Keep things festive and simple this year with little bites you can make on the fly
Celebrating the holidays with little ones brings its own set of challenges—like managing energy levels, non-existent bedtimes, and finding ways to keep them busy while you get ready for family—but having kid friendly appetizers can go a long way in making the season a success. Whether you want your offering to be creative and colorful or just plain delicious, we’ve got the best quick (like 30 minutes or less!) and easy finger foods to make this year. For more ideas, check out our favorite 3-ingredient appetizers.
Warm cheese, crispy egg roll shell, sweet chili dip, what’s not to love? This kid friendly appetizer is so easy, you can whip up a batch right before your guests arrive. Get the recipe from Instru Pix.
If there’s a food that’s not made better with bacon, we’re not sure we want to know about it. These savory chicken bites have just enough spice for adults but are still a kid’s favorite. You’ll find the recipe in the IG post above.
Mini Grilled Cheese Bites
Celebrate NYE with a kid favorite: grilled cheese! These bite-sized morsels are easy to put together and guaranteed to please a crowd. Don’t forget the tomato soup shooters! To get the recipe, visit The View from Great Island.
We love that this pull-apart pizza ring can be made with any type of toppings: cheese, veggies, sausage, or just about anything you desire! And, only requiring 20 minutes in the oven, it's an appetizer that can be made quickly.
This seven-layer bean dip recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron is a cinch to make, can be paired with chips or veggies, and can be made in advance. What's not to love?
Mini Stacks
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There's nothing like a stack of pancakes to suggest you've made it through 'til morning! These mini stacks skewered with party picks and topped with a slice of fresh fruit are sure to go down well. Dust with confectioners sugar for a sweet touch and a hint of snowfall. Kraft Canada has the how-to.
These might be one of our favorite finger food ideas! The hardest part might be shaping your mini tortilla in a muffin tin because the filling comes together quickly and is ready to be served in 30 minutes. Get the recipe from Gimme Some Oven.
This ham and cheese pie uses pre-rolled pastry, making it an easy addition to any party platter. It calls for just four ingredients sandwiched between flaky puff pastry. After 20 minutes in the oven, you'll have a pie that can be sliced into bite-sized squares and tastes so good you'll be making it again and again.
A cheese board is an obvious snack table centerpiece—and crackers are always a big hit with kids! Layer up a tray with the help of Take Two Tapas where you'll find a tutorial to answer all your questions. You can create an appetizing feast of cooked and cured meats, fresh and dried fruit, sliced veggies, and dips that kids and adults can both enjoy.
Popcorn is one of the easiest snacks, and this recipe just adds melted chocolate and crushed candy canes to make the perfect celebratory treat. Use half regular popcorn and half kettle corn for sweet, minty popcorn with all the delicious flavors of peppermint bark. Head to Endlessly Inspired for the how-to.
Harness the magic of New Year's Eve with these colorful rainbow wands! Get the recipe from Mom On Time Out and see how versatile they are. They can be easily made in batches and are a great combo of sweet and savory that adds pizzazz to any party platter.
Nothing revives a flagging toddler like a fist full of fries, and these cinnamon sweet potato sticks are no exception. The best part? They take just five minutes to prep! Relish their sweet and savory flavors as you celebrate the season. Head to Weelicious for the recipe.
We’re pretty sure this appetizer idea qualifies as pure genius. Just take your family’s fave tortellini, stick ‘em on skewers, and set them on a pretty tray. You’ll get major presentation points with zero fuss. To learn more, visit My Fussy Eater.
Make your NYE party extra magical with an appetizer that only uses two (count ‘em, two!) ingredients. These pigs in a blanket are the definition of simple—and you can even add a touch of sesame seeds to up the wow factor. Get the recipe over at Culinary Hill.
Serve these delish meatballs as an NYE app or a heartier dinner—either way, we’re sure kids and grownups alike will love them. The best part is that you can use whichever cheese is a household fave! Get The Weary Chef’s recipe by clicking here.
Homemade tater tots? Yes, please! These muffin tin tots are filled with cheese, chives, and bacon, and taste just like mini-loaded baked potatoes. ‘Nuff said, right? Get the recipe over at Well Plated.
Cheesy, crispy warm pasta bites? Yes, please! This super simple finger food recipe uses store-bought ravioli (choose any flavor you like!), parmesan cheese, and panko bread crumbs to create a kid-friendly appetizer that's sure to be snatched up at your next holiday gathering. Get the recipe over at Food Fanatic.
Ready to spice up your usual movie night? This time, roll out the red carpet, pop some popcorn, and throw a movie night party for your budding film buffs and their friends. From invites to games to giveaways, we’ve rounded the best movie night ideas that’ll have you pulling off a five-star evening with ease. Read on for all the details.
One of our favorite movie night ideas is to start with an invitation! We especially love the idea of an “all-access badge” that kids can wear to the party. To get all the details on this epic party, complete with a red carpet and popcorn arch, click here.
Become a party planner extraordinaire on the fly with a set of printables. Etsy shop Cupcake Wishes has an awesome movie night pack that includes a popcorn bar garland, table signs for food, a personalized invite and more. Your home will be transformed into a theater in no time.
How cute is this movie night idea? Run a ticket chain from wall to wall for an adorable decoration. It's so easy to put together that you might end up making it long enough to loop the house twice. Mom blogger Rubyellen of CAKIES suggests using washi tape (or glue) to stick them together. Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors!
Movie Night Fort
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Turn your movie night into a mini slumber party by building a fort, filling it with comfy cushions, and busting out the Christmas lights for the perfect lighting. Need some fort inspiration? Here are 13 different-sized and styled ones that work for any home.
A movie night usually involves lots of bite-sized snacks, which is why we think this idea from Penny Pincher Jenny is pure genius. Each compartment has a big enough space for snacks and drinks, and the handle makes it easy to clean up when the fun is over. Head to your local dollar store to stock up for the big night.
When it comes to movie night ideas, what’s better than popcorn? Popcorn with all the trimmings! The candy bar trend has moved into popcorn, and we like the version created by Jessica of Happily Hughes—stylish and easy to recreate.
Avoid a tomato sauce mess with these convenient pizza roll-ups. This also works as a great activity for kids if they love to make their own meals. In a short five minutes, you can have your own pocket of ooey-gooey cheese! Head over to foodaholic Christy’s blog The Girl Who Ate Everything for the full recipe.
Pick Your Movie Night Selection
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This might be the most important party planning step: picking a movie. To help get you started,check out our list of movies that kids should see before turning 10. With more than 100 to choose from, you’re sure to find a winner on this list.
You’ve seen every Disney movie twice, and you've marked the calendar to watch another (again)—so why not have a little fun with your Mouseketeer’s love for the films with a Disney Couples Memory Game? Family blogger Sarah of Bombshell Bling has printable memory cards that you can use.
Challenge kids to a seek-and-find game as they watch the movie. Use pictures of the characters for young tots, spelled-out character names for your budding readers or a mixture of both! Wiz kids will feel like winners as they recognize the characters on and off the screen. Get more great tips for this game from Hands on As We Grow.
Read the Book First
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Got siblings with varying bedtimes? When your tiniest bookworm doesn’t want to miss out on the movie, start with a quick story time. Many children’s films have an abridged flipbook too. We can already hear the excitement of having story time, a movie, and bedtime all in one!
Keep your goodie bags simple (but super cute) with this fun idea from Sweet Designs. With some creative cutting and drawing, paper bags become old-school movie tickets. Fill them up with candy or brownies to send them off in style.
Your film fanatic might not know what these reel-y cool boxes are, but after filling them with awesome treats and favors, they’ll love it anyway! Psst...these boxes do take a little origami work. Get your printable DIY copy at PiggyBankParties via Etsy for $5.
We have plenty of inspiration for your cinematic soirée
This summer, swap out your usual Netflix on the couch for something way more exciting—an outdoor movie night! Stock up on popcorn, invite some friends, and set up a movie screen in the backyard. We’ve rounded up plenty of inspiration for your cinematic soirée, from decor ideas to irresistible snack options. The only thing you’ll have to worry about: which movie will it be? This list will give you some great ideas.
Your backyard will be ready for an outdoor movie night in no time thanks to these fun printables from Hostess with the Mostess. There are signs to welcome your guests, DIY popcorn boxes, and even a checklist to help keep track of party prep.
Make Sure It's a Stress-Free Setup
CINEMOOD
If you're at a loss on what projector set up to purchase, make it easy on yourself with CINEMOOD. This three-inch rechargeable cube allows you to connect to WiFi and stream Netflix, Amazon Prime, or YouTube, or download content to use when offline. It even comes with educational Disney content included on the device.
Need decor inspiration for your outdoor movie night? We love this party put together by Camille Styles, complete with fluffy pillows, low tables, and draped lights.
An easy way to wow with an outdoor movie night is to use clear inflatable chairs. Just be sure it’s a cool night to avoid being stuck once the movie is over!
A table full of kid-friendly snacks is always a way to make sure you have something every guest will like. Check out our favorite summer charcuterie boards here to be inspired.
If you’ve got a fire pit, now’s the time to use it to its full potential! But even if you don’t, you can still make s’mores—click here for all our favorite recipes including the ultimate s'mores dip!
Okay, so you might want to just file this one under “dream backyard”: The Horticult has built a wow-worthy theater in their own garden. Click here to get all the details on how they did it, including 3D sketches!
Discover the best candy shops in Chicago that will satisfy your sweet-tooth
Chicago is home to a variety of delectable candy treats, from the iconic Tootsie Rolls, Brach’s, Frango Mints, Wrigley Gum, Fannie May, and Mars Candy, so it’s no surprise that the Windy City also has a number of must-stop candy shops that are worth your time and money. Whether you’re looking for classic American treats, international flavors, or creative confections,Chicago candy stores are all guaranteed to have a memorably sweet treat for you (and your candy-loving kids).
The Best Candy Stores in Chicago
1. Margie’s Candies
Margie’s is one of the oldest candy shops in Chicago and has been serving up classic treats since 1921. The signature item here is the sundae, but the store also offers a wide selection of candies, from caramels to chocolates. Don’t forget to try the homemade fudge!
This family–owned bakery is known for its cakes, cupcakes, and other baked goods, but it also has an impressive selection of candy. Try the malt balls, salt water taffy, and gummy bears as well as their mouth-wateringtruffles and candy bars.
The Fudge Pot is a family–run shop located in Chicago, that specializes in handmade fudge. Founded in 1980, Mary and John have been crafting traditional and unique flavors of fudge for over 40 years. The Fudge Pot has a wide variety of flavors to choose from, including the signature flavor, Vanilla Caramel Swirl, as well as Dark Chocolate, Pistachio, Peanut Butter, andmore, making it a favorite among Chicagoans.
This unique and fun candy shopoffers an eclectic selection of quality candy from around the world. Here you’ll find bulk items and sweet treats including gummies, sours, taffy, M&Ms in over 20 colors and over 30 flavors of Jelly Bellies. Add to that, Chicago’s first licorice bar.
This unapologetic shrine to sugar is complete with extravagant displays, over-the-top sweets, one-of-a-kind gifts, and immersive experiences. There’s even a TikTok-trending candy section. Be on the lookout for the 11-foot Ferris Wheel candy display and the Chicago skyline made entirely of Jellybeans. You can also find IT’SUGAR at the Navy Pier and in Gurnee and Schaumburg.
Family-owned and operated, Graham's Fine Chocolates in charming downtown Geneva is a must-visit. Their fine, hand-dipped chocolates and homemade ice cream are a draw year-round. Count on an assortment of unique caramel apples, rich hot cocoas, pretzels dipped in chocolate, and can't miss, chocolate-covered bacon. YUM.
At Dulcelandia, you'll find every Mexican candy and chocolate treat under the sun. Be adventurous and give some of the more interesting sweets a taste. We like Rollos de Cocco (jumbo milk coconut rolls) and chili-covered mango lollipops. Every kid (and adult!) will love the Obleas, wafers covered with creamy caramel.
See if you can squeeze into this teeny-tiny penny candy shop—actually, a storefront wedged into the small space between two larger buildings. Then, fill your little paper bag to the brim. Choose from old-fashioned (bullseyes and flying saucers) to new-fangled (pop rocks and sour patch worms) and be sure to take a giant bag of freshly hand-popped popcorn to go.
Go gourmet and pop into Katherine Anne Confections, a Chicago sweets shop that has an eye for delicious, locally and seasonally inspired sweets. The rotating selection of hand-dipped truffles, soft honey caramels and pillowy marshmallows are made with the best-of-the-best ingredients, and the seasonal flavors are to die for.
Forgo the ordinary and tour Asia via candy. At Aji Ichiban, you take your pick from thousands of candies and sweet and salty snacks from Asia. The shrimp and squid flavored treats are especially interesting, while the wide range of sweet gummies are sure to be gobbled up in a flash. Customers are encouraged to sample before buying, making shopping for treats here especially sweet.
Located in the heart of Chicago in the Historic Stockyard Industrial Park, Superior Nut & Candy is Chicago's go-to spot for sweets. The individual bags of trail mix and chocolate-covered peanuts are especially sought-after goodies, while the mini bags of yogurt pretzels and dried fruits offer a slightly healthier-ish option.
Ferrara Pan has been cranking out candy classics since 1908, and at the Ferrara Pan Outlet, you can buy his sweet candies fresh from the factory, with awesome prices to boot. You'll find all your childhood favorites—Lemonheads, Nerds, Sour Jack, Atomic FireBall, Laffy Taffy and more—packaged in their sweet retro boxes, perfectly sized for little ones.
Founded by Larry Burdick in 1987, and now continued by Chocolatier Michael Klug, L.A. Burdick Chocolates opened their first Chicago location in 2017. Each bonbon here is hand-piped, hand-cut, hand-garnished and hand-packed. You'll find all of the signature L.A. Burdick’s chocolates you adore, including their Signature Chocolate Mice, bonbons, seasonal offerings and vegan selections. In the fall and winter, L.A. Burdick warms the hearts of many with its beloved Drinking Chocolate.
Indoor or out, there are plenty of activities to keep your family busy in the new year!
A new year and a new month are just around the corner. If you’ve resolved to find amazing new adventures with your kids, we’ve got ideas—one for each day of the month, in fact. In between your snowy sledding adventures and your busy back-to-school schedules, try one of these family activities that’s anything but boring.
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1. Celebrate the New Year at a National Park (psst…entrance fees are waived on January 16 because it is Martin Luther King Jr. Day). These popular parks have the outdoor bells and whistles families love or try a little-known park for a change of scenery.
2. Looking for other ways to celebrate 2023’s arrival with the kids? We’ve got family friendly ideas you can do at home.
3. Ditch your family’s New Year’s resolutions for new routines, instead. It’s a great way for kids (and parents!) to set and keep goals all year long.
4. Break out winter activity sheets for a quick family activity during the witching hour.
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5. Get your kiddos ready to head back to the classroom after a long winter break with memory games they’ll love.
18. Whether you’ve got enough snow on the ground to build a whole snow family (or you’re just dreaming of winter’s favorite frozen stuff), these snowman snacks will make kids smile.
This year’s peak bloom predictions are in: the cherry blossoms should peak between Mar. 22 – 25. Want to celebrate all things pink and flowery? This year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is kicking off DC’s most popular event with the annual parade and tons of family fun. With everything from the Bloom Cam to make-at-home pink popcorn, you don’t even have to leave home to celebrate. Read on for the best ways to celebrate Japan’s famous gift to Washington, DC beyond the Tidal Basin.
Celebrate spring along the Anacostia River at Petalpalooza. Spend the day listening to live music, strolling the beer garden and enjoying hands-on, family-friendly activities and crafts. Cap the night off with a fireworks display over the river.
When: April 16 (Rain date: April 17), 1- 9 p.. Where: Capitol Riverfront at the Yards, 355 Water St. SE Online: tinybeans.com
The Tidal Basin is one of the most popular spots to enjoy the new blooms of the cherry blossom trees. During peak blossom time, everyone plans to visit the beautiful spot and grab a few photos. But don't worry! You can skip the crowds and watch this year's flowers unfold from the comfort of your living room. DC's Tidal Basin features an interactive camera for 24-hour viewing. The location is ideal for prime viewing. Check out the EarthCam here.
Join your community in celebrating our favorite springtime pastime at the Art Blooms at Mosaic festival. Keep your kids busy with tons of kid-friendly activities while you enjoy the live entertainment, farmers market and beer and wine gardens. Skip packing lunches because FRESHFARM is setting up 50 local vendors serving delicious local produce and snacks.
Insider Tip: For the Tiktoker in your life, they'll love to stop at all the selfie stations throughout the festival. Do you have a princess-obsessed kid? Visit the 'Glamour Tent' offering face painting and braiding from a princess.
When: 3-6 p.m., April 2-3 Where: Mosaic, District Avenue, Fairfax, Va 22031 Online: tinybeans.com
After a year off, you and your family can rediscover the joy of kite flying back on the Washington Monument grounds. If you'd prefer to skip the crowds, grab your kite and participate in either the virtual or in-person options. Fly your kite from your favorite neighborhood park or anywhere across the globe.
When: Mar. 26-27 Where: Washington Monument Grounds Online: tinybeans.com
One of the year's biggest events is back in 2022, which means crowds. But don't skip it just yet. We've got the inside scoop on how to play tourist like a local. Reserve your parade route or telecast area tickets, and you'll have the perfect family viewing spot with assigned seats.
When: 10 a.m., April 9 Where: Constitution Ave. from 7th to 17th Streets Online: tinybeans.com
The coolest street festival of the year is back in a big way. Get your hands on the newest Japanese tech at the Japan Smart Infrastructure Pavilion. Step into the blossoming Japanese food culture on the Culinary Arts Stage. You and your crew can bring Japanese cuisine home with sushi demonstrations and intros to local ingredients.
When: April 9-10, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. When: Pennsylvania Ave. NW - Between 3rd and 7th Streets Online: tinybeans.com
This is one cool idea (literally). You can make cherry blossom-flavored ice cream with just a few handfuls of flowers! You'll need a little patience for the first step: blooms need to be salted for 3 days to remove the bitter aftertaste. Once your flowers are ready, it's time for some kitchen fun with some help from your pint-sized sous chef. For the recipe, head here.
Book your Picnic in the Park Package complete with a blanket to lounge on while you sip cold drinks and take in the blossoming sights. Or, try a weekend getaway close to home and take home a Cherry Tree Grow Kit or a Flower Peeping Treasure Map. Local Hilton hotels are all in on the Cherry Blossom fun, and you won't want to miss it.
Just in time for the family movie marathon; this candy-coated popcorn has a sweet vanilla flavor, but its pink coloring makes kernels look a lot like cherry blossoms. You can enjoy this as a sweet treat or use it for a pop-tastic craft. Get the recipe here. And get ready to make some DIY cherry popcorn blossom trees (here) or use the popcorn like a stamp to create pretty flowers. The bottom of soda bottles and bubble wrap also works as picture-perfect stamps.
#RediscoverSpring by decorating your stoop (or yard or windows) as part of Petal Porches. Get your kids involved, and deck out your front porch in pink and petals. Decorations should be out from March 20 through April 17 for all to enjoy. Be sure to register in advance, and pick a creative name to add to the list.
All you need is a stick, an egg carton and some pipe cleaners to make these winsome cherry blossoms. No pink paint on hand? No problem. Au natural looks fetching, too! For step-by-step instructions, head here.
When you've finished a roll of your stockpiled TP, don't toss the tube. The secret to this craft is to paint the cardboard before you cut them into slices. For detailed instructions, check out Crafts by Amanda.
It’s that sweet time of year when giving kids sugar isn’t just okay, it’s encouraged. Yup, Valentine’s Day is under a month away, and what better way to say “I Love You” than with a trip to a classic candy shop? The metroplex is filled with spots that would even make Willy Wonka’s eyes pop, and we’ve listed our very favorites here. From gourmet chocolate to old-school goodies you’ll want to snack on yourself, see the top candy stores in Dallas-Fort Worth below.
You can find everything from Whirly Pops to Candian candy (think Oh Henry!) bars at this fun spot. They also have a great selection of specialty sodas.
2701 Main Street, Ste. 160 Deep Ellum, TX 75226
1707 N Collins Street, Ste. 111 Arlington, TX 76011
Tucked away in a corner of the historic West End district, you’ll find more than just candy here. There’s a great selection of cheesecake and gelato, too.
Located in Rockwall, Popcorn Papa is known for its wide variety of gourmet popcorn, but did you know they also have a great candy shop with sugary goodies that fulfill every kid’s sugarplum dreams.
Located in Fort Worth’s historic Sundance Square, not only can you find 1 lb. Reese’s and Hershey Bars, but they also carry Funko Pop! figurines, which means it’s a tween’s dream come true.
A Dallas institution, this renowned Bishop Arts sweet shop has an array of treats including decadent truffles, homemade marshmallows, chocolate bars, drinking chocolate and more.
Your kids can pick their bag of goodies from over 600 varieties of candy, including chocolate, sour candies, sugar-free candy, and nostalgic candy bars like Big Hunk.
Besides all the unique popcorn flavors, this McKinney-based sweets shop has an old-fashioned feel with glass bins and big barrels filled with almost every kind of candy kids can imagine.
Chicago lights up around the holidays—literally. The Christmas season officially begins in the Windy City with The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, with Mickey and Minnie Mouse leading the charge as Grand Marshals. It is the Midwest, so dress in warm layers and take your family for an evening of festive city fun. Read on to learn more about this popular Chicago Christmas parade, including where families should line up for the best views, as well as where to stay and what to eat while downtown.
Schedule
The weekend's free festivities begin with a Lights Festival preview night on Fri., Nov. 19, 4 p.m. featuring a tree-lighting ceremony in The Wrigley Building Centennial Plaza (410 N. Michigan Ave.). Musical entertainment will be provided by Grammy-nominated singer, actress and Broadway star Deborah Cox and the Chicago Carolers.
On Sat., Nov. 20, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Lights Festival Lane (Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave.) hosts a variety of family-friendly activities including Subaru's Share the Love pet adoption event in partnership with PAWS Chicago, a photo opp with Eli's Cheesecake Company's 30th anniversary Lights Festival cake and cheesecake, and live DJ entertainment. Families can capture a photo with Santa and get free, temporary holiday tattoos in the BMO Kid Zone. At 5:30 p.m., Grand Marshals Mickey and Minnie step off in their new 50th-anniversary attire, leading a magical tree-lighting parade between Oak St. and Wacker Dr. along The Magnificent Mile.
Highlights
Watch for new floats designed by CPS students in partnership with BMO Harris Bank and T-Mobile. This new partnership was created to bring a real-world, work-based STEAM design challenge to students.
Also new this year is the balloon debut of Bumble, the Abominable Snowman (from 1964 TV special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer), plus four high school marching bands from Ohio, and The Pack - Official Chicago Sky Drum Line.
Returning fan-favorites include Rudolph, the Petosky Steel Drum Band, The Cirque Experience/Wheel Jam, and more.
Celebrity appearances along the parade route include one of the most renowned groups of all time, Kool & The Gang who will perform Celebration, a fitting song for the occasion. The diverse entertainment lineup also includes the American hip hop/pop rap duo from Atlanta, Tag Team, plus Broadway artist Deborah Cox, and American Idol finalist and Illinois native, Grace Kinstler.
Additional performers appearing during the television broadcast-only will include the cast from Broadway in Chicago's upcoming production of Frozen, Chicago Theatre, Cirque: Twas the Night Before, Chicagoland dance teams and Teatro ZinZanni.
Santa Claus will soar down the route to officially signal the start of the holiday season before the grand conclusion featuring a spectacular fireworks show shining over the Chicago River.
Best Spots for Viewing
Birds-Eye View of The Magnificent Mile For crazy-cool aerial views, visit 360 CHICAGO Observatory and see The Mag Mile from 1,000 feet up!
Tree-Light Parade Viewing Remember that Michigan Ave. is typically less crowded on the east side of the street, especially at the north end of the procession route.
Fireworks Spectacular Viewing A stunning fireworks show is displayed over the Chicago River at the DuSable Bridge, so standing along Wacker Dr. or in Pioneer Court (401 N. Michigan Ave.) are prime viewing spots. Just remember, the DuSable Bridge closes as early as 3:30 p.m., so be sure to make your way across the bridge before that time.
How to View at Home
The parade will air on ABC 7 Chicago on Sun., Nov. 21 and Sat., Dec. 11, 6 p.m., and on Christmas Day at 8 a.m.
The nationally televised event will be hosted by ABC 7 Eyewitness News Anchors Alan Krashesky and Cheryl Burton on Sun. Nov. 21, 6 p.m.-7 p.m., on ABC 7 Chicago. Anchors Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini will capture the magic from the street.
Additionally, The Lights Festival can also be streamed on abc7chicago.com and will be available on-demand and on the ABC 7 Chicago app.
photo: Swissotel Chicago
Where to Stay
Many hotels near The Magnificent Mile offer discounts and special perks the weekend of the parade, and throughout the holiday and winter season. However, rooms tend to book quickly so make your plans well in advance. You’ll have more than 70 hotels to choose from on or near the Magnificent Mile, from luxury to affordable accommodations and from boutique to large-scale in size.
Hilton Hotels of Chicago, Kimpton Hotels, ACME Hotel, Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park, The Peninsula Chicago, Best Western River North, Loews Hotel and Swissotel Chicago are all family-friendly, offering great deals or special perks and experiences.
Where to Eat
Gino's East
Of course, there will be a variety of drinks and noshes at Lights Festival Lane in Pioneer Court, including Eli's Cheesecake Company to satisfy the sweet tooths. Follow your nose to Garrett Popcorn Shops for some of their famous popcorn, Gino's East River North for classic deep dish pizza, Shanghai Terrace for an elevated Cantonese experience, Rosebud on Rush for Italian favorites, and Frontera Grill and Tanta for Latin cuisine.
We recommend taking public transportation, but if you're driving, book parking in advance through SpotHero. To reserve your spot, visit the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival SpotHero Parking Page and book a spot with rates up to 50% off drive-up.
Millennium Park Garage & Grant Park North Garage are closest to the south end of the Lights Festival parade route on Michigan Avenue. Pre-purchase parking for your lowest rate.
If you are looking for downtown parking near Pioneer Court for the Lights Festival parade, InterPark is a great option. Easy out after the end-of-night fireworks show.
Public Restrooms
Lights Festival Lane, Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Avenue
The Magnificant Mile Information Tent (401 N. Michigan Ave.) is available for questions and information about the Festival and will have complimentary hand warmers. Download the local Discovery Guide, with app partner GettinLocal, to receive real-time events updates concerning the parade.
COVID Protocols
Any guest attending any of the Lights Festival events will be asked to wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status, throughout the Lights Festival footprint.
Looking for the perfect nostalgic stocking stuffer? Two words: Adult Play-Doh. Even better, the new six-packs are scented with your favorite memories from the ’90s!
Drumroll please for the six unique dohs. Yellow is “VHS Rental n’ Chill” and it’s buttered popcorn scent. Pink is “Dial Up Delight” and strawberry scented. Orange is “Mall Food Court” and supposedly smells like mystery meat? Blue is “Eau de Boy Band” and is aptly pine cologne scented. Gold is “Pump Up the Jamz” and has a sneaker scent. Finally, sparkly black is “Flannel Fresh” with a floral scent.
As if you could resist this throwback! Whether you’re buying it as a gift or for yourself, you can snag the “Grown Up Scents ’90s Edition” Play-Doh multipack on Amazon now. At only $12, it’s an easy way to relive the best decade ever!
First it’s sour, then it’s…salty? If you’ve mixed SOUR PATCH KIDS into your popcorn before, or if the ingenious idea is new to you, pay attention to this news. You’ll be able to buy Candy Pop Popcorn with the sour and sweet candies starring starting this month!
If you gravitate toward sour candy at the movies, this pairing might be a dream come true. The new popcorn has a “Redberry” flavored coating on the kernels, topped with bits of SOUR PATCH KIDS and finished with a sour sugar sprinkle. Expect a sour, sweet and salty explosion in every bite.
The puckering new product will be available first at Walmart stores nationwide. After that, you’ll be able to buy it online and at other major retailers, like Hy-Vee grocery stores. If you gravitate toward sweeter snacks, then Candy Pop has a delicious array of other popcorns available, including Twix, Snickers and Butterfinger.