joffrey Ballet's "The Nutcracker"

A larger-than-life experience of the Joffrey’s magical holiday tradition.

Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Along

Bundle up and belt out some holiday classics as local Chicago choral groups lead hundreds of celebrants in song at this iconic work of art in Chicago’s gorgeous Millennium Park.

Santa at the Berghoff Restaurant

Share some schnitzel with Santa this holiday season at the Loop's historic Berghoff Restaurant.

Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza

Rooted in the German tradition, the Christkindlmarket is well known for its traditional candy cane striped wooden huts, festive shopping options, international delicacies, hot spiced wine (Glühwein), fine German beers, hand-crafted ornaments...

Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon

In the heart of the Chicago Loop, with the city’s skyline as a backdrop, a ribbon of ice winds through a rolling landscape, providing an ice skating experience unlike any other.

Macy's Great Tree

Located inside the beloved Walnut Room at Macy’s on State Street, the Great Tree stands 45-feet-tall and hangs from the ceiling versus sitting on its base. Since the tree hangs from the ceiling, the very first piece to be installed is the star on top

Macy's Holiday Windows

For 55 years, Macy’s has been stunning spectators with its famed holiday window displays and celebratory events.

Santaland at Macy's on State Street

An enchanted world showcasing Santa’s Village and Worskshop, Macy’s Santaland will open for in-store visits at Macy’s State Street.

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

The Lights Festival returns to the Mag Mile with over 200 trees illuminated along Michigan Avenue. Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse lead a parade of fabulous floats...

Millennium Park Ice Skating Rink

Take a spin on the ice during the 20th season of this Chicago winter tradition!

Exclusive Loop deals, recommendations, and news direct from Chicago Loop Alliance.