Things To Do This Weekend January 5-7, 2024
By: Stephanie Wylie 01/03/2024
As the winter chill settles in, Lake County transforms into a wonderland of festive delights and seasonal activities. This weekend, embark on a journey through the winter season with a myriad of events catering to every interest. From the enchanting lights of Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden to the Frosty Fest in Gurnee and more! Lake County has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the top attractions, heartwarming traditions and thrilling experiences that await in this weekend guide to winter wonders in Lake County.
Here are the things to do this weekend Jan. 5-7, 2024.
As winter descends upon us, the Gurnee Park District invites the community to embrace the season's spirit with the much-anticipated Frosty Fest at Viking Park. Viking Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland, offering many exciting activities for attendees. The event's highlight includes outdoor sleigh rides, allowing families to glide through the picturesque park scenery. Weather permitting, attendees can also indulge in the joy of ice skating.
For those who prefer to stay warm, the Dance Hall will host a hot cocoa bar and s'mores will be available by the fire, providing a sweet treat for everyone attending. With a wide range of activities, from outdoor adventures to warm indoor treats, this event promises to be a highlight of the winter season, fostering community spirit and creating lasting memories for all who attend. So, bundle up and get ready to embrace the chill at Viking Park! For more information, call 847-599-3745.
Saturday, Jan. 6; 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Viking Park, 4374 Old Grand Ave., Gurnee.
The Chicago Botanic Garden invites visitors to embark on a mesmerizing journey through a wonderland of lights, color and enchantment at Lightscape. This annual event promises to illuminate the spirit. This immersive experience explores new corners of the garden, including the captivating Evening Island. Visitors traverse the enchanting trail and will encounter a fusion of radiant first-time installations and beloved classics, such as the Winter Cathedral, each contributing to an awe-inspiring spectacle that promises to elevate this fifth-annual celebration to new heights.
Lightscape isn't just about visual splendor; it's a multi-sensory experience. Visitors are encouraged to bring their nearest and dearest to share in the season's joy. Festive food and drinks will be available, creating the perfect atmosphere for families and friends to come together and enjoy the magic. As the event returns for its fifth year, it promises to captivate first-time and returning guests' hearts. So, mark your calendars and get ready to make spirits bright at Lightscape, where the magic of the season comes to life in the most enchanting way. For more ticket information and scheduled times, visit www.chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.
Now-Jan. 7; Admission starts at $34 for nonmembers. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe.
The Dunn Museum of Lake County stands as a beacon of historical exploration, inviting visitors to embark on a captivating journey through the annals of time. The museum, named after Bess Bower Dunn, Lake County's inaugural official historian, boasts a nationally accredited collection that unveils the rich tapestry of Illinois' history. With its interactive exhibitions, authentic artifacts, reproductions and immersive audiovisual displays, the museum provides a unique and educational experience for all ages. Visitors can take a chronological walk from prehistoric times to the present, gaining insights into the diverse stories that have shaped the region.
Step into a prehistoric world at "Dinosaurs: Fossils Exposed," a captivating exhibition that invites you to explore the bones and fossils of the colossal creatures that once ruled the earth. The exhibit features six complete dinosaur skeletal molds, including the iconic Triceratops, fearsome Tyrannosaurus rex and agile Velociraptor. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring world of these ancient giants as you stand next to a towering 6-foot-1-inch Apatosaurus femur. Get up close and personal with molds of skulls, arms, legs, eggs and footprints, providing a hands-on and educational experience for visitors of all ages. To explore Lake County's vibrant past, plan a visit to the Dunn Museum. For reservations and additional information, contact them at 847.968.3400.
Tues., Thurs., Sat., Sun.; Tues., Thurs., & Sat.; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Sun.: noon-4:30 p.m. Dunn Museum, 1899 W. Winchester Rd., Libertyville.
Great Wolf Lodge Illinois has transformed into a magical Snowland, welcoming families to immerse themselves in the enchanting festivities. Great Wolf Lodge Illinois sets the stage for a whimsical experience with daily snow showers in the Grand Lobby, creating an atmosphere of pure enchantment. Twinkling lights, shimmering holiday trees and cheerful decorations turn the lodge into a captivating Snowland, inviting families to celebrate the winter holidays in true Northwoods style.
From visits with Santa to seasonally themed crafts, holiday stories and songs, Great Wolf Lodge offers many festive activities for families to enjoy. Overnight guests can join in on the "Yoga Tails" session, groove to the beats of the "Frosty Fest Family Dance Party" and engage in games like "Snowland Bingo" and trivia. The lodge also provides a Craft Kit to Go, allowing families to extend the festive fun beyond their stay. With their heated indoor activities and an 84-degree water park, families can enjoy the magic of Snowland while staying cozy and warm. Embrace the warmth of the lodge and the magic of the season as Snowland at Great Wolf Lodge Illinois unfolds, creating cherished memories for families to carry into the new year. Plan your Snowland adventure by visiting www.greatwolf.com/illinois/waterpark-attractions.
Now-January 4; various times. Admission: Starting at $149.99 per night. Great Wolf Lodge Illinois, 1700 Nations Dr., Gurnee.
The Centennial Ice Arena is a premier regional teaching center offering a unique fusion of ice skating and gymnastics. With a highly qualified staff and progressive programming, Centennial has become a hub for individuals seeking to master these dynamic disciplines. The facility houses an indoor ice rink that serves as the canvas for aspiring figure skaters, hockey enthusiasts and those just looking to enjoy some public skating. Additionally, Centennial boasts a fully equipped gymnastics studio, providing a versatile space for gymnasts to practice and perfect their routines.
Centennial Ice Arena takes pride in offering a diverse range of programs to cater to its patrons' varied interests and skill levels. Public skating sessions provide a fun and inclusive atmosphere for individuals and families to enjoy the ice together. Learn to Skate programs are available for those who first glide on the ice. At the same time, more advanced offerings include hockey, Freestyle and gymnastics lessons, allowing participants to progress and refine their skills. Centennial Ice Arena holds memberships with esteemed organizations such as the United States Figure Skating Association (USFSA) and USA Gymnastics, underlining its commitment to maintaining high standards in both disciplines. To explore the offerings at Centennial Ice Arena, including program details, reservations, and scheduling, call 847.432.4790.
Mon., Tues. and Thurs.: 6;45 a.m.-6 p.m. Wed. and Fri.: 6:15 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat. 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Centennial Ice Arena, 3100 Trail Way, Highland Park.
Click here to see more things to do this weekend January 5-7, 2024.
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