Although this blog started after the holidays and Christmas has quickly come and gone, winter seems to have just started in Chicago. The weather has been unusually mild this winter despite the weather forecasters’ predictions last summer. With the weather just getting colder and the holidays still on my mind, here are a few Chicago winter must-do activities that everyone should check out: (I go every year and they are budget friendly!)

–Lincoln Park Zoo Lights: They are free! Great place to take the kids to see Santa as well. Grab some pizza beforehand down the street at Rocco Ranalli’s (It’s family friendly and delicious!)

-Ice Skate at Millennium Park: Avoid lines and having to spend money by bringing your own ice skates (Check out the other free ice skating rinks around Chicago as well!)

–Christkindlmarket in the Daley Plaza: It gets super crowded, but is a must see activity in Chicago. Grab a nice German beverage served in a souvenir mug shaped like a boot and check out the beautiful ornaments and Christmas tree.

–CTA Holiday Train: This is more geared towards families, but if you currently have little ones at home, check out the schedule and catch a ride with Santa and his elves on the CTA Holiday Train.

–Walnut Room & Holiday Windows at Macy’s on State Street: Check out the holiday windows at the old Marshall Field’s, now Macy’s, on State Street. Afterwards, grab a bite to eat at the Walnut Room inside and enjoy the view of the beautiful Great Tree. (It’s 45 feet tall!) This is one of Chicago’s oldest holiday traditions.

–Snow Shoe at Northerly Island: Located on Chicago’s great peninsula (a.k.a. Northerly Island), many Chicagoans are unaware of this cool and interesting activity. Check the weather beforehand, and get there early since snow shoe’s are given out on a first come first serve basis.

-Check out hilarious holidays plays at various theaters around Chicago. My past favorites include “The Santaland Diaries” at what is now called Theater Wit in Lakeivew or “It’s A Wonderful Santaland Miracle Nut Cracking Christmas Story” at Stage 773 next door. If you are looking for something a little less humorous and a little more traditional, check out “A Christmas Carol” at the Goodman Theatre. Always check Hottix or Goldstar for good deals.

Dress Code: Casual

(Note for Walnut Room: Don’t get me wrong, the Walnut Room is a classy place that I tend to dress a little nicer for, but during the holiday’s, the beautiful space is filled many casual tourists that are there just to check out the tree. Dress however makes you comfortable and they won’t turn you away.)

A Few Casual Holiday Outfits:

Wool Plaid Vest: Nordstrom; Angora Sweater with Lace: Zara; White Long Sleeve T-Shirt: Gap; Skinny Jeans: Limited (sold out); Gold Wedge Sneakers: Target; Kensington Gold Ring: Gorjana

Christmas Day

Christmas Eve Outfit: Top: Francesca’s (old); Vest: Loft (old); Dot Print Pants: Loft; Booties: Old Navy (Same boots in animal print); Necklace & Earrings: K-Amato (sample sale); Watch: Michael Kors; Link Gold Bracelet: Wanderlust + Co

Family Christmas Party: Bow Sweater: Loft (No longer available on-line); Floral Skinny Pants: New York and Company (sold out); Boots: Nine West (old); Leg Warmers: Nordstrom (Same in different color); Watch: Michael Kors; Earrings: K-Amato (Sample Sale); Bracelets: Light Wood Skull Bracelet by Bijouterie and Black Leather Stud Wrap Bracelet by Wanderlust + Co