Nicknamed “the Prairie State”, Illinois is presenting a winter wonderland this holiday season. Promising to be an unforgettable winter destination experience, the midwestern state is full of festive activities and unique experiences.
December through February, the magic of the holiday season will be in full swing throughout the beautiful snowy state. Here is a summary of happenings in the state each month.
December
Along the popular Magnificent Mile with festive window displays, ice skate below the city’s iconic skyline. Along the winding, ice-covered path, lace up your skates at Maggie Daley Park or visit Millennium Park for ice skating and a photo with the City of Chicago Christmas Tree.
Go snowshoeing or sledding on the parkland surrounding historic Soldier Field.
Head over to Olivia Country Club Ski Area for extended mountain time up until 10 pm and go down its seven runs skiing, snowboarding, or even snow tubing.
Home to 19 ski and snowboarding trails and a seven-acre terrain park, vacation at Chestnut Mountain Resort amongst the hills overlooking the Mississippi.
In Lemont, head to area No. 1 adventure park to ice skate under the twinkling lights and then warm up in a climate-controlled Forgefire globe
January
Yes, it may be cold, but it is also a great time for some outdoor winter activities in Lake County. About an hour’s drive from Chicago, start your morning off on a lovely nature trail and you may get lucky even to spot a bald eagle. Warm up with a visit to the local craft distilleries along the Lake County Libation Trail, featuring beer, wine and whiskey makers and also do some shopping.
Jan 5-7: Quad Cities Bald Eagle Days Environmental Fair and Wildlife Art Show is the largest bald eagle event in the midwest.
Jan 7: free family-friendly event at Alton-Audubon Eagle Ice Festival
Jan 19-Feb 3: experience Chicago’s rich, culinary diversity during Chicago Restaurant Week.
The polar vortex experience in Chicago: The city’s iconic skyline, blanketed in snow and ice, offers a stunning yet stark reminder of nature’s force, turning Chicago into a winter landscape that requires careful navigation and preparation.
February
Feb 8-18: a diverse range of theatrical offerings will be live throughout the Chicago area during Chicago Theatre Week. See iconic shows in the 12th year of the annual festival.
Feb 10-19: the largest auto show in North America is coming back for its 116th edition with The Chicago Auto Show.
Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled winter vacation or a relaxing getaway, those who can brave the cold will have loads of fun in the state this Winter. Illinois has something to offer for all types of travelers during the season from skiing, ice skating, winter hiking, holiday shopping and some winter-themed events.
