November 2009

Chicago Park District’s Winter Online Enrollment Opens Today at 9AM

Posted in Go Play Inside | November 30, 2009

Just a reminder that the Chicago Park District’s winter classes are available for online enrollment today starting at 9am. They fill up fast, so make sure you register ASAP. Check out my post, Chicago Park District Winter Schedule Now Available, for tips on how to improve your chances of getting into the classes you want most.

If you are not sucessful, get on the waiting list. My contacts at the Park District tell me that lots of people get into classes from the wait list.

Good luck!

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Looking for the perfect gift, check out Chicago’s Christmas markets & craft shows.

Posted in Go Shop, Holiday/Seasonal | November 29, 2009

If you are looking for one of a kind or handcrafted gifts, check out one of Chicago’s great Christmas Markets and craft fairs. Not only can you cross off a few gifts from your Christmas list, but you can also enjoy some family entertainment and seasonal munchies.

Plus, if you are looking for family friendly Christmas activities or the best place to visit the big guy in the red suit, check out my other to Holiday posts: “Looking for the best place to visit Santa in Chicago?” and “Jingle all the way to these fun family friendly holiday events in Chicago!”

Christkindlmarket Chicago – This annual German Christmas Market in Daley Plaza includes over 50 vendors that offer handcrafted gifts from around the world. You can also enjoy festive performances, gluhwein (spiced wine), bratwurst, schnitzel, potato pancakes and other German treats.

When – 11/27-12/23 11am-8pm (Sun-Thur) & 11am-9pm (Fri. & Sat.), 12/24 11am-4pm
Where – Daley Plaza (50 Washington St.)
Neighborhood – Loop
Cost – FREE

Lincoln Square Christkindl Market – If your idea of Chirstmas shopping includes sipping hot spiced wine, eating bratwurst and listening to german carolers; the 2nd annual German holiday market in Lincoln Square is the perfecet place for you.

When -12/4 from 12-10pm, 12/5 from 9am-10pm and 12/6 from 10am-7pm
Where – Lincoln Square (Lincoln Ave & Leland Ave.)
Neighborhood – Lincoln Square
Cost – $3 suggested donation for adults, children FREE

Irish Christmas Bazaar and Bake Sale – While shopping for traditional Irish crafts, you can enjoy live Irish music, munch on yummy treats from the Jolly Holly Bake Shop, watch a performance on myths of ancient Ireland and a visit with Santa.

When – December 6 from 9am-3pm
Where – Irish American Heritage Center (4626 N. Knox Ave.)
Neighborhood – Irving Park
Costs – Bazaar is FREE (Breakfast $8 adults, $4 kids)

Julmarknad Christmas Bazaar- Shop for traditional Scandinavian and modern handicrafts and games, while enjoying a Lucia procession, folk dancers and kaffestuga.

When – December 5 from 10am-5pm and December 6 from 10am-4pm
Where – Swedish American Museum (5211 N. Clark St.)
Neighborhood – Andersonville
Cost – $2

Late Night Andersonville – For four hours stores and restaurants will be offering discounts on great gifts and meals. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and entertainment while you shop.

When – December 4 & 18 from 6-10pm
Where – Andersonville (Clark Street)
Neighborhood – Andersonville
Cost - FREE

Green Family Holiday Fair at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum- Enjoy a day of fun at the museum and shop for green products from more than 30 companies.

When – December 6 at 10am-5pm
Where – Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (2430 N. Cannon)
Neighborhood – Lincoln Park
Cost – Free with Admission ($9 adults, $6 children 3+)

Bucktown Holiday Artshow

When – Decebmer 12 & 13 from 12-5pm
Where – Holstein Park (2200 N. Oakley Ave)
Neighborhood – Bucktown
Cost -$2

14th Annual Southport Holiday Stroll – Enjoy holiday carollers, horse-drawn sleigh rides and special shopping deals.

When – December 4 from 5-9pm
Where – Southport (between Belmont and Irving Park)
Neighborhood – Lakeview
Cost - FREE

Logan Square Holiday Art & Craft Event

When – Decenber 5 from 9am-6pm
Where – Good News Center (2156 W. Wellington)
Neighborhood – Logan Square
Cost - FREE

Indie Art Market – Check out great gift ideas by more than 30 local Chicago artist. Handcrafted art including jewelry, collages, sculptures, silkscreen prints, letterpress, zines, textiles, stationary and much more will be on sale.

When – Saturday, December 19th from 11am-4pm.
Where – Schubas (music room) – 3159 Southport
Neighborhood – Lakeview
Cost - FREE

One of a Kind Show & Sale – 500 of North America’s best artists and craftspeople

When – December 3-6
Where – The Merchandise Mart (8th Floor)
Neighborhood – Loop
Cost – $10 Adult, $7 Children

29th Annual Lambs Farm Holiday Lights Gift & Craft Fair – Choose from the fine art and craftwork of more than 350 vendors. Stop by the Lambs Farm booth for their famous butter cookies, chocolates and jams.

When – December 4-6 (Fri. 11am-9pm, Sat. 9sm-7pm, and Sun. 10am-5pm)
Where – Arlington Park Racecourse (2200 W. Euclid Ave.)
Suburb – Arlington Heights
Cost – adults $6, children FREE (+$6 parking)

Homespun Holiday Market at the Garfield Farm Museum - Shop for gifts made my local artisans and crafters. All proceeds go to the Garfield Farm. They will also have people in period clothing doing demonstrations in the museum.

When – December 5 & 6 from 12-7pm
Where – Garfield Farm (3NO16 Garfield Road)
Suburb – Lafox
Cost – Market is FREE ($3 adults, $2 children donation requested if you tour the museum.)

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Jingle all the way to these fun family friendly holiday events in Chicago!

Posted in Holiday/Seasonal | November 19, 2009

Looking for fun things to do with your family this Holiday season in Chicago? Well, look no further. I have compiled a LONG list of fun activities for you and your little elves.

Not surprisingly, there are WAY more things to do in Chicago and the surrounding area than one family could ever get to. I’ve organized the list below by neighborhood and then by date of event in the hope of making it less overwhelming, but…it is too long to be anything but overwhelming.

I am working on two additional posts on where you can visit with Santa and holiday craft fairs. Keep an eye out for them later this week or next.

SOUTH SIDE

Polar Express Family Holiday Event at the Shedd – Enjoy cups of cocoa before boarding the Polar Express 4-D Experience. Kids can also have their pictures taken with Santa, decorate cookies and enjoy treats. Price includes access to the entire aquarium, a gift from Santa, and reserved seats for Fantasea.

When – November 28, December 5, 19 & 22 from 8:30-10:30
Where – Shedd Aquarium (1200 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Cost – $39.95 per person/$35.95 members

Historic Holidays at Prairie Avenue – Spend the afternoon at one of Chicago’s oldest houses making holiday crafts, playing Victorian parlor games, listening to stories and visiting with Santa Claus. Light refreshments are included.

When – December 12 from 1-4pm
Where – Glessner House Museum (1800 S. Prairie Ave.)
Cost – $10 per child, $2 per adult (reservations recommended)

Polar Adventure Days - Three days of family fun at Northerly Island. Explore Northerly Island, come face to face with live animals, engage in winter activities, watch ice carving and create nature inspired crafts.

When – 12/13, 1/17 and 2/21 from 12-4pm
Where – Northerly Island (1400 S. Lynn White Dr.)
Cost - FREE

GARFIELD PARK

Holiday Flower Show – Marvel at the shear number of poinsettias on display. Great place to take an annual holiday photo. You can also visit the small children’s garden or take advantage of one of the family programs they offer during your visit. Check their website for details.

When – November 28 – January 10 from 9am-5pm daily
Where – Garfield Conservatory (300 N. Central Park)
Cost - FREE

LOOP/GOLD COAST

Christmas Around The World & Holidays of Light – Enjoy holiday singers and dancers as you stroll through dozens of trees decorated to represent global cultures. A 45-foot tree takes center stage.

When – November 20-January 3 (Closed Christmas Day) from 9:30am-4pm Mon.-Sat. and 11am-4pm Sunday
Where – Museum of Science and Industry (57th Street & Lake Shore Drive)
Cost – Free with general admission – $13 adults, $9 children (3-11)

2009 Redmoon Winter Pageant

When – November 20-December 27 (Thurs & Fri. at 7:30, Sat. & Sun. at 4pm & 7:30pm)
Where – Redmoon Central (1463 Hubbard St.)
Cost – $15 adults, $10 children

The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival - For more than 40 years the holiday season has been kicked off by the illuminating of more than 200 trees and one million lights along Michigan Avenue. The festival will include a full day of musical performances on the Harris Stage. Mickey Mouse and friends will lead the lighting procession down Michigan Avenue and the night will end with fireworks over the Chicago River.

When – Starts Saturday, November 21st at 11am-7pm
Where – North Michigan Avenue between Oak and Chicago River
Cost - FREE

The World’s Highest Coloring Competition – The Observatory will provide the crayons and holiday pictures and your kids provide the talent and creativity. Winner receives a free Birthday Party ($600 value)

When – November 21 & 22 from 11am-1pm
Where – John Hancock Observatory (875 N. Michigan)
Cost - Included in admission to Observatory ($20 adults, $15 children)

Chicago’s 96th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

When – November 25th at 4pm
Where – Daley Plaza (50 Washington St.)
Cost - FREE

Caroling at Cloud Gate – Every Friday evening enjoy traditional Christmas carols at Cloud Gate.

When – Fridays 11/27-12/18 from 6-6:50pm
Where – Cloud Gate at Millennium Park
Cost - FREE

City Hall Holiday Concert Series – Get into the spirit of the holidays by enjoying holiday classics sung by children’s choirs from throughout the city. For a complete list of the more than 14 weekday concerts click here.

When – 14 concerts held between December 1-18 from 12-1pm
Where – City Hall Lobby (121 N. LaSalle St.)
Cost - FREE

AMERICAN GIRL STORE

Make a Gingerbread House – Design and decorate your own gingerbread house. Proceeds benefit HomeAid.

When – December 2 & 8 at 5pm
Where – American Girl Chicago (835 N. Michigan Ave.)
Cost – $45 (Girls 8+)

Holiday Wishes – Create holiday wishes for each other, enjoy a meal at the store and take home a commemorative photo.

When – December 3, 10, & 17 at 5:30
Where – American Girl Chicago (835 N. Michigan Ave.)
Cost – $50 (Girls 6+)

Holiday Concerts at the Chicago Public Library – Visit their website for complete descriptions and list of performers.

When – December 3, 4, 7, 8-11, & 14-18, at 12pm
Where – Harold Washington Library Center (400 S. State Street)
Cost - FREE

Lurie Garden Family Workshop: From Brrr to Beautiful: Winter Magic - Enjoy the garden’s stunning winter beauty, then warm up with hot cocoa and make a seasonal decoration to bring home. Group will meet at the Cultural Center to make the craft before taking a walk through the Garden.

When – December 5 from 2-4pm
Where – Garland Room at the Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St.)
Cost - FREE (kids 6+, registration required)

Dance-Along Nutcracker – This interactive holiday event will feature jugglers, acrobats, dancers and even the audience. Audience members are encouraged to come in their tutus and join the performance.

When – December 6 at 12pm and 3pm
Where – Chicago Cultural Center (78 E. Washington St.)
Cost - FREE

The Joffrey Ballet’s Nutcracker – The performance features the full Joffrey company, local children’s choruses and 120 young dancers from around Chicagoland.

When – December 11-27 (visit website for performance schedule)
Where – Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University (50 E. Congress Parkway)
Cost – $25-$145

Cookie Time – Show off your best holiday cookie decorating skills.

When – December 12 & 13 from 11am-1pm
Where – John Hancock Observatory (875 N. Michigan)
Cost – Included in admission to Observatory ($20 adults, $15 children)

Holiday Around the World – Chicago Community Chorus

When – December 16 at 7pm
Where – Harris Theater at Millennium Park (205 E. Randolph Dr.)
Cost – $10

Welcome Yule – The high-spirited Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus have created a program of traditional carols, endearing moments and musical surprises.

When – December 18-23rd (times vary)
Where – Chicago Symphony Orchestra (2200 S. Michigan Ave.)
Cost – $20-$98

STREETERVILLE

CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM:

Passport to the World: Celebrations – Learn through songs and performances how different cultures celebrate important holidays.

When – December 3 from 5:30-8pm
Where – Chicago Children’s Museum (700 East Grand)
Cost – Kraft FREE Family Night (5-8pm)

Holiday Ecology – Transform your old greeting cards into a unique gift or keepsake box.

When – December 16-20 at 2:30pm
Where – Chicago Children’s Museum (700 East Grand)
Cost – Included with admission ($10)

Little Miss Ann Band & Irish School of Music – Enjoy a night of musical performances by Little Miss Ann and the Irish Music School. They will perform traditional folk music and holiday favorites.

When – December 17 from 6pm
Where – Chicago Children’s Museum (700 East Grand)
Cost – Kraft FREE Family Night (5pm-8pm)

Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier – The Winter WonderStage will feature family friendly entertainment through out the day during the festival. You can also visit with Santa Clause and Mrs. Clause at the Family Pavilion Stage through Christmas Eve. Santa will arrive by boat at the Grand Staircase (near the Ferris Wheel) on December 4th at 7pm.

When – December 4th through January 3rd
Where – Navy Pier (600 East Grand Ave)
Cost - FREE

NEAR NORTH SIDE

Winter Wonder Jumps – Bring friends and family to climb, jump, bounce and play together. Enjoy your favorite inflatables with holiday decor and a special rate.

When – December 21-24 and 28-30 from 9-10:30am and 12:15-1:45pm
Where – Pump It Up (821 W. Eastman St.)
Cost – $8

WICKER PARK/BUCKTOWN

Wicker Park Choral Singers’ “A Christmas Rose” – The concert will include carols, spirituals, and more modern works. There will be a small reception following the concert

When – December 5th at 3pm
Where – Wicker Park Lutheran Church (1502 N. Hoyne Ave.)
Cost - FREE

LINCOLN PARK

A Nutty Nutcracker Christmas presented by the Emerald City Theatre

When – November 14 – January 2
Where – Apollo Theatre (2540 N. Lincoln Ave)
Costs – Adults $15, Kids $12 (Recommended for kids 3+)

Zoo Lights – In addition to the beautiful holiday lights throughout the zoo, you can also enjoy a visit with Santa in the Lion House, musical light show on the South Lawn, ice carving, create your own festive craft, sip hot cocoa and spiced wine, and ride the LPZOO Holiday Express Train.

When – November 27-29, December 4-6, 11-13 & 18-31, and January 1-3 from 5-9pm
Where – Lincoln Park Zoo (2200 N. Cannon Drive)
Cost - FREE

ECO-FRIENDLY HOLIDAYS AT THE PEGGY NOTEBAERT NATURE MUSEUM

Gifting Green – Make eco-friendly gifts and ornaments

When – November 27-29 and December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 & 20 at 11am & 3pm
Where – Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (2430 N. Cannon)
Cost – Free with Admission ($9 adults, $6 children 3+)

Marshmallow Snowman – Make your own snowman out of marshmallows.

When – December 5 at 11am & 2pm
Where – Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (2430 N. Cannon)
Cost – Free with Admission ($9 adults, $6 children 3+)

Trash to Treasure – Transform your holiday wrapping paper trash into treasured works of art.

When – December 26-31 at 11am and 3pm
Where – Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (2430 N. Cannon)
Cost – Free with Admission ($9 adults, $6 children 3+)

It’s a Wonderful Life: Live at the Biograph

When – Thurs.-Sun. November 27-December 27 (visit their site for performance schedule)
Where – Victory Gardens Biograph Theatre (2433 N. Lincoln Ave.)
Cost – $32-$40

Those Silly Reindeer – A family holiday musical

When – November 28-December 27 (Sat. & Sun) at 1pm
Where – Greenhouse Theatre Center (2257 N. Lincoln)
Cost – $15 adults, $10 children

Holiday Storytime at Pottery Barn Kids

When – Tuesday in December at 11:00
Where – Pottery Barn Kids (2111 N. Clybourn Ave.)
Cost – FREE

LAKEVIEW

Gingerbread Workshop at Emerald City Theatre – Make your own candy house and then join in on “A Nutty Nutcracker Christmas” theatre games.

When – November 28, December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 & 27 from 3-4:30pm
Where – Emerald City Theatre School (2933 N. Southport Ave.)
Cost – $15 adults, $30 children (2+)

14th Annual Southport Holiday Stroll – Enjoy holiday carollers, horse-drawn sleigh rides and special shopping deals.

When – December 4 from 5pm-9pm
Where – Southport (between Belmont and Irving Park
Cost - FREE

Sheil Park Holiday Party – Visit with Santa, enjoy face painting, holiday crafts and entertainment.

When – December 4 from 6:30-8pm
Where – Sheil Park (3505 N. Southport)
Cost - FREE

ROSCOE VILLAGE

Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Stroll - After the tree lighting you can enjoy food, cocktails and special shopping deals.

When – December 7 from 5-9pm
Where – 2058 W. Roscoe
Cost - FREE

Winterfest – Event includes children’s activities, horse drawn sleigh rides, trolley and Santa.

When – December 6 from 1-5pm
Where – Roscoe Village (2058 W. Roscoe)
Cost - FREE

Smarty Party Kids Movie Night Out – Watch Elf, enjoy holiday crafts along with pizza, snacks and juice.

When – December 12 from 5:30-8pm
Where – Smarty Party (1846 West Belmont)
Cost – $25 (3+)

IRVING PARK

Lunch with Santa – Food, performance, art project, face painting, games, free stocking, and photos with Santa.

When – December 12 from 11am-1pm
Where – Kilbourn Park and Organic Greenhouse (3501 N. Kilbourn Ave)
Cost – $10

LINCOLN SQUARE

Milly’s Almost All Kid Holiday Spectacular

When – December 13th at 3:30 and 5:30
Where – Old Town School of Folk Music (4544 N. Lincoln Ave.)
Cost – $18 members/$20 non-members

Songs of Good Cheer - Annual holiday caroling party.

When – December 20th at 5:00
Where – Old Town School of Folk Music (4544 N. Lincoln Ave.)
Cost – $40

LOGAN SQUARE

Songs of the Season – Holiday Songs from around the world performed by the Chicago Community Chorus

When – December 5 at 2pm at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church
Where – St. Lukes (2649 North Francisco Ave)
Cost – $10 (children under 15 free)

ANDERSONVILLE

St. Morten’s Gos Day – Come join musicians, carolers, Vikings, geese, Highlanders and other revelers as they spread good cheer throughout Andersonville. In addition, the tree lighting ceremony will be at 11:15 between the Swedish Baker and US Bank.

When – November 21 starting at 11am
Where – Procession goes southbound to Foster and starts at 5440 N. Clark St.
Cost - FREE

St. Lucia Festival of Lights – The festival of St. Lucia is a Sicilian tradition adopted by the Swedes which celebrates light prevailing over the darkest time of the year. The specially chosen Lucia girls lead a torch-lit procession down Clark Street. The museum hosts caroling and refreshments afterwards.

When – December 13 at 4:45
Where – Clark Street Andersonville
Cost - FREE

ALBANY PARK

Chocolate House Workshop

When – December 15 from 7-9pm
Where – Eugene Field Park (5100 N. Ridgeway Ave.)
Cost – $28 per house

AVONDALE

Chocolate House Workshop

When – December 11 from 6-9pm
Where – Athletic Field Park (3546 W. Addison St.)
Cost – $20 per house

FURTHER AFIELD

A Christmas Carol: The Musical

When – November 13 – January 2 (visit website for performance schedule)
Where – Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences (10 Marriott Drive)
Suburb – Lincolnshire
Costs – $15

Wonderland Express at the Chicago Botanical Garden – More than 750,000 lights sparkle throughout the garden and inside the Regenstein Center a 10,000-square foot exhibition of miniature trains wind over bridges, under trestles, past waterfalls and through more than 80 mini-replicas of Chicago’s favorite landmarks. You can also now ice skate on the Esplanade.

When – November 27-January 3
Where – Chicago Botanical Garden (1000 Lake Cook Roade)
Suburb – Glencoe
Cost – Adults $10, Children $8 (FREE Tuesdays through December 22)

Candy for the Holidays at Kline Creek Farm – Learn how to make bright, colorful candies.

When – November 28 from 12:30-3:30pm
Where – Kline Creek Farm (1N600 County Farm Rd.)
Suburb – West Chicago
Cost - FREE

Happy Holiday Railway Event – Enjoy a magical train ride through a holiday light display and a visit with Santa Claus and his elves.

When – December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20 (Sat. on the hour from 2-7pm, Sun. on the hour from 1-6pm)
Where – Illinois Railway Museum (7000 Olson Road)
Suburb – Union
Cost – $12 (advance tickets recommended)

Holiday Magic at the Brookfield Zoo – Stroll the zoo’s walk ways which are lit up by nearly one million twinkling lights, watch ice-carving demonstrations, enjoy live music, magicians and the new Wild Lights Spectacular at Roosevelt Fountain. Santa will also be available to hear your child’s wish list at the Candy Cane Corner.

When – December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 & 20 from 4pm-9pm
Where – Brookfield Zoo (8400 31st Street)
Suburb – Brookfield
Cost – Included with regular admission – $12 adults, $8 children (+$8 parking)

Weekends at the Farm - Visit the Heritage Prairie Farm and enjoy holiday activities such as making gingerbread houses, holiday wreaths, Christmas cards and organic ornament decorating.

When – December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 & 20 from 12-4pm
Where – Heritage Prairie Farm (2N308 Brundige Rd.)
Suburb – Elburn
Cost – FREE

Christmas on the Farm – Behold a Victorian Christmas and learn the origins of several holiday traditions. Visit with an old-fashioned Santa and take your picture in a sleigh. Then you can make a cornucopia decoration and enjoy a cup of cocoa and carolling.

When – December 12 from 10am-4pm
Where – Kline Creek Farm (1N600 County Farm Rd.)
Suburb – West Chicago
Cost - FREE

Please let me know if I missed any events in your neighborhood. Have a great holiday!

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Chicago Park District’s Winter Class Schedule is Now Available

Posted in Go Play Inside, Tips & Cool Finds | November 16, 2009

Looking for low cost indoor options for you and your kids this winter, check out the Chicago Park Distirct’s Winter Class Schedule. As many of you know, the Chicago Park district offers a wide array of classes from music and gymnastics to play groups and sports. The classes are a fraction of the costs of similar classes offered elsewhere ($35-$45 for the entire 11 week session), but you need to plan ahead, sign up early and have a bit a luck if you want to get in!

Following are a couple tips for planning your winter park district schedule:

If you have not already, sign up for an account with the Chicago Park District. It is free and allows you to build a “Wish List” and register online. Click on this link. You will see the sign in option on the right side of your screen under the “Wish List” header.
Once you are logged in, you can search the Winter Program Schedule by age group, park name, program type or zip code.
Once you’ve identified the classes you are interested in, put them in your Wish List. Although this does not save a spot for you, it allows you to register for them more quickly when online registration opens on November 30th at 9am. The quicker the better on the 30th, because these classes go FAST!
On November 30th, all you have to do is long into your account, click onto your Wish List, pick the class you most want to register for and click register. That, and say a little prayer!
You can then enter multiple children’s names into the registration option. It will also show you how many slots are available. This is a great if you want to register siblings or your child’s friends in the same class.
One Park District employee told me that you should try multiple times if a class comes up full on the 30th. Apparently their system gets a bit overloaded and will show classes are full if too many people are accessing them at once.
If you are still not able to get into the class you’ve selected, put yourself on the waiting list. I’ve spoken to a couple people at the Park District, and they all confirm that a number of people get in via the waiting list.
Starting December 5th, you can also register in-person at most park locations.
If you have questions about specific class descriptions, I recommend calling the actual park where the class is held. Each park has their own class curriculums and policies.
Registration ends December 21st.
The Winter Program runs from January 4 – March 21, 2010

Good luck! Let me know if you have any other tips on the registration process for Chicago Park District Classes.

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Gobble Gobble…Chicago Thanksgiving Celebrations and Events

Posted in Holiday/Seasonal | November 13, 2009

Is it just me or does it seem like we completely skip over Thanksgiving these days and go right to Christmas. On November 1st all of the Halloween decor went down and Christmas decor and advertising was suddenly out in force all over the city.

I for one love Thanksgiving, and am not going to let the retailers bully me into not giving my favorite holiday its due! Following is a quick list of fun Thanksgiving events here in Chicago for you and your little turkeys to enjoy.

Chicago’s McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade – Since 1934 Chicago has been putting on a pretty spectacular Thanksgiving parade. This year’s parade will include giant inflatable balloons (Elmo, Cookie Monster, Kermit, Big Bird, and many more), marching bands, floats, horses, drill teams, circus performers and more. Be prepared for big crowds.

When – Thursday, November 26th from 8:30-11:00am
Where – State Street from Congress to Randolph
Neighborhood – The Loop
Cost – FREE

McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade School – Get a front row view of the giant parade balloons and their handlers at the balloon school/practice.

When – November 14 at 9:30am
Where – Museum of Science and Industry (Front Lawn), 5700 Lake Shore Drive
Neighborhood – Hyde Park
Cost – FREE

Old Town School of Music Harvest Hootenanny Concert

When – Sunday, November 22nd at 11am
Where – 4544 N. Lincoln Ave
Neighborhood – Lincoln Square
Cost – $12

Talkin Turkey at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum - Learn interesting facts about turkeys, see a wild turkey, play turkey trivia and draw a field sketch to take home.

When – Saturday and Sunday November 7-8, 14-15, and 21-22 from 11am-3pm
Where – 2430 N. Cannon Dr.
Neighborhood – Lincoln Park
Cost – Free with Admission (Adults $9, Children $6)

Family Turkey Jump at Pump It Up

When – Friday, November 27th from 10am-2pm
Where – 821 W. Eastman St.
Neighborhood – Near North Side
Cost – $10/child

My Corner Playroom Parent & Child Appreciation Day – Enjoy the indoor playroom, a mini Thanksgiving feast, music class at 9:15 and 10am and special discounts.

When – Friday, November 20th 8am-6pm
Where – 2121 N. Clybourn Ave.
Neighborhood – DePaul
Cost – $5 all day

Chicago Public Library Thanksgiving Events

Mount Greenwood Library – Thanksgiving Stories and Craft

When – Wednesday, November 18 at 6pm
Where – 11010 S. Kedzie Ave
Cost – FREE
Ages – 3+

Rogers Park Library – Thanksgiving Stories and Craft

When – Wednesday, November 18 at 3:30pm
Where – 6907 N. Clark St.
Cost – FREE
Ages – 6-9 years

Vodak-East Side Library – Thankful for Thanksgiving Story and Craft

When – Thursday, November 19th from 4-4:45pm
Where – 3710 E. 106th Street
Cost - FREE
Ages – 6-9 years

Lozano Library – Thanks and Giving Story and Craft

When – Wednesday, November 25th from 6-6:45pm
Where – 1805 S. Loomis St.
Cost – FREE
Ages - 6-9 years

Chicago Park District Events

Woodhull Playground Park Turkey Shoot

When – November 18th from 4-5pm
Where – 7340 S. East End Ave.
Cost – $2

Kosciuszko Park Turkey Shoot

When – November 18th from 6-7:30pm
Where – 2732 N. Avers Ave.
Cost - FREE

Jackie Robinson Park Thanksgiving Party

When – November 19th from 4-6pm
Where – 10540 South Morgan Street
Cost – FREE

O’Hallaren Park Thanksgiving Party

When – November 19th from 4-5pm
Where – 8335 S. Honore St.
Cost - $1

White Park Turkey Shoot

When – November 19th from 6-8pm
Where – 1610 W. Howard St.
Cost - FREE

Russel Square Park Thanksgiving Party

When – November 20th from 4-6pm
Where – 3045 E. 83rd St.
Cost - $2

Portage Park 12th Annual Family Turkey Trot

When – November 21st at 9:30am
Where – 4100 N. Long Ave.
Cost - FREE

Anderson Playground Park Thanksgiving Fun

When – November 25th from 4:30-6pm
Where – 3748 S. Prairie Ave
Cost – FREE

Davis Square Park Turkey Shoot

When – November 26th from 10am-12pm
Where – 4430 S. Marshfield Ave.
Cost – FREE

If you know of any other fun Thanksgiving events, let me know. Also, keep an eye out for my post on Christmas Events.

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A morning at Whole Foods – tea, sing-along, grocery shopping and a snack!

Posted in Go Play Inside, Go Shop, Tips & Cool Finds | November 11, 2009

As I talked about in my post “Plan a trip to the mall that promises fun for mom and tot“, I am always looking for ways to make the chores we all have to get done each week more fun for me and my girls. Darting into a grocery store to grab some milk and other essentials is no longer quick and more of a production than I ever imagine. Now I have to unload two kids from our car, strap the baby into her sling and the toddler into the shopping cart, bring enough toys, snacks and diapers to last the 30 to 45 minutes we will be in the store and hope to escape before actually needing to use the diapers and wipes!

My experience at the new Whole Foods in Lincoln Park (1550 N. Kingsbury) this morning was more fun than chore, and for that I say THANK YOU!

We headed to Whole Foods just before 10:00. I grabbed some tea at the cute little coffee bar in the front of the store and settled in for a half hour FREE sing-along with a Bubbles performer. She was great. Not only did she do a wonderful job of making it interactive, she also encouraged the kids to come up on stage and dance along. After the sing-along, we did our weekly shopping. On the way back to the car (FYI – lots of free and convenient parking) we check out the many snack/lunch options on the second floor.

If you love Whole Foods and the philosophy behind the brand, you will love this new store. They have truly given it a “Chicago” feel and have embraced families. They offer special parking spots for alternative fuel vehicles, they used reclaimed materials in the construction of the store, and they offer lots of activities targeted to families. Check out their calendar for upcoming events. In November you can enjoy a free sing-along every Wednesday and Thursday at 10:00, Green Mama classes on Wednesdays starting at 10:30 and a handful of other green parenting seminars.

Sing-alongs and shopping…genius!

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Too late for the Fall leaves, but not for outdoor fun at The Morton Arboretum!

Posted in Go Play Outside | November 6, 2009

DSC00690 300x225 Too late for the Fall leaves, but not for outdoor fun at The Morton Arboretum! With the amazing weather we have been having, I decided to meet a friend who lives in Naperville at The Morton Arboretum. I was in the mood to get out of the city, walk around outside and hopefully enjoy some beautiful leaves. Two out of three isn’t too bad!

Too be honest, I wasn’t exactly sure what an arboretum was before my visit. As my English teacher used to always tell me, “look it up in the dictionary.” So…according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, arboretum is defined as a place where trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants are cultivated for scientific and educational purposes. (Herbaceous will be on next week’s vocabulary list.)

That is WAY to boring of a definition for The Morton Arboretum. Not only is it huge (1700 acres of trees, prairie, lakes and rivers), it offers year round opportunities to experience nature (tram ride, scenic drive, hiking, biking, snow shoeing and cross country skiing), has an extensive hands-on children’s garden (4 acres of things to explore, touch, climb on and slide down), has countless family friendly events and activities (Breakfast with Santa, Cool Kids Nature Hikes – 20 minute hike followed by hot cocoa, Arbor Storytime every Friday at 11am through November, educational classes, etc.), and is only 27 miles from Chicago.

The Morton Arboretum is one of those places that you can’t help but plan your next visit while you are still there. It is just too big to explore in one trip. Plus as city dwellers that love the out doors, this place is the perfect place to get our nature fix!

Here is some additional information to make the most of your next trip to the Morton Arboretum:

Hours of Operation – 365 days a year from 7am to sunset, although the Children’s Garden doesn’t open until 9:30 and closes 5pm (4pm during the winter).
Fees – $11 Adults, $8 Children (2-17)
Wednesday Discount Days – $7 Adults, $5 Children (2-17)
Check their website for current exhibits, events and kid friendly activities. They change seasonally.
Dining – You and your hungry nature explorers will be pleasantly surprised by the variety, taste and view at the Gingko Restaurant.

I definitely give this place a “five leaf” rating for outside family fun. As a family that loves the outdoors, we will be visiting this little gem again!

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The Depot American Diner Lives Up to All the Food Network Hype!

Posted in Go Eat | November 4, 2009

My family visited the American Diner Depot recently, and it definitely lived up to all of the TV hype. We originally heard about the Diner Depot on Guy’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. A great show on the Food Network.

My hubby and I are big fans of dives and Americana. We are the kind of family that makes special side trips to Wall Drug and the Trees of Mystery. When we saw the episode on the American Diner Depot, we knew it was our kind of place. Even better, it was located in Chicago.

Everything we tried was delicious, the atmosphere is definitely “American diner” and the staff was very friendly. Although we had seen the show months before our actual visit, we unknowingly showed up the night after it re-ran on the Food Network. Not only was it really crowded, but they had run out of a few of their most famous dishes including the Turkey. Luckily we still got to try the Pot Roast Sandwich.

They serve good old American comfort food that rivals the way grandma use to make it! The prices are reasonable too. Nothing is over $10. Don’t forget to order their donuts for desert. Yummy!

Although the food and atmosphere are family friendly, they only have one highchair, no changing table and no kids menu. What they lack in family amenities, they make up for in flavor, friendliness and reasonable prices.

Here are the details on this one of a kind diner.

Location – Austin Neighborhood, 5840 W. Roosevelt Road
Street Parking (can be difficult)
6am-10pm daily
No Reservations, so try not to arrive after a recent re-run.

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On The Go Chicago

A mom and two kids on the go in Chicago!

November 2009

Chicago Park District’s Winter Online Enrollment Opens Today at 9AM

Looking for the perfect gift, check out Chicago’s Christmas markets & craft shows.

Jingle all the way to these fun family friendly holiday events in Chicago!

Chicago Park District’s Winter Class Schedule is Now Available

Gobble Gobble…Chicago Thanksgiving Celebrations and Events

A morning at Whole Foods – tea, sing-along, grocery shopping and a snack!

Too late for the Fall leaves, but not for outdoor fun at The Morton Arboretum!

I definitely give this place a “five leaf” rating for outside family fun. As a family that loves the outdoors, we will be visiting this little gem again!

The Depot American Diner Lives Up to All the Food Network Hype!

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