HOLIDAY DATE NIGHTS | CHICAGO

There's something magical about Christmas in Chicago. I have been on many first dates around this time of year and I can tell you there certainly is a special spark on a holiday date done right! Here are a few of my faves, I'd love to hear your faves, too!

-Now Open-

Last year a friend invited me to Frosty's Christmas Bar and I had a blast. The cocktails weren't worth it but for someone who really loves Christmas, it was quite the party! Snow machines, elves, upbeat holiday music, and very festive decor - I was not disappointed. Be sure to snag a reservation before you arrive - I've seen many sad faces waiting to be let in - best to plan ahead!

A similar pop-up bar is opening in Wrigley, Santa Baby Christmas Bar. With multiple floors and a real Santa awaiting your list, the Christmas spirit is jolly and ready for you to join! Drinks, food, and entertainment, this experience is one I'm making sure to check out. Timeout Magazine is calling it over the top so it sounds right up my alley! If you get there early you might be able to sneak in for their free admission days, Nov 26-28 and December 3-5th.

Maybe you're not such a holiday fan but you're significant other is. How do you compromise? Zoolights may be chilly but their Adult Night Out may give you the liquid courage to pull through as your partner oohs-and-awes over the fantastic light displays LPZ assembles every year. (Zoolights opens after Thanksgiving.) Also, may I suggest a fantastic dinner to warm up after at Mon Ami Gabi? I've mentioned my love for them in my post about Christmas fun last year, make sure to check it out!

This year I have my eye on the Art Institute's Holiday Thorne Rooms. The cost of admission is $14 or you can wait till Thursday evenings to attend free (if you're a Chicago resident.)

The Winter Wonderland Express at the Chicago Botanic Gardens sounds stunning! Tickets are half-priced on Tuesdays but if you're not quite up for the drive, Lincoln Park Conservatory is hosting a Holiday Flower and Train show.

Navy Pier is also hosting a Winter Wonderfest extending through the new year! With rides, slides, an indoor ice rink, and a fantastic collection of holiday activities, this surely an event not to pass up! Click the link for tickets that start at just $20 a person. Tickets are half- price on Tuesdays and access to the outdoor lighting displays, greenhouses and greenhouse gallery is free.

If you're like me and perk up when you hear "free" Millennium Park is hosting Caroling At The Bean every week! Starting at 6 every Friday evening (and December 12th) click the link for the different musical guests joining you in declaring your holiday spirit. (Stop by Chicago Athletic Association's Christmas Pop-Up Bar: Happy's if you can! It's weekend nights 5pm-12am and an absolute blast!) The Maggie Daley Skating Ribbon is always a blast. (If you like skating around young kids and stumbling over an ice rink that hasn't seen a Zamboni in a while.) The perk is absolutely the view and less about the ice skating since you're in the heart of the skyline. It can be a bit of a wait but definitely worth the experience. (I personally love the rink at Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville.) Makes for a very romantic date!

Skating may not be your thing but perhaps dancing is! Duet Dance studio is hosting an ugly sweater dance party and it sounds so many parts hilarious and fun. No matter your experience level, you are sure to have a fantastic time! On Friday, December 14th, an open dance instruction will begin at 8pm and once the 45 minute lesson is complete the dance floor is open for all to freestyle! Tickets are $25 but well worth it, hope you can make it! Low key more your thing? Fear not, I thought of you, too. The Music Box Theater in Lakeview ( a fantastic theater if you've never been) is hosting special holiday movie showings December 7th-24th. Be sure to buy your tickets early for classics like It's A Wonderful Life and White Christmas! You guys, if you select to stay for the double feature, Santa arrives and serenades you with carols. How cute!? If you're hungry before or after the show, do not fear! So many fantastic restaurants on Southport you won't be disappointed. May I suggest Crosby's Kitchen? It's a favorite spot of mine, no matter what time of day!