Highlights

Chicago’s Home for the Holidays

The lions are decked in their evergreen wreaths, and the Neapolitan crèche is once again on display—the holidays have arrived at the Art Institute!

We invite you, along with your family and friends, to join us to celebrate the season—whether it’s by visiting familiar favorites, exploring current exhibitions, or making art together.

What to See

View all exhibitions

November 19–January 8
Neapolitan Crèche
The Art Institute’s spectacular 18th-century Neapolitan crèche, or Nativity scene, returns once again this season, telling the story of Jesus Christ’s birth through more than 200 painted terracotta figures staged in an elaborate environment inspired by 18th-century Naples.
November 20–February 27
The Language of Beauty in African Art
See more than 250 sculptures from across Africa through the eyes of the makers and communities who created and used them. Discover how local perceptions of beauty extend beyond visual appearance and embody moral and religious significance.
Through January 9
David Hockney: The Arrival of Spring, Normandy, 2020
Experience the beauty and joy of nature through 116 of David Hockney's vibrant ipad paintings documenting the blossoming of spring in rural France.

WHAT TO DO

See all events

Ways to Explore

J6808 109 Int Web 72ppi 2000px Srgb Jpeg

JourneyMaker

Families will love making their very own adventure-filled tour with JourneyMaker, a custom tour builder available in our Ryan Learning Center and from your home computer. Choose from eight different themes—like superheroes and time travel—and dozens of artworks to create a special tour all your own.

Holiday Giving

Gift Memberships

This holiday season, give all the joys of membership: yearlong free admission to the museum and all exhibitions, exclusive member-only hours and previews, invitations to special lectures and events, and so much more. Gift memberships are also fully tax-deductible.

Museum Shop

Visit the museum shop online or in person to pick up the perfect gift or stocking stuffer. From exhibition catalogues to art-making kits for kids, there’s something for everyone.