1. Find something one of a kind
The One of a Kind Show packs 600 artists into a single floor of the Merchandise Mart for one of the largest markets in the city. In its 15th year, this seasonal showstopper has vendors hawking hand-painted ceramics, nifty handmade pillows and loads of tchotchkes and knickknacks themed for the holidays or the everyday. (Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 11am. $12)
If there's any seasonal show to attend, it may be Drury Lane's production of White Christmas. This staple of traditional holiday theater lays on all the Christmas charm without delivering the schmaltz. This rendition has razor-sharp dance numbers, on point songs and enough cheer to melt any stodgy old Scrooge. (Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace, 100 Drury Ln, 1:30pm. $45)
3. Try the city's newest seafood joint
Cold Storage, the new seafood bar inside Swift & Sons, opens today with an entirely new menu of fresh fish and other watery delights. The new menu includes a list of daily catches as well as a selection of fish prepared in various ways, all to be had in a splendid, airy dining space. Be on the lookout for our review of Swift & Sons later today. (Cold Storage at Swift & Sons, 1000 W Fulton Market, 11am. Various prices)