Chicago’s Magnificent Mile Chases Away Winter Blues with Lights

Two nights ago when I was driving home I passed by a house with its outdoor Christmas lights, complete with a huge tree, still decked out in multicolored glory. These beacons of cheer reminded me of The Magnificent Mile in Chicago.

Through March 3, this slice of Chicago is lit up with Light Nights, an almost all winter long happening. Along with the trees being festooned with twinkling lights on Michigan Avenue, every Saturday at 6:30 pm there are fireworks and special events at Pioneer Court.

The idea is to chase away the winter blues and entice people to come out into the cold in order to later escape the cold in one of the restaurants and shopping areas. Clever idea. It works for me. Each Saturday has a little different flavor to satisfy a broad range of interests and ages. There is a grand finale planned for March 3. I just hope on March 4th after Light Nights is over a massive depression doesn’t hit the windy city, particularly since I may be heading there the following weekend.