I feel like so many of my Christmas memories growing up revolved around the things I got for Christmas, but my list seems to grow shorter each year with items that are sometimes too pricey for one person to buy me. Rather than focus on the gifts, I have learned that it is the holiday spirit and the traditions and what you make of this season. 

This year, I was happy to get the opportunity to be in my hometown for a week before my trip so that I could partake in some Chicago traditions. Though I usually think of traditions as something done each year, these are a few things that I try to do each year when around Chicago. Sometimes it doesn’t happen like the year I didn’t get home for Christmas, but when you live near a city like Chicago, it may be cold, but there are some fun activities for the holidays. 

(edit: I plan to add photos but having difficulties at the moment.)

1. DIY Messiah: My sister and dad started this tradition many years ago. I haven’t been always able to make it, but when I can, I go. It’s fun to sing along, even if I do get lost sometimes on where we are. I also know how to read music when it comes to playing a piano, but singing is quite different. Luckily there are enough people around that I think it sounds good 😉 
2. Ice Skating Millennium Park: I wish we did this each year, but some years it is just too cold and the line is too long. We make it when we can and this year it was just above 30 degrees which felt like a heat wave after the 0 degree days earlier in the week so it was perfect for skating. I only lasted 30 minutes, but it was fun to skate under The Bean. Also pictures at the Bean are totally necessary every single time!
3. Macy’s windows: We took a quick swing by the Macy’s windows while in the city and I was a bit disappointed this year to be honest. Actually I got to see the NYC windows and Chicago this year and I kinda liked the NYC windows more. I liked when they did stories on the windows and this year didn’t seem to have as much detail. Still fun to bring kids to though.  
4. Christmas trees: I think seeing as many Christmas trees in city as possible is a fun tradition. Cities really light up during the holidays and when the daylight is shorter, it is nice to have those decorations to look at.
5. Gingerbread cookies: not specific to Chicago, but I thought I would include this as I started this maybe 5 years or so ago and love to bake gingerbread each year. Can’t wait to share this with my children in the future. 

 Merry Christmas Eve and Happy Holidays to everyone. Hope you enjoy the weekend with your family and friends. 

What are some of your favorite traditions?