The Fighting Illini beat the Wildcats 38-28 Saturday at Wrigley Field while many fans and holiday-season revelers dealt with the weather.
"It's very fun out here, but cold," Kevin Klocker said.
Thousand of people packed Wrigley Field for some Big Ten football as plenty of other stuff was going on across the city. People were braving the cold.
"It was really cold. I can't feel my feet, but Illinois is winning, so it's worth it," a fan named Maggie said.
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With wind chills in the single-digits, people are trying to find any way to stay warm.
"Hand warmers literally everywhere," Kelsey Magad said. "Two jackets... I have like three pants on. We're doing amazing."
Despite the cold, the city was still jam packed with action from Wrigleyville to the lakefront. People said their plans Saturday night may have to move indoors, though.
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"I think we're gonna go to Christmas bars and see where the night takes us," Maggie said.
Plenty of other festivities are happening across the city this weekend, with some people finding that holiday joy at the popular Christkindlmarket in downtown.
"Exploring the Christkindlmarket. Thanksgiving break, savoring the end of it," an attendee named Olivia said.
Some said they're learning a hard lesson of just how cold it gets outside.
"I didn't bring thick enough gloves," one attendee said. "I can't feel my hands and my feet."
Warning centers are also prepared across the city, available to all residents in need of shelter.
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Chicagoans say they're ready for a long winter.
"Drink some beverages to keep you warm," a man named Eddie said. "Whatever beverage you prefer."
The first wave of freezing temperatures is always hardest for Chicagoans, but some say they're ready for it.
"I think I'm just gonna power through it and do the best I can," Magad said.