CHICAGO (WLS) -- With the holiday season in full swing, there is plenty of fun and festive events for the whole family.
The One of a Kind Holiday Show is this weekend!
There are over 600 artists with unique, handmade gifts. The show is in its 23rd year and runs through Sunday at 5 p.m.
More than 20,000 people are expected to experience a holiday tradition like no other over at the Yerkes Observatory near Lake Geneva. The World's Tallest Glass Tree, a 36-foot holiday art installation made from recycled glass bottles, will return for its third year. Guests can join in building the tree, enjoy live glassblowing and woodworking demos, shop at the Winter Market, and indulge in holiday treats.
Winterfest is on in Oak Park! And this weekend the favorite cookie walk is back! 29 participating downtown oak park businesses are taking part. Families can purchase a cookie tin for $26 and visit merchants to have it filled with cookies. Santa Claus will be on hand for visits, and carolers will provide entertainment along the way.
Friday is the last day to donate to the Waukegan Park District's 14th Annual Food for Paws Holiday Pet Food Drive at the Field House Center in Hinkston Park. Donations of pet food and supplies will benefit Waukegan Animals Getting Saved a local non-profit supporting the Waukegan Police Department Animal Control.
It's the League of Enchantment's 5th Annual Toys for Tots Toy Drive this Sunday, at Ackerman Sports & Fitness Center in Glen Ellyn. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to support children in need while enjoying a magical afternoon with over 15 beloved characters, including Belle, Spider-Man, Elsa, and Thor.
Chicago's Christmas Tree Ship will bring free Christmas trees to over 1,000 deserving families in Chicago. The "Cutter Mackinaw" will dock at Navy Pier for the tree off-loading, and the Christmas Tree Dedication Ceremony will take place on Saturday morning. Free public tours of the ship will also be available.
Step back in time at "Vintage on the Avenue," a three-day vintage shopping event on Chicago's iconic Michigan Avenue at The Shops at North Bridge, shop a unique selection of vintage clothing, accessories, jewelry, and collectibles. Find timeless treasures, connect with local artists, and celebrate sustainable shopping!
Miss your farmers market? The Wicker Park Bucktown Indoor Farmers Market season is on! Running select Sundays from December through March at Robey Hall - this winter event features over 15 local vendors offering fresh, sustainably grown produce, meats, baked goods, vegan skincare, flowers, and more. It's free and open to the public.
Come take your photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus as they visit Downtown Wheaton! Kids can drop off their letters to Santa and he'll respond by December 21st! Plus shop for unique gifts and dine at some fantastic local restaurants in town.
Experience the magic of the holidays at the 10th Annual Winter Walk on Wilson. This free event features sweet treats, warm drinks, light bites from local Uptown businesses, live holiday music, a pop-up holiday market, and photo ops with Uptown's beloved Panda Claus along Wilson and Broadway. Bring the whole family for an evening of festive fun in Uptown!