You are here:
Posts Tagged ‘Winter WonderFest’
A Pint-Sized Perspective of Winter WonderFest
Posted on December 20th, 2011 by Amber Holst
Join 24/7 Chicago hosts Catie Keogh and Pete McMurray as they explore Winter WonderFest at Navy Pier! Watch as they are led by each of their children, Keelin Keogh and Charlie McMurray, through all the magical activities and wonderful rides and attractions that Winter WonderFest has to offer!
Tags: Catie Keogh, Family Fun, Holidays in Chicago, Navy Pier, Pete McMurray, things to do in chicago, Winter WonderFest
Santa’s Chicago Debut at Navy Pier
Posted on December 10th, 2009 by Jessica Rangel
Santa’s been making appearances all over Chicago, from the top of the John Hancock Observatory down to the 9th Annual Navy Pier Winter WonderFest, where he’ll be stationed every day from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. until December 24th. (See where else Santa’s been spotted!)
He’s been taking requests at the Family Pavilion Stage at Winter WonderFest, but getting him there was no easy feat. After all, Santa doesn’t just show up–he arrives in style.
If you were present at Santa’s grand arrival December 4, you know what we’re talking about. Braving the chilled December air, dozens of families and friends gathered eagerly on Dock Street to welcome Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus to town.
Leaving his reindeer to rest and his sleigh in the shop, Santa arrived in a most nontraditional way – he sailed in on a boat courtesy of Shoreline Sightseeing Cruises!
Santa and his North Pole pals were greeted by an excited crowd and Christmas carols as the Mayor of Winter WonderFest and his Top Dog, Patch, welcomed him to the Windy City (see video here!).
As the sky lit with colorful fireworks announcing his grand arrival, Santa expressed his fondness for Chicago. Before retreating to the Mayor’s office to indulge in some milk and cookies, he told all of the attendees at Navy Pier that he expected all of the children to visit him and tell him exactly what they want for Christmas!
For more on all of the Winter WonderFest coverage, follow @NavyPier and @CP_Chicago on Twitter!
Tags: holiday, John Hancock Observatory, Navy Pier, Santa Claus, Winter WonderFest
Guide to Rides at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest
Posted on December 7th, 2009 by Cecilia Ehlenbach
With 170,000 square feet of holiday diversions at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest and a group that can’t agree, where do you head first? One wants that fast-paced, action-packed ride that your little one winces at, and the other is eyeing that cookie-decorating booth eagerly.
Well, it was a hard job, but we toured the 2009 Winter WonderFest and asked some of its most discerning guests what they thought of the rides, and we’ve put together some of the highlights for each age group, helping you keep everyone happy and out of Jolly Jail.
FIRST STEPS (YOUNGER CHILDREN)
For our smallest visitors, Navy Pier has a selection of rides that are sure to pique some interest. Your first stop for little ones is Patch’s Lighthouse, which hoists them 16 feet in the air (to the top of the lighthouse) and gently bounces them back down again.
Another great option for nervous kids (or nervous parents) is the Ice Dragons Kiddie Ride (right), where kids can fly the friendly, dragon-filled skies with you by their side.
We surveyed several attendees, and all agreed that the Snowball Blitz (located in Winter WonderFest Jr.) was a blast: the netted area is filled with soft, foam balls perfect for an indoor snowball fight that won’t leave you shivering.
MORE ADVENTUROUS (OLDER CHILDREN)
Despite there being no specific age restrictions, the height requirements (and palpable apprehension) for the more daring rides at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest make them less popular with the younger crowd.
Hordes of fearless kids wait in line to tackle the Extreme Ice Trail Ropes Course (video), a set of beams, ropes, and platforms you must maneuver while suspended 27.5 feet above the ground.
A safety harness and helpful guide make the course completely safe, but that didn’t stop future daredevils from lining up to take their turn.
By far the most sought-after attraction at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest is the Winter Wind Glider (right), the chance for kids to get that exhilarating, wind-in-your-hair experience without stepping foot outside.
INDOOR WINTER WONDERS (ALL AGES)
One of the newest additions to Navy Pier Winter WonderFest is the Slippery SnowFlake Hill, a two-story high hillside perfect for all ages, no bundling required.
Another excellent option for a wintry activity indoors is the Chicago Blackhawks Ice Skating Rink: located at one end of the Winter WonderFest, the skating rink is dimly lit with the twinkling lights of a large disco ball overhead (right).
Two other options for mixed age groups (or little ones who’d like you to accompany) are the Reindeer Express through the WonderFest village and the classic Kringle Carousel.
For more on Navy Pier Winter WonderFest, going on through Jan. 3, follow @CP_Chicago and @NavyPier.
Tags: Chicago Entertainment & Attractions, Kids Chicago, Navy Pier, Winter WonderFest
Jolly Jail at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest
Posted on December 5th, 2009 by Cecilia Ehlenbach
When we say the Navy Pier Winter WonderFest is all about holiday cheer and excitement, we’re not messing around.
This year’s winter wonderland features not only the newly expanded Bah Humbug Court, but a Jolly Jail as well!
Just as soon as we arrived here at the 2009 Winter WonderFest, we crossed paths with some of Navy Pier’s finest, the Cheer Enforcement Cops, and they threw the book at us. We were written up for Insufficient Holiday Attire and sent on our way with a violation notice and court date in hand.
Several times each day, offenders have the chance to contest their tickets at the Bah Humbug Court with Mayor Evergreen himself. Stop by at one of the designated court times and you’ll see how quickly the courtroom fills up.
So, how can you stay out of trouble at the Navy Pier Winter WonderFest? Having been through it all, we have a few tips keeping you out from behind those candy cane bars.
—Don some bright, holiday attire and, most importantly, a smile!
—If you’re singing some holiday tunes, give it your all, or be written up for Dispassionate Caroling.
—Stick to your lines: if you’re caught line jumping or clumping, you might just find yourself with a ticket.
Best of all, there’s no need to disrupt your holiday cheer if you’re looking for a photo in the Jolly Jail! Stop by and get your picture taken with your best scowl (sure to be this year’s holiday card!).
Tags: Chicago Entertainment & Attractions, Navy Pier, Winter WonderFest
Bill & Giuliana Rancic Duet at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest
Posted on December 5th, 2009 by admin
A rendition of “Silent Night,” performed by Bill and Giuliana Rancic, broke the ice for participants of Carol-oke at the Windows Phone WorkPlayLand at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest.
The celeb couple was not performing for a chance to win a Windows Phone device, like a winner of Carol-Oke will be awarded every half-hour, but, we assume, because they love visiting Chicago and they love some Windows Windows Phone. As far as the competition, it’s worth a try, the first competition was so close that it was announced a tie, with multiple Windows Phone devices given away to the festive singers.
Above the booth and “Carol-oke”, the Windows Phone WorkPlayLand tree-house showcases the versatility of the smart phones, connected with other Windows devices. In the tree-house we got to sit down with the Bill and Giuliana for a few minutes chat about Twitter on their phones and where it fits in to their busy schedule.
“It’s been an incredible tool for me,” Giuliana said, “I don’t remember what I did before Twitter, which is kind of scary. I’m traveling so much I have to have it on my smart phone. I’m never really on a laptop anymore.”
Check back next week for the rest of our interview with Bill and Giuliana Rancic on the Chicago Travel Blog and follow @GiulianaRancic and @BillRancic.
Tags: Chicago Entertainment & Attractions, Navy Pier, Winter WonderFest
Live Entertainment at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest!
Posted on December 5th, 2009 by Paul Mulvihill
Once you’ve met all the holiday character and taken a turn on each of the rides, you might want to check out some of the entertainment options at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest, beginning Friday, Dec. 4. Beginning at 3:30 p.m. that day, magician Dennis Watkins will be performing hourly shows, perfect for all ages!
Watkins is no stranger to the Navy Pier stage; he’s been performing at Navy Pier for years and speaks highly of the continually diverse and large crowds: “At the Pier you have tourists, families, people in on business… it’s a lot of fun to perform there.”
Watkins has been practicing magic his entire life; he’s a third-generation magician and grew up making cards float and pulling rabbits out of hats.
He says the true magic in Chicago happens in the unique and inventive theater, “I love Chicago theater. There is fantastic theater all the time.”
When he isn’t entertaining crowds or checking out the newest original theater production, Watkins says the fun continues with some live Chicago music. When it comes to the music scene in Chicago, he says, “There is alwasys something exciting going on!”
For more on Dennis Watkins’ mind-boggling magic and other live entertainment at Winter WonderFest, check out our live coverage opening day and follow @CP_Chicago and @NavyPier on Twitter! And don’t miss Dennis Watkins’ amazing show at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest.
Tags: Chicago Entertainment and Attractions, holiday, Winter WonderFest
Pepsi Create-a-Cookie Cottage at Winter WonderFest
Posted on December 5th, 2009 by Cecilia Ehlenbach
Of all the activities at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest, from fast-paced rides to the classic carousel, one of the tastiest has to be the Pepsi Create-a-Cookie Cottage.
Armed with red, green, and white frosting, plenty of sprinkles, and soft-but-crunchy sugar cookies, kids can create treats to enjoy here at the Winter WonderFest or take them home for later. From what we could tell, very few cookies made it home in once piece!
We stopped by to see some of Navy Pier’s finest (and smallest) chefs in action, and picked out a few of our favorite cookies (below).
Our first decorator went with Santa’s hat (and just a little bit of sprinkles), our second went with a simple tree motif, and the third very carefully created a Christmas tree ornament. Once the chefs had sampled their creations, they all agreed, they were as beautiful as they were tasty!
While the Create-a-Cookie Cottage is by far the most creative source for sweets at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest, there are several other delectable options also available: check out Chicago’s own Garrett Popcorn, Ryba’s Fudge, and other carnival classics like funnel cake, churros, and cotton candy!
Tags: Chicago Entertainment and Attractions, Navy Pier, Winter WonderFest
Ride the Reindeer Express & Other Holiday Trains!
Posted on December 4th, 2009 by Paul Mulvihill
Hanging out at the top of North Pole Mountain here at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest, we can’t help notice the rollicking Reindeer Express making circuits below. The kids are loving it! The ride seems to revolve around the massive Christmas tree here and Santa’s house amongst a Teddy Bear-populated village.
It’s one of the many things kids have to do at this massive holiday affair. We’ve collected even more holiday train ideas to get you on the rails and in the spirits. So, looking for even more holiday trains around Chicago?
If you’re looking for a great holiday atmosphere, try Ogilvie Transportation Center. A massive wreath is the centerpiece of this bustling station, surrounded by lively animatronics: mice and elves and other holiday characters who help spread holiday joy to the entire station.
If something a bit smaller is more to your fancy, check out the Hancock Winter Wonderland at the John Hancock Observatory. Their Mountain Railroad train display runs on the concourse level until January 2 and is free to the public. Covering over 1,400 square feet, this classic attraction passes a snowman family, reindeer farm, and Christmas carnival on its journey.
All aboard! Look no further than the Holiday Train. The CTA transforms an entire subway train into a holiday-themed joyride. Santa and his helpers will be on the train passing out candy and holiday cheer. Be sure to check out when the holiday train will be coming to you!
Tags: Chicago Entertainment & Attractions, holiday, Navy Pier, Winter WonderFest
Winter WonderFest Deals & Giveaways
Posted on December 4th, 2009 by Rebecca Taras
We’re not just spinning pretty tales full of well-threaded words, photos and videos at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest today. Letting you know about some good old Chicago deals is our other mission. Here they are:
I. RIVA: This top Chicago seafood restaurant is offering Navy Pier Winter WonderFest (NPWW) attendees 20% off adult meals and a $5.95 children’s menu with NPWW wristbands. Stop by for lunch 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to take advantage of this great deal and enjoy their spectacular views. >> Find deal here!
II. IMAX: We’ve got 24 free passes to IMAX at Navy Pier we’ll be distributing throughout the day today. Watch our tweets from @CP_Chicago and stop by our Online Press Room for more information!
III. BUBBA GUMP: Head to Bubba Gump at Navy Pier and receive 10% off your check by showing your NPWW wristband! Also be sure to look out for our special Bubba Gump giveaway this evening at the opening night of Winter WonderFest! >> Find deal here!
IV. AMAZING CHICAGO: Don’t miss the walk-through, choose-your-own-pace maze at Navy Pier, and take advantage of special savings from Concierge Preferred! Buy one pass, get one free. >> Find deal here!
V. CAPI’S ITALIAN KITCHEN: For a wide range of Italian cuisine, right here on Navy Pier, check out Capi’s Italian Kitchen. Show your NPWW wristband at Capi’s for 10% off your check, 11:00 a.m. – 3 p.m. Also be sure to look out for our special Capi’s giveaway this evening at the opening night of Winter WonderFest! >> Find deal here!
Tags: Chicago Entertainment & Attractions, Navy Pier, Winter WonderFest
Q&A with Old St. Nick & Free Santas
Posted on December 4th, 2009 by Rebecca Taras
Don’t ask how we did it, but we were able to score a much-coveted interview with the “Man in Red” (in Italy, “Man in Blue”) and could barely get our questions out what with being so enraptured talking to Santa, a paragon of gift giving and rosy-cheeked cheer.
We threw the guy a few hardballs, but found out the fluff for you, as well, and here you go:
CP: How is the Chicago weather treating you; I mean, you live at the North Pole. Is it balmy here?
SC: Not really; there’s something about that wind coming in off Lake Michigan that really just chills a guy to the bone.
CP: How do you handle your popularity this time of year? The paparazzi? The new reality show, “Santa: Saint or Sinner?”
SC: When celebs tell you fame’s tough, they’re not kidding. Fortunately, there’s nothing I love more than pulling a sack of Christmas letters over to the couch, downing some milk and green beans (I lay off the cookies until the week before Christmas), and checking out wish lists. I laugh, I cry; you people can be really messed up.
CP: And why does it seem like you’re on every red carpet, event after event, up and down all these chimneys I keep hearing about?
SC: That would be Christmas magic. It works best for me around the holidays. Like, I could never hit that many Fourth of July barbecues…the mojo’s just not there. But I hit plenty of barbecues, believe me.
Santa arrives at Navy Pier Winter WonderFest December 4 with the help of Shoreline Sightseeing Cruises, and will be taking your requests at the Pier all month long. Here are a few other for-sure Santa sightings for you and yours:
LIST OF FREE SANTA SIGHTINGS:
I. Navy Pier WinterWonderFest Santa: Come by this all-things-holidays event at Navy Pier and sit with Santa for free! Make sure to stop by for his big arrival Dec. 4! Buy a wristband and the world is yours–and your kids’–oyster.
II. Daley Plaza Santa: Visit Santa in the comfort of his own home and right on the fringes of Christkindlmarket Chicago. More info here on Daley Plaza Santa.
III. Breakfast w/ Santa at Macy’s on State Street: Santa is reaching out on this one; for $16 adults and $12 for kids under 10, you get breakfast, face painting, and balloon artistry–and a photo with good St. Nick. Now, yell “Christmas!” and click on it for more details, too.
IV. Lincoln Park Zoo: Santa obviously isn’t afraid of anything; he’s seeing kids this year at the Kovler Lion House as part of ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo.
V. CTA Holiday Train: We saw this lit-up, Santa-waving, on-the-rails express from the office windows the other day. It’s a moving target, but you can catch up to it if you want. Whether you want to ride in it on your way to work is a different matter.
Tags: Chicago Entertainment & Attractions, Christmas, Downtown Chicago, Kris Kringle, Macy's, Navy Pier, Santa Claus, St. Nick, Winter WonderFest
Follow
