Get in the holiday spirit with these 7 destinations in Chicago!

A Noth Pole theme table scape with milk cookies, and holiday decor.

I just love the magic of the final two months of the year. The uplifted moods, the music, the twinkle and the excuse to majorly blow off any diet I may have been on. You only live once, right? Well, I have the great fortune with this blogging hobby to get first glimpses at some of the most unique venues, experiences and events in Chicago and I kinda feel like it’s my job to share the good cheer so you can enjoy them with your favorite gal pals or family, too. Whatdyasay?

Johanna decorating a Christmas tree.

You wanna get festive? Here are 7 destinations to check out before the close of December:

  1. Santa Baby Bar - Coolest, multilevel holiday destination I’ve ever been to! Go with your guy or take the family. Delish bites, giant festive drinks and all the decorations you could possible take in. Truly a glorious activity to partake in. Grab your tickets at the site and use my code JOHANNA5 for a discount! Tickets are $15!

  2. Frosty’s - Another amazing, 4-level pop up bar that is dedicated to not only parties and events but overall merriment. Extra credit for ugly xmas sweaters! This is a ticketed destination as well.

  3. The Nutcracker - This timeless classic is the mothership of all ballets. It’s captivated my heart and my daughters’ hearts for years. So much pretty to take in and gosh, the Joffrey does it right. Sugar Plum Fairy anyone?

  4. Swissotel Santa Suite - The Swissotel brings their unique take on the holidays by dressing a deluxe suite with all the holiday accouterments. Milk and designer cookies, a magical Santa throne decked out in the most glorious color wave of ornaments and trees from around the globe. Simply spectacular and…the big man, himself!

  5. Christkindlmarket - A taste of European culture in the heart of Daley Plaza. The perfect mix of history and tradition housed outdoors with multiple vendors offering hot toddies, delectable treats, pastries and more. Shop unique finds from cuckoo clocks to puppets to ornaments and beyond. Just bring your mittens!

  6. Morton Arboretum - The Illumination Tree Lights kick off tonight through 1/1/19 and it’s a spectacle not to be missed. Synchronized light shows to music and all the holiday wonder amidst nature’s backdrop of a winter wonderland. Hot cocoa and snacks provided along the way. Dress warm!

  7. Old Orchard Skate + Screen with Santa - Catch a flick and top it off with a skate with Santa in the whimsical Whoville themed ice rink. Think face painting, crafts, hot cocoa and more. The perfect way to spend your Saturday with the littles making new memories! Tickets are $15!

What’s on your list this holiday season? Share in the comments + Happy Friday!