• Entertainment This Week

    Now Playing in Indiana:     

    December 4th, 9:00 am - 6:30 pm, Munster Parks & Recreation Bus Trip: Frozen: Lunch & Show at Paramount Theater, Aurora.  Departs Community Park Softball Parking Lot. Trip # 13168 Fee: $159 R: $157 KA: $155.  Registration deadline: November 1st.  FYI (219) 836-7275

    December 4th, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Women's Association of the Northwest Indiana Symphony Society presents the 36th Annual Festival of Trees, Center for Visual & Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.  $50.  FYI https://www.facebook.com/p/Womens-Association-of-Northwest-Indiana-Symph...

    December 4th, 4:00 - 7:00 pm, Bring leashed dogs & cats for photos with Santa, 18th Annual “A Christmas Story” Comes Home Exhibit, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (exit Kennedy South off I 80/94), Hammond.  Donations accepted for local shelters.  FYI AChristmasStoryComesHome.com

    December 4th, 6:00 pm, 2024 Lights of Life Tree Lighting Ceremony, Community Hospital Outpatient Entrance, (Columbia Avenue side), Munster.  Place your lights of life order (before Nov. 20th) here @ https://www.classy.org/event/2024-lights-of-life/e621562  FYi 219-836-3349.

    December 4th, 6:00 - 9:00 pm, 7th Annual Cocktails for a Cause, TradeWinds Services Inc., 3198 East 83rd Place, Merrillville.  Must be 21 to attend.  Suggested donation $50.  RSVP events@tradewindsnwi.org.

    December 5th, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm & 4:00 - 7:00 pm, Schedule a sensory friendly visit with Santa at the 18th Annual “A Christmas Story” Comes Home Exhibit, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (exit Kennedy South off I 80/94), Hammond.  Five minute session includes a printed photo.  Walk-ins welcome but strongly suggest appointment.  $10, $6 per additional photo.  FYI AChristmasStoryComesHome.com

    December 5th, 5:00 - 7:00 pm, Munster Chamber of Commerce, Munster Parks & Recreation & Munster Civic Foundation present Light the Night Community Event, Munster Town Hall, 1005 Ridge Road, Munster.  Free.  Hot Chocolate sponsored by the Salvation Army. Tree lighting.  Visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus, the Grinch and Olaf.  Carolers, live reindeer, treat tables, vendors, inflatables. Blizzard or Pinky $10 each.  FYI www.munsterchamber.org,

    December 5th, 5:00 - 8:00 pm, Holiday for Heroes, 18th Annual “A Christmas Story” Comes Home Exhibit, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (exit Kennedy South off I 80/94), Hammond.  First responders (police, fire, EMT), Hoosier Helpers and active & retired military are invited to experience the exhibit with their family and visit with Santa.  FYI AChristmasStoryComesHome.com

    December 5th, 7:00 - 10:00 pm, 580th Acoustic Jam, Paul Henry's Art Gallery, 416 Sibley, Hammond.  Jam Night format, no amps, no mics, just you, your music and the audience.  $10 entry, $5 for performers and snack providers.  FYI https://www.facebook.com/events/1222513605479895?acontext=%7B%22event_ac...

    December 5th, 7:30 pm, Holiday Pops, Northwest Indiana Symphony with Kirk Muspratt, Hard Rock Live, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary.  21 and older.  $45-$79.  FYI (219) 836-0525 or www.NISOrchestra.org

    December 6th, 5:00 - 8:00 pm, Opening Reception, Healers and Dreamers, an exhibition about healing, hope and the power of the human spirit. Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W. 2nd Street, Michigan City.  Free.  FYI (219) 874-4900 or LubeznikCenter.org

    December 6th, 8:00 pm, Duke Tumatoe and the Power Trio, Council Oaks Bar Stage, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary.  21 and older.  Free.  FYI 219-228-2383 or https://www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com/

    December 6th, 9:00 pm, Mike and Joe, Hard Rock Cafe Stage, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary.  21 and older.  Free.  FYI 219-228-2383 or https://www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com/

    December 7th, 8:00 am - 2:00 pm, Chesterton Mistletoe Market, Chesterton European Market, 223 Broadway Ave, Chesterton. Tents filled with local products & artisans selling their wares, gift wrapping, product demonstrations, local store happenings, Christmas trees and wreaths to purchase, sleigh rides & more. Open to the public.  FYI https://www.facebook.com/events/1785958268881248

    December 7th, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm, Pre-game Party, 5th Annual NCAA Division II America’s Crossroads Bowl (ACB).  Hobart Art Theater, 230 Main Street, Hobart.  Serving up sliders, pulled pork, brats and more; bloody marys, mimosas and a full-service bar.  All ages welcome.  FYI americascrossroadsbowl.com

    December 7th, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, December 8th, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm, 2024 Munster Parks & Recreation Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair, Munster High School, 8808 Columbia Ave., Munster.  Free.  FYI www.munster.org.  

    December 7th, 9:45 am, City of Hammond hosts the Santa Sprint Fun Run.  One mile run starts at 175th & Indianapolis Blvd., ends at Hammond Sportsplex.  Apparel & headware available for purchase.  Free.  Register at the event or pre-register at https://www.gohammond.com/santa-sprint-fun-run-registration/

    December 7th, 10:00 am, Mayor Thomas M. McDermott & the Hammond City Council present the Hammond Holiday Parade, Grand Marshall: the Towle Theater.  Begins at 175th & Indianapolis Blvd., ends at Hammond Sportsplex.  FYI www.gohammond.com

    December 7th, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, Munster Chamber of Commerce Shop Small Crawl.  28 small businesses participating.  3:30pm Passport due at Fiori Italian Restaurant, 4:00pm Drawing at Fiori Italian Restaurant.  FYI www.munsterchamber.org.  

    December 7th, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm, Royal Brunch, a magical morning of fun.  Bishop Noll Cafeteria and Fieldhouse, 1519 Hoffman St. in Hammond. Enter Door C.  Children 12 & younger $20, Adults $15.  No tickets will be sold at the door.  FYI NollPrincess.givesmart.com or text NollPrincess to 76278 for tickets.

    December 7th, Gates open at 11:45; Kickoff at 1:00 pm, South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority and the City of Hobart host the 5th Annual NCAA Division II America’s Crossroads Bowl (ACB) - Truman State University Bulldogs - Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC)  vs Tiffin University Dragons - Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC.  Brickyard Stadium at Hobart High School; 2211 East 10th Street, Hobart.  $12 for adults, $7 seniors, and $5 for veterans, active military and first responders. Children free with paid adult.  FYI americascrossroadsbowl.com.

    December 7th, 12:00 - 4:00 pm, Hammond Downtown Development District's Downtown Hammond Holiday Stroll! Pick up your passport at any of the stops (look for red balloons) or 428 Fayette St.  FYI https://www.facebook.com/events/1790016378469873/?ref_source=newsfeed&re...

    December 7th, 1:00 - 4:00 pm, Munster History Museum Holiday Event, the 1910 Kaske House, Heritage Park, Ridge Road & Columbia Avenue, Munster.  Free family photos with Santa and more.  Free.  Free parking at STM Administration Bldg.  FYI www.munsterhistory.org.

    December 7th,  Doors open at 7:00 pm, Joe, Hard Rock Live, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary. All reserved seating. 21 and older.  Tickets start at $69.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com

    December 7th, 7:30 pm, Holiday Pops, Northwest Indiana Symphony with Kirk Muspratt, Valparaiso High School, 2727 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso.  All ages family show.  $45-$79.  FYI (219) 836-0525 or www.NISOrchestra.org

    December 7th, 8:00 pm, DJ Kevin Allen, Council Oaks Bar Stage, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary.  21 and older.  Free.  FYI 219-228-2383 or https://www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com/

    December 7th, 9:00 pm, Rearview: A Tribute to Pearl Jam, Hard Rock Cafe Stage, Hard Rock Casino, 5400 West 29th Ave. (I 80-94@Burr), Gary.  21 and older.  Free.  FYI 219-228-2383 or https://www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com/

    December 8th, 3:00 pm, Country Bar Singo, Running Vines Winery, 101 Broadway, Chesterton.  Join us for Country Bar SINGO, where your favorite country hits meet the fun of bingo!  No cost to play – just bring your country spirit!  FYI https://www.facebook.com/events/605036642091915

    Ongoing Exhibits/Events   

    Through December 14th, Public Voting, Glitter & Glow, Chesterton Business Holiday Window Competition.  24 participating businesses throughout Chesterton.  Winner announced December 16th on Chesterton social media.  FYI www.visitchesterton.org

    Through December 14th, South Shore Arts presents Samsara: Cycles of Nature, Substation No. 9, 435 Fayette Street, Hammond. Free.  FYI https://www.southshoreartsonline.org/current-exhibits

    Through December 14th, South Shore Arts presents Less Than Five: Holiday Small Works Invitational, Annex Gallery, Center for the Visual & Performing Arts, 1030 Ridge Road, Munster.  Free.  FYI https://www.southshoreartsonline.org/current-exhibits 

    December 6th through 20th, Munster Education Foundation presents the Fifth-Annual Merry & Bright Holiday Lights Contest.   Enter your house or block  * Purchase a Holiday Lights Experience Kit * Buy a ticket for a seat on a fun, festive bus or trolley experience to tour some of the Merry & Bright homes * Vote for your festive favorite home.  FYI www.munstereducationfoundation.org.  

    Through December 23rd, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm daily. Schedule a visit with Santa at the 18th Annual “A Christmas Story” Comes Home Exhibit, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (exit Kennedy South off I 80/94), Hammond.  Five minute session includes a printed photo.  Walk-ins welcome but strongly suggest appointment.  $10, $6 per additional photo.  FYI AChristmasStoryComesHome.com

    Through December 24th, 7th Annual Holiday Gift Gallery, Art Barn, 695 N 400 E, Valparaiso.  Featuring fine crafts including ceramics, woodworking, fiber arts and jewelry as well as small works including drawing, prints, paintings, mixed media, and photography.  Gallery hours: Tuesday-Friday from 10am-4pm & Saturdays from 10am-2pm.  FYI www.artbarnschool.org

    Through December 30th, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm daily.  The South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority presents the 18th Annual “A Christmas Story” Comes Home Exhibit, Indiana Welcome Center, 7770 Corinne Drive (exit Kennedy South off I 80/94), Hammond.  FYI AChristmasStoryComesHome.com

    Through January 4th, Glitter & Glow, Chesterton Business Holiday Window Competition.  24 participating businesses throughout Chesterton.  FYI www.visitchesterton.org

    Through January 6th, Art Barn School of Art presents the work of Julia Holmaas titled "Viewpoints" Das Gallery, Country Inn & Suites, 2020 Laporte Ave, Valparaiso.  FYI www.artbarnschool.org

    Through February 15th, Healers and Dreamers, an exhibition about healing, hope and the power of the human spirit. Lubeznik Center for the Arts, 101 W. 2nd Street, Michigan City.  Free.  FYI (219) 874-4900 or LubeznikCenter.org

    Through February 22nd, South Shore Arts presents After Sargent, Main Gallery, Center for the Visual & Performing Arts, 1030 Ridge Road, Munster.  Free.  FYI https://www.southshoreartsonline.org/current-exhibits 

    Art on the Mart

     

    Now Playing in Illinois              

    December 2nd, 6:00 pm, Porchlight Music Theatre’s Porchlight Young Professionals host a Wicked Watch Party with special guests Broadway’s “Wonderful Wizard” Gene Weygandt and Broadway In Chicago’s “Nessarose” Heidi Kettenring, followed by private screening of Wicked.   Davis Theater, 4614 N Lincoln Ave., Chicago.  $25.  FYI PorchlightMusicTheatre.org.

    December 2nd, 7:00 pm, Keith & Kristyn Getty: An Irish Christmas, Chicago Theatre, 150 N. State Street, Chicago.  Tickets start at $35. FYI www.ticketmaster.com.

    December 4th, 6:30 - 9:00 pm, A Nativity Tribute, presented in partnership with the African American Museum of Performing Arts, Driehaus Museum, 50 E. Erie Street, Chicago.   General Admission $50, Students $25.  FYI https://46316.blackbaudhosting.com/46316/Black-Nativity-with-the-African-American-Museum-of-Performing-Arts

    December 5th, 7:00 - 8:30 pm, Doors open at 630 pm, Pulitzer Prize-winning Greek American novelist Jeffrey Eugenides (The Virgin Suicides, Middlesex, The Marriage Plot) Jeffrey Eugenides will be in conversation with Chicago Tribune features writer Christopher Borrelli at the National Hellenic Museum (NHM), 333 S. Halsted Street, Chicago.   Limited free tickets are available on a first come, first served basis on Eventbrite HERE

    December 5th, 7:30pm, The Oak Ridge Boys' American Made Christmas Farewell Tour, Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago Street, Joliet.  Tickets start at $59.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com 

    December 5th, 7:30 pm, Jam Productions Presents Dina Ayada - Starlight Tour, Subterranean, Upstairs, 2011 W. North Avenue, Chicago.  $26.96, VIP $81.70.  https://wl.seetickets.us/event/dina-ayada-starlight-tour/620723?afflky=B...

    December 5th, 8:00 pm, Cyndi Lauper: Girls Just Wanna have Fun Farewell Tour, United Center, 1901 W. Madison, Chicago.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com.  

    December 5th & 6th, 9th through 13th, 8:00 pm, Andrew Bird's Gezelligheid Concerts, Fourth Presbyterian Church, 126 E. Chestnut, Chicago.  Tickets start at $60.  FYI www.axs.com

    December 6th, 8:30 am, Chicago's Christmas Ship, US Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw will arrive at Navy Pier in preparation for tree off-loading.  Free public tours of the ship will be available from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. 

    December 6th, 6:00 - 8:00 pm, Fox Pointe & the Village of Lansing present a Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus, 18112 Henry St, Lansing. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be at their Lansing home, ready to visit with children and families! Don't forget to take photos!  

    December 6th & 7th, 7:15 & 9:30 pm, Joe Dombrowski, The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago.  $30-$50.  FYI (773) 697-3830 or www.thedentheatre.com

    December 6th, 7:30 pm, A Nostalgic Night with Macaulay Culkin following a screening of Home A, Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont.  Tickets start at $37.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com 

    December 6th, 7:30 pm, The 93XRT Fall Jam Series, Mavis Staples - 85th Hometown Birthday Celebration with special guest sets by Jackson Browne & Margo Price, Auditorium Theater, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago.  Tickets start at $55.  FYI www.axs.com

    December 6th, 7:30 pm, (New Date & Venue) Jam Presents Jim Norton - Now You Know, Park West, 322 W. Armitage, Chicago.  18 & over.  FYI www.axs.com. 

    December 6th, 7:30 & 10:00 pm, Jam Presents Dan Soder, Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield, Chicago.  18 & over.  www.axs.com  

    December 6th, 8:00 pm, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) presents Totally '80s HoliGAY, Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E Randolph St, Chicago.  $25-$50.  FTI cgmc.org/holiday.

    December 6th, 8:00 pm, Joe Russo's Almost Dead, The Salt Shed Indoors, 1357 N. Elston, Chicago.  Tickets start at $64.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com

    December 6th, 9:00 pm, First of its kind, Holiday Drone Show/Holiday Fireworks, Light Up the Lake 2024, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd, Chicago.  Free.  FYI NavyPier.org.  

    December 6th, 9:00 pm, Jam & Collectiv Present Marauda: Retribution Tour | with INFEKT, Hukae & 7L, Riviera Theatre, 4746 N. Racine, Chicago.  18 & over.  FYI www.axs.com.

    December 6th & 7th, 8:00 pm, Bill Maher: The WTF? Tour, CIBC Theater, 18 W. Monroe, Chicago.  Tickets start at $56.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com.

    December 6th, 7th & 8th, 8:00 pm, Brett Eldridge - GLOW: Welcome to the Family Tour, The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State Street, Chicago.  Tickets start at $64.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com

    December 7th, 8:30 am, Kids Rudolph Run; 9:00 am, the Santa Hustle®, officially timed 5K benefitting Cal's Angels.  Starts & ends at Navy Pier.  Runners receive ugly sweater inspired long-sleeve shirt, beanie & finisher's medal.  Kids $29.99 + $2.80 SignUp Fee, Adults $54.99 + $4.30 SignUp Fee.  FYI https://santahustle.com/chicago/

    December 7th, 10:00 am, Official Christmas Tree Dedication Ceremony, Chicago's Christmas Ship, US Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw. Free public tours of the ship will be available from 1:30 to 4 p.m. 

    December 7th & 8th, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, Drie-cember Holiday Market, Murphy Auditorium, Driehaus Museum, 50 E. Erie Street, Chicago.  Free.  FYi www.driehaus.org. 

    December 7th, 3:00 pm, Boheme and Beyond: The Legacy of Puccini, Chicago Opera Theater, Gannon Concert Hall, DePaul University, 2330 N. Halsted Street, Chicago.  Single tickets go on sale July 15th.  FYI (312) 704-8414 or www.cot.org/season/dark

    December 7th, 3:00 & 7:30 pm, Steppenwolf Theatre Company and Mark Cortale present a musical performance by  Brian d'Arcy James with Music Director Dan Lipton, Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theater, 1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago. $75 – $115.  FYI (312) 335-1650 or steppenwolf.org/briandarcyjames

    **** December 7th, 3:00 & 7:00 pm, December 8th, 1:00 & 5:00 pm, Ruth Page Center For The Arts presents Ruth Page’s The Nutcracker, Auditorium, Northeastern Illinois University, 5500 N. St. Louis Avenue, Chicago.  $20-$65.  FYI RuthPage.org

    December 7th, 3:00 & 7:30 pm, Steppenwolf Theatre Company and Mark Cortale present five-time Tony Award nominee Brian d'Arcy James, Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theater, 1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago.  $75-$115.  FYI (312) 335-1650 or steppenwolf.org/briandarcyjames

    December 7th, 7:00 pm, Jam & Outback Present John Crist: Jokes for Humanity, Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield, Chicago.  FYI www.axs.com.

    December 7th, 7:00 pm, Pentatonix: Hallelujah! It's a Christmas Tour, Peoria Civic Center, 201 SW Jefferson Ave., Peoria.  Tickets start at $39.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com 

    December 7th, 7:30 pm, Jam Presents Brendan Bayliss & Jake Sinninger featuring Andy Farag: The 22nd Annual Holiday Show | With special guests Aron Magner of the Disco Biscuits. Mike Racky & More.  Park West, 322 W. Armitage, Chicago.  FYI www.axs.com

    December 7th, 7:30 pm, Love Actually, Auditorium Philms Concert Series.  Films come to life with their iconic scores performed by the Chicago Philharmonic!  Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago.  FYI (312) 341-2300 or https://auditoriumtheatre.org/subscription-packages/auditorium-philms-concert-series/

    December 8th, 9:00 - 10:00 am, “Santa Cares,” a sensory-friendly Santa experience, Macerich's Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont.  Free; keepsake photo packages available for purchase.  FYI for appointments, www.fashionoutletsofchicago.com

    December 8th 2:00 & 6:00 pm, NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Rd., Rosemont.  Tickets start at $31.  FYI www.nutcracker.com/buy-tickets/rosemont-il.

    December 8th, 3:00 pm, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus (CGMC) presents Totally '80s HoliGAY, North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie.  $25-$50.  FYI cgmc.org/holiday.

    December 8th, 7:15 pm, David Lucas, The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago.  $22-$40.  FYI (773) 697-3830 or www.thedentheatre.com

    December 8th, 7:30 pm, Jam Presents Randy Feltface, Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield, Chicago.  www.axs.com  

    December 8th, 8:00 pm, The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show,  Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago.  Tickets start at $30. FYI www.ticketmaster.com 

    Ongoing Exhibits/Events

    Daily every 20-30 minutes, Big Bus Tours’ Hop-On Hop-Off experience, Service begins at Chicago Riverwalk, 98 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago @ 10:00 am; last bus departs @  5:00 pm.  Adults $40.50, Children 3 - 12 $35.  FYI www.bigbustours.com

    Through December 2nd, 4:00 - 7:00 pm Mondays, Pet Nights with Santa, Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont.  Free; keepsake photo packages available for purchase.  FYI for appointments, www.fashionoutletsofchicago.com.

    Through December 8th, Village of Rosemont hosts Second Annual “Nutcracker Wonderland” Public Art Project, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center Lobby, 5501 Park Place): November 22-24; Rosemont Theatre Lobby, 5400 N. River Rd.: December 8.  FYI  www.rosemont.com/theatre/nutcracker-wonderland.  

    Thr ough December 17th, Pajama Party Tuesdays: families are encouraged to wear their favorite pajamas to come meet Santa.   at Macerich's Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont.  Free; keepsake photo packages available for purchase.  FYI for appointments, www.fashionoutletsofchicago.com

    Through December 18th, Baby’s First Wednesdays: Fashion Outlets of Chicago invites families with children one year of age or younger for Baby's First Santa Visits. Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont.  Free; keepsake photo packages available for purchase.  FYI for appointments, www.fashionoutletsofchicago.com.

    Through December 18th, 7:00 pm, Mr. Danny’s Magic in Session, Artist-In-Residence, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark St., Chicago.  21 & over.  $42.50 (Main Floor), $47.50 (Front Row).  FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.

    Through December 19th, Ugly Sweater Thursdays: families are encouraged to wear their best ugly Christmas sweaters for a silly and memorable photo opportunity with Santa.  Macerich's Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont.  Free; keepsake photo packages available for purchase.  FYI for appointments, www.fashionoutletsofchicago.com

    Through December 22nd, Winter weather clothing drive & Giving Tree, Concierge Services, Level One, Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont.  Bring donations of coats, hats, gloves, scarves or other winter essentials or select a tag off of the center’s Giving Tree and fulfill a child’s wishlist & receive a $10 gift card from select participating retailers.  FYI www.fashionoutletsofchicago.com.  

    Through December 24th, Santa Visits at Macerich's Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont.  Free; keepsake photo packages available for purchase.  FYI for appointments, www.fashionoutletsofchicago.com

    December 6th through 28th, Christopher Wheeldon's The Nutcracker, Joffrey Ballet, Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago.  FYI (312) 386-8905 or www.joffrey.org.

    Through December 31st, Greektown Shopper’s Reward Program, Shoppers can receive a $50 Visa gift card after mailing in original receipts from at least three different eligible Greektown businesses, with a grand total of $250 or more. A list of participating Greektown businesses and additional details on the rebate are available at greektownchicago.org.

    Through December 31st, 7:30 pm, Dennis Watkins in partnership with the Goodman Theatre & Petterino's announces The Magic Parlor with Dennis Watkins, 50 W. Randolph, Chicago.  $85 ($115 for performance + encore experience).  FYI (312) 443-3800 or TheMagicParlourChicago.com.

    Through December 31st, Live Love Shop Rogers Park, “shop local” campaign/rebates.  To qualify for the rebates, shoppers will need to collect $150 or more in receipts from at least 4 different independently owned businesses (of the 165) in Rogers Park during the holiday season.  For more information and detailed rebate rules, visit rpba.org/live-love-shop.

    Through January 4th, 9:00 pm Saturdays, Holiday Fireworks, Light Up the Lake 2024, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd, Chicago.  Free.  FYI NavyPier.org.  

    Through January 4th, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Ride the High-Flying Wave Swinger, Light Up the Lake 2024, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd, Chicago.  Ticketed ride.  FYI NavyPier.org.  

    Through January 4th, Daily, Climate Controlled Comfort in the Centennial Ferris Wheel, Light Up the Lake 2024, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd, Chicago.  Ticketed ride.  FYI NavyPier.org.  

    Through January 4th, 12:00 - 8:00 pm, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, Experience the thrill of outdoor Axe Throwing against the backdrop of Lake Michigan, Light Up the Lake 2024, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd, Chicago.  Ticketed attraction.  FYI NavyPier.org.  

    Through January 4th, 12:00 - 4:00 pm Saturdays, Roaring Bonfires at the Navy Pier Beer Garden, Light Up the Lake 2024, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd, Chicago.  Free-of-charge, with food and beverage available for purchase.  FYI NavyPier.org.  

    Through January 4th, 12:00 - 6:00 pm Saturdays & Sundays, Holiday Artisan Markets, Holiday Fireworks, Light Up the Lake 2024, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd, Chicago.  Free.  FYI NavyPier.org.  

    Through January 4th, 12:00 - 4:00 pm Sundays, Hands-on Craft Workshops, Holiday Fireworks, Light Up the Lake 2024, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd, Chicago.  Free.  FYI NavyPier.org.  

    Through January 5th, Visits with Santa, Light Up the Lake 2024, Family Pavilion, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Blvd, Chicago.  Free-of-charge. Professional photo packages available for purchase.  FYI NavyPier.org.  

    Through January 5th, Exhibition: Photographing Frank Lloyd Wright, Driehaus Museum, 50 E. Erie Street, Chicago.  Adults $20, Seniors $15, Students & children 12 & younger $10.  FYI www.driehausmuseum.org

    Through January 5th, Rafael Blanco: Reflecting on a Decade of Public Art, Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 South Cottage Hill Avenue, Elmhurst.  Adults $18, Seniors $15, Students $10, Children $5.  FYI (630) 834-0202 or elmhurstartmuseum.org.

    Through January 6th, Greektown Arts Committee brings traditional Greek holiday karavákia display of vibrant, illuminated boats to Greektown.  35+ local artists to decorate boat models for Greektown businesses to publicly display throughout the holiday season.  Larger karaváki, painted by distinguished artist James Mesple, displayed at Elysian Field  (southeast corner of Halsted & Van Buren Streets), Chicago. FYI greektownchicago.org 

    Through January 12th,  Instituto Cervantes celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, STL Architects Exhibit; "Five Projects in South Korea" Instituto Cervantes of Chicago, 31 W. Ohio St., Chicago.  Free and open o the public.  FYI https://cultura.cervantes.es/chicago/en/Exposici%C3%B3n-de-STL-Architect...

    Through January 31st, (2025), 12:00 - 6:00 pm Daily, Far South CDC Marketplace, 837 W. 115th Street, Chicago.  FYI (773) 831-7107 or farsouthcdc.org/marketplace 

    Through February 16th (2025), Cecilia Beaven, Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 South Cornell Avenue, Chicago.  Free.  FYI hydeparkart.org.

    Through February 23rd (2025), Positions: New Landscapes, Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 South Cornell Avenue, Chicago.  Free.  FYI hydeparkart.org.

    December 7th through March 9th (2025), Ground Floor, Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 South Cornell Avenue, Chicago.  Free.  FYI hydeparkart.org.

    Through July 27th, 9:30 am - 4:30 pm,  Chicago Fashion Week®, Dressed in History: A Costume Collection Retrospective, Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark Street, Chicago.  The exhibition celebrates 100 years of an incredible collection and those who have shaped it.  FYI Purchased tickets required. For tickets and event information, please visit chicagohistory.org.

    **** Open Year Round, Sunday to Thursday, 11:00 am - 8:00 pm; Friday & Saturday 11:00 am - 9:00 pm  (Timed Entrances Every 15 Minutes), Flyover Chicago, Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago.  $24.95 Adults; $19.95 Military; $14.95 Children 13 & under.  Children must be at least 40" (102 cm) tall. Children (13 and under) must be accompanied by an adult or guardian (14 years or older).  FYI www.ExperienceFlyover.com/Chicago.

    At Chicago Magic Lounge

    Open Run, Mondays at 7:00 pm, Music and Magic, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago.  $30.  FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.

    Open Run, Tuesdays at 7:00 pm, The Showcase, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago.  $40.  FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.

    Open Run, Wednesdays, 7:00 pm, Artist in Residence Series, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago.  $40.  FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.

    Open Run, Thursdays through Sundays at 7:00 pm, Fridays & Sundays at 10:00 pm, The Signature Show, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago.  $52.50-$85.  FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.

    Open Run, Select Sundays at 3:00 pm, Family Show, Chicago Magic Lounge, 5050 N. Clark Street, Chicago.  $35-$40 (standard), $45-$50 (front row).  FYI (312) 366-4500 or chicagomagiclounge.com.

    Now Playing in Michigan:

    December 8th, 2:00 & 7:30 pm ET, Trans-Siberian Orchestra-The Lost Christmas Eve, Van Andel Arena, 130 Fulton St W, Grand Rapids, MI  FYI www.ticketmaster.com

    Now Playing in Wisconsin:

    December 6th, 7:00 pm, The Oak Ridge Boys, Resch Center, 820 Armed Forces Dr, Green Bay, WI. Tickets start at $80.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com

    December 7th & 8th, 3:00 pm, The Oak Ridge Boys, Crystal Grand Music Theatre, 430 W Munroe Ave, Wisconsin Dells, WI.  Tickets start at $55.  FYI www.ticketmaster.com

    Now Playing Elsewhere: 

    Through December 3rd, Verismo Classical Music.   Conductor EUN SUN KIM's Royal Opera House debut with Puccini’s Tosca, Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom.  FYI https://www.rbo.org.uk/tickets-and-events/tosca-2425-details

    December 6th through 8th, Verismo Classical MusicWorld premiere of Earth 2.0, a collaboration between composer Jake Heggie, librettist Anita Amirrezvani, and dance troupe Urban Bush Women.  Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, Sundance Square, 330 E 4th St #200, Fort Worth, TX.  FYI https://fwsymphony.org/24-25-season/symphonic-series/spano-conducts-beethoven-and-jake-heggie

    Through December 23rd, Verismo Classical Music.  Mezzo Jamie Barton makes her dual house/role debut as Baba the Turk in The Rake’s Progress at Opéra national de Paris, Palais Garnier, Paris, France.  FYI https://www.operadeparis.fr/en/season-24-25/opera/the-rakes-progress