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Welch Will Not Seek New Term as Speaker After 26 House Democrats Call for Change

Politics

Welch Will Not Seek New Term as Speaker After 26 House Democrats Call for Change

House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch’s grasp on the chamber’s top job is tenuous… Read More

10 of the Chicago Area’s Most Dazzling Holiday Light Shows

Arts & Entertainment

10 of the Chicago Area’s Most Dazzling Holiday Light Shows

Holiday light shows captivate people of all ages for the simplest of reasons:… Read More

Child playing with Tinkertoys

coming up

Chicago Stories: Toy Town

Tinker Toys. Lincoln Logs. Beanie Babies. Radio Flyer. Kids obsessed with these iconic toys and games would surely have been surprised to learn that these and many others were born in Chicago. This episode takes you on a nostalgic trip back to a time when the city was a leader in toy innovation, introducing the designers who transformed their creative ideas and hard work into child’s play, examining how their creations helped children develop life skills while having fun, and how the business of toymaking wasn’t always fun and games.

Friday at 8:00 pm | Explore Website

playlist

What to Watch in November

Travel the Orient Express and Masterpiece drama locations, trawl the history of crime and punishment in America, and enjoy live concerts and more.

playlist

Native American Heritage Month: 10 Things to Watch

This year features new programs on topics including food sustainability, an unsolved murder, the fight for an independent tribal press, and more.

Chicago Stories

The Lady Labor Slugger

Margaret Haley, the daughter of Irish immigrants, fought for Chicago teachers.

For parents

Raising Grateful Kids: Why Giving Thanks Is Good for the Soul

Gratitude is good for you — and for your kids, according to psychologist Martin Seligman, who has conducted studies on benefits of expressing thanks.

Voters cast their ballots in Chicago's Edgewater neighborhood on Nov. 3, 2026.

Politics

80% of Chicago Voters Say State Lawmakers Should Tax Millionaires

In addition, more than 71% voters in suburban Cook County also voted in favor of the nonbinding ballot question, according to unofficial results from the Cook County Clerk’s office.

A series of toys including Beanie Babies, a Furbie, Simon Says, Skip-It, and Lincoln Logs sit on a lavender background

Chicago Stories

The Iconic Toys and Games Created in Chicago

For more than a century, Chicago has shaped the way generations of children have played, from simple wooden construction sets and little red wagons to clever board games and talking toys.

The Crawleys and some of their staff stand outside Downton Abbey

Recap & Stream

Downton Abbey Is Back

Downton Abbey is once again available to stream by WTTW Passport members, and airing Thursday nights on WTTW.

Adriana Roman stands alongside the painting she made for the Women’s Justice Institute’s annual “Look at Me” art show, celebrating survivors of domestic violence, Oct. 29, 2026.

Arts & Entertainment

Domestic Violence Survivors Tell Their Stories Through Art: ‘Giving Up Was Never an Option’

The Women’s Justice Institute’s annual “Look At Me” program showcases work from women incarcerated at Logan and Decatur correctional centers and Cook County Jail. The organization holds the art show every October in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Family at Thanksgiving table

For parents

Thanksgiving: Practicing Gratitude and Honoring the Real Story

A few years ago, I asked my first grade students what they knew about Thanksgiving. Not the holiday we now celebrate, but its origin — the story of the first Thanksgiving. My class of six- and seven-year-olds knew very little; there were mentions of Pilgrims and Native Americans and a feast, but that was about it in terms of real facts.
Member enjoying WTTW event.

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Each day, WTTW brings you content that challenges your intellect and captivates your imagination, and that nurtures the minds and spirits of children and families. Join our family today!

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