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CHICAGO— Navy Pier continues new events and free programs for the holiday season!
Light Up The Lake continues now through Jan 7 with new additions to the fun. Guests can come see the “crystal car” from Klairmont Kollections Automotive Museum on display. The 1983 Rolls Royce Silver Spur is decked out in crystal bling. For $10 guests can purchase magic wands to change the lights on more than 30 displays inside of Light Up The Lake and more than 15 around the Pier. Single tickets start at $15 for a child, $27 for an adult, depending on the day. Every ticket comes with a free ride on the Centennial Wheel, access to the Roseaux interactive art installation, stomp light activity, reflecting pond, birch tree forest, light sculptures, ice skating, skate rentals, and visits with Santa. To purchase tickets, discover new deals, and get more information on group sales, click here.
Tickets for New Year on the Pier at Aon Grand Ballroom are now on sale. Opulence and indulgence will be on full display at the return of Chicago’s premier New Year’s Eve Countdown! The timeless setting of the Aon Grand Ballroom plays backdrop to an over-the-top celebration highlighted by live entertainment on the big stage, Chicago’s largest dance floor, countdown spectacular and FIREWORKS show at midnight. The city’s most iconic landmark rings in the new year in grand fashion! Click here, for more information.
The Coca-Cola Caravan and Polar Bear Photo Opportunity is coming to Navy Pier on December 17 from 6pm – 9pm. This Coca-Cola semi-truck is decked out in holiday lights. Guests are invited to take a free photo with the iconic Coca-Cola Polar Bear and enjoy a free sample of Coca-Cola products. This event is free for anyone to attend.
Barry Butler’s “Flow- Water Brings Life to Chicago” exhibit includes new photos for the holiday season. The new photos include dramatic images of iconic Chicago staples during the holidays. Guests can find the new exhibit between partners Kilwin’s Chicago at Navy Pier and Making History Chicago (garage doors 5 and 6). Each image featured in the exhibit also includes a unique QR code through which visitors can watch a video with more information about the photo. The exhibit will run through December 31, 2023 and new photos will be added from time to time.
Guests are invited to the Holiday Artisan Market to find a one of a kind, locally made gift. Throughout the month of December, people can also enjoy one of our Chicago artist led FREE workshops and learn how to make a gift for your special someone. Live Painting with Cookie Kwan Stop by the women’s incubator space and check out local artist Cookie Kwan live paint a lively interactive mural that will sure be the next Instagramable piece at Navy Pier. Click here for more details.
The amazing maze is turning into the Amazing Holiday Maze this holiday season. Now through January 7th join us for some festive cheer! Enjoy favorite holiday songs, decorations, and Christmas lights as you navigate your way through the Maze. See the lights take on special images with your very own pair of holiday glasses (included with purchase). Tickets for the maze start at $13 for adults. Children 4 and under are free. Click link for more information.
Arbor Lights is an interactive light art sculpture that you can control by texting commands from your phone. Starting today, guests can create different parameters of color, shape, texture, and speed. While you try one prompt, have a friend do another and make art together. Here’s how: If you want to change the color – text a color. The Experience begins daily at sunset on the South Dock near Margaritaville. This experience is free for the public.
Harry Caray’s Breakfast with Santa kicks off Sunday Dec 3. Join Harry Caray’s Navy Pier for Breakfast with Santa with a live performance by an Old Town School of Folk Music Wiggleworms teacher that will have you and your child singing and dancing to all your favorite holiday classics. On Dec. 4, 11 and 18 we will be serving Holiday-inspired breakfast favorites while the kiddos are invited to interact with and take photos with Santa Claus. This is sure to be a special event that will bring joy to the entire family! Grab your friends and enjoy Curling on our lakefront patio. Warm-up with one of our Curling Cocktails or order from our full menu while you play. Don’t worry if you’ve never played before-we’ll provide easy-to-understand directions and it’s quick and easy to learn. The perfect way to enjoy winter by the lake!
Groups of up to 6 may reserve our Curling Rink for 45 minutes for $5 per person. Reservations are available daily on the hour from noon until close (e.g. 12p, 1p, 3p, etc.). Our cozy Warming Hut, complete with an electric fireplace and blankets, can be included in your reservation with a $100 deposit which will be applied to your final food and beverage bill. Click here for more information.
Santa Claus is coming to town and he’s stopping by Offshore Rooftop’s Brunch with Santa to check in on all the good girls and boys! Guests can meet “The Man in Red,” take pictures, and enjoy brunch in our panoramic atrium – a perfect reverse snow globe of Chicago and iconic Navy Pier. ADULTS:1 brunch entrée, Choice of 1 Bloody Mary or mimosa. CHILDREN (12 and under): 1 brunch entrée, Holiday gift from Santa. FOR ALL: Bottomless juice bar, Visit and performance from Santa Claus, Framed holiday photo with Santa Claus. Click here for more information.
Note: All artists, events and dates are subject to change.
About Navy Pier
Navy Pier is the People’s Pier, Chicago’s lakefront treasure, welcoming all and offering dynamic and eclectic experiences through partnerships and programs that inspire discovery and wonder.
Since its reopening in 1995, more than 180 million guests have come to enjoy the Pier’s 50 acres of unparalleled attractions and experiences. In 2022, Navy Pier continues to evolve into an accessible, year-round centerpiece for Chicago’s diverse arts and cultural treasures.