Your guide to the best Christmas decoration shops in Chicago
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Items from P.O.S.H. Chicago in River North. Photo: Justin Kaufmann/Axios
The holiday season officially kicks off after Thanksgiving, when many of you will trim trees and decorate spaces with lights, ornaments and other festive accessories.
The big picture: There are only a handful of local shops dedicated to holiday decorating, as most of that business has been gobbled up by big box stores.
- Most smaller boutiques that do carry seasonal decorations are geared more to holiday gift shopping.
State of play: With your family home for the holidays this week, here are a few authentic places to explore to freshen up your decorations:
P.O.S.H Chicago
River North
This N. State Street storefront is loaded with fantastic holiday decor, including unique ornaments, place settings, silverware and stationery. It's located in the Tree Studios building, which adds an elegant, sophisticated tone.
- For $30, you can get a hand-crafted cheese plate tree ornament, which is well worth it.
Tree Time Christmas Creations
Lake Barrington, Illinois
You may have heard the Tree Time jingle on local radio. The Northwest suburban store is a wonderland of decorations, from elegant artificial trees, lights and ornaments to life-size nutcrackers.
- The surrounding Barrington area can make for a nice day trip.
City Escape Garden Center and Design Studio
East Garfield Park
This west-side gem converts from a spring/summer garden center to a sophisticated indoor/outdoor decoration space. It's a nice mix of nature (fresh trees and plants), home decor and decoration ideas.
Christkindle Market
Daley Plaza & Aurora
Believe it or not, the open-air market at Daley Plaza has more than warm wine. Most vendors specialize in European-themed decorations that could give you some creative options to spruce up your festive look.
World Market & American Sale
Lincoln Park & suburbs
Box stores: If you have to go to a box store, the best bang for your buck is World Market (formerly Cost Plus) in the Clybourn Corridor. Find unique decorations, ornaments and throw pillows, in case you need some for hosting family.
- If you're in the suburbs, check out American Sale. Mostly known for summer pools and hot tubs, this place goes full seasonal in December.