Explore the magic of the holidays: Wind down the holiday season with Chicagoland’s biggest indoor, temperature-controlled light garden, featuring large-scale light-sculpture displays, an Alpine ice rink, holiday beer garden, kiddie train rides, gift market, Merry Main Street — and, of course, a visit with Santa. “Light Up the Lake” at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave.; tickets $20+ at navypier.org
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A day on the rooftop: In the heart of Wicker Park, you can find Chicago’s ’80s and ’90s themed whiskey bar featuring over 100 selections. Head to the rooftop the day after Christmas and experience a private ski chalet for up to eight guests, get a craft cocktail, and enjoy a rooftop curling session. “The Day After” beginning at 11 a.m. Dec. 26, at Whiskey Business, 1367 N. Milwaukee Ave.; tickets $25+, reservations at whiskeybusinesschicago.com
Final day of Christkindlmarket: Find last minute holiday gifts, food, and treats at Chicago’s most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe. This weekend marks the final day of the market until its return next year. Christkindlmarket beginning at 11 a.m. Dec. 24, at Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St.; Free. Full event information can be found at christkindlmarket.com
Movies under the stars: One of the greatest holiday traditions is watching classic Christmas movies from years gone by. This year, showings of “The Muppet Christmas Carol” and “Elf” can be viewed from the comfort of your car. Food and drinks are available from ChiTown Grille to round out the perfect Christmas night. “ChiTown Movies Holiday Favorites” beginning at 4:45 p.m. Dec. 25, at ChiTown Movies, 2343 S. Throop St.; tickets $37 at chitownmovies.com
Why walk when you can skate? Burn off some holiday calories by lacing up some roller skates and having a classic good time. Relive childhood skating memories and share them with a new generation with classic tunes in this newly renovated facility. “Holiday Magic 2021? beginning at 1 p.m. Dec. 26, at Fleetwood Roller Rink, 7231 W. Archer Ave., Summit, tickets $5+ and more information at fleetwoodrollerrink.com
Big screen or home stream, takeout or dine-in, Tribune writers are here to steer you toward your next great experience. Sign up for your free weekly Eat. Watch. Do. newsletter here.