Chicago’s Navy Pier winter programming features a diverse lineup of arts, entertainment, and family events. These include holographic experiences, larger-than-life art installations, cultural celebrations for free. January through March offers a compelling array of climate-controlled diversions for Chicagoans and out-of-town visitors.

Thanks to ongoing philanthropic support of Navy Pier’s nonprofit mission, many Pier-produced events are open free to the public. Winter 2023 highlights include:

Verse Immersive (through Feb. 6) – A state-of-the-art augmented reality theatrical experience taking guests on immersive journeys through breathtaking holographic landscapes and encounters with mythical creatures in 30- to 60-minute, multi-act narratives. For additional information and tickets, click here

International Puppet Festival (Jan. 21) – Free event welcoming three nationally acclaimed puppeteers to share their artistry in performances at Noon and 2 p.m. in the Culture Corner at Navy Pier’s Food Experience.

Family Days with Chicago Children’s Museum (starts Jan. 26) – Free, fun-filled programming, activities, and workshops for children ages 1 through 10, stationed throughout the Pier on the last Thursdays of the month, January through May.

Wise Children’s Wuthering Heights at Chicago Shakespeare Theater (opens Jan. 27) – A wildly imaginative and exhilarating musical adaptation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel, running through Feb. 19, as part of Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s WorldStage Series. For additional information and tickets, click here.

Global Connections: Lunar New Year (Jan. 28); International Carnivale (Feb. 25); Holi (March 4) Three-part series of cultural and ethnic celebrations from around the world, presented by ComEd. Free programming will take place in the Aon Grand Ballroom from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Solstice (opens March 4) – A monumental interactive art installation inspired by solar and planetary movements that invite visitors to take control of the environment around them. Solstice will be on display on Navy Pier’s South Dock and open free to the public through April 16.

All artists, dates, and prices are subject to change. Programming schedules are updated regularly at www.navypier.org.