LINCOLN SQUARE — Chicago’s own holiday romance, Christmas in Chicago, is now streaming on Amazon Prime and Apple+. Writer‑director Mark Nathan, a Bolingbrook resident, chose the North Side’s Lincoln Square to stand in for the fictional Garrett Park, giving local viewers a chance to spot familiar spots like Timeless Toys, The Book Cellar and the Welles Park gazebo.
Local roots, national platform
When Nathan first announced the film in 2024, he emphasized his commitment to keeping the story rooted in Chicago. “I’m not going to tell a Chicago story if I have to shoot in Toronto,” he told Block Club, rejecting offers that would have moved production out of state.
The movie follows downtown heroine Felicity Jones (Jennifer Freeman) as she returns to her neighborhood to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas and falls for the local alderman, played by Michael Copon. Nathan’s decision to film in an urban setting rather than a typical small‑town backdrop adds a fresh twist to the Hallmark‑style genre.
From screenings to streaming
After limited theatrical runs at venues such as Lincoln Square’s Davis Theatre, Facets in Lincoln Park, and CineCity Studios at Cinespace in 2024‑2025, Nathan took the film on the road to cities like Cleveland, Lexington, Raleigh and Washington, D.C. He described 2025 as “a little bit of a dumpster fire in the industry,” but the strategy of a limited release followed by broader distribution paid off.
Now, Chicagoans who missed the theater showings can watch the film at home. “At long last…Christmas in Chicago is here!” Nathan announced on Instagram, adding that marketing and social media pushes are planned for the upcoming holiday season.
Supporting local culture
The film’s release highlights the vibrant cultural scene of Lincoln Square and underscores the importance of local storytelling. Nathan’s use of real neighborhood businesses not only adds authenticity but also showcases the community’s charm to a wider audience.
As the holiday season approaches, residents can look forward to possible “Christmas in Chicago” nights at local venues, further celebrating the city’s festive spirit.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
