The holiday season always feels magical, and there’s no shortage of festive things to do in Hyde Park, Chicago. Below, check out a few of our favorite things to do in our neighborhood.

HOLIDAY THINGS TO DO IN HYDE PARK CHICAGO

Buddy the Elf stands in front of a Christmas tree with children mimicking his motions at Hyde Park Holly Day

Image via Christopher Andrew/Stoptime Live Photography

HYDE PARK HOLLY DAYS

Traditionally held the first Saturday in December, Hyde Park Holly Days brings magical merriment to Hyde Parkers of all ages.

The festivities begin at Harper Court, where sculptors carve intricate works of art from ice blocks right before your eyes. Grab some hot chocolate from Stan’s (and a donut!) and stroll to Lake Park Ave. You’ll find blocks of pre-carved sculptures to admire.

Make sure to grab your family picture for the holiday card featuring live reindeer and Buddy the Elf in the courtyard of Hyde Park Shopping Center.

People ice skate at Midway Plaisance Skating Rink on UChicago campus

Image via Trip.com

ICE SKATING AT MIDWAY PLAISANCE

Chicago hosts a few outdoor skating rinks throughout December, but none compare to the rink right on 59th.

To start, the rink remains open through February, while most other outdoor rinks disappear in early January. Midway Plaisance Ice Rink also offers a variety of programs at affordable prices.

Looking for an affordable date night or family outing? Admission to open skate is free for everyone. If you don’t have your own skates, rent a pair for $7. You can also come for drop-in skating lessons for just $10 per session.

Aside from traditional skating, this also serves as a hockey rink for all ages. Choose from:

  • Stick & Puck Hockey
    players of all ages can practice stick handling, shooting, game skills, or skating in an informal setting
  • Pond Hockey
    a simplified form of hockey ideal for more casual gameplay
  • Rat Hockey
    a total pick-up game of hockey with little structure

The City of Chicago requires you to register ahead of time on their website.

Mother and daughter gaze at decorated tree from Museum of Science and Industry's Christmas Around the World and Holiday of Lights Exhibit

Image via Zbigniew Bzdak / Chicago Tribune

CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD & HOLIDAYS OF LIGHT

What started with a simple tree almost 90 years ago transformed into a beautiful celebration of culture, heritage, and holidays. The Museum of Science & Industry hosts Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light annually. It showcases how winter holidays are celebrated around the globe. This exhibit is perfect for young ones and those who are young at heart.

Over 50 trees and displays deck the halls of MSI with representation from all continents. See for yourself what it’s like to celebrate Christmas, Diwali, Hanukkah, Ramadan, Eid, Kwanzaa, St. Lucia Day, and Lunar New Year in all corners of the world. The Museum of Science and Industry utilizes Chicago’s diversity to collaborate with local groups that partake in these customs and cultures to ensure that the information presented accurately and appropriately shares the traditions.

What are your favorite holiday things to do in Hyde Park, Chicago? Please share in the comments below.