Ten Things to Do in Chicago This Cold Weekend
Chicagoans know that when temperatures drop, the city’s cultural calendar often heats up to compensate. With the thermometer dipping low for the weekend of January 31, 2026, residents and visitors alike face the choice of hibernating or embracing the “Windy City” winter spirit. For those willing to brave the chill, the city offers a diverse lineup of events ranging from culinary festivals to world-class symphony performances.
Here are 10 notable activities happening in and around Chicago this weekend:
1. Chicago Restaurant Week
The city’s annual culinary celebration is in full swing, running through February 8. Over 400 local restaurants are participating, offering special prix fixe menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner. It serves as a prime opportunity to sample high-end dining institutions or neighborhood favorites at a reduced price point, though reservations are highly recommended as prime slots fill quickly.
2. Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival
Concluding this weekend on February 1, this festival transforms the city into a hub for contemporary puppetry. Performances are held at various venues, including the Fine Arts Building and the Studebaker Theater. The event showcases artists from around the world, offering a mix of whimsical and thought-provoking productions suitable for diverse age groups.
3. Ice Skating at Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park
For those looking to stay outdoors, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park and the Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park remain open. Skating in the shadow of the Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean) offers iconic skyline views. While admission to the rinks is often free, skate rentals can be pricey, and the ribbon at Maggie Daley Park requires advance reservations to manage capacity.
4. Cider Summit Chicago at Navy Pier
Taking place on Saturday, January 31, the Cider Summit returns to the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier. This event features over 150 ciders, meads, and fruit spirits from local, regional, and international producers. It is an indoor event, providing a reprieve from the lakefront wind, but tickets must be purchased in advance.
5. Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Salonen, Trifonov & Beethoven
Classical music enthusiasts can head to the Symphony Center this Saturday evening. Renowned conductor Esa-Pekka Salonen leads the CSO in a program featuring pianist Daniil Trifonov. The performance includes Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and Bruckner’s Symphony No. 4, offering a sophisticated indoor escape from the weather.
6. SoxFest Live
Chicago White Sox fans can gather for SoxFest Live, occurring Friday and Saturday at the Palmer House Hilton. The event features autograph sessions, seminars with current players and alumni, and a garage sale of team memorabilia. It is a major draw for baseball fans looking to bridge the gap until spring training.
7. Sons of the Silent Age at Metro Chicago
On Saturday night, the Metro hosts “Sons of the Silent Age,” a tribute performance dedicated to the music of David Bowie. Featuring Michael Shannon and Jason Narducy, the event is a staple for local rock fans. The venue is standing-room only for most ticket holders, which can be tiring for some attendees.
8. Hot Tub Boats on the Chicago River
For a unique juxtaposition of fire and ice, groups can rent electric hot tub boats. These vessels allow passengers to cruise the Chicago River while submerged in 100-degree water. While the water is hot, the air remains freezing, and the transition in and out of the boat requires a high tolerance for the cold.
9. Museum Exhibits: The Field Museum and Art Institute
Chicago’s museum campus remains a reliable shelter. The Field Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago are open, with expansive indoor galleries. While these institutions provide warmth and education, they are popular destinations during cold weekends, leading to potential crowding and lines at ticket counters.
10. Candlelight Concerts
Various venues across the city, including architectural landmarks, are hosting Candlelight Concerts this weekend. These intimate performances feature string quartets playing contemporary or classical music illuminated by thousands of flameless candles. The ambiance is distinct, though the repertoire is often specific to a single theme or artist tribute.
Objections and Considerations
While the itinerary is full, logistics in a frozen Chicago require planning. The primary objection for any outing this weekend is the weather itself; wind chills can make walking between venues hazardous. Public transportation is often a safer bet than driving, as downtown parking rates remain high and street parking can be scarce due to snow restrictions. Additionally, costs can accumulate quickly; events like Cider Summit and theater performances have significant ticket prices on top of dining and travel expenses. Indoor events also carry the risk of overcrowding as the entire city seeks shelter from the elements.
Despite the bitter temperatures, Chicago remains operational, offering a blend of indoor culture and outdoor resilience for those prepared to navigate the cold.
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