Chicago Theatre Week returns Feb. 5-15, 2026, giving families and caregivers a budget-friendly way to experience live theater across Chicago during the winter season.
Now in its 14th year, the annual event features discounted tickets to dozens of productions at venues throughout the city and select nearby suburbs. Most tickets are priced at $15 or $30, with a limited number available for less.
The goal of Chicago Theatre Week is to introduce new audiences to the city’s diverse theater scene while encouraging longtime theatergoers to explore venues and productions they may not otherwise try.
A wide range of shows and venues
Chicago Theatre Week includes productions spanning comedy, drama, opera, dance, improv, live music and family-friendly performances. Participating theaters range from downtown Chicago stages to neighborhood venues and select suburban locations.
Shows scheduled for the 2026 event include children’s and family titles such as “Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile The Musical,” “The Hobbit” and “The Lion King Kids,” alongside plays, comedy revues and adult-oriented productions. The variety allows families to choose shows that match their children’s ages, interests and attention spans without committing to full-price tickets.
All participating theaters are members of the League of Chicago Theatres or perform at League member venues. A complete and regularly updated list of participating productions is available through Hot Tix, the League’s official ticketing platform.
Accessibility and planning tips for families
Families who need accessible seating or other accommodations are encouraged to contact Hot Tix before purchasing tickets to discuss specific needs. Because policies vary by venue, parents may also want to review age recommendations, seating layouts, performance length and late-arrival rules in advance.
Planning ahead can be especially helpful for evening performances on school nights or shows located in unfamiliar neighborhoods.
How Chicago Theatre Week fits into the city’s arts scene
Chicago Theatre Week overlaps with Chicago Restaurant Week for part of its run, from Thursday, Feb. 5, through Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026. Families who wish to do so can pair a discounted meal with a theater performance, depending on schedules and budgets.
Organizers say past events have drawn audiences from dozens of neighborhoods and suburbs, with many attendees using Theatre Week as a way to discover new companies and venues. Audience feedback often points to the city’s depth of theatrical talent and the value of lower ticket prices during the winter months. One Reddit commenter summed up the appeal simply, writing, “Chicago has one of the greatest theatre scenes in the world.”
What to know before buying tickets
Tickets for Chicago Theatre Week 2026 are sold exclusively through Hot Tix. The discounted price is automatically applied to eligible performances, and no promo code is required.
All sales are final. Chicago Theatre Week tickets cannot be refunded or exchanged, and availability is limited.
For the most up-to-date ticket information, families can contact Hot Tix at (312) 977-9483 during regular business hours or visit hottix.org.
