Chicago Holiday Guide

Chicago Bars Dec 13

If you love the Christmas movie ‘Elf,' you need to see visit this Chicago bar

As a tall, wise Elf once said, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” Or, you could just visit “Elf’d Up,” the Elf-themed pop-up bar in...

Chicago Christmas Dec 12

Organizers reveal secret hack for avoiding major crowds at Christkindlmarket
Rosemont Dec 5

Star of ‘Home Alone' to hold movie screening, Q&A in Chicago area as part of ‘nostalgia' tour

Holidays Dec 3

Where to donate to the annual NBC 5, Telemundo Chicago and Cradles to Crayons coat drive

Give the gift of warmth this holiday season by donating to the NBC 5 and Telemundo Chicago Bundle Up Coat Drive.
Holidays Dec 2

You still have a chance to see the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train in the Chicago area

The holiday season is officially underway, with the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train’s voyage across the United States among the joyous festivities taking place.
Holidays Dec 2

What's a ‘Charcuterie Chalet?' ALDI hosting free holiday pop-up shop in West Loop

A holiday pop-up is coming to Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood this week, but this one’s a bit more tasty — and it features a “Charcuterie Chalet.”
Holidays Dec 2

When is Hanukkah 2024? Jewish holiday to overlap with Christmas this year

Some years, the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah occurs closer to Thanksgiving time, with the eight-day holiday taking place in November or even early December. But in 2024, the festival of lights begins a...

Making A Difference Dec 2

Angel Tree 2024: How to donate gifts to Chicago-area children in need this holiday

NBC 5, Telemundo Chicago and the Salvation Army are partnering once again for the 2024 Angel Tree gift donation program.
Holidays Dec 3

Evrod Cassimy releases Christmas album to support Chicago Housing Authority

After the success of his 2023 Christmas single, “Please Come Home for Christmas,” NBC 5 Chicago morning co-anchor Evrod Cassimy has announced the upcoming release of his new holiday album, “Standing On Christmas.”
news Dec 2

Here are the last days to ship a holiday package with FedEx, UPS and USPS to ensure gifts arrive on time

Consumers are increasingly concerned that their online orders may not arrive in time for the holiday — and rightfully so.
Holidays Nov 30

Missed the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train? There's still a chance to see it in the Chicago area

The holiday season is officially underway, with the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train’s voyage across the United States among the joyous festivities taking place.
Holidays Nov 28

What is Black Friday? How the nickname for the day after Thanksgiving began

The holiday shopping season is about to be in full swing upon the arrival of Black Friday, with big sales ahead of Christmas marking the busiest shopping time of the year.
Thanksgiving Nov 27

Is Trader Joe's open on Thanksgiving? Here's a look at stores and holiday hours

Though many have gathered all the ingredients needed for their Thanksgiving celebration, others may need to grab a last-minute item from the grocery store on the holiday itself.
Holidays Nov 27

Why is it called Black Friday? What to know about the holiday shopping event

Holiday shopping will soon kick into high gear as Black Friday arrives, marking the official shift to the post-Thanksgiving retail rush.
Thanksgiving Nov 27

Which grocery stores are open on Thanksgiving? Here's a list of stores and hours

While many are prepping their Thanksgiving feasts well ahead of Thursday’s celebrations, there’s still a chance you might need a last-minute item from the grocery store.
Thanksgiving Nov 27

When was the first Thanksgiving and when did it become a holiday? What to know

As many prepare to gather around the table for annual Thanksgiving feasts and celebrations, some might wonder when the tradition started and when it became a national holiday.
Old Orchard Mall Nov 26

Westfield Old Orchard Mall announces holiday event series with tree lighting, fireworks and more

A slew of holiday events are coming to a popular Chicago-area mall, starting with a Christmas tree lighting and an appearance by Santa Claus himself this weekend.
black friday Nov 26

Chicago-area mall issues traffic advisory ahead of 2024 Black Friday shopping

The biggest shopping day of 2024 is nearly here, with Chicago-area malls expecting large crowds and increased traffic around the unofficial holiday.
Holidays Nov 27

2024 Canadian Pacific Holiday Train makes 1st Illinois stop: When, where to see it in the Chicago area

All aboard! The iconic Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will make its first stop in Illinois Tuesday as part of its tour across the U.S.
Thanksgiving Nov 25

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade: Timing, TV channel and more

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has become a staple for holiday viewers, and it’s not the only holiday parade set to be on display this week.