Entertainment This Week
Now Playing in Indiana:
December 2nd, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm & 4:00 - 7:00 pm, Santa invites families who may benefit from a sensory-friendly environment to visit during this special session. "A Christmas Story" Comes Home, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (I 80/94 at Kennedy), Hammond. $10. FYI AChristmasStoryComesHome.com
December 2nd, 11:00 am, Networking, 11:30 am, Program, Gary Chamber of Commerce presents 17th Annual Lakeshore Classic Corporate Luncheon, Council Oaks Steak House, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary. 21 and older. $50. Reservations @ (219) 885-7407
December 3rd, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Women's Association of the Northwest Indiana Symphony Society presents the Festival of Trees. Center for Visual & Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster. Venders, brunch, entertainment, raffle. $50. FYI (219) 836-0525 ext 206 or https://nisorchestra.org/waniss
December 3rd, 4:00 - 7:00 pm, Wag Your Tail Wednesdays, "A Christmas Story" Comes Home, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (I 80/94 at Kennedy), Hammond. Bring your pets for photos with Santa, bring a donation for local pet shelters. FYI AChristmasStoryComesHome.com
December 3rd, 7:00. pm ET, Tran-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve - The Best of TSO and More, Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, 4000 Parnell Drive, Fort Wayne, IN. Tickets on sale 9/12, starting at $40. FYI www.livenation.com
December 4th, 5:00 - 8:00 pm, Holiday for Heroes, "A Christmas Story" Comes Home, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (I 80/94 at Kennedy), Hammond. First responders (police, fire, EMT), Hoosier Helpers, veterans, and active military are invited to experience the exhibit with their family and visit with Santa. Free. FYI AChristmasStoryComesHome.com
December 4th, Doors open at 7:00 pm, Aaron Lewis and The Stateliners: American As It Gets Tour, Hard Rock Live, Hard Rock Casino Rockford, 7801 E State St, Rockford, IL 21 & older. FYI www.ticketmaster.com
December 4th, 7:00 pm ET, Tran-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve - The Best of TSO and More, Gainbridge Fieldhouse, 125 S. Pennsylvania Street, Indianapolis IN. Tickets on sale 9/12. FYI www.livenation.com
December 4th, 7:30 pm, Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra 84th Season & Maestro Kirk Muspratt's 25th Anniversary Season. Holiday Pops, a South Shore Holiday Tradition. Hard Rock Live, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary. 21 and older. $49-$89 for the 4 concert season. FYI (219) 836-0525 or www.NISOrchestra.org.
**** December 5th, 6:00 pm, 17th Annual Lakeshore Classic. West Side Leadership Academy, 900 Gerry Street, Gary. 6:00 (Boys) West Side Leadership Academy vs Michigan City High School. 8:00 pm (Boys) Hammond Central vs Little Village Lawndale High School (Chicago). Sponsorships: $300 - $35,000. Tickets: $10. FYI (219) 885-7407 or www.garychamber.com
December 5th, 6:00 - 8:00 pm, Opening Reception: VOICES: The MBACD Annual Community Show, Marshall J. Gardner Center for the Arts, 540 S. Lake Street, Gary. Cash Bar & light refreshments. Free & open to the public. FYI (219) 885-9114 or millerbeacharts.org
December 5th, 9:00 pm, DJ Cliqs, Council Oaks Bar Stage, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary. 21 and older. Free. FYI 219-228-2383 or https://www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com/
December 5th, 9:00 pm, Mr. Blotto, Hard Rock Cafe Stage, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary. 21 and older. Free. FYI 219-228-2383 or https://www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com/
December 6th, 9:30 am ET, South Bend Civic Theatre youth company hosts “Breakfast with Santa and Friends”. CIVIC Main Lobby, South Bend Civic Theatre, 403 N Main Street, South Bend. $30. FYI (574) 234-1112 or https://sbct.org/
December 6th, 10:00 am - 3:30 pm, Munster Chamber of Commerce presents Holiday Shop Small Crawl, shopping, raffles, collecting swag & supporting Munster's businesses. List of participating businesses can be found @ www.munsterchamber.org
**** December 6th, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Christmas at the Canal, Wabash & Erie Canal Park, 1030 N Washington St, Delphi, IN. Admission, parking, tours, and historic activities are all FREE, thanks to our sponsors. FYI https://wabashanderiecanal.org/event/christmas-at-the-canal-2025/
**** December 6th, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm, Princess Brunch, Bishop Noll Cafeteria, 1519 Hoffman Street, Hammond. Princess appearances by Region Royalty, Santa visits, brunch, games & themed activities. $25 Children 12 & under, $15 Adults. FYI (219) 932-9058 or www.bishopnoll.org.
**** December 6th, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm. RailCats present Christmas with the ‘Cats, Brunch at the Steel Yard, 1 Stadium Plaza, Gary. Adults $35, Children $25. Space is limited. FYI https://www.tixr.com/groups/railcatsbaseball/events/christmas-with-the-cats-165132?fbclid=IwY2xjawOII0ZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFhNURoVUFva1dSR0U2bTZVc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MghjYWxsc2l0ZQEyAAEekUantj_nu1o-DknIZfDkoHZKvLT3leNXtvDZ8DacY18Le_r6nDfZKzdzti0_aem_AThvnPxhBgjjQbV12lslWg&mc_cid=cdd71a3aa5&mc_eid=661597b0ad
December 6th, 12:00 - 4:00 pm ET, Book Signing, Joseph S. Pete, author of Lost Treasures of Indiana, Eugene & Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center, 450 W. Ohio Street, Indianapolis, IN. Free and open to the public. FYI (317) 232-1882
December 6th, 2:00 - 3:00 pm, Meet & Greet IndyCar Driver Conor Daly, Journeyman Distillery at The American Factory, 258 South Campbell Street, Valparaiso. Free. FYI https://conordaly.net/ or https://www.journeyman.com/events/conor-daly-meet-and-greet/?mc_cid=5dbf5f11c6&mc_eid=37f3a08cc7
**** December 6th, 6:00 pm, 17th Annual Lakeshore Classic. West Side Leadership Academy, 900 Gerry Street, Gary. 6:00 (Girls) West Side Leadership Academy vs Munster High School. 8:00 pm (Boys) East Chicago Central vs Farragut Career Academy (Chicago). Sponsorships: $300 - $35,000. Tickets: $10. FYI (219) 885-7407 or www.garychamber.com
December 6th, Doors open at 7:00 pm, HEART: Royal Flush Tour, Hard Rock Live, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary. All reserved seating. 21 and older. Tickets start at $117.15. FYI www.ticketmaster.com.
**** December 6th, 7:30 pm, Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra 84th Season & Maestro Kirk Muspratt's 25th Anniversary Season. Holiday Pops, a South Shore Holiday Tradition. Valparaiso High School, 2727 N. Campbell Street, Valparaiso. $49-$89 for the 4 concert season. FYI (219) 836-0525 or www.NISOrchestra.org.
December 6th, 9:00 pm, DJ Kevin Allen, Council Oaks Bar Stage, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary. 21 and older. Free. FYI 219-228-2383 or https://www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com/
December 6th, 9:00 pm, Whatever, Nevermind, Hard Rock Cafe Stage, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary. 21 and older. Free. FYI 219-228-2383 or https://www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com/
December 6th, 10:30 pm, Rearview: A Tribute to Pearl Jam, Hard Rock Cafe Stage, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary. 21 and older. Free. FYI 219-228-2383 or https://www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com/
December 7th, 4:00 pm, PNW Sinai Forum 2025 presents Neil deGrasse Tyson: Adventures in Science Literacy, Stardust Event Center, at Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa, 777 Blue Chip Drive, Michigan City. FYI https://www.pnw.edu/sinai-forum/tickets/
Ongoing Exhibits/Events
Through December 6th, A Dance with Chance: Plein Air Adventures: Chesterton Art Center, 115 S. 4th Street, Chesterton. Free. FYI (219) 926-4711 or www.ChestertonArt.org
Through December 23rd, Schedule a 5-minute visit with Santa, get a printed photo, on select dates. "A Christmas Story" Comes Home, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (I 80/94 at Kennedy), Hammond. $10. Schedule appt at AChristmasStoryComesHome.com
Through December 24th, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Monday through Friday, Saturdays by appt Holiday Gift Gallery, Art Barn School of Art, 695 N 400 E, Valparaiso. FYI (219) 462-9009 or www.artbarnschool.org.
Through December 24th, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm M. T. W & F; Th 12:00 - 7:00 pm; Sat 10:00 am - 4:00 pm; Sun 12:00 - 4:00 pm, Evergreen Artisan Market, South Shore Arts, Atrium Gallery, Center for Visual & Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster. Free. FYI (219) 836-1839 or www.southshoreartsonline.org
Through December 30th, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm daily, "A Christmas Story" Comes Home, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (I 80/94 at Kennedy), Hammond. Free. FYI AChristmasStoryComesHome.com
Through January 2nd, Holiday Artisan Market, Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA), 101 W. 2nd Street at the lakefront, Michigan City. Free. FYI (219) 874-4900 or www.LubeznikCenter.org.
Through January 7th, Art Barn School of Art presents Views of VU, a curated exhibition celebrating the architectural beauty and scenic character of Valparaiso University through the eyes of regional artists. Das Gallery, located at Country Inn & Suites, 2020 Laporte Ave, Valparaiso. Free. FYI www.artbarnschool.org.
Through February 15th, LIT! Site-Specific Installations by Maria Burundarena and Luftwerk, Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA), 101 W. 2nd Street at the lakefront, Michigan City. Free. FYI (219) 874-4900 or www.LubeznikCenter.org.
December 5th through January 16th, VOICES: The MBACD Annual Community Show, Marshall J. Gardner Center for the Arts, 540 S. Lake Street, Gary. Free & open to the public. FYI (219) 885-9114 or millerbeacharts.org
Now Playing in Illinois
December 1st, 6:00 pm, Lakeside Pride Wilde Cabaret World AIDS Day Cabaret benefitting Seasons of Concern, Sidetrack, 3349 N Halsted St., Chicago. $30 (GA) - includes 2 drinks / $60 (VIP) - includes 2 drinks & a guaranteed seat. 100% of the proceeds go to Season of Concern. FYI https://chicagosocialbutterflies.com/wp-events/world-aids-day-cabaret-benefitting-season-of-concern-chicago/
December 1st & 2nd, 7:00 pm, Chicago Cabaret Professionals present Merry Measures 2025, The Check Out, 4116 N. Clark Street, Chicago, $25. Proceeds benefit Season of Concern. FYI https://chicagocabaret.org/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=748427&item...
**** December 1st, 7:00 pm, A Christmas Story (1983), Classic Movie Mondays, Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd, Aurora. $1 at the door. FYI (630) 896-6666 or https://paramountaurora.com/series/movie-mondays/
December 1st, 7:30 pm, HANDEL’S MESSIAH, Music of the Baroque, Conductor: Dame Jane Glover, with Tenor Miles Mykkanen. Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago. FYI https://www.baroque.org/Seasons/2025-2026/handel-s-messiah
December 1st, 8:00 pm, Jam Presents 24kGoldn with Seph & Wyatt Woodley, Schuba's, 3159 N. Southport, Chicago. 18 & over. FYI www.axs.com
December 1st, 8:00 pm, Of Monsters and Men, The Salt Shed Indoors, 1357 N. Elston, Chicago. Tickets start at $64. FYI www.ticketmaster.com
December 2nd, 7:15 pm, John Achkar, The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. $55-$95. FYI (773) 697-3830 or www.thedentheatre.com
December 2nd, 7:30 pm, Jam Presents Blind Guardian - Somewhere Far Beyond Tour with Ensiferum & Seven Kingdoms, Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield, Chicago. 17 & older. FYI www.axs.com
December 2nd, 7:30 pm, Live Nation Presents Avatar: In the Airwaves - USA 2025 / with Alien Weaponry, Spiritworld, Riviera Theatre, 4746 N. Racine, Chicago. FYI www.axs.com
December 2nd, 7:30 pm, Pentatonix: Christmas in the City Tour, Allstate Arena, 6920 Mannheim Road, Rosemont. FYI www.ticketmaster.com
December 3rd, 7:30 pm, Cursive w. AJJ (duo) welcomed by CHIRP Radio, SPACE, 1245 Chicago Avenue, Evanston. $47.17 (includes fees & taxes). FYI www.ticketweb.com
December 3rd & 5th, 7:30 pm, December 7th, 3:00 pm, Chicago Opera Theatre presents Falstaff, assia Le tre burle (Falstaff, or the Three Tricks. Studebaker Theatre, Fine Arts Building, 410 S. Michigan, Chicago. $50-$150. FYI chicagooperatheater.org/
December 4th, 6:00 - 9:00 pm, Cheer at the Pier, official preview party of WinterFest, Festival Hall, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand, Chicago. $25. FYI www.navypier.org
December 4th, 7:15 pm, Langston Kerman, The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. $22-$40. FYI (773) 697-3830 or www.thedentheatre.com
December 4th, Jam & Deep Cut Present Ripe and Allen Stone: The Get Sweet Tour, Riviera Theatre, 4746 N. Racine, Chicago. FYI www.axs.com
December 4th, 7:30 pm, Jam Presents Stephen Lynch: The Me Tour, Park West, 322 W. Armitage, Chicago. FYI www.axs.com
December 4th, 5th & 6th, 7:30 pm, John C. Reilly is Mister Romantic, Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theater, 1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago. $89 – $159. (Pricing includes $10 handling fee) Tickets on sale October 9th. FYI (312) 335-1650 or steppenwolf.org/romantic
**** December 5th, 3:00 - 6:00 pm, Bluey Activation, Inspired by the snow globe in Bluey’s “Verandah Santa” episode, this free pop-up brings the Heeler family’s Aussie Christmas to life. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. FYI www.navypier.org
December 5th, 5:00 pm, On Demand. HANDEL’S MESSIAH, Music of the Baroque, Conductor: Dame Jane Glover, with Tenor Miles Mykkanen. Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago. FYI https://www.baroque.org/Seasons/2025-2026/handel-s-messiah
December 5th, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm, 50th Anniversary Holiday Party, Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood, Chicago. Complimentary food and drinks, live music, open studios, workshops, a free art demo, a gallery show and screening of Dream a Lill: 50 Years of Molding Makers. Festive, family-friendly event open to the public; no reservations necessary. FYI lillstreet.com.
December 5th, 7:00 & 10:00 pm, Jam Presents Rob Anderson: Are You Afraid of the 90s? Park West, 322 W. Armitage, Chicago. FYI www.axs.com
December 5th, 8:00 pm, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) presents Holly Dolly Christmas, a festive celebration honoring the one and only Dolly Parton. Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E Randolph St, Chicago. $25-$60. FYI cgmc.org/holiday.
December 5th, 8:00 pm, Jam Presents J. Robbins (band) plays Burning Airlines with Her Head's on Fire, Schuba's 3159 N. Southport, Chicago. 18 & older. FYI www.axs.com
December 5th, 8:00 pm, Josh Meloy with Trenton Fletcher, Joe's on Weed Street, 940 West Weed Street, Chicago. 21 & over. $32.27 (includes fees & taxes). FYI www.ticketweb.com
**** December 6th, 10:00 am, Breakfast with Santa, Lucille Restaurant, Drury Lane Oakbrook, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Adults $50, Children 5-12 $30, Children 4 & under Free. Ticket to A Christmas Carol not included. FYI (630) 530-0111 or www.drurylaneoakbrook.com.
December 6th, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, The Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce invites the community to kick-off the holiday season with a Winter Wonderland event – a full day of free festive activities at the following locations: Activities in the park, 1425 N. Damen Ave.; “The North Pole”, Mautene Court Plaza - 1260 N. Milwaukee Ave.; Wicker Park tree lighting ceremony, Wicker Park Field House, 1425 N. Damen Ave., Chicago. Free and open to the public. FYI WickerParkBucktown.com
December 6th, 10:00 am & 1:00 pm, The Music Institute of Chicago presents Duke It Out! Nutcracker, Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston. $20. FYI musicinst.org.
**** December 6th, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Santa & Mrs. Claus at the "W" Tent (across from The Little Popcorn Store) on Front Street, Downtown Wheaton. Free. FYI https://www.visitdowntownwheaton.org/events/santa
December 6th, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, Jewelry Trunk Show, artist, Lisa Slodki, Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood, Chicago. FYI lillstreet.com.
**** December 6th & 7th, 11:00 am - 8:00 pm, Bluey Activation, Inspired by the snow globe in Bluey’s “Verandah Santa” episode, this free pop-up brings the Heeler family’s Aussie Christmas to life. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. FYI www.navypier.org
December 6th, 12:00 pm, Chicago Tap Allstars WINTER WONDERLAND, Harold Washington Cultural Center, 4701 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago. $35. VIP $75. FYI https://chicagotaptheatre.com/chicago-tap-allstars/#/productions-view
**** December 6th, 1:00 - 3:00 pm, Holiday Afternoon Tea, Lucille Restaurant, Drury Lane Oakbrook, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Adults $75, Children 5-12 $35, Children 4 & under Free. FYI (630) 530-0111 or www.drurylaneoakbrook.com.
**** December 6th, 1:00 & 5:00 pm, December 7th, 3:00 pm, The Ruth Page Center for the Arts presents Ruth Page's The Nutcracker, The Center for Performing Arts, Governors State University, 1 University Drive, University Park. $15 to $65 (depending on venue). FYI https://www.govst.edu/cpa-events/
**** December 6th, 2:00 & 7:00 pm, December 7th, 3:00 pm, Beyond the Nutcracker, Tchaikovsky’s holiday masterpiece reimagined, Danced to a recorded score. Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center, 19900 S. Harlem Ave., Frankfort, IL. Tickets start at $20. FYI www.ballet58.org/nutcracker.
December 6th, 5:00 & 8:00 pm, The Second City: Jack Frost Roasting on an Open Fire, Belushi Performance Hall, McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Boulevard, Glen Ellyn. FYI (630) (630) 942-4000 or https://atthemac.org/shows/
December 6th, 5:00 (Just Added) & 8:00 pm, Jam & Outback Present Michael Blaustein: The Taste Me Tour, Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield, Chicago. FYI www.axs.com
December 6th, 7:00 pm, Hit the Lights with Special Guests Wilmette Four Stars * Summer Curse, Bottom Lounge 1375 W. Lake Street, Chicago. $32.39 - $77.19 (includes fees). FYI www.ticketweb.com
December 6th through 11th, 7:00 pm, (6 shows), Jarrod Carmichael, The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. $28, VIP table $38. FYI (773) 697-3830 or www.thedentheatre.com
December 6th, 7:30 pm, The Music Institute of Chicago Academy presents Academy Chamber Music Concerts, Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston. Free. FYI musicinst.org.
December 6th, 8:00 pm, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) presents Holly Dolly Christmas, a festive celebration honoring the one and only Dolly Parton. Northeastern Illinois University Auditorium, 5500 N St Louis Ave, Chicago. $25-$60. FYI cgmc.org/holiday.
December 6th, 8:00 pm, SmoothChicago presents Mike Manson, Bringing the Funk, Soul & Jazz of the Holiday Season, Loews O'Hare Hotel, 5300 N. River Road, Rosemont. FYI https://www.smoothchicago.com/
**** December 7th, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, Brunch with Santa, Lucille Restaurant, Drury Lane Oakbrook, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Adults $100, Children 5-12 $30, Children 4 & under Free. FYI (630) 530-0111 or www.drurylaneoakbrook.com.
December 7th, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce Wicker Park's Indoor Farmers Market, Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club, 1750 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago. For a full list of vendors & activities, visit WickerParkBucktown.com/FarmersMarket
**** December 7th, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm, Breakfast with Santa, Harry Caray's, Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Breakfast Buffet, Photo-ops with Santa & Classic Carols. $35, Kids 10 & under $20* (*includes a goodie bag of holiday candy). FYI https://www.harrycarays.com/np-breakfast-with-santa.html
December 7th, 11:00 am - 6:00 pm, CORKS & COGS: BRASS, BUBBLES, & BRUNCH - A FUNDRAISER FOR OTHERWORLD THEATRE, Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar, 5517 N. Clark Street, Chicago. $75-$165. FYI https://events.humanitix.com/corks-and-cogscorks-and-cogs?mc_cid=2581d15108&mc_eid=d17ae2136b
December 7th, 2:00 pm, Nightmare Before Christmas Drag Brunch, Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Mall K120B, Schaumburg. 21 & over. $33.34 - $52.62 (includes fees & taxes). FYI www.ticketweb.com
December 7th, 7:00 pm, The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show, The Chicago Theater, 175 N. State Street, Chicago. Tickets start at 46. FYI www.ticketmaster.com
December 7th, 7:00 pm, Mariachi Herencia De México - A Mariachi Christmas, Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport, Chicago. $52.98 (includes fees & taxes). FYI www.ticketweb.com.
Ongoing Exhibits/Events
Daily. 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Hershey Super Sweet Adventure is an immersive, story-driven experience where guests become “Sweet Seekers in Training”, unlocking the wonder behind Hershey’s most iconic candies through hands-on games, challenges, and activities. Water Tower Place, 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Tickets start at $24.99. Ticket options include timed entry, flexible entry, discounted bundles, birthday party packages and more. FYI www.HersheySuperSweetAdventure.com.
Daily every 20-30 minutes, Big Bus Tours’ Hop-On Hop-Off experience, Service begins at Chicago Riverwalk, 98 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago @ 10:00 am; last bus departs @ 5:00 pm. Adults $49.50, Children 3 - 12 $35. Advance ticket purchase recommended. FYI www.bigbustours.com
Through December 17th, Wednesdays at 7:00 pm, Walter King Jr. (aka The Spellbinder)’s hit show Diary of a Black Illusionist, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark, Chicago. $42 (Main Floor) and $47.50 (Front Row). FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.
**** Through December 23rd, Letters to Santa, Children drop a letter in Santa's Mailbox at the "W" Tent on Front Street, Downtown Wheaton. Free. FYI https://www.visitdowntownwheaton.org/events/letters-to-santa
Through December 27th, Holiday Fireworks, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Cozy up on the Wave Wall Staircase to behold the spectacular displays. Free. FYI www.navypier.org
Through December 27th, Holiday Fireworks Cruises, City Cruises, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. From $229 FYI https://www.cityexperiences.com/chicago/city-cruises/holiday-fireworks-dinner-cruise-on-lake-michigan/
**** December 5th through 28th, The Joffrey Ballet presents Christopher Wheeldon's The Nutcracker, Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago. $49-$203. FYI www.joffrey.org
**** December 5th through 28th, 12:00 - 6:00 pm Thursday through Sunday, Holiday Express Water Taxi, Shoreline Water Taxis, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. FYI https://shorelinesightseeing.com/water-taxis/
**** December 5th through 28th, 5:00, 6:00 or 7:00 pm Friday through Sunday, Hot Chocolate Cruises, Shoreline Skyline Lake Cruises, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Starting at $40. FYI https://navypier.org/events/hot-chocolate-cruise/
December 5th through 31st, Lillstreet Gallery holiday show, The Holiday Table. Lillstreet Art Center, 4401 N. Ravenswood, Chicago. FYI lillstreet.com.
**** December 6th through 31st, Sparkle Maze at Chicago’s Funhouse Maze, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. $15.99 plus tax. FYI www.navypier.org
Through December 31st, Christkindlmarket, Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. Authentic vendors, live entertainment, and special events. Free Admission. FYI https://www.christkindlmarket.com/
Through December 31st, Christkindlmarket, RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora. Authentic vendors, live entertainment, and special events. Free Admission. FYI https://www.christkindlmarket.com/aurora/
Through December 31st, Christkindlmarket, Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville, 3635 N. Clark St., Chicago. Authentic vendors, live entertainment, and special events. Free Admission. FYI https://www.christkindlmarket.com/
**** December 1st through January 4th, Christmas Tree Walk, display of 50 4-foot Christmas trees decorated by your favorite Downtown Wheaton shops and restaurants. Downtown Wheaton. Free. FYI https://www.visitdowntownwheaton.org/events/christmas-tree-walk
December 2nd through January 4th, Offshore Rooftop’s Arctic Adventure, Offshore Rooftop, 1000 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. FYI https://www.offshorerooftop.com/events/
**** December 5th through January 4th, Winter WonderFest, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd., Chicago. Tickets start at $25. FYI www.navypier.org/winterwonderfest
**** Through January 4th, Chicago Children’s Museum ‘Take Care with Peanuts’ exhibit, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Avenue, Chicago. Adults and children 1 year and older: Illinois Resident* $21 per person, Non-Illinois Resident $25 per person (*with proof of Illinois residency). FYI https://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/hours-tickets-and-faq
Through January 4th, 4:00 - 10:00 pm daily, Downtown Wheaton & City of Wheaton present Nights of Lights, A Spectacular Holiday Lighting Event, Adams Park, 303 W. Wesley Street, Wheaton. Free. FYI https://www.visitdowntownwheaton.org/events/nights-of-lights
Through January 4th, 4:00 - 10:00 pm daily, Christmas Tree, Pavilion (Liberty Drive between Cross St & Main St, Downtown Wheaton. Free. FYI https://www.visitdowntownwheaton.org/events/christmas-tree
Through January 6th, the Greektown Arts Committee presents Greektown's Holiday Karavákia display. Inspired by an ages-old Christmas tradition from Greece of decorating karavákia (little boats) for the holidays, the Greektown Arts Committee engaged with 35+ local artists to have each paint a karaváki for public display at restaurants and other businesses across Greektown. And Greektown also showcases a larger karaváki, painted by distinguished artist James Mesple, near the monument at Elysian Field. Free and open to the public. FYI greektownchicago.org
**** Through January 11th, Holiday Dining Experience, Lucille Restaurant, Drury Lane Oakbrook, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Adults $60, Children 5-12 $25, Children 4 & under Free. FYI (630) 530-0111 or www.drurylaneoakbrook.com.
Through January 11th, Margaritaville’s ‘Christmas Island Holiday Bar’, Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. FYI https://www.margaritavillechicago.com/
Through January 25th, Ice Skating @ Chicago Wolves Ice Rink, Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Place Rosemont. Free Admission. Skate rental $8. For dates & hours of operation, visit ParkwayBankPark.com.
Through February 16th, 2026, Alex Ross: Heroes & Villains, East Gallery, Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County, 1899 West Winchester Road, Libertyville. Tickets available at the door. FYI www.DunnMuseum.org
Through February 28th, Harry Caray's Lakefront Lodge—a cozy winter retreat overlooking downtown Chicago and Lake Michigan. Harry Caray's Lakeside Patio, Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. FYI https://www.harrycarays.com/lakefront-lodge.html
Through February 28th, Harry Caray's Curling on the Lake—at Harry Caray’s synthetic ice rink. Harry Caray's Lakeside Patio, Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. FYI www.harrycarays.com/curling-by-the-lake.
Through February 28th, Harry’s Winter Warming Hut, a private, cozy hideaway nestled on Harry Caray’s Lakeside Patio, Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. FYI www.harrycarays.com/winter-warming-hut.
Through April 30th, 7:30 pm, Dennis Watkins in partnership with the Goodman Theatre & Petterino's announces The Magic Parlor with Dennis Watkins, 50 W. Randolph, Chicago. $85 ($115 for performance + encore experience). FYI (312) 443-3800 or TheMagicParlourChicago.com.
Through November 2026, AMERICAN PROPHETS: WRITERS, RELIGION, AND CULTURE, American Writers Museum, 180 N. Michigan Ave., 2nd Floor, Chicago. Museum hours are Monday, Thursday—Sunday, 10 AM—5 PM. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Adults $16, Seniors, Students & Teachers $10, Members & children ages 12 and under free. FYI (312) 374-8790 or AmericanWritersMuseum.org
Open Run, 113th Mainstage Revue, This Too Shall Slap, The Second City, 230 W. North Avenue, Chicago. FYI (312) 337-3992 or www.secondcity.com.
Open Run, The Second City's e.t.c. 49th Revue, The Second City, 230 W. North Avenue, Chicago. FYI (312) 337-3992 or www.secondcity.com.
**** Open Year Round, Sunday to Thursday, 11:00 am - 8:00 pm; Friday & Saturday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm (Timed Entrances Every 15 Minutes), Flyover Chicago, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. $24.95 Adults; $19.95 Military; $14.95 Children 13 & under. Children must be at least 40" (102 cm) tall. Children (13 and under) must be accompanied by an adult or guardian (14 years or older). FYI www.ExperienceFlyover.com/Chicago.
At Chicago Magic Lounge
Open Run, Mondays at 7:00 pm, The Close-Up Show, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago. $35. FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.
Open Run, Tuesdays at 7:00 pm, The Showcase, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago. $37.50-$42. FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.
Open Run, Wednesdays, 7:00 pm, Artist in Residence Series, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago. $40. FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.
Open Run, Thursdays through Sundays at 7:00 pm, Fridays & Saturdays at 10:00 pm, Sundays at 4:00 pm, The Signature Show, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago. $55-$89.50. FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.
Open Run, Select Sundays at 3:00 pm, Family Show, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago. $35-$40 (standard), $45-$50 (front row). FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.
Now Playing in Michigan:
December 3rd, 7:00 pm ET, Pentatonix: Christmas in the City Tour, Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI. FYI www.ticketmaster.com
December 6th, 4:00 pm ET, The Harbor Country Singers, a community outreach of the School of American Music, present their annual Holiday Concert, “Home for the Holidays.” Episcopal Church of the Mediator, 14280 Red Arrow Hwy., Harbert, MI. Free. Donations appreciated. FYI SchoolofAmericanMusic@gmail.com
December 7th, 2:30 & 7:30 pm ET, Tran-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve - The Best of TSO and More, Van Andel Arena, 130 Fulton Steet W, Grand Rapids, MI. Tickets on sale 9/12, starting at $40. FYI www.livenation.com
December 7th, 4:00 pm ET, The Harbor Country Singers, a community outreach of the School of American Music, present their annual Holiday Concert, “Home for the Holidays.” The Acorn Theater, 107 Generations Dr., Three Oaks, MI. Free. Donations appreciated. Reservations at acornlive.org. FYI SchoolofAmericanMusic@gmail.com
Now Playing in Wisconsin:
Now Playing Elsewhere:
December 7th, 7:00 pm ET, Bee Gees Now, Seminole Hard Rock Tampa, 5223 North Orient Road, Tampa, FL. 21 & over. Tickets start at $62. FYI https://casino.hardrock.com/tampa/events/bee-gees-now?cid=cc029_entertainment_casino_bee-gees-now!-1207_email_november-entertainment_get-tickets_11072025_marketing_-_-
Now Playing Internationally: