Christmas and Chicago are two of my absolute favorite things. Christmas IN Chicago? It really is the most wonderful time of the year.

It is high time to share my favorite city spots to deck the halls, warm up, drink down…whatever you like. Let’s get started, shall we?

Lincoln Park ZooLights: Pack a thermos full of (spiked) hot cocoa, bundle up and wander around Lincoln Park Zoo. Starting this weekend, the 9th through 11th and then every night December 16 through January 1, the zoo will be decked out in lights, perfect for a cozy holiday stroll.

CTA Holiday Train: Last year, I almost died when the holiday train pulled up. Santa on a flatbed, Christmas carols, CTA employees handing out candy canes…it’s like Christmas cheer on steroids (steroids of awesome that is). Check out the schedule and get on board- it’s the urban Polar Express.

Drinks at the Omni: A Family holiday tradition since I turned 21, grabbing drinks at the Omni is high on my favorites. Snag a window seat for great views of a sparkling Michigan Ave and sip on a holiday themed cocktail while listening to your Dad tell you that Bing Crosby beat his wife. Well, that last part might not happen (thanks, Dad) but the Omni is perfect for festive revelry.

Christkindlmarket : Outdoor German market, spiced wine, beer, streusel, brats. Need I say more? (more here)

Holidose! The December installment of Dose Market is this Sunday. I have adored the two other times I have dosed and cannot wait to get my holiday fix of local art, fashion and eats on December 4th.

Santa Hustle: for the love of the big guy, get some exercise while doing all of my suggested eating and drinking. Running with a few hundred aspiring Old Saint Nick’s this Saturday will do just fine.