Chicago’s Holiday Season Packed With New Experiences

Visiting downtown Chicago during the holidays has always been a cherished family tradition for many. The iconic ice skating rinks, the bustling Christkindlmarket, and the timeless charm of the Windy City create a magical atmosphere. However, this year, a wave of innovation is sweeping through Chicago’s holiday festivities, introducing novel experiences that promise to redefine the city’s festive spirit. As we dive into the heart of the “experience economy,” these immersive activities are taking over former retail spaces on some of the city’s most iconic streets. Here are several new and exciting experiences that are set to make this holiday season and beyond truly memorable.

Santa Claus on the Merry Mile

Location: Water Tower Place, 845 N. Michigan Ave

For the first time in history, Santa Claus is stepping down to street level on the Magnificent Mile, ready to spread holiday cheer and capture timeless memories with families. Water Tower Place is transforming the Mag Mile into the Merry Mile, hosting a candy-themed Sweetest Santa photo experience from November 17th to December 24th. This innovative twist on meeting Santa brings a new level of excitement to this beloved tradition, creating a festive atmosphere that resonates with the spirit of the season.

Crafting Sweet Memories at Muah Cotton Candy

Location: Water Tower Place, 845 N. Michigan Ave., 7th floor

Muah Cotton Candy, a recently opened interactive cotton candy shop on the seventh floor of Water Tower Place, invites visitors to embark on a whimsical journey of sugar-spun delight. Offering a diverse selection of both handcrafted and machine-made cotton candy, this unique experience goes beyond the ordinary. Guests can watch as skilled employees sculpt intricate cartoon characters, fluffy clouds, and towering wrapped ice cream cones, some reaching over two feet in height. The interactive element allows visitors to tap a screen and choose their desired patterns, witnessing the magical creations come to life. A treat for the eyes and the taste buds, Muah Cotton Candy promises a sweet escape for the entire family.

Perceptual Experience: Where Art Comes to Life

Location: The Shops at North Bridge, 540 North Michigan Avenue

Prepare to witness art in a groundbreaking way at the Perceptual Experience in The Shops at North Bridge. Renowned perceptual artist Michael Murphy, an alumnus of the School of the Art Institute, showcases the transformative power of 2-D art evolving into a 3-D marvel. Optical illusions, geometric precision, and skillful manipulation of colors converge to breathe life into seemingly flat artwork. This immersive experience challenges the boundaries of traditional art, offering a mesmerizing journey through perception and creativity.

Museum of Illusions: Where Reality Bends

Location: 25 E. Washington Ave

After a summer of renovations, the Museum of Illusions is back, bigger and better than ever. With nearly double the space and 20 new illusions, this museum takes visitors on a mind-bending journey through the fascinating world of perception. Demonstrating how easily our minds can be tricked, the Museum of Illusions provides a playground for capturing deceptive yet Instagram-worthy photos. An hour spent exploring the exhibits promises an unforgettable experience that challenges the very fabric of reality.

The Exhibit House: A Haven for Art Enthusiasts

Location: Water Tower Place, 845 N. Michigan Ave., fourth floor;

Art lovers rejoice at The Exhibit House, a haven for experiential art installations located on the fourth floor of Water Tower Place. Boasting one-of-a-kind exhibits such as Disco Dreamland, Secret Garden, and The Mood Room, this space transcends traditional art appreciation. The Exhibit House creates an immersive environment where visitors can interact with art on a personal level. Additionally, a special pop-up featuring artist and designer Kristopher Kites adds a touch of uniqueness to this cultural haven.

These experiences are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the unique and innovative offerings in Chicago this holiday season. As the city continues to embrace the “experience economy,” the possibilities for creating lasting memories and embracing new traditions are endless.