Winter Wedding Venues for Rent in Chicago, IL

For the best and most magical experience, start your search in the West Loop. This area offers great blank canvas venues that boast an amazing, winter-like urban atmosphere that you can tailor to your own vision, as well as an array of fabulous restaurants with exceptional settings. The Chicago Loop also has some amazing ballrooms and banquet halls which you can find in upscale hotels like Palmer House Hilton, or in historical venues such as The Art Institute of Chicago.  If you want something much more unique, then we recommend considering hiring a planetarium on Museum Campus that offers a wow-worthy setting and dazzling views of the city. 

To rent a winter wedding venue in Chicago, expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $160+ per person. Some venues, such as restaurants and hotels, charge on the basis of a minimum spend, and prices for these venues start from $1500+. It is also possible to find a wedding venue that you can rent on an hourly basis - expect the prices to fall between $250 to $1000+ per hour. (All data from Tagvenue.com.)

• Weekday Weddings: Consider holding your wedding on a weekday rather than a weekend. Many venues offer lower rates for weekday events, and you'll likely have more availability to choose from.
• Guest List Management: Be mindful of your guest list. Keeping the guest count smaller can significantly reduce costs, as you'll need a smaller venue, less catering, and fewer invitations.
• All-In-One Venue: Choose a wedding venue that offers catering and other amenities you may need. Venues such as the Private Dining Room at Wild Blossom Meadery & Winery offer a spacious setting with catering services, simplifying logistics and cutting costs!
• Winter Menu: Embrace the season with a winter-themed menu. Hearty dishes like soups, stews, and roast meats are not only delicious but can also be cost-effective.
• Off-Peak Timing: Choose an off-peak time for your wedding, such as a brunch or afternoon ceremony, which can be more budget-friendly than evening events.
• Negotiate Vendor Prices: Don't hesitate to negotiate with vendors. Ask if they offer winter discounts or package deals that can help you save money.
• Borrow or Rent Items: Borrow or rent items like decor, tableware, and linens rather than buying them outright. This can significantly reduce expenses.
• Plan Early: Start planning your winter wedding well in advance. This allows you to secure the best deals and avoid rush fees.

Additionally, check out How to Choose a Wedding Venue: The Complete Guide to make sure your chosen venue ideally suits your wedding concept!

There are numerous reasons why having a wedding in Chicago in wintertime is great! Here are a few of them:

• Unique and festive atmosphere: Winter in Chicago is magical. The city is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered streets, sparkling lights, and festive decorations. Your wedding will be a truly memorable event in this setting.
• Fewer crowds and lower prices: Winter is the off-season for weddings in Chicago, so there will be fewer crowds and lower prices for venues, hotels, and other wedding-related services. This can save you a lot of money on your wedding.
• More opportunities for cozy and romantic settings: Winter is the perfect time for a romantic wedding. You can have your ceremony and reception in a charming winter garden or a cozy fireplace-lit venue!
• Great photo opportunities: Winter in Chicago offers endless photo opportunities. You can take pictures in snowy parks or under twinkling lights. Your photographs will be truly exceptional.
• Sense of exclusivity: A winter wedding will feel more special than a wedding held during a more popular time of year. You'll have more privacy and fewer distractions, allowing you to truly focus on your special day.

Organizing a wedding celebration in winter, you should keep these things in mind:

• Choose a venue that is well-heated and has plenty of indoor space.
• Consider having an outdoor ceremony and reception, but be prepared to move the event indoors in case of bad weather.
• Wear layers so you can stay warm throughout the day.
• Serve hot and comforting food and drinks.
• Decorate with festive elements that are appropriate for the season.

• Winter Wonderland: This classic theme is sure to evoke the magic of the season. Use white and silver décor, snowflakes, and twinkling lights to transform the venue into a winter wonderland.
• Cozy Cabin: This theme is perfect for a warm personal wedding. Use rustic décor, faux fur, and candles to create a cozy cabin feeling.
• Glamourous Ice Ball: This theme is all about elegance and sophistication. Use crystal accents, black and white décor, and a touch of sparkle to create a great ice ball atmosphere.
• Nordic Romance: This theme is inspired by the Scandinavian tradition of hygge. Use warm colors, cozy textures, and candles!
• Festive Wonderland: This theme is all about the holiday spirit. Use colorful lights, festive decorations, and traditional holiday symbols to bring a warm vibe!

By choosing a theme that reflects your personal style and preferences, you can create a magical and memorable winter wedding in Chicago. If you’d like to explore more themes, make sure to read our  170 Greatest Themes to Rock Every Party in 2023!