Here is a quick list of fun activities around Chicagoland for Chicago Dads to get involved with their kids over the Holiday Break.  We are sure there are more, we’d love to know what’s going on near you!

Christmas Around the World at the MSI

Museum of Science and Industry
Chicago
www.msichicago.org

Dates: November 17, 2016 – January 8, 2017
Cost: Free (with admission)

This  tradition began at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry back in 1942. A Grand Tree (45 feet tall) in the Museum’s Rotunda stands amid a celebratory forest of over 50 trees decorated by volunteers from the many different ethnic communities around Chicago, showcasing their various cultures and holiday traditions. There are festive surprises all throughout the exhibit and you might just learn a thing or two to boot. While you are there you can check out all the other great exhibits like Brick by Brick, The Colleen Moore Fairy Castle, Where the Wild Things Are, The U-505 Submarine, and so many more.

 

Caroling at “The Bean” (Cloud Gate)

Millennium Park
Chicago
www.millenniumpark.org

Dates: November 25, 2016 – December 23, 2016
Cost: Free

Bundle up and get ready to belt out some holiday classics at these festive events that are part concert, part sing-along as local Chicago choral groups lead hundreds of celebrants in song. Santa Claus will join the crowd beforehand (5 pm), and after the music (6 pm), head a few steps away to take a spin on the McCormick Tribune ice rink.

 

 

Chanukah Wonderland

Northbrook Court
Northbrook
www.northbrookcourt.com

Date: December 18, 2016 – December 26, 2016
Cost: $5

Daily attractions

• Dreidel bouncehouse
• Decorate a doughnut
• Dreidel crafting
• Mosaic Menorah art
• Chanukah Tzedakkah box craft

Special Highlights
Tuesday, December 20 – Wrap for a cause: wrap for those in need
Monday, December 26 – Decorate a Chanukah Apron

Solstice Celebration

Crabtree Nature Center
Barrington
www.fpdcc.com

Date: December 21, 2016
Cost: Free

Celebrate the return of the sun while learning about the science and mythology surrounding the solstice, and enjoy a hot drink around a campfire. Call to reserve your spot (847-381-6592).

 

Animal Evidence

Mayslake Forest Preserve
Oak Brook
www.dupageforest.org

Date: December 22, 2016
Cost: Free

Learn about tracks, scat and other evidence animals leave behind, and then look for critters on a guided hike. Ages 5 and up with an adult. Register online or at (630) 933-7248.