Free Things to Do in Chicago During Christmas Season

As one of the largest cities in the country, Chicago has much to offer any visitor. This only increases when the Christmas season comes about. Of course, Chicago is generally an expensive city with most activities costing more than they would back home. In addition, almost ten percent sales tax doesn't help vacation costs. Luckily, there are more than enough free things to do during Christmas to keep anyone happy.

Beginning of the Christmas Season

The actual Christmas festivities come into full effect once the Christmas tree is lit. This event has historically taken place the week after Thanksgiving. However in recent years it has changed a bit.

The lighting, which takes place in Daley Plaza, is accompanied by a children's choir, as well as other music and an appearance by Santa Claus himself. Of course with all the people there it can be hard to see him, but do not worry, he will be at the Daley Plaza taking present requests all the way up to Christmas Eve.

Around Town

After the Christmas tree has been lit and Santa Claus seen, there will still be close to a month left before the actual Christmas day. Luckily there are still activities available to do for free. For those who enjoy the piecefull serenity of sitting by water, listening to it's waves and watching the boats go by, than the pier is the perfect place. Not only is it only of the largest fresh water ports in the world, you may get to meet a nice fellow or lady from the U.S. Navy who has just docked and arrived.

Wandering the streets of Chicago and visiting all the huge buildings, such as the Sears Tower as well as the new Trump Tower are amazing experiences. And, even without spending a dime you can have fun walking up and down the magnificent mile, window shopping, making gift lists for friends family (or yourself) or just people watching.

The Parade

Lastly, Christmas comes to a culmination with the Christmas day parade. The parade is made up of dozens of floats, marching bands from all over the country, and, of course, Santa Claus. It is the perfect place to close in on the holiday cheer, however make sure to get their early, because the parade route will quickly grow overflowed with people, making it extremely hard for those in the back to see the marching bands and other objects that pass by close on grown level. Even so you will be able to see many of the floats which seem to gracefully glide in between the huge Chicago buildings.