Chicago Like a Local blog

Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.

Latest blog posts

Dining, Special events

20+ restaurants for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve dinner in Chicago

Say goodbye to 2024 and ring in the new year in true Chicago style — with an unforgettable meal. Here are just a few top…

Dining, Special events

Where to eat Thanksgiving dinner in Chicago

Chicago is a dining destination 365 days a year, which means there are tons of amazing restaurants open on Thanksgiving. After you’ve worked up an…

Shopping and fashion, Special events

Shop Chicago’s gift-filled holiday markets

Looking for the perfect gift? Chicago is home to a magical array of holiday markets, from artisan pop-ups with cool handmade items to traditional Christmas…

Dining, Festivals, Special events

What to eat, drink, and buy at Christkindlmarket Chicago

Christkindlmarket has been a holiday tradition in Chicago since 1996. Modeled after the 16th-century holiday markets in Germany, the free-admission outdoor bazaar in downtown Daley…

Special events

How to celebrate Native American history and culture in Chicago

Chicago is home to one of the largest urban Native American communities in the United States, with about 65,000 Native American residents and some 175…

Turkey balloon float in front of Macy's at the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade

Festivals, Festivals & special events, Special events

Your guide to the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2024

Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024 • State Street It’s turkey time! The Chicago Thanksgiving Parade, a local tradition for almost 90 years, kicks off the holiday…

Blog, Family, Festivals & special events, Holidays, Special events

Your guide to The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival 2024

The holiday season in Chicago is always an exciting time. With countless events across multiple neighborhoods, there are so many ways to celebrate. One of…

Blog, Special events

Where to celebrate Diwali 2024 in Chicago

Diwali, also known as Deepavali or the festival of lights, is a Hindu holiday typically celebrated in India, South Asia, and across the diaspora. The…

Blog, Neighborhoods, Special events

Day of the Dead in Chicago: a celebration of (after) life

Día de los Muertos, also known as Day of the Dead, is a tradition that has been practiced for more than 3,000 years in Mexican…

Nightlife, Special events

Chicago Halloween bars, pop-ups, and events 2024

Are you ready for a frighteningly good time this Halloween in Chicago? The city is filled with spine-chilling pop-up experiences, haunted events, and eerily good…