Chicago is magical during the holiday season. There is no shortage of things to do and see. All you need is a nice warm coat, some hot chocolate and friends to enjoy this list.

1. Ice skating Nov – March

Chicago has no shortage of ice skating rinks during the winter months. You can ice skate by the famous Bean, at Lincoln Park Zoo, on the roof of the Peninsula and down the ribbon at Maggie Daley Park.

2. CTA Holiday Train Nov – Dec

What better way to bring holiday cheer to the CTA train then with a fully decked out Santa train?

Santa!! I know him!!

A video posted by Korri (@korriography) on

3. Christmas Around the World Nov 19 – Jan 3

The Museum of Science and Industry highlights various cultural traditions from around the world through the decorating of 50 trees.

#tbt to last thanksgiving break with some of my favorites! Can’t wait to see them in a few weeks 💕

A photo posted by Hannah Rose Dominiak (@hannahwrotethis) on

4. Christkindlemarket Nov 20 – Dec 24

Enjoy food, music and holiday fun at Christkindlemarket.

100 days until Christmas Eve! #christkindlmarket

A photo posted by Christkindlmarket (@christmaschi) on

5. Magnificent Mile Light Festival Nov 21

Bring the entire family for this full day of activities. From a tree-lighting parade to a rockin concert there is something everyone will enjoy.

#MagMileLightsFestival #Chicago

A photo posted by david_hurtadoc (@david_hurtadoc) on

6. Tree Lighting Nov 24

The tree lightening ceremony is moving to Millennium Park this year and is sure to be beautiful with Chicago’s skyline as a backdrop.

Back to the market we go! #chriskindlmarket #Chicago #ChicagoTree #Christmaslights #Christmasspirit

A photo posted by Julia Samolczyk 😘 (@thechicagoplanner) on

7. ZooLights Nov 27- Jan 3

The only way to make an already awesome zoo cooler is to decorate the entire thing with holiday lights.

8. Winter WonderFest Dec 4- Jan 10

Chicago’s biggest indoor playground with 170,000 square feet of rides, ice skating and fun.

#GiantSnowman ⛄️

A photo posted by Julie Lovins (@julieklovins) on

9. Chi-town Rising Dec 31

Celebrate NYE with a countdown, a star rising into the sky, epic fireworks, live music and so much more.

10. Don’t forget the great hotel deals.

Chicago hotels are known to have great hotel deals during the winter season. Take advantage of them and enjoy Chicago this holiday season.