Chicago in November: Things to Do
Updated November 23, 2018
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November in Chicago
The Windy City is generally chilly in November, but Chicagoans can stay warm with coffee drinks, hot totties, and delicious bevvs around town while doing something fun.
Seasonal Events in November
Apple Picking and Corn Mazes
November may be chilly but the fall is an ideal time to visit a farm. Corn mazes and fun await Chicagoland families with orchards like Kuiper's Family Farm and County Line Orchard. With Halloween in the past, Thanksgiving takes the spotlight in November.
Holiday Shopping
That said, holiday events and shops start opening with the advent of Black Friday and the holidays approaching. Christkindl Market is one of many holiday shopping opportunities that open in November.
Food and Beverage Events in November
Beer Hoptacular
The Beer Hoptacular is one of Chicago's oldest and best beer festivals featuring local brews and fun activities. Games like Hammerschlagen have made an appearance, as well as food trucks, beer themed trinkets and a comic insult booth. While the fest originally took place at the Aragon Ballroom, recent Hoptaculars have been held at Cinespace Film Studios near Douglas Park.
The Festival of Barrel-Aged Beers (FOBAB) features craft brewers near and far presenting unique styles that have been (yes!) barrel aged. Tickets can be hard to come by, but for beer geeks it's worth the price and effort to attend. The event typically takes place at the UIC Forum in University Village.
Fried Chicken and Champagne Festival
Kendall College has started its own food and wine fest with a twist. The fried chicken and champagne festival is in early November.
The Lincoln Square Wine Stroll takes place each spring and fall, with over 45 retail and restaurants participating.
The annual Mac and Cheese Fest Chicago is not only a great place to nosh on cheesy goodness, part of every ticket benefits charities like the Ronald McDonald House.
The Arts
The Chicago Comedy Film Festival happens each November and is a chance to see live comedy acts around town.