🥂 “Unlock Chicagoland’s Best-Kept Secrets!” 🍻🍷🍹
Looking for exciting things to do in Chicagoland? You won’t be disappointed! This week brings winter highlights, cultural events, live shows, and cozy indoor activities all across the city. Check out our curated guide from January 9 to January 15, 2026 — there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
FRIDAY, January 9
📌 Hands-On Pasta Traditions – Eataly @ Various Times
Kick off the weekend by learning to make homemade pasta at this fun culinary workshop celebrating Southern Italian traditions.
📌 Live Score to 2001: A Space Odyssey – Symphony Center @ Evening
Experience the iconic film 2001: A Space Odyssey with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performing the score live for a one-of-a-kind cinematic concert.
Evening Option:
Hit up one of Chicago’s jazz lounges or rooftop bars for cocktails and live music, perfect for warming up on a chilly winter night.
SATURDAY, January 10
📌 Family Day – Museum of Contemporary Art @ 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Enjoy a family-friendly day of free admission and interactive arts activities at the MCA Chicago.
Bonus / Daytime Idea:
Explore the Chicago Architecture Biennial — free exhibits citywide celebrating design, public art, and creative spaces (runs through Feb. 28).
SUNDAY, January 11
📌 Ice Skating at McCormick Tribune Ice Rink @ 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Keep the winter magic going with classic outdoor skating in Millennium Park.
Relax & Explore:
Stroll around Lincoln Park Zoo — open year-round and free — or warm up with brunch at a cozy neighborhood café.
MONDAY, January 12
Free Museum Day – Museum of Science and Industry
Take advantage of free admission for Illinois residents and explore world-class science exhibits and captivating displays.
Evening Option:
Take in a theater performance or check out a candlelight concert series for a cozy night of music and ambience.
TUESDAY, January 13
Free Adler Planetarium Night – Star Gazing & Exhibits
Head to the Adler Planetarium for an evening of astronomy events and free stargazing for Illinois residents (4:00 PM – 10:00 PM).
Evening Option:
Stroll the vibrant Hot Tub Boats on the Chicago River — heated six-passenger boats offering unique views of the city lights (through January).
WEDNESDAY, January 14
📌 Chicago Architecture Biennial – Ongoing Exhibits & Talks
Explore free public art installations and design showcases at multiple venues throughout the city as part of this major architecture showcase.
Evening Option:
Visit one of Chicago’s lively speakeasies or craft cocktail bars for an intimate winter evening out.
THURSDAY, January 15
📌 MCA LIVE: Sad Boys in Harpy Land – Museum of Contemporary Art @ 7:30 PM
Catch this semi-autobiographical clown show blending humor and reflection, performed nightly through the weekend.
📌 Chicago Architecture Biennial – Continue Exploring
Dive deeper into Chicago’s renowned design scene with innovative installations and neighborhood pop-ups.
Daytime Option:
Warm up with a museum visit, explore boutique shops in neighborhoods like Wicker Park or Andersonville, or grab a coffee and people-watch in one of Chicago’s many cafés.
📌 Don’t Miss These Ongoing Events
🌲 Official Chicago Christmas Tree – Millennium Park
On display through Jan. 11 — last chance for festive photos.
🏛 Chicago Architecture Biennial
Free exhibits and events throughout the city running into February 2026.
⛸ Ice Skating All Month
Outdoor skating rinks at Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park Ice Ribbon — perfect for winter fun.
đź“š Free Museum Days
Various museums offer free admission dates for Illinois residents throughout January — check schedules for Art Institute, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and more.
✨ Keep the winter wonder alive in Chicagoland! Sign up for our weekly updates to stay in the loop with all curated events and hidden gems happening around the city.
✨ Stay tuned for updates on these ongoing events catered specifically for you. We celebrate the strength, brilliance, and achievements of our community! Sign up here to receive the weekly events in your inbox.
Leave a Reply