IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR FAMILY FUN: Check out Santa’s Trolley Express at the Fox River Trolley Museum in Elgin. Celebrate the season with a heartwarming holiday train ride that’s bursting with nostalgia, joy, and festive wonder! Climb aboard our beautifully decorated 1950s vintage elevated cars and journey down an authentic train line dating back to 1896—an unforgettable adventure your entire family will cherish. As the train rolls along, the magic continues with a very special guest—Santa Claus himself—who will visit each family for merry chats, posing for cheerful selfies, and spreading holiday cheer that will delight both kids and grown-ups alike.
Before your ride begins, cozy up and sip a steaming cup of delicious hot chocolate served from our historic 1924 train car, brimming with vintage holiday décor. The station is beautifully adorned with twinkling lights, holiday melodies, and timeless Christmas charm, creating the perfect atmosphere to kick off your festive adventure.

Each day has several rides from 12 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more info: go to @exploreelgin
IF YOU'RE FEELING OUTDOORSY:  Check out the Winter Walk and Bonfire at Big Marsh Park in Chicago. Join Big Marsh staff for a journey through the beautiful landscape of Big Marsh Park followed by hot cocoa around an outdoor fire. You will walk 2-3 miles on mostly paved paths but will be ready to adapt the route and pace based on weather conditions and group needs. Come dressed in layers, ready to be outside for 2 hours. For more info: @chicagoparks

IF YOU'RE LOOKING FOR A FEEL-GOOD HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE: Check out Operation North Pole Returning to DES Convention Center this Saturday! Founded in 2009, Operation North Pole is a volunteer-based public charity that provides a magical holiday experience for families with children battling life-threatening illnesses. This year’s event will once again transform 28,000 square feet of the Convention Center into a winter wonderland filled with joy, laughter and the true spirit of the season. For more info: https://www.facebook.com/ONPChicago/