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"Christmas Around the World" at the Museum of Science and Industry is one of the best Christmas activities for kids.
Photograph: Scott Brownell

Fun Christmas activities for kids in Chicago

Bundle up the little ones for a night out on the town at Chicago's best shows, light displays, and things to do with the kids over the holidays

Written by
Samantha Lande
&
Grace Perry
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Remember how absolutely magical the holidays felt when you were a kid? Bring that magic to your little ones with these holiday activities to do with the kids in Chicago. Sure, Chicago is a great place to grow up year-round, but there’s no shortage of things to do with the kids in December. Holiday theater is in full swing, the parks and zoos are strung up in lights, and Santa seems to keep popping up everywhere. If you’re itching your head for how to entertain the kids this weekend, we’ve wrangled up the best ways to take advantage of this special time of year with the tots. 

Recommended: Our complete guide to Christmas in Chicago

Best Christmas activities for kids

  • Travel
  • Transport & Travel

The CTA brings the holiday magic every year with their infamous Holiday Train, an L train totally decked out in LED lighting and Christmas cheer. Check out the times, dates and L lines where you can catch the train in action.

  • Things to do

Yes, there's a plus side to living in this freezing cold city. Lace up your skates and hop onto the ice at these fantastic outdoor (and indoor, if you're a wimp) skating rinks. Whether your kids are showing off their hockey skills, nailing their first figure eight or perpetually falling on their butts, they'll have a ball sliding around at these rinks.

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  • Art
  • Arts centers
  • Uptown
  • price 2 of 4

No holiday season is complete without decorations, and this holiday season the Ravenswood arts center is offering a plethora of workshops to help your kids really deck the halls. From printing and sewing holiday stockings to making ornaments, families can spend the time making something together and leave with something unique to give as a gift or hang on the tree.

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