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 2 – 5, 2017
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. Single-day tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
Mac & Cheese Fest
Photo Credit: Mac & Cheese Fest Chicago
November 4, 2017
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.
Beerhoptacular
Photo Credit: Beerhoptacular
November 4, 2017
The seventh annual Beerhoptacular takes over Chicago’s Cinespace studios, where the city’s top TV dramas are filmed, to serve up over 150 craft beers, along with tasty eats from vendors like Carnivale and Happy Lobster. Tickets are on sale for two separate sessions, one from 12pm – 3pm (early entry at 11am), and from 6pm – 9pm (early entry at 5pm).
Chicago Comedy Film Festival
Photo Credit: Groupon
November 9, 2017
View a wide range of short and feature-length films from all across the globe at a festival that celebrates and showcases the art of comedy, also featuring awards, afterparties, and more. Ticket prices vary by screening.
Festival of Barrel-Aged Beers
November 10 – 11, 2017
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.
Chicago Holiday Chocolate Show
November 11, 2017
It’s a prime season for sweets! Head to the West Loop to view demos and sample decadent chocolates, and if you can’t enough, they are available to purchase and take home. Proceeds benefit Holiday Heroes, a local children’s charity, and a wine tasting event will also take place in the venue for an additional fee.
Ice Skating at Millennium Park
Opens November 17, 2017
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 17, 2017
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.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
Photo Credit: City of Chicago
November 17, 2017
This is Chicago’s true indicator that the holiday season is in full effect. Gather with hundreds of others in Millennium Park to watch an enormous Christmas tree light up the sky.
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Photo Credit: Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
November 17 – 18, 2017
It’s an all-day extravaganza on Michigan Avenue when the nation’s largest nighttime holiday event takes over. Enjoy family activities, tasty holiday treats, and parade with your favorite characters, and live musical performances.
Chicago Toy & Game Fair
Photo Credit: Red Tricycle
November 18 – 19, 2017
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.
Randolph Holiday Market
November 18 – 19, 2017
Get your holiday shopping done while having fun as you browse a unique selection of antique and vintage items, jewelry, art, and houseware. Parking is free and this is a family-friendly event!
Thanksgiving Parade
Photo Credit: Youtube (2013)
November 23, 2017
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 24 – 26, 2017
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!