Chicago’s Winter Events Calendar Packs a Real Punch

Boasting one of the world’s most impressive skylines, thanks largely to its plethora of striking skyscrapers, the city of Chicago is quite simply magnificent. Located in the state of Illinois, along the south western shores of Lake Michigan, it plays host to a number of fun-filled, exuberant annual events that are guaranteed to excite even the hardest to please travellers.

Whilst it is a remarkable place to visit at any time of the year, it is arguably at its most glorious in the winter months. Indeed, often blanketed in a sparkling layer of snow and filled with an array of twinkling lights, the city transforms itself into a magical winter wonderland come Christmas time. Add to the mix a superb selection of colourful festivals and celebrations and you have the perfect winter destination to head to.

Held every November, the Chicago Pow Wow is a definite highlight. Currently entering its 55th year, visitors can expect to be entertained by a number of Native American singers and dancers, as well as having the opportunity to try out some of their traditional produce. Not only that, but there are also sacred rituals to behold, making it a unique event and one well worth taking the time out to experience.

To truly get into the Christmas spirit, the Tree Lighting Ceremony is also impressive. In addition to joining the thousands of people who gather to see the lights on the 85 foot tree switched on, it is possible to browse a traditional Christmas market whilst listening to the Chicago Children’s Choir as they perform a range of festive carols.

For those seeking to participate in something a little more unusual, then the annual Carolling to the Animals event is guaranteed to please. Taking place during the first week of December, you can join the local choral groups as they head to the city’s Lincoln Park Zoo to sing to the animals. Santa Claus is also on hand to feed them (the animals that is, not the carollers).

Running from mid November until the beginning of January, the Museum of Science and Industry’s Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light event is great to take the children to. Designed to highlight Chicago’s ethnic communities, there are more than 50 trees to view that have been decorated by various members of the communities, and which serve to represent the different cultures present there. There are also a number of live performances and choral groups to enjoy.

As well as the many events going on around the city, there is also a wealth of enticing cafés and restaurants to take advantage of, bars and nightclubs to experience and a wide range of great hotels in Chicago to lay your weary head in. Therefore, you can rest assured that a Christmas time visit to this fantastic city is filled with a host of festive activities and frolicking opportunities galore!