Things to Do in Chicago with Kids During Winter Break

Chicago public schools are closed for the 2021-2022 school year winter break from December 20, 2021 to December 31, 2021, so there are at least two weeks of fun to be had with the kids. That's one way of looking at it ... the other way is "Oh my goodness, there are two whole weeks of days to fill with activities that keep kids occupied!" Luckily, we rounded up dozens of things to do in Chicago with kids during winter break, and they're all events and activities that keep kids active, engaged, and happy—not just busy. There are story hikes, Nights of Lights, holiday markets, winter activities, and loads of free activities for Chicago kids.
Keep an eye on our event calendar for fresh ideas every day. In case of emergency, break the glass and start working your way down this list of snowy day boredom busters.
Until January 3, parents: Stay strong. You can do this!
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While we are trying to promote safer activities that occur outdoors or with social distancing guidelines in place, please keep your family and others safe by always wearing a mask and maintaining appropriate distance. If you arrive at an event that appears too crowded, try using the “nearby” search feature on our event calendar to find something else to do.
Free Activities in Chicago During Winter Break
Outdoor Activities During Chicago's Winter Break
Indoor Activities to Keep Kids Busy During Winter Break
Places featured in this article:
Phillips Park
Trailside Museum of Natural History
Merchandise Mart
Downtown Naperville
Daley Plaza
Maggie Daley Park
Six Flags Great America
Brookfield Zoo
The Morton Arboretum
Thatcher Woods
ChiTown Futbol
Northbrook Court
Fox Valley Mall
Wintrust Field
Impact Field
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago
Water Tower Place
Palos Heights Recreation Center
DuPage Chidren's Museum