7 Things to Do for Friendsgiving in Chicago

26 Oct 7 Things to Do for Friendsgiving in Chicago

Friendsgiving is one of the best unofficial holiday traditions during the year. A group of friends gets together for Thanksgiving-themed food, fun, and festivities – what else could you ask for? Most Friendsgiving events won’t take place on Thanksgiving itself, but on a different day during the week. You’ll have plenty of time to check out the best of what Chicago has to offer. Here are 7 things to do for Friendsgiving in Chicago.

7 Things to Do for Friendsgiving in Chicago

1. Christkindlmarket Chicago

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If you’ve never been to a Christmas Market before, then26 grab your friends and stop in at the annual Christkindlmarket in Chicago this year. You may find yourself with a new Friendsgiving tradition!

Set in the tradition of old world German markets, you’ll find artisan food, mulled wine, and plenty of gifts for unique – or last minute – shopping. The fair opens on November 17^th and runs through Christmas Eve.

Visit their website for full details, including address, hours, a complete vendor list, and much more.

2. Lincoln Park Zoo Lights

The Lincoln Park Zoo is once again presenting their festive, holiday-themed displays throughout the zoo. Enjoy visiting your favorite local zoo in a completely different light.

Fun events like ice carving, musical light shows, and holiday gifts all await you and your friends. Not just for families, this event runs from November 24, 2017 – January 7, 2018.

View full event details and a list of festive activities on offer at the Lincoln Park Zoo website.

3. McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade

Although the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in NYC is typically considered to be the most renowned Thanksgiving tradition in the US, Chicago’s answer – the McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade – is an event worth seeing at least once!

Floats, dancing, music, marching bands, and much more will be on full display. You and your friends can make some fantastic memories while watching!

This year’s McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade is on November 23, 2017 and runs from 8am – 11am local time.

For more details and information, check out their website.

4. Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light

Christmas Around the World features over 40 Christmas trees inspired by cultures around the world, showcasing a fantastic array of holiday traditions. Events and entertainment throughout the day will cement this event as a new part of your Friendsgiving tradition.

The event opens on November 16^th, 2017 and will run until January 7, 2018. Find the full details about this fun event on the Museum of Science and Industry website.

5. Volunteer

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The spirit of Thanksgiving is all about friendship and giving. Your Friendsgiving will already cover one of these items, so why not consider volunteering? There are always lots of charities and charitable causes needing volunteers, especially during the holidays.

The City of Chicago has a regularly updated list of volunteer opportunities on their website.

6. Participate in a Turkey Trot

Turkey trots usually take place on Thanksgiving morning well before anyone is thinking about turkey dinner. If you can get your friends up for it, consider signing up for one of these fun runs – costumes optional! There’s no pressure to run if you don’t want to; you can walk too.

Chicago’s 40^th Annual Turkey Trot takes place on Thursday, November 23, 2017. Registration starts at 7am with the race itself starting at 9am. Full race and registration details can be found on their website.

7. Book a Night Out with Birthday Bottle Service

The nights are getting longer and the weather is getting colder. Once the sun has gone down, it’s time to head indoors. But that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Book a night out with Birthday Bottle Service to keep your Friendsgiving celebrations going. We have a wide selection of venues to suit your mood and preferences.

Public House in Chicago is one of our favorite places to visit no matter the time of year. With dark wood paneling, leather seats, plenty of great gastro pub food on offer, and even tableside craft beer taps, this restaurant and bar is sure to be a hit!

Explore Public House»

Friendsgiving in Chicago

As you can see, Chicago is quite the hub for getting into the spirit of the season. Don’t miss out on the fun and holiday joy that the Windy City has to offer.

Thanksgiving falls on November 23, 2017. Friendsgiving, meanwhile, can happen anytime during November! Grab your friends and enjoy the holiday festivities in Chicago this season.

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