Puppets Shows, Winter Solstice, and More Things To Do in Chicago This Weekend With Kids

Santa's ready for all the hugs around the dinner tables at the Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Photo courtesy of the zoo
Santa's ready for all the hugs around the dinner tables at the Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Photo courtesy of the zoo
12/17/25 - By Maureen Wilkey

Looking for the best things to do in Chicago this weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your list!

The countdown to winter break and Christmas is on! Check out the variety of holiday events going on this weekend. Puppets have taken center stage with winter and holiday themed shows, including Manual Cinema's Christmas Carol, Beatrix Potter's Holiday Party, and Jabberwocky Marionettes' Winter Show. It's also the shortest day of the year, so you can enjoy the dark at winter solstice events in Romeoville or River Forest.

Looking for something unique to do this holiday season? Check out our list of unusual and underrated Christmas activities. And kick off your winter break by checking a few ideas off of our winter bucket list.

 And want to keep the kids entertained without breaking the bank? Don’t forget to look for the deals link at the top of the calendar to filter for special offers and the free filter to see only free activities!

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