Things to do in Chicago in December 2026

More than 600 artists sell their own work on the 7th floor of the Merchandise Mart at the One of a Kind Show, and the year ends with about ten minutes of free fireworks over the lake at Navy Pier. Midwest FurFest lands in December, with 2 more on the list below.

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Starting in December

Dec3🪪 Conventions & Expos

Midwest FurFest

Thursday, Dec 3 to Sunday, Dec 6 Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont

$100

Dec3🎨 Arts & Culture

One of a Kind Show and Sale

Thursday, Dec 3 to Sunday, Dec 6 The Merchandise Mart, 7th floor, Chicago

$15

Dec31🎆 Holidays & Parades

Navy Pier New Year's Eve Fireworks

Thursday, Dec 31 Navy Pier, Chicago

Free

Nov20🎆 Holidays & Parades

Running through Dec 24

Christkindlmarket Chicago

Friday, Nov 20 to Thursday, Dec 24 Daley Plaza, Chicago

Free

Nov20🎆 Holidays & Parades

Running through Jan 3

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo

Friday, Nov 20 to Sunday, Jan 3 Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago

Ticketed

Nov21🎆 Holidays & Parades

Running through Jan 3

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo

Saturday, Nov 21 to Sunday, Jan 3 Brookfield Zoo Chicago, Brookfield

$30

Nov27🧸 Family & Kids

Running through Jan 3

Wintrust Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier

Friday, Nov 27 to Sunday, Jan 3 Festival Hall, Navy Pier, Chicago

$27

5 more run every week in Chicago year round, including Green City Market and Randolph Street Market. See the full calendar.

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