There are many events happening around Chicagoland for the holiday season and here's the rundown!

Friday kicks off a handful of holiday events across the city -- from the 109th annual "Official" Christmas tree lighting, to the opening of Chicago's favorite Christmas market, to ice skating inside Wrigley Field and more, this weekend is sure to get you into the holiday spirit.

One of the best Christmas markets in the country returns to three neighborhoods Friday across the Chicago area -- Chicago's Christkindlemarket.

The famed-German-style market offers visitors the opportunity to buy handmade artisan goods and taste international foods while listening to festive tunes. And this year, the Christmas market will take place in three different locations: Wrigleyville, Downtown Chicago, and Aurora.

The Christmas markets all open Friday, Nov. 18. Hours of operation and locations are below.

Ever dreamt of running the bases at Wrigley Field? Well, you can't quite do that this winter. But you can go ice skating in the outfield.

While it's not the North Pole, it may look (and feel) like that. It's all part of Winterland at Gallagher Way, which this year includes a number of activities that take place inside the Friendly Confines.

Carnival games, ice tubing, an ice slide and the "Infield Express train" will also grace field, along with holiday music, festive food, beverages and more.

Winterland begins Nov. 18 and runs through Jan. 8. Admission to Gallagher Way activities, including the Christkindlmarket in Wrigleyville and Santa’s Workshop, will be free

The 31st annual Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival takes place throughout the weekend, beginning with a tree lighting ceremony at 4 p.m. Friday at 401 N. Michigan Ave.

Saturday Nov. 19, Pioneer Court will be transformed into a "Lights Festival Lane" holiday village, with holiday booths, family holiday activities and more.

I love this time of year!

Showbiz Shelly