Though Chicago can get unbearably freezing, the holiday season in Chicago is a magical time. Lincoln Park, one of the city’s vibrant northside neighborhoods, is the perfect spot to celebrate holiday cheer with family and friends.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of fun, festive activities to enjoy in this charming area. From light displays to magical markets, here are a few holiday activities for families in and around Lincoln Park that will make this season unforgettable.
One of Chicago’s favorite holiday traditions, ZooLights at the Lincoln Park Zoo transforms the eponymous zoo into a sparkling winter wonderland. Every year, this event features over two million lights that adorn the zoo’s grounds, creating a dazzling spectacle for visitors of all ages. Families can wander through the zoo and take in the light displays, enjoy live music, and visit Santa Claus in his North Pole-themed workshop.
Kids can experience the animated light shows, and there’s even an opportunity to hop on a magical carousel ride. Best of all, ZooLights is free on select Mondays, making it an ideal outing for families on a budget.
If you’re looking for unique gifts for the family, head over to Lincoln Park’s charming shopping districts. Armitage Avenue is lined with boutique stores that offer everything from locally made artisan goods to chic fashion and home decor.
Well-known stores like Lush, Aesop, and Bonobos line the bustling avenue, as do local businesses with many gifts perfect for your loved ones. Many shops decorate their windows with festive adornments, adding to the holiday ambiance. You might also find stores with special holiday offers, making it a win-win for both your family and your wallet.
For a unique way to see the north side, consider hopping on the Holiday Lights Trolley Tour. This guided tour takes you through the neighborhood’s most beautifully decorated streets, as well as the Magnificent Mile and Millenium Park. The trolley is fully decked out in holiday decorations, and you’ll enjoy the lights in warmth and comfort while learning fun facts about Chicago’s history and holiday traditions. Kids will love the festive music and the chance to look at the beautiful décor that adorns the city streets during wintertime.
Another family-friendly event in the Lincoln Park area is the Christkindlmarket at the Daley Plaza, just a short distance away. While not directly in Lincoln Park, it’s easily accessible by public transit and offers a German-inspired holiday market with festive food, holiday crafts, and live entertainment.
The outdoor market features over 20 vendors, traditional German holiday ornaments, wooden toys, and other unique gifts, making it an excellent spot for families to pick out something special. For younger visitors, activities like S’more-making stations, cookie decorating, and visits with Santa are ready for the masses. The market’s charming atmosphere makes it a go-to destination for those interested in holiday cheer.
A couple of miles south of Lincoln Park lies Maggie Daley Park, which transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. This iconic space offers families a magical ice-skating experience with the Skating Ribbon, which winds through Chicago’s downtown landscape.
With its crisscross path and views of the city skyline, skating at Maggie Daley Park will feel like a joyful adventure for both you and your kids. The rink is surrounded by beautiful holiday lights, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for a family outing. Whether you’re gliding along with your little ones or enjoying the thrill of a faster-paced skate, Maggie Daley Park is a must-visit destination for families and friends looking to make lasting memories during the holidays.
The holiday season on Chicago’s northside may be chilly, but it’s also filled with charm, joy, and outstanding family-friendly fun. Whether you are ice skating in the park, marveling at the lights at Lincoln Park Zoo, or shopping for unique gifts along Armitage, there’s no shortage of ways to make holiday memories with your loved ones. The neighborhood’s festive spirit, historic traditions, and holiday activities make Lincoln Park an exemplary place to embrace the season’s magic.
