The Windy City gets ready for another year of fall and winter excitement
There’s more to November than dudes not shaving. Next month is offering tons of amazing activities for anyone who wants to make the most of fall and winter in the city.
From art expos to food fests to the beginnings of holiday cheer, here are 10 of the best November events taking place in Chicago.
SOFA Chicago
Photo Credit: SOFA Chicago
November 3 – 6, 2016
SOFA, which stands for sculpture objects functional art and design, is an annual expo that showcases the best three-dimensional work. If you’ve never been, it’s pretty cool – and a great excuse to hang out at Navy Pier for an afternoon. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
The Rugby Weekend
November 4 – 5, 2016
Watch the US, Ireland, and New Zealand duke it out in the sports spectacle of the year. The Rugby Weekend takes place on the first weekend of November at Soldier Field, inviting national and international fans to enjoy a heart-pounding match. Limited tickets are still on sale at varied prices on Ticketmaster.
Mac & Cheese Fest
Photo Credit: Mac & Cheese Fest Chicago
November 5, 2016
No explanation needed here. The annual celebration of mac and cheese returns to Chicago this year with new chefs and new, cheesy recipes that’ll leave you happy for days. This fest at the UIC Forum is always a popular one, so get your tickets soon! General admission and VIP tickets are still on sale for $65 and $105, respectively.
Festival of Barrel-Aged Beers
November 11 – 12, 2016
Endless tastings of wood and barrel-aged craft beers are perfect for cold weather. Brought to you by the creators of Chicago Craft Beer Week, make your way to the UIC Forum to get in on the action and earn your bragging rights for having sampled some of the rarest beers you can find from over 90 breweries. Limited tickets are still available.
A to Z Bar Crawl
November 12, 2016
Who’s ready to party with UrbanMatter? Join us for the very first A to Z Bar Crawl, where we’ll crash River North and enjoy awesome drink specials from the hottest bars in the neighborhood, including Blackfinn Ameripub, Hubbard Inn, Bull & Bear, Boss Bar, Bottled Blonde, and El Hefe. Proceeds will benefit the Chicago Hearing Society. Get 20% off tickets now!
Ice Skating at Millennium Park
Opens November 18, 2016
Nothing says winter like hitting the ice. McCormick Tribune Ice Rink reopens next month and is offering tons of fun activities, such as lessons and speed skating demos. Grab your family, friends, or a date and make memories at Millennium Park’s gorgeous rink. Visits are free to the public and skate rentals are $12.
Christkindlmarket
Photo Credit: Christkindlmarket Chicago
Opens November 18, 2016
This might be the one we’ve all been waiting for. Christkindlmarket, everyone’s favorite outdoor holiday event, returns next month to Daley Plaza with German and European food, drinks, crafts and entertainment. Admission is free but prices vary from vendor to vendor.
Chicago Toy & Game Fair
Photo Credit: Red Tricycle
November 19 – 20, 2016
Also known as ChiTaG, this annual fair at Navy Pier is perfect for the family. Get a sneak preview of new toys, games, and inventions from across the world, and meet the brains behind them as well. Kids can also enjoy a giant bubble show, a young tech challenge and more. Early bird tickets are $14 and $7 for adults and children, then $15 and $8 at the door.
Thanksgiving Parade
Photo Credit: Youtube (2013)
November 24, 2016
On Thanksgiving morning, watch as marvelous floats and marching troupes flood State Street for one of the best holiday parades in the city. Make sure to get there early to catch a good viewing spot! If you can’t make it, it will be broadcasted on WGN 9 Chicago.
ZooLights
Photo Credit: Lincoln Park Zoo
Opens November 25, 2016
The illuminated display of the year takes place at Lincoln Park Zoo, which welcomes the holiday with brilliant lights. This event can be enjoyed by both adults and kids, as it features crafts, pictures with Santa, holiday shopping, live ice carving, train rides, and seasonal beverages.
What are you excited to do in November? Tell us below!
