Rainy-day (indoor) things to do with kids in Chicago, IL

Filter by age, area, cost, day

Weekend of Nov 13–15

Big outings

Sat, Nov 14 · 11am–3pm

MCA Family Day: Knock on Wood

Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

Free family art-making day inspired by works of Kenzi Shiokava and Mike Cloud.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Big outing
Free
Indoors

ASL interpretation provided.

Details at MCA Chicago ↗

Nov 5 – Jan 3

Goodnight Moon at Griffin MSI

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

Immersive Great Green Room exhibit based on the classic book, with interactive projections and the science of sleep.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Big outing
Paid: Included with general admission
Indoors

Opens Nov 5, 2026.

Details at Griffin MSI ↗

Nov 7 – Jan 3

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

More than 50 trees and displays celebrating holiday traditions from around the world.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Big outing
Paid: Included with general admission
Indoors

Opening day Sat Nov 7 includes the Tree Lighting and Cultural Festival.

Details at Griffin MSI ↗

Museums, gardens & more

Sat, Nov 14 · 10am–1pm

Smart Museum Family Day: Seeing the Invisible World

Smart Museum of Art — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

Free STEAM family day: observe the microscopic world and make cell-inspired drawings with a University of Chicago scientist.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Free
Indoors

Details at Smart Museum of Art ↗

Library storytimes & programs (84, free)

From Chicago Public Library branches. Some need registration; check the library page.

Friday, Nov 13

9amSeed Library: Seeds Available · Austin Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

9:30amMultilingual Playgroup / 多语言游戏小活动 · Chinatown Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amBook Builders · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amCommunity Cinema: Happy Feet (2006) · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

10amFilm Screening: Toy Story 5 (2026) · Brainerd Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

Fri, Nov 13 · times varyOpen Play Time · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

See all 2 branches

Jefferson Park Library Fri, Nov 13 · 10am
West Loop Library Fri, Nov 13 · 10:30am

Library event page →

10amStay and Play · Canaryville Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10:30amFall Preschool Story Time · Little Italy Library, Chicago 3-5 · Free

10:30amFamily Story Time Featuring Live Cello with Kelsey · Rogers Park Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10:30amLittle Learners Story Time · McKinley Park Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10:30amStory Time · Logan Square Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

11amMusic and Movement Story Time with Ms. My · Uptown Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

11amQuilting · Austin Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

11:30amStory Time · Logan Square Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

2pmMake a Holiday Greeting Card · Wrightwood-Ashburn Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2:30pmCrochet Club / Club de Tejer · Little Village Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2:45pmYOUmedia Takeover · Wrightwood-Ashburn Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3pmGame Day · Douglass Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3pmKids Paint and Sip · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

Fri, Nov 13–Sat, Nov 14 · times varyLEGO® Club · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

See all 2 branches

Toman Library Fri, Nov 13 · 3pm
Douglass Library Sat, Nov 14 · 2pm

Library event page →

3pmSecond Friday LEGO® Club · West Belmont Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

3:30pmSeason of Changes: Autumn Tree · West Englewood Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3:45pmMayfair Improv Club · Mayfair Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

4pmAI Safety Discussion · Canaryville Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

5pmFamily Trivia Night with Think Outside Da Block · Kelly Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

Saturday, Nov 14

Sat, Nov 14 · times varySaturday Story Time · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

See all 2 branches

Daley, Richard J.-Bridgeport Library Sat, Nov 14 · 9:30am
Legler Regional Library Sat, Nov 14 · 11am

Library event page →

10amFall Game Day · Blackstone Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

10amFamily Story Time · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amGrab and Go Kits: Popsicle Stick Scarecrow Craft · Canaryville Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

10amInternational Games Day Mini Gaming Convention · Clearing Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

10amKelly Kouture Community Closet · Kelly Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

10amKidCinema: Thankful with Blue (Blues Clues & You) · North Pulaski Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

10amRepair Cafe: Forward Chicago · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

10amSaturday Stories and Drop-In Play · Lincoln Belmont Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amSaturday Story Time and Snuggles · Austin Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amService Learning Club · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

10amWTTW Kids Learn & Play · Albany Park Library, Chicago 3-5 · Free

10:30amBrick by Brick: LEGO® Library Builders · Oriole Park Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

10:30amDinovember Story Time and Play · Little Italy Library, Chicago 3-5 · Free

11amFrom the Archives: Reimagining Chicago: Brick by Brick Gallery Tour · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 11+ · Free

11amKids Assemble · Beverly Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

11amMad Hatters Story Time · Humboldt Park Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

12pmCommunity Building: Audio Book + Craft · Little Village Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

12pmFamily Craft: Bead Art · South Chicago Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

12pmOBOC Young Readers Club: The Lion of Mars · Hegewisch Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

1pmCoding Club / Club de Programación · West Lawn Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmCreate Your Path: Turning Talent into Opportunity with Joy Joshua · Obama Presidential Center Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmMeet Chester Commodore: Drawing and Illustration 101 · West Town Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmPuzzle Exchange · Near North Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmScience Club · Blackstone Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

1pmTrans Community Clothing Swap · Bucktown-Wicker Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1:30pmTabletop Gaming Open Shop · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmBilingual Story Time · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

2pmChicago's Electric Blues Heritage and History: Diddley Bow Workshop · West Belmont Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmHidden History of Native Americans on the Blue Island Ridge · Walker Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmLEGO Robotics and Coding Workshop · Roden Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmPeriod Party · Uptown Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmPulitzer on the Road Exhibit: A Guided Tour · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmShrinky Dink Art · Dunning Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

2pmSkilled Trades Exploration Fair · Chinatown Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmWhen Studs Terkel Interviewed Me: What I Learned from Being Interviewed by the Pulitzer Prize-Winning Master Conversationalist · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 11+ · Free

2:30pmChildren's Craft: Junk Journals · Whitney M. Young, Jr. Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

3pmStitch and Knit Club · Toman Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3pmTape Resist Art · Daley, Richard J.-Bridgeport Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

Sunday, Nov 15

1pmFamily Fun Fest · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmVIVO (2021) · Toman Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:15pmIntro to Cricut Sticker Making or Heat Transfer · Gage Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1:30pmCard Processing with Cardz For Kidz · Humboldt Park Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmDungeons & Dragons Club · Lincoln Belmont Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1:30pmFamily Reading Time and Craft · North Pulaski Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmFilm Screening: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2001) · Scottsdale Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmFilm Screening: Minions & Monsters (2026) · King Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmScience Club: Neutrons, Protons and Electrons · Logan Square Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmEarring Making for Beginners · Merlo Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmFamily Film Screening: Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron (2002) · West Lawn Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFamily Flicks: Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009) · Oriole Park Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFilm Screening: Goat (2026) · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFilm Screening: Zootopia 2 (2025) · Vodak-East Side Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmMeet Calvin B. Jones: Make a Mini-Mural · Near North Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmMusic Teachers of Hyde Park Artist Series: Romance in Black Part 2 · Blackstone Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmStitch Circle · Budlong Woods Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3pmFamily Birthday Story Time Celebration with Ms. My · Uptown Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

3pmSit, Stay, Read · Little Italy Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

3pmYoung Reader’s Book Club: The Lion of Mars · Jefferson Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

Weekend of Nov 20–22

Big outings

Nov 5 – Jan 3

Goodnight Moon at Griffin MSI

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

Immersive Great Green Room exhibit based on the classic book, with interactive projections and the science of sleep.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Big outing
Paid: Included with general admission
Indoors

Opens Nov 5, 2026.

Details at Griffin MSI ↗

Nov 7 – Jan 3

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

More than 50 trees and displays celebrating holiday traditions from around the world.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Big outing
Paid: Included with general admission
Indoors

Opening day Sat Nov 7 includes the Tree Lighting and Cultural Festival.

Details at Griffin MSI ↗

Library storytimes & programs (66, free)

From Chicago Public Library branches. Some need registration; check the library page.

Friday, Nov 20

9amSeed Library: Seeds Available · Austin Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

10amBook Builders · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amConstruction Crew Kids · Canaryville Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

10:30amFall Preschool Story Time · Little Italy Library, Chicago 3-5 · Free

Fri, Nov 20–Sat, Nov 21 · times varyFamily Story Time · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

See all 2 branches

Rogers Park Library Fri, Nov 20 · 10:30am
Harold Washington Library Center Sat, Nov 21 · 10am

Library event page →

10:30amLittle Learners Story Time · McKinley Park Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

Fri, Nov 20–Sat, Nov 21 · times varyOpen Play Time · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

See all 2 branches

West Loop Library Fri, Nov 20 · 10:30am
Chicago Bee Library Sat, Nov 21 · 11am

Library event page →

10:30amStory Time · Logan Square Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

11amDIY Rolled Beeswax Candles · Humboldt Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

11amQuilting · Austin Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

11amTiny Tots Story Time · Chicago Lawn Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

11amTummy Time · South Shore Library, Chicago 0-2 · Free

11:30amStory Time · Logan Square Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

2:30pmCrochet Club / Club de Tejer · Little Village Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2:45pmYOUmedia Takeover · Wrightwood-Ashburn Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

Fri, Nov 20–Sat, Nov 21 · times varyLEGO® Club · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

See all 2 branches

Toman Library Fri, Nov 20 · 3pm
Douglass Library Sat, Nov 21 · 2pm

Library event page →

3:30pmSlime Day · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

3:30pmSTEAM Club · West Belmont Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

3:45pmMayfair Improv Club · Mayfair Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

Saturday, Nov 21

10amGrab and Go Kits: Thanksgiving Craft · Canaryville Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

10amSaturday Come, Stay, Play / Ven, quédate, juega el sábado · North Pulaski Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amSaturday Stories and Crafts · Bezazian Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amSaturday Story Time and Snuggles · Austin Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

11amDiscover Traquero History · Lozano Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

Sat, Nov 21–Sun, Nov 22 · times varyFilm Screening: Moana (2026) · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 6-10 · 11+ · Free

See all 2 branches

Independence Library Sat, Nov 21 · 11am
Independence Library Sat, Nov 21 · 1pm
Back of the Yards Library Sun, Nov 22 · 2pm

Library event page →

11amGamer's Universe Showdown Series · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 11+ · Free

11amLos Traqueros de Chicago / The Rail Workers of Chicago · Lozano Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

11amMad Hatters Story Time · Daley, Richard J.-Bridgeport Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

11amMeet: Fritz Pollard - The Fredrick Douglass of Football – Make a Team Pennant · Mount Greenwood Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

11amSaturday Story Time · Legler Regional Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

11amWTTW Kids Learn & Play · West Loop Library, Chicago 3-5 · Free

12pmClothing Swap · Dunning Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmCoding Club / Club de Programación · West Lawn Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmDINOvember · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

1pmEdgewater Community Music Jam · Edgewater Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmEncanto (2021) · Toman Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmFilm Screening: Inside Out 2 (2024) · Chinatown Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmFilm Screening: The Wild Robot (2024) · West Belmont Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

1pmGamer's Afternoon · Woodson Regional Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmHarvest Centerpiece Design · King Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmInterwoven: Cardboard Loom Weaving · Altgeld Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmKids Graphic Novel Book Club: Uprooted · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

1pmScience Club · Blackstone Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

1pmSpirited Stories: Indigiqueer Storytelling · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmTabletop Gaming Open Shop · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmFamily Science · Legler Regional Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

Sat, Nov 21 · 2pmFilm Screening: Toy Story 5 (2026) · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

See all 2 branches

Chicago Bee Library Sat, Nov 21 · 2pm
Clearing Library Sat, Nov 21 · 2pm

Library event page →

2pmLet's Play Magic: The Gathering · Humboldt Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmPigeons at the Library · Budlong Woods Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmReading Hour with Cipriani’s Pizza · Garfield Ridge Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmSculpting the Harvest: Mini Clay Food Workshop · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmToy Swap · Bucktown-Wicker Park Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2:30pmEdward Scissorhands (1990) · Canaryville Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2:30pmTween 3D Makerspace · Jefferson Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2:30pmTween Scene: Switch it Up · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 11+ · Free

Sunday, Nov 22

1pmLearn Chess with Dave · Walker Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1:30pmDungeons & Dragons Club · Lincoln Belmont Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1:30pmFilm Screening: A Dog's Purpose (2017) · Scottsdale Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmPathfinders Fall Family Fun Day · Austin Library, Chicago 0-2 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmCursive Club · Thurgood Marshall Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFamily Film Screening: Moana (2026) · West Lawn Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmPlaying from Spirit: Music and Stories on the Native American Flute · Budlong Woods Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmSit, Stay, Read · West Belmont Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

3pmBreakout Game: Trapped Between the Pages · Jefferson Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3pmParachute Play · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

4pmChicago Laughter Yoga · Logan Square Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

Weekend of Nov 27–29

Big outings

Nov 5 – Jan 3

Goodnight Moon at Griffin MSI

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

Immersive Great Green Room exhibit based on the classic book, with interactive projections and the science of sleep.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Big outing
Paid: Included with general admission
Indoors

Opens Nov 5, 2026.

Details at Griffin MSI ↗

Nov 7 – Jan 3

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

More than 50 trees and displays celebrating holiday traditions from around the world.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Big outing
Paid: Included with general admission
Indoors

Opening day Sat Nov 7 includes the Tree Lighting and Cultural Festival.

Details at Griffin MSI ↗

Library storytimes & programs (49, free)

From Chicago Public Library branches. Some need registration; check the library page.

Friday, Nov 27

9amSeed Library: Seeds Available · Austin Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

9:30amMultilingual Playgroup / 多语言游戏小活动 · Chinatown Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amBook Builders · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amChildren's Open Play · Douglass Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

10amStay and Play · Canaryville Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10:30amFall Preschool Story Time · Little Italy Library, Chicago 3-5 · Free

10:30amOpen Play Time · West Loop Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10:30amStory Time · Logan Square Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

11amQuilting · Austin Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

11:30amStory Time · Logan Square Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

1pmFun with Fall · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFamily Art Studio Time · North Pulaski Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmLittle Library, Big Games · Canaryville Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2:30pmCrochet Club / Club de Tejer · Little Village Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2:45pmYOUmedia Takeover · Wrightwood-Ashburn Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3pmGame Day · Douglass Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

Fri, Nov 27–Sat, Nov 28 · times varyLEGO® Club · At 3 Chicago Public Library branches 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

See all 3 branches

Toman Library Fri, Nov 27 · 3pm
Bezazian Library Sat, Nov 28 · 10:30am
Canaryville Library Sat, Nov 28 · 2pm

Library event page →

3:15pmPicture It: An Instant Photo Experience · Vodak-East Side Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3:45pmMayfair Improv Club · Mayfair Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

Saturday, Nov 28

Sat, Nov 28 · times varyFamily Story Time · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

See all 2 branches

Harold Washington Library Center Sat, Nov 28 · 10am
Near North Library Sat, Nov 28 · 10:30am

Library event page →

10amGrab and Go Kits: Leaf Suncatcher Craft · Canaryville Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

11amCosmic Chalk Creations · Oriole Park Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

11amFamily Art Studio · Jeffery Manor Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

11amKids Clothing Swap · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

11amOpen Play · South Shore Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

11amSaturday Story Time · Legler Regional Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

11amWTTW Kids Learn & Play · Garfield Ridge Library, Chicago 3-5 · Free

1pmChess Club · Northtown Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmCoding Club / Club de Programación · West Lawn Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:15pmIntro to Cricut Sticker Making or Heat Transfer · Gage Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1:30pmTabletop Gaming Open Shop · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmBilingual Story Time · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

2pmPerler Bead Keychains · Thurgood Marshall Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmRead, Write, Draw · Legler Regional Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

3:30pmChinatown Cultural Reads: My Dear You by Rachel Khong · Chinatown Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

Sunday, Nov 29

1pmThe Wild Robot (2024) · Toman Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmDungeons & Dragons Club · Lincoln Belmont Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1:30pmFilm Screening: The Sheep Detectives (2026) · King Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmFilm Screening: Uncle Buck (1989) · Whitney M. Young, Jr. Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmPope Film Fest: The Sound of Music (1965) · Archer Heights Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFamily Film Screening: Brother Bear (2003) · West Lawn Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFamily Flicks: Encanto (2021) · Oriole Park Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFilm Screening: Pocahontas (1995) · Pullman Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFilm Screening: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie (2026) · Chicago Lawn Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFilm Screening: Tom and Jerry (2021) · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFilm Screening: Toy Story 5 (2025) · Thurgood Marshall Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmPokémon Club · Budlong Woods Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmSeason's Greetings Card Signing and Social Gathering · Edgewater Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

3pmParachute Play · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

Weekend of Dec 4–6

Big outings

Nov 5 – Jan 3

Goodnight Moon at Griffin MSI

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

Immersive Great Green Room exhibit based on the classic book, with interactive projections and the science of sleep.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Big outing
Paid: Included with general admission
Indoors

Opens Nov 5, 2026.

Details at Griffin MSI ↗

Nov 7 – Jan 3

Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry — Chicago · Cook Co. · Chicago

More than 50 trees and displays celebrating holiday traditions from around the world.

Ages 0-2
Ages 3-5
Ages 6-10
11+
Big outing
Paid: Included with general admission
Indoors

Opening day Sat Nov 7 includes the Tree Lighting and Cultural Festival.

Details at Griffin MSI ↗

Library storytimes & programs (57, free)

From Chicago Public Library branches. Some need registration; check the library page.

Friday, Dec 4

9amSeed Library: Seeds Available · Austin Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

10amBook Builders · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amCommunity Cinema: Black Christmas (2020) · Back of the Yards Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

Fri, Dec 4–Sat, Dec 5 · times varyFamily Story Time · At 3 Chicago Public Library branches 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

See all 3 branches

Rogers Park Library Fri, Dec 4 · 10:30am
Merlo Library Sat, Dec 5 · 10am
Harold Washington Library Center Sat, Dec 5 · 10am

Library event page →

10:30amLittle Learners Story Time · McKinley Park Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10:30amOpen Play Time · West Loop Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10:30amStory Time · Logan Square Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

11amQuilting · Austin Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

11amTiny Tots Story Time · Chicago Lawn Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

11:30amStory Time · Logan Square Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

12pmHoliday Concerts: Hubbard High School · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2:45pmYOUmedia Takeover · Wrightwood-Ashburn Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

Fri, Dec 4–Sat, Dec 5 · times varyLEGO® Club · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

See all 2 branches

Toman Library Fri, Dec 4 · 3pm
Douglass Library Sat, Dec 5 · 2pm

Library event page →

3:30pmSTEAM Club · West Belmont Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

Saturday, Dec 5

9:30amSuperhero Story Time · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

9:30amWrap It Up! · Mount Greenwood Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

10amFilm Screening: The Little Drummer Boy (1968) · Walker Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

10amGame On: Board Game Play · Chinatown Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

10amRead and Sign Baby Story Time · Bezazian Library, Chicago 0-2 · Free

10amSaturday Story Time and Snuggles · Austin Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

10amThe Art of Paper Magic: Origami for Everyone · Near North Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

10:30amFilm Screening: We're No Angels (1955) · Walker Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

11amA Taste of The Nutcracker with Hyde Park School of Dance · King Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

11amDIY Kwanzaa Ornaments · Lozano Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

11amDraw Pictures/Tell Stories with Lucy Knisley · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

11amKid's Winter Music Show with Future Hits · Manning Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

Sat, Dec 5 · times varySaturday Story Time · At 2 Chicago Public Library branches 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

See all 2 branches

Legler Regional Library Sat, Dec 5 · 11am
Roden Library Sat, Dec 5 · 3:30pm

Library event page →

12:15pmFilm Screening: Dolly Parton's Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love (2016) · Walker Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmChicago Through Kids’ Eyes with Author Alina Dizik · Obama Presidential Center Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmCoding Club / Club de Programación · West Lawn Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmFilm Screening: Home Alone (1999) · Chinatown Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1pmLearn to Make Groutless Mosaics on Mirror with Julie Mars · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmMerry Maker Market · Avalon Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmNightmare Fuel with Tim Seeley, Jim Terry, and Wesley Sun · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmPop Up Cards and Pin Puppets; Paper in Motion · Altgeld Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmScience Club · Blackstone Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

2pmAncestral Plant Medicine · Lozano Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmCookie Decorating Contest · Scottsdale Library, Chicago 6-10 · Free

2pmJazzman Ray's Holiday Concert · Mayfair Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmLet's Play Magic: The Gathering · Humboldt Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmMeet Captain Walter Dyett: A Concert Performance · Clearing Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmRelief Printmaking with Izzy Toy · Merlo Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

2pmWeekend LEGO® Club · North Pulaski Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2:15pmFilm Screening: The Preacher's Wife (1996) · Walker Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

3pmHoliday Read‑Aloud and Craft Club for Beginning Readers: You Read to Me, I Read to You · Uptown Library, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

3pmLive Comic Book Making with Gene Ha · Sulzer Regional Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3pmPass the Control: Video Gaming · West Englewood Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

3:30pmWTTW Kids Learn & Play · Roden Library, Chicago 3-5 · Free

Sunday, Dec 6

1pmLearn Chess with Dave · Walker Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1pmMerry Grinchmas Scavenger Hunt · Edgebrook Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

1pmYOUmedia Advisory Board · Humboldt Park Library, Chicago 11+ · Free

1:30pmFilm Screening: Finding Nemo (2003) · Scottsdale Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmPope Film Fest: It's A Wonderful Life (1946) · Archer Heights Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

1:30pmWrap It Up! · Mount Greenwood Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

2pmFamily Film Screening: The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) · West Lawn Library, Chicago 6-10 · 11+ · Free

3pmParachute Play · Harold Washington Library Center, Chicago 0-2 · 3-5 · Free

3:30pmThe Nutcracker Ballet Story Time · Edgebrook Library, Chicago 3-5 · 6-10 · Free

About this page

276 indoor events over the next 4 weekends: library programs, museum activities and workshops. Back to the full Chicago, IL weekend guide.

Updated November 12, 2026