Happy New Year! January on Chicago’s North Shore is anything but quiet, with Wildcats basketball, live theater, winter festivals, and hands-on fun filling the calendar. Whether you bundle up or head indoors, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season. | | |
Nothing But Net – Northwestern Men's Basketball!
Throughout January
Welsh-Ryan Arean | 2705 Ashland Ave., Evanston
Big energy hits Welsh-Ryan Arena this month as the Northwestern Wildcats take the court at home! Grab your tickets, bring the purple pride, and be part of the action! Home matchups include Minnesota (1/3), Illinois (1/14), Nebraska (1/17), Penn State (1/29) and Washington (1/31). Come cheer them on!
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North Shore Live!
Throughout January
Various Locations
There’s no shortage of live entertainment on the North Shore! Taking center stage are three new productions: Mary Jane at Northlight Theatre, The Outsider at Oil Lamp Theater and Hand to God at the Wirtz Center. Interested in live music? Check out the concerts at Evanston SPACE and the Elvis Tribute or the BoDeans at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts!
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Robert's Yukon Adventure Day
Saturday, January 17
The Grove National Historic Landmark | 1421 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview
Are you ready for an adventure? Illinois’ first naturalist, Robert Kennicott, grew up at The Grove and made two expeditions to the Yukon (1859 and 1865). Come experience Robert’s journey north and discover what his life was like in this frigid territory including dog sledding demonstrations, hands-on snow experiments, snowshoeing and more, and then warm up by the campfire with hot cocoa and s’mores!
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Free Day + Indigenous Artist Market Pop-Up
Monday, January 19
Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum | 3001 Central St., Evanston
Everyone is welcome for a day of free admission at the Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum! Celebrate Indigenous history, culture, and living traditions while exploring exhibits and enjoying an Indigenous Artists Pop-Up Market. Come discover unique works, meet local artists, and support Indigenous creativity during this special monthly community day.
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Argentina's Niños - Welcome to Argentina
January 24 - May 10
Kohl Children's Museum | 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview
Explore immersive environments that introduce families to Argentine culture, arts, and traditions! Argentina’s Niños inspires visitors to compare the similarities and differences between their lives and those of children in the second-largest country in South America. Families will feel like they have traveled to Argentina as they explore and learn about the country’s traditions and lifestyles.
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Winterfest Fun!
Sunday, January 25
Chevy Chase Country Club | 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling
Saturday, January 31
Community Ice Center | 1851 Landwehr Rd., Glenview
Bundle up and celebrate winter at two Winterfest events this month! Join the fun in Wheeling (1/25) and Glenview (1/31) for family-friendly activities, crafts, meet & greets, seasonal treats, and more. It’s the perfect way to get out of the house, embrace the chilly season, and make joyful memories with friends and family.
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Things to Do Inside This Winter
Winter doesn’t mean hibernation. When snow falls and temperatures drop, the North Shore is still full of ways to stay warm, curious, and entertained. From culture and creativity to hands-on fun for kids and families, there’s no shortage of inviting indoor adventures to brighten, inspire, and energize even the coldest winter days.
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Winter Farmers Markets
Saturdays in Evanston (Indoors)
Sundays in Skokie (Indoors and Outdoors)
Farmers markets don’t stop for winter on Chicago’s North Shore! Visit the winter farmers markets in Evanston (Saturdays) and Skokie (Sundays) to shop fresh foods, handmade goods, and seasonal favorites. Support local businesses and makers, meet neighbors, and enjoy the cozy community spirit, because great markets are a year-round tradition!
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Hand to God
JANUARY 30, 2026 - FEBRUARY 1, 2026
Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts, Northwestern University, Evanston
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Bodeans
JANUARY 31, 2026
Location
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Winterfest 2026
JANUARY 31, 2026
Glenview Community Ice Center, Glenview
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