Holiday Happenings in the City: Chicago Markets, Pop-Ups, Performances, Walking Tours, Train & Hot Tub Boat Rides

Chicago Neighborhoods, Chicago Parks, Chicago River, Christkindlmarket, Christmas, Entertainment, Holiday, Holiday events, Holiday Travel, Hot Tub Boat Rides, Pop-ups, Pop=ups, Train rides, Uncategorized

It’s not too soon to start making a list and checking it twice for what’s happening in Chicago this holiday season. Here are some suggestions from Choose Chicago.

HOLIDAY MARKETS

The Chicago Christkindlmarket is delighted to announce the return of its cherished holiday tradition for its 29th season at Daley Plaza in Chicago, its 4th year at RiverEdge Park in Aurora, and its return to Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville. The Chicago and Aurora locations will open on November 21, 2025, while Wrigleyville will welcome visitors starting November 23, 2025. All three markets are admission-free, featuring authentic vendors, live entertainment, and special events to create a festive holiday atmosphere. 

HOLIDAY POP-UPS

  • Jack Frost’s Pop Up – Returning November 2025 
  • Frosty’s – Returning November 2025 
  • Santa Baby – Returning November 2025 
  • Elf’d Up– Returning November 8, 2025 
  • Château Carbide Winter Garden at The Pendry Chicago (Launching Nov. 20 | 5 pm-12 am) – Château Carbide is launching their rooftop winter haven for another season with an all-new twist you won’t want to miss! Make a reservation for a private lodge and enjoy winter-inspired small bites and seasonal cocktails while taking in the stunning city-wide views of Chicago and all its snowy splendor.

HOLIDAY SHOWS & PERFORMANCES 

TOURS & ACTIVITIES

Bobby’s Bike Hike Holiday Hike: Season Sampling Food & Walking Tours begin at the end of November and run through Christmas Eve. See the lights of the Magnificent Mile, the ice skating rink and Christmas tree in Millennium Park, enjoy a warm and filling deep dish pizza, experience the German-inspired festivities of Christkindlmarket, and toast to a joyful season over a seasonal beverage! This 3 hour Chicago holiday tour is perfect for families, friends, holiday parties, and anyone looking to celebrate the season in an exciting new way. All food & non-alcoholic beverage samples included in ticket price. (Pricing starts at $74.99.)

Chicago Boat Company’s Hot Tub Boats, returning this winter with their launch in November (exact timeline and hours to come). Departing from Marina City (300 N. State St.), guests can take out a Hot Tub Boat for up to 90 minutes with as many as six guests per boat. They’ll cruise along the Chicago River, taking in iconic skyscraper views and, in December, the city’s festive décor and holiday cheer from river level. Each boat comes equipped with a Bluetooth speaker and is BYOB, with plenty of cooler space and floating cup holders. Hot chocolate, hot apple cider, mulled wine, you name it! 

The Christmas Tree Crawl: The Magic of Chicago at the Holidays – Let Inside Chicago Walking Tours take you on an enchanting stroll through the heart of the city at its prettiest time — during the winter holiday season.  On this nostalgic and educational tour, we will lead you on a “Christmas treasure hunt” through downtown Chicago in search of the most stunning and impressive Christmas trees and other holiday decorations — and we know where they are! This tour includes not only visits to well-known stops like the Christkindlmarkt and the old Marshall Field’s, but also to little-known stops that contain some of the best holiday decorations downtown. You’ll learn about the origins of some world-famous Christmas characters — some of them from Chicago, some not — as well as the history behind Christmas traditions practiced by people around the world. [November 28 – December 20, 2025; available Thursdays-Saturdays]

  • We call this tour a “pop-up tour” because it’s offered for a  limited time, because we want to show off the city’s beauty at this time of year. You won’t find a boat, a bus, or even a segway where we’re going.  

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Chicago’s most unique and beloved holiday tradition is here: The Allstate CTA Holiday Fleet. Now in its 33rd year of operation, we are excited to be delivering holiday cheer throughout Chicago’s neighborhoods and welcome you aboard our decked-out and dazzling Allstate CTA Holiday Train and the popular Allstate CTA Holiday Bus!

Christlkindlemarket. Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.

About Choose Chicago

Choose Chicago is the official sales and marketing organization responsible for promoting Chicago as a global visitor and meetings destination, leveraging the city’s unmatched assets to ensure the economic vitality of the city and its member business community. Follow @choosechicago on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and TikTok. For more information, visit choosechicago.com.

‘Paranormal Activity’ haunts Chicago Shakespeare Theater

Entertainment, Theater

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

Something spooky is definitely invading a prominent stage in Chicago.

It’s “Paranormal Activity” and it’s taking place at The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier through Nov. 2. The North American premiere production, which is an original story, is based on the popular film franchise.

@chicagoshakes

Even if you see it, you may not believe it. See PARANORMAL ACTIVITY at Chicago Shakes! 🎟️ chicagoshakes.com #paranormalactivity #theater #horrortok

♬ original sound – Chicago Shakespeare

The show, written by Levi Holloway, is directed by Felix Barrett. Spectacular illusions by Chris Fisher star in this production as well.

Audience members who want to be in suspense throughout a theatrical presentation will, no doubt, be at the edge of their seats here. “Paranormal Activity” tells the story of husband and wife James and Lou, who have moved to London from Chicago to pursue a new life and get away from “something” in their past.

There are many fascinating illusions, haunting sounds and other frightening scenes throughout “Paranormal Activity” to keep theatergoers’ attention. All eyes and ears will be focused on the mysterious  happenings on stage.

A strong cast helps make this production a winner and one not to be missed. Starring in “Paraniormal Activity” are Cher Alvarez as Lou, Patrick Heusinger as James, Shannon Cochran as Carolanne, Kate Fry as Etheline Cotgrave and Sophie Kaegi in an ensemble role.

After its Chicago run, the play will be performed in Los Angeles, Washington D.C. and San Francisco.

FYI: “Paranormal Activity” runs to Nov. 2 at The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre at Navy Pier. Visit chicagoshakes.com for more information.

For more information about what to do in Chicago, visit Choose Chicago.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

Sound of Music: One of the most beloved musicals currently graces the stage in The Windy City

Entertainment, Musical, Theater

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

The Rodgers and Hammerstein gem “The Sound of Music” continues through Nov. 2 at the James M. Nederlander Theatre in Chicago. This national North  American tour is being presented by Concord Theatricals NETworks Presentations and Broadway in Chicago.

“The Sound of Music tells the story of the Von Tapp Family singers. It revolves around Maria, who is in “training” to become a nun, and also pursues a job as a governess for Captain Von Trapp’s children. It’s a tale of family togetherness, love and a fondness for music and what music can bring to a home.

The production, which is directed by Jack O’Brien, celebrates the 65th anniversary of the original stage debut of “The Sound of Music.”

Starring as Maria is Cayleigh Capaldi, who exhibits exceptional vocal talents. Also offering strong vocals are Christiane Noll as Mother Abbess, Kevin Earley as Captain Georg Von Trapp and the cast of young singers who star as the Von Trapp children.

When it comes to soundtracks, “The Sound of Music” is a winner. Almost every tune is a favorite of theatergoers. And it’s difficult to keep from singing along during this show.

Among outstanding numbers are “My Favorite Things,” “Maria,” “Climb Every Mountain,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss” and the title tune “The Sound of Music.”

Theater fans will surely want to plan a visit to the theater to enjoy this production.

FYI: “The Sound of Music” continues to Nov. 2 at the James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph, Chicago. Tickets are $40 to $140. Visit broadwayinchicago.com.

Black Lagoon Halloween Pop-Ups: Curated Drinks in a Spooky Atmostphere

Cocktail Recipes, Fort Wayne, Halloween, Indianapolis, Phoenix

It’s not too late to celebrate the Spooky Season by visiting one of the Black Lagoon Halloween pop-ups. The highly acclaimed Halloween pop-up features hauntingly new & delicious cocktails such as Griselda’s Revenge–a tropical, herbaceous cooler fit for a swamp queen–and the Nocturna Colada, which is the piña colada of your darkest dreams.

Find the Black Lagoon venue nearest you by visiting Black Lagoon Pop-Up. And for those who live in Phoenix, the Pop-up runs until November 3rd at Sunny’s, located at 2701 E. Indian School Road. You don’t have to wear a costume but why not?

The venues all have immersive atmospheres along with brand-new cocktail menu, created by bar industry luminaries Erin Hayes and Kelsey Ramage.

This year’s lineup With Black Lagoon’s unique blend of spooky ambience and expertly crafted drinks, it’s an event that’s not to be missed.

 Explosive ‘Medea’ remains a hit at Lyric Opera

Lyric Opera House, Theater

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

Something is brewing on the Chicago theater scene.

 Cherubini’s “Medea” continues to heat up the stage through Oct. 26 at  Lyric Opera House in Chicago.

“Medea” revolves around the story of Medea, a sorceress, and  her husband Jason. The production is a tale of evil, murder and revenge. This compelling opera opens the Lyric’s 71st season and it’s the first time Chicago’s Lyric Opera has presented the work.

Starring as Medea is Sondra Radvanovsky, who is a  powerhouse vocalist. Radvanovsky helps make this production soar with her stellar vocals and theatrical talents. Also giving excellent performances are Matthew Polenzani as Giasone, Zoie Reams as Neris, Elena Villalon as Glauce and Alfred Walker as King Creonte.

Sir David McVicar is the director of this fabulous production of “Medea.” The acclaimed music director Enrique Mazzola leads the Lyric Opera Orchestra as they present the soaring Cherubini score.

The sets, costumes and theatrics are definitely all something to marvel at in this show. “Medea” surely captures an audience’s attention and keeps it during the two-hour plus show.

“Medea” is co-produced by Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Metropolitan Opera, Greek National Opera  and Canadian Opera Company.

FYI: Medea” continues to Oct. 26 at Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago. Visit lyricopera.org.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.

“BOO-ling Green” Is Home to Bushels of Fall Fun for Families

Bowling Green, Events, Family Excursions, Halloween, Hauntings, Ice Cream, Uncategorized

Over the past few years, we’ve been telling you about the frightful amounts of fall fun visitors can have when they come to Bowling Green, Kentucky, the childhood home of horror film director John Carpenter.

This year, though, we’re taking the scare level back to a G-rating as we provide a glimpse into the more family-friendly aspects of a fall trip to Kentucky’s third-largest city. And by G-rating, we mean you’ll find the three best G’s of the season … gourds, goodies and ghosts.

To us, the perfect weekend getaway in Bowling Green with your little goblins includes these highlights:

GOURDS

Fall is the perfect time to visit Jackson’s Orchard, which is home to both a pumpkin patch and pick-your-own orchard. Credit: VisitBGKY

Jackson’s Orchard & Nursery: Since 1966, the Jackson family has been welcoming visitors to their farm. Running every Saturday (from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday (from 1 to 5 p.m.) in October, the orchard’s Pumpkin Festival means hayrides to the pumpkin patch, corn maze and pick-your-own apple orchard; games; pony rides; a petting zoo; and an array of fantastic food. (Insider tip: Do NOT miss the caramel apples.)

Scarecrow Trail at Lost River Cave: The cave, which runs underneath downtown Bowling Green and is visited via a boat (yes!) is a fantastic experience all year round … but especially in this season when we’re all ready to have a little fun in the dark. But there’s also above-ground entertainment here in the form of walking trails, which get even more perfect in the fall.

That’s when local families, businesses and organizations create themed scarecrows to greet visitors. Between October 4 and 26, from dawn to dusk, you can see about 90 scarecrows and vote on your favorites. And this is no trick but all treats: The trail is totally free, though you’re welcome to make a donation if you’d like.

GOODIES

Chaney’s Dairy Barn: If you crave seasonal flavors and also want to hang out with some big, fuzzy creatures (we’re talking about cows here, not monsters), you won’t want to miss one of the region’s most popular agritourism destinations. Chaney’s offers a self-guided farm tour so families can get a glimpse at how milk gets from cows to grocery stores. They also have a stellar playground, and this time of year, there’s a cow-themed corn maze. There’s a restaurant on site (go for the gourmet grilled cheese – you’re at a dairy farm, after all), but let’s face it, all that is just a prelude to the reason you’re really here … the fresh ice cream. You can choose from more than 50 flavors and won’t go wrong with a single one, though we suggest you lean into fall and make at least one of your scoops (because nobody does a single here) either apple pie or pumpkin.

Meltdown Ice Cream & Soda Fountain: Not to be outdone by what you’ll find on the farm, this iconic ice cream parlor in the heart of downtown also offers an array of seasonal flavors. Starting this month, those include Hello, Pumpkin (self-explanatory); Apple Butter Biscuits, which is sweet cream with apple butter swirl and biscuit cookies; and Pumpkin Un-roll, a cream cheese ice cream with pumpkin roll cake and pumpkin butter swirl. With flavors like that, you’ll want to go for THREE scoops! The shop also offers fall-themed ice cream floats, of course!

Our PR pal in Bowling Green made the ultimate sacrifice and stopped by Meltdown on Tuesday night.
That’s Hello, Pumpkin on the left and Apple Butter Biscuits on the right. Credit: Carrie Cavitt

GHOSTS

Photo courtesy of UnSeen BG Tour.

UnSeen BG Tour: These themed history tours are always a hit with visitors, and this year brings the debut of a new ghostly tour that’s family-friendly, “Phantasms Around Fountain Square.” Guides take participants on a 1.5-mile walking tour that explores the haunted history in and around the city’s iconic Fountain Square. Tours depart at 7 p.m. on weekends throughout October.

Dr. Smith’s Spooky Stories: If you want to check out what most people consider the most haunted spot in town, you need to head to Western Kentucky University, nicknamed “The Hill.” That’s where Dr. Tamela Williams Smith, who’s had an interest in the paranormal since she was a student there, shares the stories she’s learned by conducting interviews with at least 100 students, faculty members and staff. The university is home to an array of unexplained phenomena, and this year Dr. Smith has adapted her standard “Hilltop History and Haunts Tour” to create a more kid-friendly ghost adventure, too.

White Squirrels: Are they ghosts? No! But do these tiny rodents look like they’re ready to trick-or-treat? They sure do. Bowling Green’s favorite animals are the rare white squirrels found in abundance here. A great place to see them is on the campus of Western Kentucky University, where they’re revered.

To start scaring up some G-rated fun for your family on a fall visit to Bowling Green, check out www.visitbgky.com.

This is not a ghost.

Wad-Free is the FIRST-EVER Wad Preventer

Home, Laundry

-I typically write about food, books, culture, destinations, and travel, but I’m all about convenience as well and Wad-Free, a Mom-Invented, Woman-Owned, Patent and Trademark protected device, is all about convenience. And if life is easier and laundry is quicker to do, that allows me to travel, cook, and do all the fun things I like to do.

Wad-Free is a simple yet effective solution that prevents sheets from twisting, balling up, and trapping pet hair in the washing machine and dryer. It drastically reduces wet items getting trapped in the sheets, and results in sheets drying faster with fewer wrinkles.

It was tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, which described the device as a “Genius Sheet Detanglers.”

I’m not sure how it works, having spent my time in high school science classes writing notes to my friends instead of listening to Dr. Weinstein, but it’s a simple device that you just throw in the machine when doing laundry. And to make it even more fun, it’s a “Shark Tank” product.

They Ate What? Food through the ages.

cooking, Historic foodways, Historic Restaurants

The Oldest Recorded Recipe – What Did They Eat 4,000 Years Ago? https://flip.it/Y77d3O

The Best Burgers in Every State

Burgers, Restaurants

The Best Hole-In-The-Wall Burger Spot In Your State https://flip.it/NXJynu

Puppetry reigns in Disney’s The Lion King

Cadillac Palace Theatre, Dance, Entertainment, Musical, Uncategorized

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez

A majestic production is gracing the stage in Chicago.

“The Lion King” is currently running through Oct. 19 at Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre. The show is a must-see production and shines on stage with a colorful set, fascinating costumes, creative puppetry elements and a strong cast.

In promotional materials for the show, it’s touted as “the world’s #1 musical” and that’s definitely not hype. “The Lion King” surely draws audience members in with its strong theatrical elements from powerful vocals, colorful sets, a standout soundtrack and more.

“The Lion King” tells the story of the young cub Simba, who after the death of his father Mufasa, must eventually take control of the throne. There are many adventures awaiting Simba as he grows and he must battle his evil uncle Scar on his way to the throne.

This hit production has been touring North America for nearly 25 years and has been capturing theatergoers’ hearts throughout its celebrated run. It originally opened on Broadway on Nov. 13, 1997.

Starring in the current touring production are Peter Hargrave as Scar, David D’Lancy Wilson as Mufasa,, Mukelisiwe Goba as Rafiki, Robert Creighton as Timon, Nick LaMedica as Zazu, Danny Grumich as Pumbaa, Gilbert Domally as Simba and Thembelihle Cele as Nala.

Standout out musical numbers include “Circle of Life,” “Hakuna Matata,” “I Just Can’t Wait To Be King” and “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.”

FYI: “The Lion King” continues to Oct. 19 at Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. Tickets are $45 to $180. Visit BroadwayInChicago.com.

About Eloise Marie Valadez

Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez, a frequent contributor to Travel/Food, is a professional journalist/writer and editor with four decades of experience covering the arts, entertainment, and culinary industries. A native of Chicago, she has a passion for the written word.