Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago is preparing for a busy weekend as the holiday and winter season events commence. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) has issued reminders to motorists, residents, and visitors about increased crowds in popular areas and at holiday events. They urge everyone to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity by calling 9-1-1.

OEMC will oversee events across the city, coordinating resources as necessary. Traffic Control Aides will assist with managing traffic during various events. "If You See Something, Say Something™" is emphasized as part of a national anti-terrorism campaign, highlighting the need to report suspicious activities.

The official Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Friday, November 22, in Millennium Park near Michigan Avenue and Washington Street. The event includes pre-show entertainment starting at 5 p.m., followed by the ceremony at 6 p.m., which concludes with fireworks. Several streets will be closed from 10:00 a.m. until midnight on November 22 due to the event.

The Christkindlmarket opens on Friday, November 22, at Daley Plaza and runs through December 24. It operates Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with special hours for Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.

On Saturday, November 23, the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Festival of Lights begins at 6 p.m. along Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to the Chicago River. Activities start earlier in the day at 11 a.m.

Sports fans can look forward to the Chicago Bears facing off against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, November 24, at Soldier Field with kickoff scheduled for noon.

Maggie Daley Park Ice-Skating Ribbon and Millennium Park McCormick Tribune Ice Rink are expected to draw larger crowds throughout the winter season.

For safety information and updates, OEMC encourages downloading their app available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store or visiting their website at Chicago.gov/OEMC. They advise staying informed about weather conditions through local media or weather apps.

Additional emergency preparedness information can be found on OEMC's social media platforms: Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).