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Thanksgiving Day Weekend 2023 in Chicago: Thanksgiving Parade, Turkey Trots, Christmas Shows

Don't miss the Holiday Light Parade this Thanksgiving weekend. Photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Naperville

11/21/23 - By Maureen Wilkey

Looking for the best things to do in Chicago this Thanksgiving weekend 2023? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your list for this Thanksgiving Day weekend.

Gobble up some activities along with your turkey this Thanksgiving weekend! There are plenty of things to do in Chicago this Thanksgiving weekend to kick off the holiday season. Check out the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade along State Street or sing along with carolers in Millennium Park. Get outside to move around after turkey dinner at a Turkey Trot in Grant Park or Beverly. The first performances of A Chistmas Carol are scheduled for this weekend at The Goodman Theater downtown, while The Nutcracker is playing in Hinsdale.

The weather is beginning to look a lot like Christmas, so take a trip out to one of our favorite Christmas tree farms to get yours. Or plan a skating trip to one of our favorite outdoor rinks. Plan out one of your December weekends to include a showing of The Nutcracker or a ride on the CTA Holiday Train.

Let's all give thanks for our wonderful kiddos as we enter this holiday season together!