Are you planning a trip to Chicago during Thanksgiving and looking for things to do? This is the guide for you!
Chicago features tons of fall and holiday-themed activities during Thanksgiving weekend. The most famous Thanksgiving events include the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade and the Annual Christmas Tree-lighting Ceremony in historic Millennium Park.
Because Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season in the windy city, tons of other holiday festivities are all around you like the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival and Walnut Room Holiday Brunch.
But no visit to Chicago is complete without checking some of the most classic attractions off your list. Consider one of Chicago’s famous museums like the Art Institute or a free visit to the Lincoln Park Conservatory.
No matter how you decide to spend your trip, there are tons of things to do on Thanksgiving weekend in Chicago!
1. Chicago Thanksgiving Parade
The annual Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade has made both Chicago and national history. I have never made it in person but remember watching the event on TV for years!
The parade draws thousands to watch live entertainment on floats from DJ performances, marching bands, acrobatics, and cultural performances.
Chicago’s annual Thanksgiving Parade is from 8:00 am-11:00 am on Thanksgiving morning. Can’t make it in person? Enjoy the live television broadcast!
🗺️Location: State Street. Begins on Ida B. Wells Drive and ends on Randolph Street
2. Thanksgiving 5K or 8K Run
Holiday races are increasing in popularity around the United States! There are several options, known as the Turkey Trot, throughout Chicago and the surrounding Chicagoland area.
Most of these races also feature kids options, making it a fun Thanksgiving activity for the whole family.
Running the streets of Chicago first thing in the morning is an exciting way to experience the city! You might even be able to catch the ending remnants of some Midwest fall foliage.
Tip: Catch more foliage on a hike near Chicago like Starved Rock or Indiana Dunes.
3. Millennium Park Christmas Tree Lighting
Chicago’s annual Millennium Park Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony has been taking place for 110 years.
Join the festivities in Millennium Park with DJ entertainment and fireworks. At the time of writing in August, the official 2024 date and time of the ceremony have not yet been announced. The event is always free to enter.
Millennium Park features “The Bean” sculpture which is one of Chicago’s most famous architectural attractions. After the tree-lighting, I recommend visiting the Bean and strolling around the beautiful park.
Millennium Park is also walking distance from Grant Park and Lurie’s Garden for more beautiful places to stretch your feet and stroll in the windy city.
🗺️Location: Millennium Park
4. Christkindl Market
Visiting a Christkindl Market is one of the most popular Christmas activities around the world, especially in Europe. Right in the heart of Downtown Chicago, you can experience this little piece of Europe.
The best news is that it opens for the holiday season on Thanksgiving Day! Opening hours for the 2024 season are 11:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Read next: Best Things To Do in Winter in Chicago
🗺️Location: Daley Plaza
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5. Thanksgiving Dinner
There are many restaurants in Chicago offering up holiday dinners during the Thanksgiving season. The following restaurants have served Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago in the past:
I have personally dined at Etta and love both the ambiance and the food. Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago comes with a price tag. Keep in mind most of these options will be costly.
6. Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival takes place on Saturday, November 23rd this year. Its biggest claim to fame is that it is the largest night-time parade in the United States!
The event features a dazzling parade, fireworks, appearances from Santa Claus and Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and more.
If you’re looking for more holiday lights, the Botanic Garden Lightscape is also highly recommended. However, you would need to take public transportation or a car here because this is located outside of the city.
🗺️Location: Michigan Avenue
7. Walnut Room Brunch
Holiday Brunch at the Walnut Room inside Macy’s on State Street is one of the longest-standing Chicago holiday traditions. Holiday brunch reservations begin in November, so this is a celebratory way to kick off your Thanksgiving Weekend.
I highly recommend making reservations at least a month in advance. Tables fill up very quickly.
Tip: You can take the elevator to the Walnut Room floor and admire the ginormous, color-changing tree and holiday festivities from outside of the room itself.
I did this with my friends, and it was a nice way to still experience the festivities.
🗺️Location: Macy’s on State Street
8. Lincoln Park Conservatory
Lincoln Park Conservatory is closed on Thanksgiving Day, but is back open Friday and throughout the entire Thanksgiving weekend.
This is one of my favorite, free places in Chicago! And it’s perfect to warm up inside the cozy greenhouse- perhaps even a bit humid at times!
While the conservatory is free, timed entry tickets are required online in advance. Book your reservation here.
🗺️Location: Lincoln Park
9. Architecture Cruise
Taking an architecture cruise in Chicago is one of the best ways to experience the windy city, according to both locals and tourists.
Luckily, architecture cruises are provided year-round in Chicago, so this may be the perfect Thanksgiving weekend activity for you.
While holiday events are loads of fun, it’s also enjoyable to check out some of the most iconic attractions of the windy city. These are all things I recommend on a Chicago Itinerary:
- Navy Pier
- Museums
- Chicago 360
- Click here for more of the best things to do in Chicago
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Conclusion
Thanksgiving weekend in Chicago is filled with vibrant activities and traditions.
From the spectacular lights of the festival parade on Michigan Avenue to the beloved Walnut Room brunch, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the city’s festive spirit.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the beautiful Lincoln Park Conservatory for a relaxing break in nature.
Additionally, the architecture cruise offers stunning views of Chicago’s iconic skyline, while Navy Pier and local museums provide endless entertainment.Whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal or experiencing breathtaking sights, Chicago provides a memorable Thanksgiving vacation filled with culture and joy!
