Chicago in December: When Does the Sun Decide to Call it a Day?
So, you're planning a trip to the Windy City in December, huh? Brave soul! While Chicago in winter has its own unique charm (think: stunning snow-covered skyscrapers and cozy hot chocolate), there's one thing you might be wondering: when exactly does the sun decide to pack up and head home?
The Great Chicago Sunset Mystery
Let's dive into the world of sunset times. Now, I know what you're thinking: "It's December, duh, it gets dark early." Well, yes, but let's add a little spice to that obvious answer.
Imagine this: You're standing on the shores of Lake Michigan, bundled up like a human burrito, waiting for that magical moment when the sky explodes in a kaleidoscope of colors. You check your watch. It's 4:30 PM. You think, "Ah, plenty of time for the sunset." Wrong! By 4:30, the sun is already starting to give you the side-eye like, "You still here?"
To cut to the chase: In December, the sun starts its descent around 4:30 PM and bids a final farewell somewhere between 4:45 and 5 PM. But don't be fooled! That doesn't mean it's pitch black immediately. You'll get a decent amount of twilight time to enjoy the city's skyline bathed in a soft, ethereal glow.
Tips for Maximizing Your Daylight Hours
- Embrace the Brunch: Make the most of your mornings. Chicago has a fantastic brunch scene, so fuel up and enjoy the extra daylight hours.
- Plan Your Outdoor Activities Wisely: If you're planning outdoor activities, aim for the early afternoon.
- Invest in a Good Pair of Sunglasses: Even in winter, the low sun can be surprisingly bright.
How to...
- How to avoid Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Get some sunlight exposure during the day, even if it's just for a short walk. Consider using a light therapy box.
- How to dress for the cold: Layer up! Invest in a good winter coat, hat, gloves, and scarf.
- How to stay entertained indoors: Chicago has a thriving indoor scene with museums, theaters, and countless bars and restaurants.
- How to make the most of the short days: Embrace the cozy atmosphere and enjoy indoor activities like visiting museums, catching a show, or trying out a new restaurant.
- How to capture the perfect sunset photo: Use a tripod to avoid camera shake and experiment with different exposure settings.
