Winter Break is an anticipated time for every student. It’s only two weeks long, so you need to be mindful of how you spend your time to make sure you’re getting the most out of your break. There are many activities to do in the Chicagoland area to fulfill your holiday wishes.
Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape
The Chicago Botanic Garden is a perfect place to go in the summer to appreciate nature. But in winter, the garden gives you a whole different experience. The Lightscape is a light show experience that uses all your senses—look at the mesmerizing lights, hear the Christmas music playing through the speakers, taste the hot chocolate and other treats. The light show is scattered throughout the mile-long trail. This makes it perfect for an evening-long walk through a winter wonderland.
“It was just very relaxing, because you can stroll through and take it all in,” Christine Richards, a patron of the Chicago Botanic Garden, said. “You can go at your own pace.”
Nov. 15, 2024- Jan. 5, 2025
Adult Tickets- $32 member, $34 nonmember
Child Ticket- $17 member $19 nonmember
ChristKindl Market
The ChristKindl Market has two locations—one in downtown Chicago, and one in Aurora, and calls itself a celebration of European traditions. It is a German-style outdoor market, with multitudes of local vendors selling unique specialty gifts or food. The atmosphere is cozy and festive as families stroll along the market. It is the perfect place to go to get whisked away on an idealistic European winter. My family and I have many memories of visiting over the years, and in particular, of drinking the delicious hot chocolate.
Free entry, open Nov. 22-Dec. 24
