Holiday Magic
When: Dec. 1-23, daily Dec. 26-31
Where: Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield
Trees that talk, millions of lights and animals waiting to be discovered in the dark? The Brookfield Zoo turns on the Holiday Magic during the weekends in December, beginning Dec. 1 and running through the end of the month. This year, the weather won’t stop the winter wonder as the zoo introduces its Glice rink, a skating surface without the ice. The largest lights festival in our area, keep an eye out for community-trimmed trees, animal-themed displays and the North Pole’s favorite resident. Head to the zoo early to see the animals, then stay for the lights.
The Sound of Music & White Christmas
When: Dec. 1-2 (The Sound of Music), Dec. 7-24 (White Christmas)
Where: Music Box Theater, 3733 N. Southport Ave., Chicago
After the 15th viewing of “The Sound of Music,” your kids know all the words to every song and have already picked out a favorite Von Trapp family singer. The Music Box Theatre has the outlet, and in case of emergency, the words to all of the songs during “The Sound of Music Sing-A-Long.” Singing—whether in-tune or trying to be—is encouraged during the production. If you just can’t get enough of songs in a group setting, head back to Music Box throughout the month for the “White Christmas” sing-along feature.
The Ugly Duckling
When: Dec. 8 (Two shows)
Where: Chicago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago
Trying to avoid the cold? The Chicago Symphony Orchestra has the answer to warm your hands inside the Symphony Center. First, the orchestra presents its Once Upon a Symphony series with “The Ugly Duckling,” recommended for ages 3-5 as an intro to music performances.
This article originally appeared in the December 2018 issue of Chicago Parent. Read the rest of the issue.
