October 28, 2004 -- Chicago kicks off its annual "Winter Delights" tourism promotion on November 20, with special hotel rates until December 31, 2004, followed by two more months of celebrations on eight weekends, more dining and hotel deals, and hospitality packages from January 6 through February 27, 2005.
Here are just a few of the highlights:
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Magnificent Mile Lights Festival on November 20
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Chicago Neighborhood Tours motor coach shopping at museum stores on November 20
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State Street Thanksgiving Parade on November 25
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Christkindlmarkt Chicago from November 25 through December 22
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Holiday Bazaar on December 3 and 4 at the Chicago Cultural Center
- "One of a Kind Show & Sale" by up to 400 juried artists and artisans at the Merchandise Mart, December 3-5
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LaSalle Bank Winter WonderFest on the Navy Pier with trees, ice rink, inflatable games and Santa's Village from December 10 through January 2
- The Nutcracker Ballet with Robert Joffrey Company from December 15-26
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Monty Python's Spamalot from December 21, 2004 through January 16, 2005
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Mayor Daley's Holiday Sports Festival from December 27-29
- New Year's Eve Fireworks at Buckingham Fountain on December 31
In January and February, look for weekend culture and hotel featuring dining, blues, jazz, cabaret, circus arts, opera, theater and dance. Downtown hotels start from $79. There will also be Magnificent Mile lighting on Saturday evenings from January 8 through February 27, 2005. Finally, consider the "Immersion Weekends" (two nights each, with tickets to hot events and special receptions by leading arts experts, including those on opera, blues and jazz).
Starting in early November, visitors can book hotel rooms and get more information about the Winter Delights weekend celebrations or Immersion Weekends by phoning 877/CHICAGO or visiting www.877chicago.com. From outside North America, phone 312/201-8847. The TTY number is 866/710-0294.
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