What's Happening in the Neighborhood: November 2025

November in Chicago marks a transition into the holiday season with a mix of festive markets, outdoor activities (before it gets too cold!), and cultural events.

Here are some events and activities you might be interested in:

Holiday and Seasonal Events:

• Christkindlmarket: A traditional German-inspired outdoor holiday market, featuring vendors selling handmade gifts, food, and warm beverages. It usually opens in mid-to-late November in Daley Plaza and often has a location in Wrigleyville as well.

• Ice Skating: Outdoor ice rinks typically open in November, such as the Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon or the rink in Millennium Park (The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink).

• Chicago Thanksgiving Parade: A popular event with balloons, marching bands, and performances that takes place on State Street on Thanksgiving Day.

• Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: An annual event, usually held mid-to-late November, that features a parade illuminating over a million lights along Michigan Avenue, culminating in a fireworks display.

• Holiday Lights Displays: The start of large-scale light displays like Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden and ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo often begin in mid-to-late November.

• Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: The official lighting of the city's Christmas tree in Millennium Park usually occurs in November.

Sports and Fitness:

• Turkey Trot Chicago: A popular 5K/8K running event held in Lincoln Park on Thanksgiving Day.

• Professional Sports: Check the schedules for Chicago's professional teams, including the Bears (NFL), Bulls (NBA), and Blackhawks (NHL).

Arts and Culture:

• Museums and Attractions: Take advantage of indoor attractions as the weather cools, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum, or Shedd Aquarium.

• Theater: Chicago has a vibrant theater scene, including Broadway in Chicago productions, as well as classic holiday shows like A Christmas Carol, which usually begins its run in November.

• Comedy: Catch a show at famous comedy venues like The Second City or iO Theater.

General Activities:

• Dining: Enjoy the city's diverse culinary scene. November is a great time to try the River North neighborhood, which has recently welcomed two buzzy spots: Crying Tiger, a new Southeast Asian restaurant from the acclaimed Chef Thai Dang, and Gus' Sip & Dip, a revived classic tavern concept serving an approachable menu of $12 classic cocktails and elevated dipped sandwiches. Meanwhile, the West Loop is now home to Hooligan, a Midwestern seafood bar that offers everything from oysters to gumbo in a unique and playful setting.

• Architecture Tour: Though it's getting colder, a river cruise or a walking tour is a great way to see Chicago's iconic architecture.

I recommend checking a local Chicago events calendar closer to November for specific dates, times, and ticket information!