Holiday Magic
Dec. 26-31
Brookfield Zoo
8400 31st St.
(708) 688-8000
Celebrate the holiday seasons at Chicagoland’s largest and longest-running lights festival. Sing to the animals and enjoy professional ice-carving demonstrations, magic shows, a 41-foot talking tree and special visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus (through Dec. 22). A full schedule of music and live entertainment, costumed characters, a model railroad display and more will add to the magical ambiance. The Chicago Wolves skating rink is also open. Visit the website listed above for a complete schedule. Hours: 4 to 9 p.m. Admission: $21.95 for adults, $15.95 for children 3-11 and seniors 65 and older, free for children 2 and younger plus $14 for parking. MD
Holiday Afternoon Tea
Dec. 28
Lucille Restaurant at Drury Lane
100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace
(630) 530-8300
https://www.lucillerestaurant.com
Indulge in holiday afternoon tea while a live pianist plays favorite carols. Keep warm with seasonal teas, enjoy unlimited champagne and choose from enticing desserts. Reservations must be made 24 hours in advance. Time: 1 p.m. Cost: $40, $30 for children under 12.
Characters on Ice
Dec. 29
Parkway Bank Park
5501 Park Place, Rosemont
https://www.parkwaybankpark.com
Join the fun on this final Sunday in December and ice skate with Peter Pan and Captain Hook on the Chicago Wolves Ice Rink. Bring skates or rent them at the rink. Time: 9 to 11 a.m. Cost: $8 skate rental.
Illumination: Tree Lights
Through Jan. 5
Morton Arboretum
4100 Route 53, Lisle
(630) 725-2066
This one-of-a-kind event will awe and delight visitors, with returning favorites and all-new experiences. Illumination will highlight the many gifts of trees: natural beauty, increased feelings of peace and calm, homes for wildlife and the air we breathe. This year’s event will debut a new route with a more spacious pathway. Stop along the way to warm up by the fire pit, enjoy special concessions and more. Tickets are available for specific times. Time: 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $23 for adults, $15 for children ages 2-17, free for kids under 2. RR, MD
Farmhouse Museum Tours: Christmas Memories
Through Jan. 6
Kline Creek Farm
1N600 County Farm Road, West Chicago
(630) 876-5900
Discover Victorian holiday traditions and explore the lifestyle of a successful farm family during a tour of the farmhouse museum. Tours offered on the hour Thursdays to Mondays. Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Key
RR - registration required
MD - member discount
