A century-old holiday tradition came back to Chicago’s lakefront on Saturday, as the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw delivered more than 1,200 Christmas trees to Navy Pier for families in need. Crowds gathered along the dock shortly after sunrise, bracing against the wind as the ship made its approach. Volunteers — some wrapped in scarves and others in full uniform...

Organizers and vendors are voicing serious concerns after Mayor Brandon Johnson’s administration began strictly enforcing sharply reduced capacity limits at the market. The change came without warning—officials say they were informed just 12 hours before opening day that attendance would be restricted far more tightly than expected. The shift is dramatic. While the market was allowed nearly 3,500 visitors on...

Alinea, long considered Chicago’s most famous fine-dining destination, was knocked down from three Michelin stars to two last week — an unusual setback for a restaurant at that level. The news immediately prompted the same question across the culinary world: why now? Michelin offered no explanation. The guide never reveals details of its decision-making, keeping inspectors anonymous and leaning on...