Holiday Happenings
Plan a Real Chicago Celebration at The Drake Hotel
As the Magnificent Mile comes aglow with the twinkly wonderment of the season, so do holiday celebrations at The Drake Hotel.
Since the hotel’s opening party on New Year’s Eve in 1920, we have continued to be a holiday fixture celebrating over 100 Christmas seasons in Chicago. Decorating our historic hotel to the nines, with a grand foyer welcoming Christmas tree adorned with beautifully handcrafted decorations, Gingerbread display constructed by our pastry team, holiday-inspired floral installations, holiday carolers, harpist, and over 150 colorful holiday-themed flourishes throughout to welcome you warmly.
The Drake Hotel Holiday Season Must Do’s
Mountainside Christmas Village Display
November 21 – January 5
Marvel at the intricate details of a brand-new, spectacular miniature holiday train display. Mirroring the magic of its new name, this enchanting miniature railway winds its way through a winter wonderland scene built to delight the whole family. Enjoy free entry to view the holiday display.
Real Chicago Holiday Moments
Experience the magic of the season with an unforgettable holiday getaway at The Drake Hotel, where you can immerse yourself in our timeless winter traditions. Elevate your overnight stay by selecting a curated package complete with premium inclusions, such as our cheerful signature Merry Martini Package. Best of all, enjoy The Drake Advantage—exceptional hospitality and value with zero urban or destination fees applied to your stay.
Seasonal availability. Room rates vary by package choice.
Palm Court’s Holiday Afternoon Tea
November 5-21 | Thursday-Sunday, 12pm-4:30pm
November 22 – Jan 10 | Daily, Sunday – Saturday, 11am-4:30pm
Immerse yourself in the timeless splendor of Palm Court as you sip quintessential, seasonal teas and enjoy a classic three-tiered holiday tea presentation of gourmet tea sandwiches, house-made scones, and delicate petit fours. A live harpist performs throughout the service. Carolers will perform on weekends only beginning November 22, and from December 13-31 guests will enjoy daily caroler performances.
Pricing is exclusive of applicable taxes and gratuity.
Caroler Performance Pricing*:
Adults $89 | Children (age 3-12) $39
Non-Caroler Performance Pricing*:
Adults $87 | Children (age 3-12) $39
Festival of Lights Afternoon Tea Service
November 21st | Seatings at 3:15pm & 3:45pm
Celebrate the magic of the season in the Christmas Room with a festive afternoon tea, live carolers, and prime views of the parade commencement during The Magnificent Mile Festival of Lights.
Pricing*: Adults $89, Children $39 (3-12 years old)
Thanksgiving Dinner Special
Thursday, November 26th, 11am-10pm
$60/ pp++ | Wine pairing upgrade, $180/bottle ++
Gather at Coq d’Or to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner service, including Butternut Squash Bisque Soup, Carved Turkey Breast and Duck-Fat Confit Legs, complete with all the traditional trimmings and a spiced pumpkin pie for dessert. Quorn Vegetarian Turkey available upon request.
Lavazza Holiday Drink & Cookie Specials
Daily, 6:30am-3pm
Cozy up with premium freshly brewed Lavazza blends, joyful seasonal drinks, and a festive array of holiday cookies, rich cocoa, house-made pastries, and artisanal sandwiches. Enjoy extended hours until 7pm on November 21st to keep you warm during the Festival of Lights.
Live Music at Palm Court & Coq d’Or
Brighten your holiday nights with live music all season long.
Thursday’s beginning November 12, 7pm-10pm
Saturdays and Sundays, all season long | 9pm – midnight
Merry Martinis at Coq d’Or
December 12th- 24th
Sip your way through the season at Coq d’Or and enjoy a featured holiday martini each day beginning December 12th through December 24th.
Letters to Santa
November 21st – December 25th
Mail your letter to Santa Claus at the North Pole using the official mailbox located near the registration desk at The Drake Hotel.
Christmas Day Special at Coq d’Or
December 25th, 10am-11pm
Indulge in a sophisticated winter dining experience featuring Acorn Squash Soup, followed by your choice of 13 1/2- hour braised short ribs or delicate Main Lobster Cakes. Conclude your meal with a classic Yule Log dessert. To complement your dinner, choose our optional $180 wine pairing upgrade featuring exceptional French and Californian selections, including Chateau Dauzac Margaux 2022 (France) or Ramey Chardonnay 2021 (Russian River Valley.)
Pricing*: $79pp – Short Rib, $95pp Main Lobster Cake, $180pp with optional wine pairing. *Excludes tax and gratuity
NYE Special at Coq d’Or
Thursday, December 31st, 9pm-1am
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Coq d’Or with a curated dinner special, a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, and vibrant live music from 9pm-1pm. Enhance your evening by pairing six Chesapeake Bay Oysters Rockefeller for $24 with a premium pairing of G.H. Mumm Champagne Rose ($18 per glass / $125 per bottle).
