Last updated: November 11, 2024
Celebrate the season with the Avondale community! Discover all the festive happenings in our guide. Whether you're an Avondale veteran or a rookie, this guide ensures you don't miss a moment of holiday magic.
One highlight this season is the enchanting Christkindlmarket, which transports visitors straight to a European-style market brimming with handcrafted gifts and delicious seasonal treats. Another notable experience is the Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier, featuring dazzling light displays and a variety of winter-themed activities for all ages. And the magical performance of The Nutcracker by the Joffrey Ballet is something you definitely don't want to miss, showcasing the beauty of this beloved holiday classic. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Avondale Holiday Light Displays
Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
- Largest indoor and outdoor holiday experience in Chicago.
- Light Up the Lake at Navy Pier features dazzling outdoor lakefront light displays, an outdoor ice-skating rink, cozy firepits, and a heated Centennial Ferris Wheel. The event includes local artisan markets, axe throwing, live music, and award-winning fireworks on Saturdays.
- Chicago | More Info : Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier
Wonderland Express & Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
- What to Expect
- "Synchronized light and sound show amidst botanical gardens"
- Description
- The Chicago Botanic Garden's Wonderland Express & Lightscape features a spectacular display of lights and botanical beauty, transforming the garden into a vibrant and immersive experience.
- Where
- Glencoe | More Info : Wonderland Express & Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden
Avondale Holiday Markets and Shopping
Christkindlmarket
- What to Expect
- Authentic German-style holiday market with international vendors and festive atmosphere.
- Description
- Christkindlmarket is a traditional German-style holiday market offering a unique shopping experience with international and local vendors, festive music, and a variety of seasonal foods.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : Christkindlmarket
Avondale Holiday Shows and Entertainment
The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet
- What to Expect
- World-class ballet performance inspired by Chicago's 1893 World's Fair.
- Description
- The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet is a holiday performance set in 1893 Chicago, featuring Christopher Wheeldon's choreography and Tchaikovsky's classic score. The story follows Marie and her mother as they celebrate Christmas Eve, only to be swept away by the Nutcracker Prince to the dreamlike fairgrounds of the World’s Columbian Exposition.
- Where
- Chicago | More Info : The Nutcracker by Joffrey Ballet