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Winter Break Activities 2025

Schools will be closed from Monday, December 22 through Friday, January 2 for Winter Break. There will be no classes Monday, January 5. Students will resume classes on Tuesday, January 6. On this page, you'll find information about activities for students and families during Winter Break.

My CHI. My Future.

The My Chi. My Future. app is full of fun activities, events, and city destinations for youth to experience during Winter Break and all year round. Sign up today!

Chicago Public Library

CPL offers exciting programming for students of all ages across the city libraries all year round, including over winter break. Explore events for students of all ages, at various CPL locations throughout the city.

Chicago Park District

The Chicago Park District heats up in the winter with expanded indoor and outdoor activities! 

Sign up for the Chicago Park District’s Winter Break Camps, and Check out a variety of festive happenings in the parks,  and kick the winter blues at one of the Winter Flower Shows.

Ice Skating
Pre-registration is required for all ice rink programs, including open skate sessions. Learn more & register for a skating session.

Apply to be a Lifeguard
For applicants 16+ years of age, apply to be a Lifeguard.

Museums for All

Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,400 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their EBT card and a photo ID. View Participating Museums.

Free Wednesdays at the Field Museum and Adler Planetarium 
Here are the upcoming free museum days for Illinois residents this month:

Always free Chicago museums

Navy Pier Winter WonderFest

Winter WonderFest returns to Navy Pier until January 4, 2026. Lights, rides, a 42-foot Christmas tree and live performances create a memorable experience.  Find tickets and more information for Winter WonderFest.

CDPH Immunization Clinics

Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) immunization clinics provide vaccinations (flu, MMR, COVID-19 and others) for children 0 through 18 at no out-of-pocket cost. CDPH serves uninsured, underinsured, Medicaid (Title XIX) insured, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP; also known as Title XXI or state-funded) individuals. 

Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is highly encouraged. View locations and schedule.