The city of Chicago truly embraces the spirit of Christmas with decorations that are as grand as they are enchanting. In 2018, several moments stood out, lighting up the streets and bringing holiday cheer to all. Here, we revisit five memorable moments of festive decorating that warmed the hearts of Chicagoans and visitors alike.
1. Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
The annual lighting of the Chicago Christmas Tree in Millennium Park is not just a ceremony; it’s an event that marks the official start of the holiday season in the city.
- Date: November 17, 2018
- Location: Millennium Park
During the ceremony, the towering tree, adorned with thousands of lights, was illuminated, turning the park into a winter wonderland. Live music, community singing, and a special performance by a local children’s choir filled the air, making the event magical.
🎄 Note: The Christmas tree lighting ceremony has been held in Millennium Park since 1966, becoming a cherished holiday tradition.
2. Christkindlmarket Wreath Garland Display
The historic Daley Plaza hosted the Christkindlmarket, known for its German-inspired holiday market. In 2018, visitors were greeted by an extensive wreath and garland display:
- Location: Daley Plaza
- Special Feature: A 24-foot-tall Christmas pyramid made from greenery and ornaments
This year, the market was adorned with not just regular Christmas lights but also integrated German and Chicago flag-themed ornaments, which made the decor even more meaningful.
3. The Magnificent Mile Sparkles
Chicago’s most famous shopping street, The Magnificent Mile, transformed into a luminous spectacle:
- Date: From November 2018 onward
- Highlights:
- Over 250,000 lights adorned the street and store fronts
- A massive wreath hung on the Chicago Tribune building
The stunning display created a festive atmosphere that lured holiday shoppers, tourists, and locals to enjoy the seasonal splendor. The lights stayed lit throughout the festive period, enhancing the nightly glow of the city’s skyline.
4. Chicago Botanic Garden’s Holiday Light Show
At the Chicago Botanic Garden, the annual “Lightscape” transformed the garden into a living canvas of light:
- Duration: November 22, 2018, through January 5, 2019
- Key Features:
- Over 1 million lights covering the garden
- New interactive light installations
Visitors were guided through illuminated trails, experiencing art installations and lights choreographed to festive music, creating a serene yet dazzling winter scene.
🛑 Note: The Botanic Garden also hosts daily live musical performances during the Lightscape event.
5. The Macy’s Holiday Windows
Perhaps one of the most iconic holiday traditions in Chicago, the Macy’s holiday windows tell a story every year:
- Date: From November 2018 onward
- Theme: “A Dickens Christmas”
In 2018, the store’s windows showcased scenes from “A Christmas Carol,” complete with moving figures and Victorian costumes, reminding everyone of the timeless magic of Christmas.
These five festive moments from 2018 in Chicago captured the essence of the holiday season through intricate decorations, community spirit, and a celebration of both traditional and innovative decorations.
In summary, the 2018 holiday season in Chicago was marked by stunning displays of Christmas cheer. From the lighting of the official city tree to the sparkling lights of The Magnificent Mile, these events have solidified Chicago’s reputation as a Christmas destination. The city’s ability to blend tradition with modernity in its decorations has left a lasting impression, ensuring that the festive spirit continues to thrive year after year.
When does Chicago’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony take place?
+
The tree lighting ceremony in Chicago occurs in mid-November, marking the official start of the holiday season.
What are some unique features of the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Lightscape?
+
The Lightscape features over a million lights, interactive installations, and live musical performances, creating a unique holiday experience.
Where can one see the German-inspired holiday market in Chicago?
+
The Christkindlmarket, known for its German-inspired holiday market, is typically held at Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago.
How long does the holiday light show on The Magnificent Mile last?
+
The holiday lights on The Magnificent Mile usually stay illuminated from November through the festive period until early January.
