Best Cozy Weekend – December 12th & 13th | Chicago Moms Network

First, a reminder from Classic Kids Photography! Holiday shoots (whether full shoots or Cozy winter mini shoots) must be completed by December 12th in order to guarantee cards in time for the holidays! Be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the post for more information about their COZY Winter Mini Shoots, happening now in Lincoln Park!

Happy Hanukkah to all those who celebrate! We have a chilly weekend coming up in Chicago, but there is no shortage of virtual and socially distanced in-person events to keep your family busy! We are planning a quiet week at home, and will definitely be tuning in to some of the virtual holiday events. I hope that you all have a beautiful, rejuvenating weekend with your families! 

Break out the ballet shoes for a magical virtual Nutcracker event

Children ages 7-9 can participate in the Joffrey Ballet’s Virtual Enchanted Evening, highlighting The Joffrey Ballet’s one-of-a-kind Nutcracker! This event takes place December 11th from 6:30-7:30pm. My daughter attended the Enchanted Evening last week for younger children, and can not stop talking about it. Expect lots of dancing, music, and stories. The Joffrey Academy of Dance’s Trish Strong will lead a class of young dancers and dance enthusiasts on a Nutcracker journey, complete with special guest appearances from The Joffrey Ballet Company Artists! Register here. Tickets are $15. 

Virtual Enchanted Evening

Sing along with a holiday music class from the comfort of home 

The Music Playhouse of Chicago is offering holiday sing-a-longs all weekend long, at 10am on Saturday December 12th, 4pm Saturday December 12th, and 11am Sunday December 13th! Register here. Be ready to jingle, sing, shake, and swing! There will be lots of singing and dancing in this 30 minute interactive and energetic Holiday themed music class!

The Music Playhouse of Chicago

Refuel after a decorations hunt at a cozy hot cocoa and cookie stand 

Get out of the house after dark to go on a hunt for holiday decorations all through Lincoln Park! Once you’re certain that your kids have expended enough energy (thus ensuring a smooth bedtime routine…), stop at Gemini in Lincoln Park to visit their new “Holiday Hut”! The Holiday Hut is open from 3pm to close (closed Monday and Tuesday), and has a fantastic selection of warm drinks and holiday cookies! I’m already planning on the spiked hot cocoa for 2! Menu can be found here. 

Gemini Holiday Hut

Craft together as a family at a Hanukkah themed art workshop 

KidCreate Chicago has a TON of fun workshops on the calendar, including several Hanukkah themed workshops this weekend! There is a parent/child class this Sunday from 9-9:45 for children 18 months-6 years, where you’ll make a precious Star of David from air dry clay. Register here. There is also a class for older children (ages 4-9), where they will make a glittery menorah! Register here. Be sure to check out the full calendar for all of their fun offerings this holiday season, both in-person and virtual! I’m definitely thinking about signing my kids up for the holiday ornament virtual craft party! 

KidCreate Holiday Workshops

Enjoy a stroll through a brand new holiday market, followed by festive German fare on a cozy patio  

The Press Room in West Loop has TOTALLY transformed in the Miracle on Washington Street – an immersive holiday market experience with a variety of local vendors and goods. It’s your one stop shop for unique holiday gifts! In addition to the market, the seasonal menu for Chef Jeff Williams will feature iconic items including raclette grilled cheese, schnitzel sandwiches, house-made bratwurst and sauerkraut, sourdough pretzels, potato panckes, and nutella waffles. The beverage menu features hot gluhwein, spiked cider, Irish coffee, wine pours, and more. The market is open through December 28th, 11am-9pm. A $25 ticket pre-reserved ticket gets your a one-way walk through the holiday market, a craft cocktail in a commemorative mug, and and a reserved patio table! Reserve your spot here
 

Miracle on Washington Street

COZY Winter Mini Shoots happening NOW at Classic Kids Photography in Lincoln Park! Throw on your cutest knit sweaters and winter accessories, and they’ll capture the PERFECT imagery for your holiday card! Slots are limited! To book, you can call their studio at 1773-296-2607 or submit a booking inquiry here!

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