Macy’s on State Street in the heart of Chicago’s Loop has long been a favorite shopping spot among locals and visitors alike. Come winter, you’ll find that this department store is among the first to kick off the yuletide season with the Macy’s Holiday Celebrations – a memorable tradition that goes back more than 100 years.
Beginning this month you’ll find a myriad of special events and activities to get you in the holiday spirit. The Great Tree will be on display in the historic Walnut Room from November through early January. Together with their partners, Macy’s host Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Holiday Parades that celebrate the season and give families a warm feeling inside as they are entertained by singers, dancers, orchestras, choirs and celebrities.
Macy’s SantaLand, known to many as Cozy Cloud from the Marshall Field’s days, can be found on the 5th floor of Macy’s on State Street. It is open during store hours in November and December. Across the country, millions of people visit each year to have Santa hear their holiday wishes and have their picture taken with the man himself.
Holiday Windows viewing begins in November through early January. Since the early 1870s, Macy’s has been stunning spectators with its famed holiday window displays and celebratory events. Macy’s was the first store to feature holiday windows created for the pure fun and joy of the season and, with that, began a tradition that still lives on today.
Holiday Traditions Tour is a 60-minute guided store tour highlighting the traditions of State Street. Tours are available every Friday in November and December at 11:30 a.m. for $12 per person or by reservation for groups of 10 or more.
Marvel at the Great Tree while dining in the historic The Walnut Room located on the 7th floor of Macy’s on State Street, which has become a tradition of dining, especially around the holidays for generations of families. No dining reservations are accepted from November to January. Santa Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner will be held in the Narcissus Room. Tickets are on sale this month.
The Walnut Room has the distinction of being the first restaurant in a department store, and it’s also the longest continuously running restaurant in the country. Opened in 1907, the popular dining and gathering spot was originally known as the South Tea Room. It became known among the ladies of Chicago as The Walnut Room due to its beautiful Circassian Walnut paneling, and by 1937 the affectionate nickname had become the official name. A chicken pot pie dish that inspired the restaurant is still a standout on the menu. The world-famous 45-foot Great Tree graces The Walnut Room from late November to early January each year.
Recognized as a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Macy’s State Street is a Macy’s flagship destination and a true American original. Join generations of Chicagoans as you shop and dine your way through this historic 9-floor building filled with the best in fashion, cuisine and more.
