As Thanksgiving quickly approaches, the city is gearing up for all of its holiday events. Last Friday, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park opened up for the season, but there are plenty more winter and holiday events coming up within the next week. Prepare the turkey and get outside for some quality family time.
Friday, November 21 — The Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza formally kicks off this Friday. Drink some glühwein and pick up some handmade Christmas ornaments from Germany.
Saturday, November 22 — The city will hold the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival along Michigan Avenue where the big Christmas tree on the Mag Mile will be lit. The event will also feature a parade featuring everyone's favorite animated mice Mickey and Minnie, and will conclude with a big fireworks show.
Tuesday, November 25 — At 4:30pm on Tuesday evening, the city's big Christmas tree at Daley Plaza will officially light up for the season. Dee Snider of Twisted Sister will headline the performances. It's going to be a hair metal Christmas in Chicago. Oh boy!
Thursday, November 27 — Many Chicagoans will be stuffing their faces with turkey and cranberry sauce, but if you're up for hanging out in the cold for a few hours, the 81st Annual McDonald's Thanksgiving Day Parade will be taking place in the morning. There's also no shame in chilling on the couch and catching the parade on WGN. Here's the route.
Friday, November 28 — Beginning at 6pm on Black Friday, Caroling at Cloud Gate will commence. Chicago based choral groups will fill the air with joyous melodies. The caroling will last for an hour.