Chicago Christmas Events and Things to Do - 2009

Chicago absolutely dazzles during the Christmas season. If you're lucky, you'll get a chance to stroll down the Magnificent Mile during a snow flurry or drink Glühwein (hot spiced wine) from a boot-shaped mug at Christkindlmarket.

Related: Where to Recycle Your Christmas Tree in Chicago

There are so many ways to enjoy the spirit and the season. Find your favorites and discover new ones here.

Chicago Christmas - Just for Fun

Annual Events and Festivals in December
Find your favorite annual festivals and events like Scrooge at the Goodman, the Nutcracker at the Joffrey, Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier, and much, much more.

Best Christmas Bars in Chicago
What are the best watering holes for fa-la-la-la'ing? Find our top five here.

Top 3 Places to See Santa in Chicago
Find our top three picks for where to see the jolly fat man for free in Chicago.

Ice Skating at Millennium Park
Everyone needs to twirl at least once under the bean and, preferably, in the snow.

Chicago at Christmas Photos
See photos of Chicago during Christmas time including the Daley Plaza tree, Christkindlmarket, Navy Pier's Winter WonderFest, and even photos from Marshall Field's last Christmas on State Street before turning into Macy's.

Chicago Christmas Traditions

Christkindlmarket
A bit of old Europe comes to Daley Plaza for this perennial holiday market.

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival - Saturday, November 21
This parade kicks off the Chicago shopping season. Find out what you need to know to enjoy this annual tradition.

Wreathing of the Lions
Join in the fun as the Art Institute of Chicago lions receive their evergreen collars and red ribbons for the holidays.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade
The largest motorcycle parade draws more than 100,000 spectators every year and brings in thousands of gifts for needy kids. Learn more about riding or watching.

Chicago Gift Ideas

Top Things Every Cubs Fan Should Own
From the same kind of ivy that grows in Wrigley Field to the ubiquitous floppy hat, find the must-haves for your Cubs fan.

Top `10 Things Every Bears Fan Should Own
Give your Bear fan exactly what he or she needs with this essential list of items every Bear fan should have.

Top 10 Things Every White Sox Fan Should Own
We think you'll find the Ozzie bobble head irresistible and that you'll agree the black fitted cap is the one to have.

Top Ten Items Every Chicago Blackhawks Fan Should Own
Okay, there are a lot of jerseys on this one, including the one to have - The Blackhawks Winter Classic jersey.