Maureen Wilkey

Concerts, Winter Festivals, and More Things To Do in Chicago This Weekend With Kids

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on Wed, 01/08/2025 - 9:22am

The Little Mermaid at Drury Lane Theater. Photo by Brett Beiner Photography

Enjoy fun indoor events or brave the cold for winter festivals.

100 FREE Things to Do In Chicago with Kids

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on Sun, 01/05/2025 - 7:00pm

Explore artistic classics at the Chicago Art Institute. Photo by Maureen Wilkey

Want to have fun in Chicago with the kids without busting your wallet? Here are 100 great, family-friendly things to do that are FREE.

25 Free Things To Do Indoors in Chicago: Free Places To Play Indoors on Cold and Rainy Days

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on Fri, 01/03/2025 - 9:53am

Tiny Picassos can enjoy different activities every day at the Art Institute’s Family Room. Photo by Maureen Wilkey, for Mommy Poppins

These great destinations are sure to keep kids (and parents) happy and warm!

Fun Free Activities for Kids in January 2025: Top Free Things To Do in Chicago with Kids

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on Sun, 12/29/2024 - 10:25am

Frosty Fest is free this January in Chicago. Photo courtesy of the Gurnee Park District

Enjoy these free things to do with kids in Chicago this January, including puppet shows, winter festivals, ice skating, and more.

25 New Year's Eve Fireworks, Balloon Drops, and Other Chicago Celebrations for Kids

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on Sun, 12/22/2024 - 8:03am

Make memories at the DuPage Children's Museum's Bubble Bash. Photo courtesy of the museum

Get kids in on the festive fun well before bedtime.

Is Santa Real? What to Answer When Kids Ask

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on Tue, 12/10/2024 - 9:55am

"Is Santa real?" Here's how to handle the big question!

Is Santa real? At some point in their young lives, nearly every kid who celebrates Christmas will ask that question. And more often than not, their parent will break into a sweat as they struggle to come up with an answer.

If your child suddenly asks the big question this holiday season, there's no need to panic. Read on for what parents and experts say are the best ways to handle the question, "Is Santa real?"

And remember: Even when a kid stops believing in Santa Claus, the spirit of Christmas is still alive. Our Guide to Christmas Activities and Holiday Fun for Kids includes Christmas crafts, holiday movies, and many more ways to make the season magical.