things to do in chicago in november

Chicago in November can be quite chilly, but there are still plenty of exciting things to do and see in the city. Here are some ideas:

1. Christkindlmarket: This annual German-style market in Daley Plaza kicks off in late November and features handmade crafts, German food, and mulled wine.
2. Thanksgiving Parade: Chicago’s Thanksgiving Parade takes place on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and features giant balloons, floats, and marching bands.
3. Ice Skating: Many outdoor ice skating rinks in Chicago open in November, including the famous Millennium Park ice rink.
4. Festival of Lights: The Chicago Botanic Garden’s Festival of Lights features beautiful displays of lights and lanterns throughout the garden.
5. Black Friday Shopping: Take advantage of the city’s famous shopping scene on Black Friday, with deals and discounts at many of Chicago’s top stores.
6. Chicago Bears at Soldier Field: Catch a Chicago Bears football game at Soldier Field, even if it’s a chilly November day.
7. Holiday Lights in Lincoln Park Zoo: This free event features beautiful light displays throughout the zoo, as well as hot chocolate and holiday treats.
8. Chicago Food Tour: Take a food tour of the city to sample some of Chicago’s famous cuisine, such as deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef.
9. The Polar Express: The Polar Express train ride at the Museum of Science and Industry is a holiday tradition for many Chicago families.
10. Volunteer Opportunities: Consider volunteering at a local soup kitchen or food bank on Thanksgiving Day to give back to the community.
11. Chicago’s Christmas Tree: The official Christmas tree of Chicago is lit up in Millennium Park in late November, and is a popular spot for photos.
12. Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest: This annual festival features ice skating, holiday shopping, and entertainment, including live music and fireworks.
13. The Art Institute of Chicago’s Holiday Events: The Art Institute of Chicago hosts a variety of holiday events, including art-making activities, performances, and special exhibitions.
14. Chicago’s Holiday Windows: Take a stroll along Michigan Avenue to see the beautiful holiday window displays at some of Chicago’s top department stores.
15. The Field Museum’s Ancient Egypt Galleries: Explore the Field Museum’s extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies and artifacts from the tomb of Unis-Ankh.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Whether you’re interested in holiday events, outdoor activities, or exploring the city’s cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in Chicago in November.