chicago winter Archives | Sweating Champagne

Let’s hear those sleigh bells ringing! The holiday season is here, which means there are a lot of great events to check out in Chicago. My favorites from past years have included festive pop-ups such as Jack Frost Winter Fest Pop-Up and local markets like Christkindlmarket. Below you will find a list of recommended things to do in Chicago this winter!

Jack Frost Winter Fest Pop-Up

Date: November 30, 2023 – December 31, 2023
Location: Fulton Market
Cost: Admission $18-$34 + Selected Activities
View my 2022 Jack Frost Winter Fest Pop-Up review here!

ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo

Date: November 17, 2023 – January 7, 2024
Location: Lincoln Park Zoo
Cost: Mondays are free, other dates $7-$10 admission, possible drinks available for purchase

Christkindlmarket Chicago

Date: November 17, 2023 – December 31, 2023 (locations vary)
Location: Daley Plaza (Loop) & Gallagher Way (Wrigleyville)
Cost: Free admission, Food/Drink/Shop items available for purchase
View a recap of my past experience at Christkindlmarket here!

Santa Baby Christmas Bar

Date: November 17, 2023 – December. 31, 2023
Location: Bamboo Club in Wrigleyville
Cost: $5 cover charge on certain dates, Food & drink available for purchase

Pink Wonderland Pop-Up Bar

Date: December 2, 2023 – December. 30, 2023
Location: 324 W Chicago Ave
Cost: $25-$40 admission

Ice Skating at Maggie Daley Park

Date: November 17, 2023 – March 10, 2024
Location: Maggie Daley Park
Cost: $16-$22 admission, Locker rentals $3-$5, Skate aids $10

The Most Instagramable Hot Chocolate To Indulge In

Brrrrr it’s cold in here, I said there must be some Chi winds in the atmosphere. Anyone else Bring It On fans?? The temperatures have dropped and the wind chill is on the rise. While teddy coats and fur boats may keep us warm, only hot chocolate can heat up the soul when outside is frightful. A cafe visit wouldn’t be anything if you can’t ‘gram it though, so I have rounded up where to get instagramable hot chocolate in Chicago this winter season!

where-to-get-hot-chocolate-chicago-bodega

Bodega Imports

Bodega Imports in River North released a super extra Mexican Hot Chocolate this season and it is to die for. Not only is it adorned in gold glitter all over (including a glitter marshmallow), but the drink is also pretty tasty.

Bombobar

Talk about Instagramable hot chocolate! Bombobar’s 2018 ‘hotter’ chocolate additions include S’mores and Party Monster. At $9 each, these hot treats are super colorful and can be spiked for +$8.

Katherine Anne Confections

This Logan Square confectionery is known for their decadent hot chocolates. From Spiced Pear to White Chocolate Chai to Earl Grey Lavender, there are so many tasty flavors to choose from. Follow their Instagram to stay updated on menu adds!

The Lobby at The Peninsula

On Friday and Saturday evenings from 7pm to 10pm, those dining in can experience The Lobby’s Chocolate Bar, featuring the opportunity to create custom hot cocoa. Snap away as your own chocolate creation is made at your table!

Mindy’s Hot Chocolate

Like the name eludes to, this place is all about the hot chocolate. Choose from classic flavors including Medium Chocolate, Mexican, Dark Chocolate, Chocolate Mint, Dark Oatmilk, Boozy, and Old Fashioned. Each drink comes with a famous house-made marshmallow!

Things to Do in Chicago: Winter 2023