New year, fresh plans. Bundle up and make the most of a winter weekend near you.
Go on a Walk & Talk: Evening Owl Prowl.
A simple winter outing turns into a literary stroll with this outdoor story trail featuring The Snowy Day. Pages from the beloved children's book are posted along the path, encouraging families to read as they walk. After the loop, pick up a craft and activity bag to continue the story-inspired fun at home.
Date: Jan. 9
Time: 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location:
New year, fresh plans. Bundle up and make the most of a winter weekend near you.
Lace up for Skate in the Park.
This event opens with a professional figure skating demonstration before transitioning into open skate, where attendees are invited to bring their own skates and hit the ice. Off the rink, there's a shoot-the-puck contest, a bonfire, and classic cold-weather treats like hot chocolate and s'mores.
Date: Jan. 10
Time: 12–3 p.m.
Cost: $36+
Location: Gelatin Park, 250 Library Ln., Grayslake
More Inf...
New year, fresh plans. Bundle up and make the most of a winter weekend near you.
Roll the dice at Board Game Bash.
Gotham Gaming's monthly Board Game Bash offers a casual, drop-in way to spend an evening around the table. Bring your own games or choose from a library of more than 75 options, ranging from quick party games to longer strategy-based favorites.
Date: Jan. 10
Time: 7–10 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St.
More Info:
Our real estate agents love winter in Chicago. It's a season when neighborhoods and communities all over Chicagoland come alive with festivals and events. These are some of the happenings we're most excited about in the new year!
Whiskey connoisseurs will want to mark their calendars for January 24, when the Winter Whiskey Tasting Festival
Winter weather has arrived! Layer up, follow the holiday lights, and catch a few can't-miss events this weekend.
Shop local at Sparkle and Shop.
Kick off the new year with a stroll through this indoor market focused on local makers and small businesses. This event brings together vendors selling fashion, accessories, home décor, art, beauty products, and handcrafted goods, along with food vendors offering sweet and savory bites. Expect a lively, festive setup with interactive stations, live demos, and plenty of photo-worthy moments as Chicago rings in 2026.
Date: Jan. 2
Time: 10 a.m–4 p.m.
Cost: Free