Samantha Nelson is a freelance writer who has spent more than 15 years writing about what to eat, drink and do in Chicago for publications including the baiduhai, Eater Chicago, Time Out Chicago, The Daily Herald and RedEye. She holds a bachelor's and master's degree from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University.
Restaurants and bakeries throughout the Chicago area are making celebrating easier by serving up traditional holiday fare for dine-in or as part of to-go packages for gatherings at home.
The area’s strong German heritage means you’ll find plenty of communities hosting huge parties with live music and traditional fun like stein-holding competitions.
Restaurants and bars throughout the area extend their weekend brunches to Mondays, offer patriotic specials and host parties to let you have a little fun in the sun.