Subscribe and receive email notifications of new blog posts.
RSS Feed
12
Eight Things To Do in the City and Western Suburbs: Nov. 14–16, 2025
From orchard visits to neighborhood fests, fall is full of reasons to get outside and soak it all in. We've rounded up a few local happenings to add to your list this weekend.
Have a glow-filled evening at Reindeer Run.
Brookfield Zoo kicks off the holiday season with its annual Reindeer Run, a two-mile evening fun run through the zoo's illuminated pathways. Participants get an early look at Holiday Magic, with lights, displays, and seasonal décor setting the tone for a festive night outdoors. Each runner receives a commemorative winter hat, and while registration is required for anyone running or walking on their own, children riding in strollers can participate for free.
Date: Nov. 15
Time: 5:30–9 p.m.
Cost: $40+
Location: Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield
More Info: runsignup.com
Take in the lights at IllumiBrew.
The Morton Arboretum's IllumiBrew offers a preview of Illumination: Tree Lights with an added craft-tasting twist. This after-dark experience pairs access to the Arboretum's award-winning light exhibition with 18 three-ounce beer and cider tastings served along the walking trail, plus a light-up tasting glass to take home. For non-drinkers, designated driver tickets include hot cocoa or cider refills and a nonalcoholic beer option. With its mix of atmosphere, seasonal lights, and tasting-focused stops, IllumiBrew continues to be one of the Arboretum's most popular early-winter events for adults looking for a social night outside.
Date: Nov. 14
Time: 5:30–10 p.m.
Cost: $85+
Location: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rt. 53, Lisle
More Info: mortonarb.org
Shop local at Holiday Arts, Fashion & Gift Bazaar.
Studio 928 transforms into a lively holiday marketplace for its annual Holiday Arts, Fashion and Gifts Bazaar, spotlighting independent artists and makers from Oak Park and across Chicagoland. The event features original artwork, handmade fashion, jewelry, ornaments, and seasonal décor. Guests can browse, meet the creators, enjoy festive treats and music, and take part in interactive art activities designed for all ages.
Date: Nov. 16
Time: 12–5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Art Studio 928, 451 S. Boulevard, Oak Park
More Info: eventbrite.com
Browse the Staple + Stitch Art Book & Print Fair.
The Staple + Stitch Art Book & Print Fair brings together more than 75 exhibitors for a weekend celebrating independent publishing and print culture. The event gathers small presses, zine makers, book artists, and printmakers under one roof, with offerings that range from limited-edition artist books to experimental printed works. Attendees can browse, take part in hands-on workshops, and catch demonstrations and book signings throughout the weekend. Free and open to all ages, the fair offers an accessible entry point into Chicago's creative print community and a chance to discover new voices working at the intersection of art, text, and design.
Date: Nov. 14–16
Time: Fri 6–9 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Hotel 55, 55 E. Ontario St.
More Info: stapleandstitchfair.com
Find artisanal gifts at the 21st-Lycée French Market.
Back for its 21st year, the Lycée French Market turns holiday shopping into a Paris-inspired outing. The bustling market features French and local artisans offering artwork, home décor, apparel, accessories, and gourmet treats. Visitors can stop by the on-site Bistro for classic dishes and baked goods, then browse the aisles for one-of-a-kind gifts with a European touch. Join in on the family-friendly activities and hunt for specialty items to ease into holiday prep with a bit of French flair.
Date: Nov. 15–16
Time: Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun 10–4 p.m.
Cost: $5 Suggested Donation
Location: Leading International School, 1929 W. Wilson Ave.
More Info: lyceefrenchmarket.org
Shop with pride at the Fa La La Fabulous Holiday Market.
This event gathers more than 40 LGBTQ+ and ally-owned small businesses for a festive retail pop-up at the Center on Halsted. Alongside seasonal goods and giftable items, the market highlights the creativity and entrepreneurship of Chicago's queer community. Proceeds support the Center's programs, which provide vital services to thousands each year. With a mix of handmade products, specialty treats, and a welcoming atmosphere, the market aims to become a new seasonal staple.
Date: Nov. 15
Time: 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Cost: $5 Suggested Donation
Location: Center on Halsted, 3656 N. Halsted St.
More Info: centeronhalsted.org
Party through the decades at Eras After Dark: A Field Museum Homecoming.
The Field Museum opens its doors after hours for this one-of-a-kind event, a 21+ evening that pairs science with a decade-hopping theme. Guests can wander through lounges styled around prehistoric eras blended with pop-culture references, from '70s-inspired Precambrian scenes to '90s-meets-Mesozoic moments. The night includes access to exhibitions, themed cocktails, interactive science stations, and a dance floor soundtracked by hits from multiple decades. With photo ops and light bites included, the event offers a playful take on museum nightlife. Costumes representing favorite eras—prehistoric or personal—are encouraged for the full effect.
Date: Nov. 14
Time: 6–10 p.m.
Cost: $55+
Location: Field Museum, 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr.
More Info: fieldmuseum.org
Get involved at City Civics Day.
City Civics Day brings residents, neighborhood groups, and City leaders together for a day focused on civic engagement and community impact. Held at the University of Chicago's David Rubenstein Forum, the free event features panel conversations, workshops, and networking sessions centered on local initiatives shaping Chicago's future. Attendees can learn about ongoing projects, meet the organizations behind them, and explore ways to participate at the neighborhood level. Art activities and conversation spaces round out the day, offering multiple entry points for those looking to better understand—and influence—the civic landscape of the city.
Date: Nov. 15
Time: 12–5 p.m.
Cost: Free With Reservation
Location: David Rubenstein Forum, University of Chicago, 1201 E. 60th St.
More Info: chicago.gov
AWARD WINNING SERVICES
GLOBAL REACH & HOME INSURANCE
WEBSITE AWARDS
Market Report
Sign up today to stay updated on what’s happening in your local real estate market.
