6 Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Chicago This Year | Hotel EMC2

6 Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Chicago This Year

During November, families gather together to eat turkey, watch football games, eat some more, and participate in fun fall festivities. The Windy City is a great place to visit this time of year, with the fall foliage changing to breathtaking colors and the weather shifting from warm to crisp. There are many ways to celebrate Thanksgiving in Chicago this year, ranging from family-friendly activities to things you can do with friends. Here’s our list of 6 ways you can celebrate Thanksgiving in Chicago this year.

Ice skate at Maggie Daley Park

Starting on November 20, you’ll be able to ice skate at Maggie Daley Park’s Skating Ribbon. The Skating Ribbon is not only at an iconic location, with the city’s sweeping skyline in the background, but it also features a winding pathway of ice instead of a traditional round rink. The best part of the rink is that it is free, you only need to pay for skate rentals. However, this year, you’ll need to make a reservation to keep social distancing guidelines. The Skating Ribbon even has limited hours on Thanksgiving Day, as well as other upcoming holidays.

Drink cider or hot cocoa

It’s the perfect time of year to grab a hot cup of cocoa, coffee, or cider to warm up. There are many coffee shops, bars, and restaurants across the city where you can grab a steaming cup of your preference. You could visit the world’s largest Starbucks, located on Michigan Avenue, or try out Sip of Hope in Logan Square, Caffé Streets in Wicker Park, or Metric Coffee Co on Fulton Street, amongst many other cozy and intimate coffee shops. 

Watch the Bear’s play at a restaurant

With da Bear’s having a great season this year, you might want to visit a local restaurant to watch the next game. Make a reservation at the restaurant of your choice, if necessary, and then watch one of Chicago’s favorite sports teams with friends and a drink in hand. 

Get takeout from a restaurant

During November, you might want to consider getting takeout from a restaurant since patio season is over. Or, you might want to try new foods to get ideas for your own Thanksgiving meal. Chicago is full of many top restaurants, so make sure you do your research by looking at Google reviews or Yelp. There are also many popular Chicago dishes that you could try, like deep dish pizza or Chicago-style hot dogs. 

Watch a comedy show

Even though most live shows are canceled this year, The Stoop Comedy Show is bringing humor through weekly outdoor showcases on a stoop in Logan Square. You can buy a ticket and watch the show in-person, however, make sure to wear a face mask since they are required. The show is also broadcast live via Twitch if you’d rather stay inside and watch it. The show is currently ongoing through November 27. 

Eat pie

Nothing says Thanksgiving like pie! Pie is a staple Thanksgiving dessert menu item. Chicago is filled with delicious pie shops, you just need to know where to look. Some of Chicago’s famous pie shops include First Slice, which has a famous apple pie—Food & Wine hailed First Slice’s apple pie as one of the best in the country. Or, you could visit Sweet Mandy B’s, a shop with locations in Lincoln Park and Streeterville, that has whole nine-inch pies, with flavors such as banana cream, apple cherry, and lemon meringue. Check out some of Chicago’s best pie shops on Eater Chicago.

Planning your visit

Whether you choose to visit Chicago now or in the future, you’ll have a unique and thrilling experience, not to mention the stunning landscapes you’ll be able to see. After you’ve selected your travel dates, you’ll need to decide where you’ll stay on your trip. Consider booking a hotel located in the heart of the city, close to nearly everything. Next up, pack your bags with essentials like warm clothes and a face covering to keep you safe and healthy. Now you’re ready for your upcoming trip to Chicago filled with breathtaking adventures and spectacular sights. 

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