While this year has been one for the books, we still have a lot to celebrate. As we close out 2020, there are plenty of fun and festive ways to welcome the new year in Chicago, from a romantic dinner for two, to taking in the city views from one of Chicago’s hottest rooftops – from the privacy of your very own igloos!
Enjoy a romantic date night for two with the city’s most romantic restaurant, Geja’s Café
Geja’s Café, 340 W. Armitage, is offering two special promotions to ring in the New Year both outside on their patio with their New Year’s Eve Package, or in the comfort of homes with their New Year’s Eve @ Home Fondue Experience on December 31, 2020. For those looking for an intimate outdoor experience, Geja’s is offering a special New Year’s Eve Package, $135 per person with tax and gratuity included, with reservations available for 3 p.m., 5:30 p.m., and 8 p.m. This package includes a half bottle of Taittinger Brut La Francaise (a bottle per couple) along with a three-course fondue dinner. Each table will be outside and has a covered fireplace for a one-of-a-kind experience. Reservations are very limited. Those who prefer to celebrate in the comfort of their homes have the opportunity to enjoy their New Year’s Eve @ Home Fondue Experience. Patrons choose which Premier Dinner they would like, and Geja’s supplies the equipment. The New Year’s Eve @ Home Fondue Experience includes their signature Swiss Gruyere cheese fondue with an assortment of dippers that include breads, apples, grapes, and veggies. The experience is then followed by the Geja’s salad with Dijon vinaigrette; your choice of protein with an assortment of veggies and choice of eight dipping sauces; and concludes with a Dark Belgium Chocolate fondue with an assortment of dippers. www.gejascafe.com, 773-281-9101
Ring in the New Year at one of the hottest rooftops to open in 2020
The summer’s hottest new rooftop located atop the new Hyatt Place Wicker Park at 1551 W. North Avenue is cooling off with a brand new “Winter Wonderland” setup, perfect for an intimate evening out this New Year’s Eve. Kennedy Rooftop’s new digs include Boozy Igloos and a Curling experience as the perfect Covid-friendly rooftop option this winter season. With spectacular city skyline views spanning from the John Hancock to the Willis Tower, guests in groups of 6 or less can make their reservations for the holiday online now. www.kennedyrooftop.com
Get ready for the clock to strike midnight with your very own balloon drop
What better way to embrace the goodbyes of 2020 than with your very own balloon drop? Luft Balloons, 345 W. Armitage, is letting you bring the party home this year with their New Year’s Eve Balloon Drop, available for $65. Simply hang the bag from the ceiling with the attached tabs and pull the dangling rip-cord to let the balloons fall. The drop is fully arranged and inflated and features 1 Disco Ball, 2 Stars, 1 3’ Globe, 2 Confetti Dot, and various sizes of black, gold and silver latex balloons. Orders are available for pickup or delivery in the Chicago area. www.luftballoonstore.com, 773-857-0081
Shake things up with a family-style dinner from Chilam Balam
Chilam Balam, the popular BYOB Mexican restaurant located at 3023 N. Broadway St., is offering a festive New Year’s Eve family-style takeout menu, which will be available for pickup between 3 – 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 31. The takeout menu includes margarita mix or virgin sangria (just add your own tequila or red wine, respectively), Guacamole with tostadas, Smashed Potato Salad with brussel sprouts, chorizo, tomato mayo, valentina and scallions, Coconut Milk Braised Pork Shoulder with plantain black beans, rajas, young coconut and tortillas and Cheesecake en Nogada with pomegranate and almonds. The takeout menu is available family style for groups of two for $90 or groups of four for $160. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options are available upon request. www.chilambalamchicago.com, 773.296.6901
Decorate and celebrate with Paper Source
Staying in this New Year’s Eve, while it might be different, doesn’t have to be boring! Paper Source offers a wide variety of fun decorations and activities to ring in the new year on the right note! From photo props to confetti and banners, they specialize in helping you set the scene for the best celebration. www.papersource.com
