December brings a full calendar to the North Shore. Holiday light shows brighten the nights, stages stay busy with can’t-miss performances, shops are stocked for the season, and Northwestern basketball keeps the energy high. There’s plenty to explore — all month long. | | |
Glenview Wine & Art Walk
Wednesday, December 3
Downtown Glenview | Glenview Rd. and Waukegan Rd., Glenview
Join us for the second annual Glenview Winter Wine & Art Walk, an effervescent evening of wine, art, and holiday shopping. Enjoy tastings at local businesses while exploring a curated collection of artwork. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season, discover unique gifts, and treat yourself along the way. Get your tickets today!
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Evanston Made - 5th Annual Holiday Pop-Up Market
Thursday, December 4 through Sunday, December 21
Downtown Evanston | 1710 Maple Ave., Evanston
It's that time of year again! Get all your holiday shopping done in one place at one time during this extraordinary pop-up market (Thursdays through Sundays) featuring original art and handmade goods created by Evanston Made members. Evanston Made is also hosting a Winter Market at SPACE (Sun., Dec. 14) featuring ten vendors, kids’ activities and more!
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46th Annual Red Invitation Sale
Sunday, December 7
Various Locations | Winnetka and Glencoe
The finest holiday shopping experiences await you no matter who’s on your gift list. Whether you’re a fan of high-end labels or are a savvy bargain hunter, there’s something for everyone. Come explore the charming and idyllic villages of Winnetka and Glencoe at your own pace, taking in the scenic and festive spirit along the way.
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Downtown Evanston Warm Bevvy Walk
Thursday, December 11
Various Locations | Downtown Evanston
Celebrate what we love most about the season, a special holiday mug filled with warm bevvies, shopping, and showing love to our local business owners! Enjoy a self-guided stroll through Downtown Evanston, visiting shops, restaurants, and other businesses that will be offering a variety of complimentary warm beverages, along with shopping or dining specials.
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Photos With Santa
Through Wednesday, December 24
Candy Cane Station - Glass Cube Near Nespresso | Westfield Old Orchard, Skokie
The magic is back! Come celebrate the season with a joyful visit with Santa. Bring the family for a beloved holiday tradition and create memories you’ll treasure for years. Enjoy a festive setting, meet Santa Claus, and capture a perfect photo for your holiday cards. Reservations are recommended, though walk-ins are welcome when space allows.
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The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!
Throughout December
Various Locations | Chicago's North Shore
Celebrate the spirit of the holidays on Chicago’s North Shore with festive performances, lively pop-up markets, seasonal restaurant offerings, and family-friendly events. From cherished local traditions to can’t-miss cultural experiences, December is filled with ways to shop, dine, and enjoy the magic of the season!
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Downtown Skokie Holiday Cookie Walk
Saturday, December 13
Downtown Skokie | 7933 Lincoln Ave., Skokie
Get ready for the sweetest event of the season! Invite your friends and come explore local shops, cafés, and bakeries while collecting a festive cookie at every stop. With each ticket, you’ll receive a commemorative cookie box and a map of participating businesses - your passport to a delicious afternoon of holiday cheer.
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Season of Showstoppers
Various Dates
North Shore Center for the Performing Arts | 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie
Your winter entertainment lineup is set. Salt Creek Ballet’s The Nutcracker (Dec. 5-6) brings magical ballet to the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts. Music Theater Works presents Annie (Dec. 18 – Jan. 4) with iconic songs and heart for the whole family. And Northlight Theatre’s Gaslight (Through Jan. 4) pulls you into a gripping mystery that keeps you questioning everything. Don’t miss a moment.
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Lightscape
THROUGH JANUARY 4, 2025
Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe
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Willow Hill Lights
THROUGH JANUARY 4, 2025
Willow Hill Golf Course, Northbrook
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Urinetown
THROUGH JANUARY 4, 2026
Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre, Evanston
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