Outdoor ice rinks are a great way to have fun, fit in some physical activity and enjoy fresh air this winter.

Holiday light shows and shopping markets in Geneva, Aurora, Joliet, Lemont, Ottawa shine bright with festive fun this month.

Lee Center UCC Church and Amboy Lions Club will host chili luncheon Jan. 12.

Among the eclectic items on display at Historic Auto Attractions in Roscoe include the Secret Service limo that drove behind President John F. Kennedy in Dallas the day he was assassinated, the red pickup from TV’s “Sanford and Son,” weapons owned by Jesse James and more.

Lake Geneva goes all out with several holiday events, happening now through late-December and early January.

Experience breathtaking lights woven throughout beautiful Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford.

The Polo Area Community Theatre will perform “Fruitcakes,” a holiday play is about a quirky Southern community and a runaway boy who comes to appreciate the town’s residents.

Whether you can get away for an afternoon or an entire weekend, here are some destinations to help get you started.

Check out one of the these northern Illinois bakeries that specialize in delicious cookies on Dec. 4.