Planning a trip to Chicago and looking for things to do this month? You won’t believe the amazing stuff happening in Chicago this November! Despite the cold weather, the city is buzzing with over 20 awesome events for the holidays. Whether you are a woman traveling solo or you plan on going with a friend, there are so many fun things to do this month.

From cultural fests to art shows and live performances, Chicago has got you covered this holiday season. Use this guide to fill your Chicago itinerary with fun things to do during the month of November:

Things to do in Chicago in November

November 3-4:

2023 Doc Chicago

Interested in filmmaking and documentaries? Doc Chicago is a regional documentary community that strives and bringing people together to share ideas. This event is free to attend, but you must register beforehand: link to registration.

Fall Night Market – Sauced Market

The Fall Night Market with Sauced Market allows you to find a cute holiday themed items from local Chicago vendors. This event is free, but you must register beforehand: link to registration.

November 5:

Vinyl and Vittles in Englewood

Vinyl and Vittles is a record fair and Food market. Click the link for more information.

November 6:

First Monday Jazz with Felena Bunn

Love Jazz music? Then you will love Felena Bunn. Find more information on where to get your ticket here.

November 7-8:

Native American Heritage Celebration

Celebrate indigenous culture during the month of November. You can find tickets to the event here.

November 9:

Documentary Thursday: Skate or Die

Love Chicago cinema and wants to connect with other cinephiles in the area? Check out Documentary Thursday where they review Skate or Die. Get your free tickets here.

November 10:

Pilsen Gourmet 2023

Are you a foodie that wants to taste all of the flavors of Pilsen? Definitely make time for Pilsen Gourmet 2023. The tickets are from $65 to $125. You can purchase your tickets here.

InfiniFest Tickets

Take your creative friends and enjoy a 24 hour perpetual motion arts festival. General admission to this event is free, but you must reserve your spot. Get your free tickets here.

November 11:

Ravenswood Makers Market

Shop with over 25 local vendors to find cute accessories and festive drinks. Reserve your spot here.

43rd Annual Holiday Delight & Kodomo Matsuri

Check out the 43rd Annual Holiday Delight & Kodomo Matsuri with the Japanese American Service Committee in Chicago. You’ll find a ton of local vendors, selling jewelry, art, fabrics, and collectibles along with some delicious food for the holidays. Reserve your free general admission tickets here.

Jazz and Nature at NPV

Jazz and nature, need I say more? North Park Village Nature Center Park is hosting a jazz and nature event for all of you Jazz and nature lovers. Enjoy some time walking around the park with like-minded individuals while listening to wonderful music. Learn more about the event details here.

NAVI-ARTS Festival

The Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture in Chicago is hosting the NAVI-ARTS Festival. Enjoy the winter craft show featuring local creators and crafters to help you find cute gifts for the holiday. See more information about the event here.

Holiday Market – Hyde Park Farmers Market

Visit the Promontory and enjoy unique accessories and delicious food at the Hyde Park Farmers Market. Find all the information you need about the market here.

November 12:

Third Space Fall Artisan Market

Shop small business from over 20 local vendors at the Fall Artisan Market from Third Space. Find all the information you need about the event and the vendors here.

November 17:

First Day of Christkindlmarket

Enjoy a traditional holiday market that has 50 vendors from around the world. Enjoy delicious food and holiday themed accessories. You can find all the information about the locations and prices here.

Ice Skating in Millennium Park Opening Day

Ready to go ice-skating this year? Ice skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park is always fun! Admission is free, but tickets are required. You can find all the information you need to have fun while skating here.

City of Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Enjoy watching Chicago’s official Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Admission is free and the ceremony begins at 6 PM. You can find all of the information about the ceremony and the pre-show here.

Opening Day ZooLights Presented by ComEd and Invesco QQQ

ZooLights officially opens! Enjoy Lincoln Park Zoo in the evenings with gorgeous Christmas lights. Tickets are about $5-10 per person and you can reserve them here.

November 18:

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Celebrate a tradition that’s been held for 32 years! The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a wonderful way to enjoy some evening time shopping and some festive lights. You can find all the information you need here.

November 18-19:

Randolph Street Market

Randolph Street Market Festival is a fun way for you and the family to find cute accessories for your home and for the holidays! Self proclaimed as a European style antique and vintage market, you will find the perfect gift for everyone in your family. You can find all the information you need here.

November 23:

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

If you’re looking to attend a parade in Chicago during the month of November, definitely pick the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade. This festive parade, showcases diverse Chicago talent, amazing performers, and photo-worthy balloons! Find all the information you need about where to go to see the parade here.

November 25:

Navy Pier Winter Fireworks

Watching the fireworks are completely free, but make sure you show up early so you can find the perfect spot. You can find more information about the fireworks here.