1. Find the perfect Secret Santa gifts
It’s the second weekend of December; you’ve really got to take care of your holiday shopping. Knock a few people off your gift list at Randolph Street Market Festival. (Beaux Arts Plumbers Union Hall Building, 1340 W Washington Blvd, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. $10, advance $8)
2. Have a classic Chicago Christmas
If you’ve never seen a live orchestral accompaniment with a classic film, do so this weekend with It’s A Wonderful Life. You’ll see the holiday favorite in a whole new light. (Symphony Center, 220 S Michigan Ave, Fri 7pm, Sat-Sun 3pm. $45-$145)
3. Sweat through your Ragstock goods
Running a 5K is a piece of cake. Running it in a ludicrously ugly, itchy, hot Christmas sweater? There’s your real challenge. Show your true athleticism at the Ugly Sweater Run. (Soldier Field, 1410 S Museum Campus Dr, 11am. $45)
Deck yourself with lights (no open flames, please) and join the Walk with Light procession along the 606, which celebrates the season with luminescence. After the walk, the party continues at the Ridgeway Avenue exit, where attendees can enjoy s'mores, drinks, campfires and music. (Milwaukee/Leavitt Park, 1801 N Milwaukee Ave, Sun 4pm. Free)
Okay, sort of. Take in local punks the Lawrence Arms during their weekend engagement at Wicker Park’s beloved rock venue, the Double Door. (Double Door, 1572 N Milwaukee Ave, Fri-Sat 8pm. $32, advance $27)
Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.