Explore exciting events across Chicagoland this winter… from music and community celebrations to wellness and more! With so many opportunities to enjoy the season, here are a few of our top picks to check out this weekend.
Chill Out at Ice Festival
Downtown Downers Grove transforms into a frozen art gallery at this annual fest. Watch live ice carving, explore intricate sculptures, and warm up with shopping and dining specials from local businesses.
Date: January 31-February 2
Time: Fri 5:30PM-7:30PM; Sat & Sun 11AM-3PM
Cost: Free
Location: Various Locations
More Info: downtowndg.org
Find the Perfect Gift at the Valentine Craft and Vendor Show
Find a one-of-a-kind gift for your Valentine-or yourself-at this cozy market featuring local artisans and vendors. Start with breakfast at Chuck’s Café, then browse handmade jewelry, home décor, and other unique finds.
Date: February 1
Time: 9AM-1PM
Cost: Free
Location: Chuck’s Southern Comforts Café, 8025 S Cass Ave, Darien
More Info: facebook.com
Discover the Magic of Winter Wonderland: A Family Adventure
From snowshoeing and sleigh rides to ice carving and animal encounters, this fest brings winter fun indoors and out. Kids can craft, play carnival games, and navigate an evergreen maze, while parents enjoy seasonal treats.
Date: February 1
Time: 10AM-2PM
Cost: $12
Location: William F Sherman Jr Interpretive Venter, 901 31st St, Downers Grove
More Info: webtrac.dgparks.org
Go to Luchador Market
Craft beer meets craftsmanship at this lively market featuring Mexican artisans and the latest releases in the Luchador Barrel-Aged Beer Series. Sip on bold brews-like the double barrel-aged Rey Gordo Cuvée or the mazapán-infused Don Moustache-while browsing handmade goods from vendors like Alcala’s Western Wear and Mezcal Amaras, and enjoy tacos.
Date: February 1
Time: 12PM-5PM
Cost: $5
Location: Cruz Blanca Brewery, 904 W Randolph
More Info: eventbrite.com
Support Small at the Ravenswood Makers Market
From handcrafted jewelry to one-of-a-kind home decor, this neighborhood market spotlights the talents of local artisans. Whether you’re hunting for a statement piece or just browsing, it’s the perfect place to support small businesses while discovering something unique.
Date: February 1
Time: 1PM-6PM
Cost: Free
Location: KOVAL Tasting Room, 4241 N Ravenswood Ave
More Info: eventbrite.com
Welcome the New Year with A Loooooooong Celebration: Lunar New Year Show
Ring in the Year of the Snake with art, performances, live music, and fortune-telling at this festive Lunar New Year celebration. Expect a mix of creativity and community, featuring artists like Beyond This Point and Hun Hazy.
Date: February 1
Time: 6PM-9PM
Cost: $35+
Location: Heritage Museum of Asian Art, 3500 S Morgan St
More Info: heritageasianart.org
Satisfy Your Cravings at Stan’s Donut Fest
Chicago’s sweetest party is back, serving up 12 donut tastings, coffee, and specialty drinks. Snap photos at themed installations, enjoy a live DJ, and take home a $5 gift card to Stan’s Donuts. Sugar rush guaranteed.
Date: February 1
Time: 12PM-3PM
Cost: $21+
Location: Moe’s Cantina, 155 W Kinzie St
More Info: eventbrite.com
Have Fun at Fika Fest
Andersonville’s annual ode to cozy Swedish traditions kicks off with a Coffee & Cocoa Crawl, showcasing the neighborhood’s best warm sips and sweet treats. The following day, swap puzzles at the Great Andersonville Puzzle Exchange or test your skills in a fast-paced puzzle throwdown.
Date: February 1-2
Time: Sat 10AM-2PM; Sun 10AM-2PM
Cost: Sat $10+; Sun Free
Location: Swedish American Museum, 5211 N Clark
More Info: andersonville.org
