Chicago has some of the richest museums and cultural attractions in the country and because of the generosity of some sponsors and the city of Chicago, you can visit and enjoy them for free on these days in 2009.This is a great opportunity for kids and families to enjoy these museums, cultural institutions and artwork the way they were intended: accessible for everyone, not just the privileged people.

If you have kids and don’t want to pay a lot of money for the whole family to go to Chicago Museums, this is the time to go. You still have parking costs and you may also have some costs for food and/or souvenirs but it is a lot cheaper and more affordable to visit Chicago Museums on a free sponsored day. And in this economy free things to do are better than sitting at home one more day with that TV and all those commercials.

The Art Institute of Chicago is Free on Thursday evenings from 5-8 pm after work. This is a great free date night for couples or anyone dating. Remember you can say that a painting or photograph means anything, it is whatever you want to interpret it as.  The Art Institute of Chicago has so many rare pieces of art that people come from all over the world to see our collection here. If you are a Chicago Tourist, you can enjoy the free evenings too. Special exhibits are usually not included in the free admission though.

The Adler Planetarium is Free and open to the public on these days in 2009. The planetarium does not have much parking and the Museum Campus in general has few parking spots available close to the buildings. Be prepared for a long walk and bundle up accordingly in the cold this winter. The y have some cool 3-D movies and space shows running now that the kids will be inspired by. Plus space is such an inspiring curious subject for kids and adults of all ages.

January 5,12-16, 20, & 27th
February 3, 9-13, 17, 24 & 26th
March 3, 10 & 17th
April 21 & 28th
May 5, 12, 19 & 26th
June 7-12th
September 1, 8, 14-18, 22, & 29th
October 6, 13, 20, & 27th
November 3, 10, 17, & 24th
December 1, 8, 15, & 22th 

See the adlerplanetarium.org for more details. 

Chicago Children’s Museum is open for Free every 1st Monday of the month. There is also free admission for children 15 and under every day. And Free Thursdays 5 to 8pm for everyone

Chicago History Museum is open for Free every Monday!

The Chicago Field Museum is open for Free on:  
The 2nd Monday of every month as well as:
January: 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29
February: 1 – 6, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26
September: 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30
October: 1, 7, 8, 14, 15
November: 11, 12, 18, 19
December: 2, 3, 9, 10 

The Museum of Science and Industry is open for Free on:

Jan. 5 – 31
Apr. 22 (Earth Day)
June 1 – 5
June 19 (MSI birthday)
Oct. 8 – 30 (Weekdays only)
Nov. 11 (Veteran’s Day) 

The Museum of Science and Industry is undergoing a large renovation in addition to the U-Boat Submarine that has already been renovated. This was a badly needed renovation, so you can go once now for free and once again when the revamp is done in a year or two. Feel free to skip the wildly out of date Internet exhibit and the automotive exhibit with all the cars covered. This used to be my favorite museum when I was a kid. I hope they can bring it back to it’s former splendor.

2008 was a busy and eventful year in Chicago. People started off on edge about the war in Iraq and ended with more hope for the future even amidst more problems with the economy. 

Chicago had it’s fair share of events, news, trends, buzz and history made in 2008. The biggest most popular news and events in Chicago happened in the last few months with Barack Obama winning the presidential election and Rod Blagojevich being arrested and then released with corruption charges. 

Chicago also remained in the bid process for the 2016 Olympics ( despite my disagreeing about it’s appropriateness here) and we got monsoons of rain in June and Snow in December, January, February and March. The precipitation levels in Chicago have been on the rise in 2007 and 2008, nobody seems to know why. Bernie Mac passing away was big news in Chicago because it was so unexpected and he was (and is) so popular here. Politics is always new in Chicago but I haven’t gotten into the fray there. We try to keep things clean on the Chicago Weekend Fun Blog.

Not all of these topics are things we can post about here with our main focus being about entertainment, events and fun things to do in Chicago. It is also a secondary goal that we cover any other issues that people living in Chicago have to deal with and try and always remain open minded about all different people, cultures and ideas.

The trends in 2008 news coverage popularity by topic: (from the Pew Trust)

Some of the most popular posts we had on Chicago Weekend Fun in 2008 are listed below in no particular order.  I was happy that these posts got a lot of comments and seemed popular with readers. There were many more posts that were well received but too long a list to include here and I always appreciate the comments, emails and contact form submissions about the blog. All comments are welcome, even the ones about my spelling errors. (I am human like anyone else, and sometimes forget the spellcheck) I also appreciate the people who comment with additional information that I did not have at the time of the post, after all this is a blog and a news/events/information conversation.

Our goal in 2009 is to write more posts and provide even more information about the topics that are requested and commented on. We enjoy working on this blog immensely and would like to continue doing so for a long time. I never thought that writing or running a web site would be this enjoyable as work, but I find that we always have something to say so the topics and words come quickly. We also know that this is a learning process so if there are revisions and changes along the way it is because we are doing our best to provide the best site possible and work out the kinks as they come at us.

Your readership is always appreciated as is your feedback. If you would like to help out the Chicago Weekend Fun blog in 2009 you could send us a note in our feedback form, add a link to us in your blogroll, send a link to the site to your friends, bookmark us or advertise your company in ad words in the content network that runs on the blog. Any or all of those things would be greatly appreciated.

Top Topics, News and Post Trends for 2008 – comments and views – in no particular order

 Chicago Area Cook County and DuPage Sales Tax Increase

 Chicago Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

 Apple Orchards Autumn Apple Picking

 Top 5 Chicago Tourist Attractions

 Chicago now has 2 Christmas Music Radio Stations

 Naperville Ribfest Festival July 4th Weekend

 Chicago Black Friday Sales and CyberMonday Deals

 Fogo De Chao Brazilian Steakhouse Restaurant

 Chicago Neighborhood and Suburbs Zip Codes

 Chicago Halloween Haunted House

 Chicago Street Closures for Barack Obama Rally

 Taste of Chicago

 Big New Year’s Eve in Chicago 2008  

 Tommy Hillfiger Lighting Christmas Tree at Macy’s 

Harry Potter’s props costumes and sets will be coming to the Museum of Science and Industry Exhibition in Chicago in April 2009. The exhibition will be there through September 7th 2009. This is much like the Star Wars Exhibition that they had there in the winter of 2007-2008. The movies are so popular that Harry Potter and Star Wars bring a whole new audience to The Museum of Science and Industry and help raise awareness of the museum for tourists and visitors as well as local residents.

The following for Harry Potter Books is huge in Chicago and an entire generation grew up on these books, reading them from cover to cover over and over again. I expect the tickets to easily sell out for the first few months at the exhibit. I would also expect there to be some demonstrations in the exhibit about how the magic effects happened in the movie and some explanations of how the Harry Potter movies were made.

Tickets on sale now at the Museum of Science and Industry website; $26 for adults, $19 for children, and $25 for senior citizens. There are discounted prices for everyone during the evening hours after the museum closes which is nice since people will pretty much line up forever to see these items in person if they are superfans. And judging from how many people stood in line at bookstores at midnight to get the books each time they were published, I think this will be one of the most popular exhibits at the museum of science and industry to date.

I also think this makes a good trip activity idea for the kids over spring break or summer break in 2009. There are a lot of other educational exhibits there that you should see too if you can make it. The bodyworlds exhibit is always popular. Just stay away from the internet exhibit (ala 1997) and the automobile exhibit (ala 1985). There are some areas of the museum that need a lot of updating.

See harrypotterexhibition.com for details and to buy tickets online.

The International Exposition of Sculpture Objects and Fine Art (SOFA) is planned for Festival Hall in Navy Pier in Chicago on November 6-9. This is an amazing contemporary art show and well worth the admission to attend. The work on display at SOFA ranges from glass to ceramics to textiles and sculpture. Even if you are not an art expert this show is eye opening and entertaining at the same time.

Art innovates constantly and SOFA Chicago is one of the few places to see what is new and evolving before it hits mainstream. If you are smart you can integrate these style details into your life before everyone else (haha) and become more of a style innovator yourself. That said the purchase prices of these art objects and sculptures are steep. These artwork pieces on display are not quite intended for the general public to buy and are usually purchased for private collections or in museums for the rest of us to enjoy. SOFA Chicago isn’t somewhere to go if you need to furnish your living room unless you are a millionaire. There is also a SOFA VIP Program and a free Lecture series for anyone who would like to attend. There is more info with the dates and times on their website listed below.

Over 35,000 people attended SOFA Chicago in 2007 and there are more than 100 galleries and dealers all in the same location together at Navy Pier. If you buy serious art this is the event to see everything all at once. Tickets to SOFA Chicago are available online for $15 for one day or $25 for a 3 day weekend pass. There is also an opening night Gala event that is $50.00 and you get to see all the art and sculpture objects before anyone else. Personally I was thinking of going since I have never been to SOFA and I hear people raving about it every year. It isn’t that expensive to attend although you will pay another $25.00 on top of your ticket prices for parking at Navy Pier. I think $35.00 is a small price for all that great inspiration.  Check out sofaexpo.com to buy tickets online or you can buy them at the door also.

The alphabetical list of Galleries exhibiting at SOFA Chicago 2008 is:

Aaron Faber Gallery
Adamar Fine Arts
Andora Gallery
Ann Nathan Gallery
Barry Friedman
Beaver Galleries
Berengo Studio
Blue Rain Gallery
browngrotta arts
Bullseye Gallery
Cervini Haas Gallery
Chappell Gallery
Charon Kransen Arts
Collection – Ateliers d’Art de France
COVET – collectable objects & fine art
CREA Gallery
D&M Fine Arts
Dai Ichi Arts
The Dancing Hands Gallery
David Collection
del Mano Gallery
Donna Schneier Fine Arts
Duane Reed Gallery
Eden Gallery
Elliott Brown Gallery
Ferrin Gallery
FLATFILE Galleries
Function + Art
Galerie Besson
Galerie Elca London
Galerie Elena Lee
Galerie Pokorná
Galleri Grønlund
Galleri Udengaard
Galleria Norsu
Gallery Sklo
Garson Baker Fine Art
Glass Artists Gallery
Habatat Galleries, Chicago
Habatat Galleries, Florida-Virgina
HABATAT Galleries, Michigan
Hawk Galleries
Heller Gallery
Holsten Galleries
Jane Sauer Gallery
Jean Albano Gallery
John Natsoulas Gallery
Judy Youens Gallery
Katie Gingrass Gallery
KEIKO Gallery
Kirra Galleries
Lacoste Gallery
Lafrenière & Pai Gallery
Lee Weitzman Furniture
Leo Kaplan Modern
Litvak Gallery
Maria Elena Kravetz Gallery
Marx-Saunders Gallery
Mattson’s Fine Art
Maurine Littleton Gallery
Micaëla Gallery
Modus Gallery
Mostly Glass Gallery
Mowen Solinsky Gallery
National Craft Gallery of Ireland
Next Step Studio and Gallery
Niemi Sculpture Gallery & Garden
Oliver & Espig
Option Art
Orley & Shabahang
Ornamentum
Palette Contemporary Art & Craft
Patina Gallery
Perimeter Gallery
Pistachios
Portals
PRISM Contemporary Glass
rakovaBRECKERgallery
Ruth Lawrence Fine Art
SABBIA
Santa Fe Clay
Sherrie Gallerie
Sherry Leedy Contemporary Art
Signature Gallery
Silica Galleries
Sim JaeCheon Gallery
Snyderman-Works Galleries
ten472 Contemporary Art
Thomas R. Riley Galleries
Turkish Cultural Foundation
Twiga
UrbanGlass
Wexler Gallery
William Zimmer
Yaw Gallery
Zygman Voss Gallery

We need free things to do in Chicago now more than ever. Who can afford a $8 beer and a $12 movie in this financial and economic uncertain time. I have heard more people say they are staying in to save money than I have in years. I still like to go enjoy Chicago though and sometimes you can do that for free if you know where and when the events are happening. Here are some free things to do in Chicago that are scheduled over October and November. I am guessing this is going to be a lean Christmas too.

1. A Kevin Coval reading free admission from The author, educator, HBO Def Poet and founder of Louder than a Bomb at The Chicago Teen Poetry Festival. He reads from his newly released book “Everyday People.”

2. Sixth Annual Pumpkin-Carving Party at the Avenue Tavern at 2916 North Broadway in Lakeview Call 773-975-7000. Free at 8pm-12am midnight on October 16th. Carve your own pumpkin creation and win prizes (pumpkin carving tools are provided). Afterward, the weird and wacky jack-o-lanterns are displayed outside the bar sidewalk through Nov. 1 or until the rot, or are carried away by squirrels whichever happens first.

5. Free Bingo/Tango 312-397-4010 at the Museum of Contemporary Art at 220 East Chicago Ave. Play some bingo and Learn Tango in the same night. What could be better? Between games, Somer Surgit and Agape Pappas teach quick Tango lessons. Every 2nd Tuesday of the Month at 6pm.

6. Yay for Free Stitch ‘n’ Bitch! 312-280-2660 Don’t you know knitting is cool now? Meet more young hip urbanites with creative focus at the Stich and Bitch. Yarn and crafts not provided, but bring whatever you are working on. Evey 1st Tuesday at the Museum of Contemporary Art. 5:30 pm.

7. Dia de los Muertos: La Vida Sin Fin 312-738-1503 The nation’s largest Dia de los Muertos/Day of the Dead exhibit, this 22nd annual collection highlights local and international artists.

8. The 12th Annual North Halsted St Halloween Parade 773-868-3010 Expect crazy costumes and over the top behavior in Boystown. The parade travels north on Halsted Street, from Belmont Avenue to Cornelia Street. Post-paradefestivities include a costume contest for your pets and your humans as well as live performers and entertainment by Halsted and Roscoe Streets. 

9. Green City Market at 1750 North Clark Street 773-435-0280 Hey, window shopping and browsing is free right? This great organics fest of food is still going in harvest season through October 29th.

10. The Weekly fireworks show at Navy Pier 312-595-7437 This is still going too, the fireworks have not stopped even though summer is over. They still set off a 10-minute fireworks display over Lake Michigan set to music every Saturday night at dusk.

11. Free admission for the Museum of Science and Industry 773-684-1414  This is for General admission only and only on Tuesdays. It still costs to park, see the Omnimax and 3-D movies or go on the ”U-505″ submarine tour.

12.Freeeee Comedy Shows – Battle-Prov ComedySportz improv students face off against other funny local improv teams. For Discount/free days call 312-922-9410. There is free general admission in Feb and the 2ndMonday of each month. It’s usually wicked cheap funny anyway at $4-$7 per show at Comedy Sportz which is at 929 West Belmont Avenue.

13. Wicker Park Critical Mass Bike Ride 312-551-7300 ext. 11 This monthly bike ride through the Wicker Park neighborhood is a fun way to enjoy the fall leaves and colors and get exercise at the same time. Plus you meet cool hip urban eco friendly bike riding people.

14. Sunday Salutations Free yoga class 773-883-8860 Stretch and strengthen your muscles for free at this weekly class in the park, which is always weather permitting. Hosted by lululemon’s Halsted store anda different new yoga studio each month.

15. Free Literary Open Mic 773-489-2353 Bring your best poetry or prose and read it aloud at this weekly event.

16. Free Fall Cooking Demonstrations 773-241-5200 Get tips on picking seasonal produce and learn how to prepare turkey burgers with coleslaw and cranberry mayonnaise. Hyde Park Farmer’s Market at 5200 S. Harper Avenue at 9am on Thursday October 16.

17. The Free Grasshopper Show 773-880-0199 A rotating roster of eight current I.O. training center students pair up with I.O. instructors in a very funny longform harold improvised show. IO Theater is at 3541 N. Clark Street in Chicago.

18. The Free Improv Jam 773-880-0199 Be careful, the volunteer audience members perform improvscenes with veteran I.O. comics. Local improv guys Brett Lyons and Nathan Jensen host and drag you up on stage too if you let them. Same address as above.

19. Chelsea Handler book signing 773- 935-3909 The comedy writer and performer signs her new book of funny personal stories, “Are You There Vodka, It’s Me Chelsea.” 

20. Daniel Vosovic book signing 312-573-0564 The exciting “Pro ject Runway” finalist discusses his new book, “Fashion Inside Out: Daniel V’s Guide to How Style Happens from Inspiration to Runway and Beyond.” OMG!

21. The Free Daley Plaza 12th annual Halloween celebration, formerly called “Pumpkin Plaza,” features a haunted village, pumpkin decorating (weekends only), storytelling, live performances and more. Afternoons in late October.

22. The Great Walnut Room Tree Lighting at Macy’s in November 312-781-5454 Designer Tommy Hilfiger lights the 45-foot-tall tree in the Walnut Room. The tree, trimmed with nearly 15,000 lights and 4,000 ornaments, is on display through Jan. 11.

23. 13th Annual Christkindlmarket Chicago 312-494-2175 An open-air, German-style market showcases handmade ornaments, accessories, clothing and gifts from more than 50 vendors. Also features German food and drink such as beer, hot spiced wine, potato pancakes, bratwurst, schnitzel, strudel and more.

24. Howl-o-ween 312-595-7437 Bring your pooch for a cute dog costume parade in Gateway Park, or browse pet merchandise, information and animals are up for adoption inside the Festival Hall.

25. Isaac Mizrahi signing is new book at Barnes and Noble. 312-573-0564 The fashion designer discusses his new book, “How to Have Style.” Did you ever want to see the guy in person that brought high style to Target?

26. State Street Halloween Happening Parade 312-744-3315 Costumed participants march to Daley Plaza, where Halloween Pumpkin Plaza festivities include a costume contest, candy giveaways, performances, appearances by “Wicked” cast members and more.

The Art Institute of Chicago is hosting a new free exhibit called 360 Degrees: Art Beyond Borders for the next 10 months: September 27, 2008 through June 16, 2009. 360 Degrees Art Beyond Borders is unlike most exhibits at the Art Institute of Chicago because it combines efforts and exhibits with the other major cultural institutions in Chicago. The institutions participating are Art Institute of Chicago, the Chicago Poetry Foundation, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and the Chicago Council on Global Affairs. It is really a 360 degree view of the arts in Chicago. And what is even more amazing about this artistic creative smorgasborg is that it is FREE to the public. How amazing is that?

The schedule consists of lectures, performances, readings, talks, discussions and exhibits full of all forms of artwork and commenting on a wide variety of creative subjects.

The full schedule of Art Institue of Chicago 360 Degrees: Art Beyond Borders Exhibit Events:

• Lecture: Season Preview—The Promise of Encyclopedic Museums
  9/25, 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall. James Cuno, president and director.
• 360 Degrees: Art beyond Borders Opening Day 9/27, 10am -3:30 pm the Art Institute of Chicago
  Free admission Preview the globe-spanning scope of our new season!
• Lecture: Chicago and Globalization—Caught in the Middle on September 27, 2008 at 10:30-11:30 am in Fullerton Hall Free Admission Richard Longworth, Senior Fellow, The Chicago Council on Global Affairs and author.
• Reading: Reading and Commentary—Art and Literature September 27, 2008 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall. Free. C. K. Williams, poet.
• Reading: Poetry—Always a Home September 27, 2008 2-3 pm in Fullerton Hall Free admission. Marilyn Nelson, poet
• Conversation: Bizet’s Pearl Fishers October 2, 2008 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall Free to the public
• Performance: Henri Duparc—Composer Crossing into Modernism October 7, 2008 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall Free with admission to the Art Institute of Chicago. Jean-Baptiste de Boissiere, voice; George Lepauw, piano
• Reading: Adam Zagajewski October 9, 2008 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall Free
• Lecture: Religion, Ethics, and Globalization—New Dilemmas Local and Global October 16, 2008 at 6-7 pm Fullerton Hall Free to the public. Diana Eck, Harvard University.
• Symposium: From the Natural to the Fantastic—Italian Drawings, 1500–1650 (Print and Drawing Club)
  October 17, 2008 at 10:30am-5 pm in Fullerton Hall Space is limited; to reserve a seat, call (312) 443-3756.
• Performance: Italian Masterworks—Schubert and Vivaldi October 19, 2008, 2-3 pm Fullerton Hall For ticket information, call (312) 294-3000
• Lecture: Genius of Sport—Baron Pierre de Couberin and the Enduring Values of the Olympic Ideal
  October 23, 2008 6-7 pm Fullerton Hall Free. George Hirthler from the Chicago 2016 Olympic Campaign.
• Performance: Joel Spears, Lute Virtuoso October 30, 2008, 6-6:45 pm Fullerton Hall Free.
• Symposium: The Divine Art—Four Centuries of European Tapestries October 31, 2008, 10:30am – 5 pm
  Fullerton Hall Space is limited; to reserve a seat, call (312) 857-7138. Free.
• Lecture: God’s Crucible—Islam and the Making of Europe, 570–1215 (Leadership Advisory Committee)
  November 1, 2008, 6-7 pm in the Rubloff Auditorium For tickets, call (312) 494-9509. David Levering Lewis, New York University.
• Performance: Enescu, Bartok, and Brancusi November 4, 2008, 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall Free with admission to the Art Institute of Chicago.
• 360 Annual President’s Lecture: A World Connected—Why Do We Leave Home? November 7, 2008 7:30 -8:30 pm in Fullerton Hall. For tickets, call (312) 494-9509. Nayan Chanda, Yale Center for the Study of Globalization.
• Lecture: Global Debates on Islam in the 21st Century November 13, 2008 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall. Free. Muhammed Sani Umar, Director of Northwestern University’s Institute for the Study of Islamic Thought in Africa.
• Lecture: Encyclopedic Museums—Cabinets of Curiosity November 15, 2008 at 11am – 12 pm in Fullerton Hall. Bruce Boucher, Curator of Sculpture
• Performance: Sound Weavers—A Concert of Music Pictured in Tapestry November 16, 2008 at 2-3 pm in Fullerton Hall Cost: $20; $15 for members
• Reading: Paul Muldoon November 20, 2008 at 6-7 pm Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Lecture: Encyclopedic Museums—Medieval Treasuries on November 22, 2008 at 11am-12 pm Fullerton Hall. Free with admission to the Art Institute of Chicago. Christina Nielsen, Assistant Curator for Medieval Art.
• Performance: Messiaen at 100—Takemitsu Remembers 12/2/08, 12-1 pm Fullerton Hall, Free with admission to the Art Institute of Chicago.
• Lecture: Challenging the Encyclopedic Museum—Berlin’s Museum Island December 4, 2008 at 6-7 pm in
  Fullerton Hall $10; Free for members (ticket required) Dr. Thomas Gaehtgens, Getty Research Institute.
• Lecture: Crossing the Ocean—Foreign Visitors and Foreign Influence in Japanese Art on December 6, 2008 at 11am -12 pm in Fullerton Hall. Free with admission to the art institute. Janice Katz, Associate Curator of Japanese Art.
• Performance: German Masterworks on December 7, 2008 at 2-3 pm in Fullerton Hall. For ticket information, call (312) 294-3000.
• Lecture: Mediterranean Crossings—The Quest of ‘Leo Africanus’ on December 11, 2008 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall Free. Natalie Zemon Davis, University of Toronto
• Performance: All in a Garden Green December 18, 2008 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall. Cost: $20; $15 for members.
• Performance: Honorable Pledge Fulfilled January 10, 2009 1-2 pm in Fullerton Hall. Cost: $15; $10 for members. Damine Kabuki Troupe.
• Reading: Eamon Grennan on January 15, 2009 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall. Free.
• Performance: French Masterworks—Roussel and Mozart January 18, 2009 at 2-3 pm in Fullerton Hall
  For ticket information, call (312) 294-3000.
• Performance: Debussy and Impressions of the Sea January 22, 2009 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall $15; $10 for members; Free for CSO subscribers.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Austria February 2, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall
  Free.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Korea February 3, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—France on February 4, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall and is Free.
• Reading: Robert Pinsky on February 5, 2009 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Poland February 9, 2009 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Reflections of the Chinese Poets with Yang Wei on Pipa February 10, 2009 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall.
• Reading: For Czeslaw Milosz February 11, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall.
• Reading: For Octavio Paz February 12, 2009 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall.
• Lecture: The Mysteries of Munch’s Working Methods—Recent Research on The Scream and Madonna
  February 12, 2009 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall. $10; Free for members. Ingebjørg Ydstie, Director, Munch Museum.
• Reading: Tomaz Salamun on February 13, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall.
• Lecture: The Lincoln Image on February 15, 2009 1-2 pm in Fullerton Hall.
• Performance: John Work Chorale on February 15, 2009 at 2-3 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Switzerland on February 16, 2009 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Thailand on February 17, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—China on February 19, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Lecture: Sibling Rivalries and Global Monotheisms—Judaism, Christianity, Islam February 19, 2009 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free. David Nirenberg, University of Chicago.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Spain February 20, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Lecture: Mapping the Globe on February 21, 2009 at 11am -12 pm in Fullerton Hall – Free. Ruth Watson, artist.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Germany on February 23, 2009 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Croatia February 24, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Mexico on February 25, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Consuls General Concert Series—Japan on February 26, 2009 at 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Ives and the New England Landscape on February 26, 2009 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall. $15; $10 for members; Free for CSO subscribers.
• Performance: Masterworks by Dvorak March 1, 2009 2-3 pm in Fullerton Hall. For ticket information, call (312) 294-3000.
• Performance: Stravinsky, Picasso, and the Ballets Russes on March 5, 2009 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall. $15; $10 for members; Free for CSO subscribers
• Lecture: Between the Covers—The Art Institute as Publisher on March 14, 2009 at 11am -12 pm in
  Fullerton Hall. Free with admission Susan Rossen, Director of Publications.
• Performance: Across Seasons March 15, 2009 at 1-2 pm in Fullerton Hall, $25; $20 for members
• Performance: Across Seasons on March 15, 2009 3-4 pm in Fullerton Hall. $25; $20 for members
• Lecture: The Encyclopedic Museum—Enlightened or Entitled? on March 19, 2009 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall $10; Free for members (ticket required) Philippe de Montebello, Metropolitan Museum of Art.
• Reading: Insights into Ibsen March 26, 2009 at 6-7 pm Fullerton Hall Free.
• Performance: Essence of Japan March 29, 2009 at 2-3 pm in Fullerton Hall $20; $15 for members.
• Lecture: Global Collections for Global Cities April 2, 2009, 6-7 pm Fullerton Hall, $10; Free for members (ticket required) Neil MacGregor, The British Museum.
• Lecture: Technicolor in the Ancient World April 4, 2009 11a.m.-12 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free with admission. Mary Greuel, assistant curator of Ancient Art.
• Performance: Respighi’s Inspiration—Painter Botticelli April 9, 2009 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall, $15; $10 for members; Free for CSO subscribers.
• Lecture: The Roman Triumph on April 16, 2009 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free. Mary Beard, University of Cambridge.
• Performance: World Tour with the Kronos Quartet April 22, 2009 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall, $40; $35 for members.
• Lecture: Edvard Munch’s Anxiety of Influence on April 23, 2009 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free. Jay A. Clarke, Associate Curator of Prints and Drawings.
• Reading: Philip Levine April 30, 2009 at 6-7 pm Fullerton Hall, Free
• Conversation: Reading from Art May 7, 2008 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Conversation: Listening to the Message…Benjamin Britten’s Owen Wingrave on May 21, 2009 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free
• Reading: Ilya Kaminsky May 28, 2009 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free.
• Performance: Dvorak and Painter Hassam June 4, 2009 at 6-7 pm in Fullerton Hall $15; $10 for members; Free for CSO subscribers.
• Performance: Illuminating Dvorak June 16, 2009 12-1 pm in Fullerton Hall, Free (ticket required)

Chicago Neighborhood Tours are a great way to learn more about the city if your are a tourist of visitor as well as a local resident. These Chicago Neighborhood and Cultural Tours are scheduled for this fall from the Chicago cultural center and offer a unique look at the city of big shoulders and small bungalows. Check out these descriptions for more details and see if this might be something you choose to liven up your weekend.

Little Italy Bus Tour, Saturday, October 4
Many Southern Italians and Sicilians settled in Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood generations ago before the skyscrapers came to Chicago. Discover more than just pasta in the Italian heritage at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, a neighborhood walking tour on Taylor Street and a private tour of the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum.

Hyde Park & Kenwood Bus Tour, Saturday, October 4
See the architectural styles of Hyde Park and Kenwood on Lake Michigan. Tours include the Oriental Institute Museum, a walking tour of University of Chicago’s Hyde Park campus, a visit to St. Thomas the Apostle Church, and a drive past some of the large historic mansions in Kenwood.

Wicker Park – Bucktown Bus Tour, Saturday, October 25
Take a short tour of Wicker Park and Bucktown to see the eclectic mix of art, architecture, and culture in the evolving neighborhood. The tour includes architecture at St. Hedwig’s Catholic Church in Bucktown and time in several fashionable boutiques and shops. Also, an architectural walking tour highlights the distinct Wicker Park homes and mansions.

Chicago’s South Shore Neighborhoods Bus Tour, Saturday, November 15
See the African American communities and their cultural, historical and architectural treasures. The main attraction is the South Shore Cultural Center visit and discussion as well as the St. Philip Neri Church, and a tour of one of Chicago’s leading African American theaters-the eta Creative Arts Foundation.

City of Chicago Special Interest Tours:

Greek Chicago, Saturday, November 1
Faye and Harold Peponis explore the history, customs, and religion of Chicago’s Greek communities and Citizens. The tour visits Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral and then goes to a private tour and discussion at Jane Addams Hull-House Museum. Lunch is in Greek Town with a visit to the Hellenic Museum and Cultural Center there.

Taste of the Chicago Neighborhoods Culinary Tour, Saturday, November 22
Ethnic food guide Evelyn Thompson invites you to join her in sampling delectable offerings at a few of Chicago’s ethnic restaurants, bakeries and delis. Learn the differences, similarities and preparation of local ethnic entrees and desserts.

How do you Book a Chicago Neighborhood Tour?
Reservations are required for these Chicago tours. Most tours sell out quickly. You can make reservations by calling 312-742-1190.

Some tips if you do book one of the City of Chicago Neighborhood Tours:

1. They are convenient bus tours that depart from the Chicago Cultural Center a 77 East Randolph St. in Chicago, IL.
2. The check in time for the tours is 9:30 am and the departure time is 10 am sharp.
   The tours usually return at around 2 or 2:30 pm
3. The Neighborhood Tours cost $30.00 or $25 for seniors and students and they do include some light refreshments.
4. The Special Interest Tours cost $50 or $45 for seniors and students and these include a lunch.

More information can be found at their website at chicagoneighborhoodtours.com

The word Staycation has gotten popular latley since gas, food and utilities have gotten so expensive and no one is really interested in traveling far away and generating a lot of costs in the process. So, Chicago Weekend Fun suggests a mini Chicago Vacation or staycation this weekend to make up for the lost vacation. (you may or may not need a hotel downtown for this) There is a lot happening this weekend and in the coming weeks in Chicago. The events and activities range from free admission to the Museum of Science and Industry to planning for Wired NextFest to attending the Chicago Redbull Flutag Event you have probably seen advertised on TV and the Internet latley. (who could miss it?) But beware, the CTA will have 1/2 the loop closed off for renovations so the EL will only be running north and south along the west and south sides of the loop track square. The CTA Loop EL tracks get shut down at 10 pm on Friday night. 

So first off, be careful of the loop shut down of the el trackson the east and north sides of the loop square downtown. If you need to connect with west or southbound trains you can always take the bus direct from just about anywhere in the city to one of the first stops on that arm of the CTA El line. Most just charge a connection fee of $.25 rather than another full fare. The full CTA bus and train schedule is available at transitchicago.com.

Next, the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry has a lot of construction going on and as a result they have made admission free for visitors for the month of September. This is great because you can take the kids and go see all the parts of the museum that have been renovated already at no cost and you just pay for gas and parking. Unless you go to the old fashioned ice cream parlor, then you get the cost of ice cream too. I recommend the u-boat instead of the antiquated car display. And if your kids are under the age of 5 check out the farm exhibit. Mom and Dad may like the living green exhibit which is new and just opened. That is always a big hit with skyrocketing energy prices. Check out their site msichicago.com before you go for the hours and address.  

Also the RedBull Flutag Event happens on Saturday at 11 am at North Avenue Beach in Chicago. The flying machines start plunging at 1pm and the awards will be given out at 3pm. One can only hope that there is an award for best team name since there are some dooseys listed on the site. (Mustache ride anyone?) Admission is free but my guess is that parking will be near impossible and set you back about $30.00. Aside from that it should be fun to watch improvised flying machines crash ala 1910 in an experiment of physics, ridiculousness and caffeine.

The Wired Next Fest is a great free event to take the kids to also later in September. (just planning ahead because they emailed me about it) This show features all different kinds of new technology and innovation that companies are experimenting with and will be bringing to market soon. Last time I went in Chicago in 2005 there was some emphasis on green technology and other new developments in robotics and space sattelites featured. But you never know what they will come up with because there are so many companies in all different industries looking to innovate right now to get the edge in the market. This is always an inspiring show. The Wired Next Fest will run from September 27 through October 12, 2008 in the south promenade in Millennium Park, Chicago. My assumption is that they will have some kind of temporary building built for this since having it outdoors is not smart in Chicago. Mark it on your calendars now!

Remember; It’s your weekend, have fun with it!

There are a lot of very affordable (cheap) entertainment and (family) fun options this weekend in Chicago. Whether you live in the suburbs or are planning on getting a hotel room and vacationing in Chicago for the weekend, there is lots to do. If you haven’t gotten tickets to see the award winning show Wicked (the musical) or Jersey Boys, get them quick, the last block of tickets is on sale now. Also, in perfect timing with the Olympics on TV, Circqe Shanghai: Gold is in town performing at Navy Pier. The Museum of Science and Industry also has a new exhibit on Glass Making called The Glass Experience that is a lot of fun for the family. The Chicago Shedd Aquarium also has a new exhibit also called Lizards & the Komodo King. Here are my recommendations and best picks this weekend in Chicago:

1. Everyone knows that the Opening Ceremonies for the 2008 Beijing Olympics will begin on NBC Channel 5 at 6:30 pm Friday evening. You can also see Cirque Shanghai: Gold at Navy Pier’s Pepsi Skyline Stage this weekendin between watching Olympic TV events from China. They will be performing there through September 1st so get tickets for later in the month if you are already booked. Tickets are very affordable from $15.00 to $30.00 and it is a fun family event. If you re coming in from the suburbs, take the metra and then a cab or bus from the train station to avoid traffic and the high cost of parking the car.

2. The Museum of Science and Industry has a new exhibit on Glassmaking and Glassblowing that is a lot of fun for the family while also being a learning experience. The Museum of Science & Industry is located at the address: 57th Street & Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60637. Call 773-684-1414 for more information. The Glass Experience, runs through September 1 and this interactive exhibition reveals the science, craftsmanship and beauty from the world of glassmaking. There are live glass blowing demonstrations, Dale Chihuly glass bowls artwork, Tiffany glass shaded lamps and Frank Lloyd wright stained glass windows. Admission is 8.50 for kids and $13.00 for Adults. the Museum of Science and Industry and the Glass Experience is open from 9:30 am to 4pm daily.

3. The Chicago Shedd Aquarium has a new exhibit also called Lizards & the Komodo King through September 1. The John G. Shedd Aquarium is located at the address 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive (Museum Campus) Chicago, IL 60605. Call 312.939.2438 if you have questions for the Shedd Aquarium. This exhibit is neat because the world’s largest lizard is making his first-time appearance in Chicago and they have brought out all the lizard creatures he is related to for show also. Lots of great fish and amphibious creatures are always viewable at the Shedd Aquarium (penguins!) also. Admission is $27.00 for an adult day pass which includes this exhibit.

4. The award winning show Wicked is ending it’s Musical Theater run in Chicago at the Ford Center for the Performing arts (formerly the Oriental Theater) in January. The last blocks of tickets to the shows through December have gone on sale now. They won’t last long, plan tour trip to Chicago and book your hotel rooms now before it sells out. Get your tickets to see Wicked from Broadway in Chicago before it leaves Chicago whether you have seen it many times or have never seen the show before. I saw it 3 times and loved it. Ticket prices range from around $30.00 to $100.00 per seat.

Have a happy and safe Olympic weekend in Chicago!

There is a lot going now that it is mid-summer in Chicago. The weather is great, there are new restaurants opening all the time and there are festivals and concerts every weekend.  If you are in Madison,  Cincinnati, Cleveland, Indianapolis or Milwaukee, why not hop on the train and spend the weekend in Chicago? (or you could drive too) Its an affordable vacation that has all the fun of a trip to the coast or overseas. (even with downtown Chicago Hotel Prices) The Art Institute of Chicago, Museum Campus and Restaurants here in Chicago rival those all the world. Here are some of my picks for this weekend in Chicago.

1. The Art Institute of Chicago has a new exhibition on The Arranged Flower: Ikebana and Flora in Japanese Prints that is ending on August 3rd. Catch it before it leaves. Also there is a new exhibit called “Graphic Thought Facility: Resourceful Design” that is in Gallery 24 through August 17th. That exhibit at the Art Institute is devoted to graphic design. It’s fun to go and play name that Font. The Art Institute is located at: 111 South Michigan Avenue in Chicago, Illinois 60603-6404

2. Lollapalooza Is happening soon in Chicago. (August 3-6) It’s a last minute grab for tickets on Craigslist and the Lollapalooza site.

3. Wicker Park Fest is also happening this weekend on the west side of the city. They say to come party like a Hipster. Do any hipsters still live in Wicker Park? I thought it was all Yuppies now…Anyway the fest is still fun on Saturday July 27th and Sunday July 28th from 11:30 am to 11:30 pm Wicker Park Avenue and Damen in Chicago, IL 60622. The cover charge is $5.00 and it looks like there will be a lot of bands playing all weekend. Expect underground obscure stuff if you like to discover new bands before they make it big.

4. Critical Mass Bike Ride – on the third Friday night of the month at 5pm the bike riders meet in Daley Plaza downtown and ride throughout the city in a different path every time. It is always fun and somehow tied to activism in Chicago. It also happens to be very good use of a bicycle for exercise.

5. The Randolph Street Market Festival is also happening this weekend at 1350 Block W. Randolph Street in Chicago. Come to browse or buy the antiques from all over the country. Some unique stuff is here you won’t find anywhere else. But don’t expect flea market prices. It’s pricey quality antiques and the cover charge is $10 to enter.

6. WICKER PARK and BUCKTOWN Sidewalk Sale is happening on Saturday and Sunday, July 26 and 27th. The hours are Saturday, July 26 from 11am-6pm and Sunday, July 27 from 12pm-5pm. get your hipster clothes and accessories at 1/2 price at the end of summer sidewalk sales.

I am so excited to see that August Osage County has won 4 Tony Awards this year since it is an amazing play that had it’s start right here in Chicago at the Steppenwolf Theater. I saw this shocking and yet riveting play last summer in 2007 in it’s run at Steppenwolf Theater on the north side of Chicago.  What is interesting is that there are so few new plays being written and performed these days and this one competes with the classics and really is a gripping quality piece of theater.

When I saw August: Osage County was transfixed for 3+ hours as the lives of this extended family unraveled right in front of our very eyes. It is somehow relate-able in the beginning of the play but by mid-play you know something very different is going on here and you buckle your seat-belt for a bumpy ride.

Anyway, I know it’s not regular for me to post 3 times in a day, but I wanted to post this since it is from a local great writer Tracy Letts who has another play running right now at Steppenwolf Theater. Check out Steppenwolftheater.org for more info and to buy tickets to the new play.  The Tony Awards that they won are listed below. Congratulations to the entire cast and crew as well as Steppenwolf Theater and Tracy Letts!

• August:Osage County won Best Play Tony Award the Author is Tracy Letts. The play has already won a Pulitzer this year as well.
• August:Osage County with Deanna Dunagan won a Tony award for the Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Play
• August:Osage County with Rondi Reed won a Tony award for the Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Play
• August:Osage County with Anna D. Shapiro won a Tony award for the Best Direction of a Play
• August:Osage County and Todd Rosenthal won a Tony for the Best Scenic Design of a Play

Also a Regional Theatre Tony Award was given to the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre.

It seems like Chicago is back on the map for great original works and great quality theater again.

The Old Town Art Fair is just one of many festivals going on this weekend in Chicago. On June 14th and 15th (Saturday and Sunday) from 10 am to 6 pm you can pay $5 bucks to wander through the stations and view all the artwork and hear the local jazz and musicians play. The entrance is on to the Old Town Art Fair is at 1763 N Park Avenue but most people seem to get there by Second City at North Avenue and Wells Street because the Piper’s Alley theater has a paid parking garage. (it fills up fast and costs $25 to park for the afternoon) From there you can walk north or south to view the posh artwork.  

The Old Town Art Fair features local artist’s work from Chicago and the surrounding areas. You can find everything from fine art like paintings and watercolors to photography, sculpture and other creative arts. It is not though a craft fair. You won’t find flower arrangements or sewing projects. It is all about art in the traditional sense. They even feature some interesting emerging artists you might also see at the Around the Coyote Festival in Bucktown each year. So if you are looking for art to furnish your condo or home in Chicago or if you are just looking for an entertaining way to spend the afternoon in the Old Town neighborhood, check out the Old Town Art Fair. Expect large crowds (like in the picture) and this weekend expect it to be hot and sunny so remember the water and the sunscreen while enjoying the art fair.

Chicago Festival season has begun this year and I wanted to post a comprehensive list of all the major Chicagoland festivals and block parties and neighborhood events that I found. If there are summer events not listed here post a comment to add yours to the list. I hope this helps you plan your summer calendar and find a lot of fun things to do in Chicago while the weather is warm.

May Spring Festivals and Events in Chicago

May 14: Chicago Fair Trade Day Festival

May 14: Green City Market opens

May 14-16: Black Thai International Arts and Crafts Fest

May 16-18: Chicago Mayfest

May 23-25: Summer Camp 2008 (suburbs)

May 23-26: Gaelic Park Irish Festival (suburbs)

May 24: Memorial Day Parade

May 24-25: Randolph Street Market Festival

May 25: Bike the Drive

May 26: Memorial Day Festival

May 26: WOOGMS 45th Annual Memorial Day Parade

May 28-31: Chicago Turkish Festival

May 29-June 1: Mayfest in Lincoln Square

May 30-June 1: Chicago Gospel Music Festival

May 31-June 1: Belmont/Sheffield Music Festival

May 31-June 1: Do-Division Street Fest and Sidewalk Sale

May 31: Chi-Town Kruze and Car Show

JUNE Summer Festivals and Events in Chicago

Through June 1: Belmont/Sheffield Music Festival

Through June 1: Gospel Music Festival

June 2-8 Chicago Improv Comedy Festival

June 5-6: Lake View Music Fest

June 5-8: Chicago Blues Festival

June 6-8: Jeff Fest (named after some dude named Jeff)

June 7: Chalk Festival

June 7-8: 57th Street Art Fair

June 7-8: Community Art Fair

June 7-8: Fiesta Back of the Yards

June 7-8: Printers Row Book Festival

June 7-8: Ribfest Chicago

June 10-15: Fiesta Puertorriquenas

June 11-Aug. 16: Grant Park Music Festival

June 12-13: Festa Pasta Vino

June 12-Aug. 24: Chicago SummerDance Festival

June 13-15: St. Michael’s Celebration

June 14: Puerto Rican Parade

June 14-15: Andersonville Midsommarfest

June 14-15: Artists of the Wall Festival

June 14-15: Old Town Art Fair (North Avenue and Wells)

June 14-15: Wells Street Art Festival

June 14: Wrigleyville SummerFest

June 16: Halsted Tastes Better

June 16-20: Thailand Festival

June 19: Southside Neighborhood Gospel Fest

June 20-22: Close 2 Smooth Jazz Festival

June 20-21: Scottish Festival and Highland Games (suburbs)

June 20-22: St. Josaphat Summerfest

June 20-22: Taste of Greece on LaSalle Street

June 20-22: Taste of Randolph Street

June 21-22: Chicago Summerfest in Lincoln Park

June 21-22: Custer’s Last Stand Festival of the Arts (suburbs)

June 21-22: Pizza Fest

June 22: River North SummerFest

June 24-25: Randolph Street Market Festival

June 25-28: Chicago Arabesque

June 27-29: Peace Fest

June 27-July 6: Taste of Chicago

June 28: Back Lot Bash

June 28: Chicago Pride Fest

June 28-29: BAM! Belmont Arts and Music Fest

June 29: Gay and Lesbian Pride Parade (GBLT)

June 29: Girl Blast

JULY Summer Festivals and Events in Chicago

Through July 6: Taste of Chicago

July 3-6: African-Caribbean International Festival of Life

July 3-6: Naperville Ribfest (suburbs)

July 5-6: Lake View Music Fest

July 10: Bastille Day 5K Run, Walk and Block Party

July 11-12: BenFest

July 11-13: Chicago Tribune Magnificent Mile Art Festival

July 11-13: Irish American Heritage Festival

July 12-13: DuSable Arts and Crafts Festival

July 12-13: Chicago Folk and Roots Festival

July 12-13: Kwanzaa Summer Festival

July 12-13: Rock Around the Block

July 12-13: St. Andrew’s Greek Festival

July 15-Aug. 26: Chicago Outdoor Film Festival in Grant Park

July 18-19: Old St. Pat’s World’s Largest Block Party

July 18-20: Pitchfork Music Festival

July 19: Silver Room’s Sound System Block Party

July 19-20: Ethnic Arts Festival (suburbs)

July 19-20: Sheffield Garden Walk and Festival

July 19-20: Summer on Southport

July 20: Chinatown Summer Fair

July 20: Dearborn Garden Walk and Heritage Festival

July 25-27: Pierogi Fest (in Indiana)

July 26: Ghana Fest

July 26: Venetian Night

July 27: An Arts Adventure

July 26-27: Randolph Street Market Festival

July 26-27: Taste of Lincoln Avenue

July 26-27: Wicker Park Fest

AUGUST Summer Festivals and Events in Chicago

August 1-3: Lollapalooza

August 2: Uptown Summer Unity Festival

August 2-3: Retro on Roscoe

August 3: Belize Day in the Park

August 8-10: Caribbean Festival

August 8-10: Gold Coast Art Fair

August 8-17: Illinois State Fair (rural)

August 9-10: Korean Street Festival

August 9-10: Market Days

August 9-10: West Fest

August 15: Croatian Fest

August 15-17: East Meets West Fest

August 15-17: North Side Summerfest

August 15-17: St. Demetrios Greek Festival

August 16: Barrio Art Fest

August 16: Carifete

August 16-17: Chicago Air & Water Show

August 22-24: Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

August 23: Chicago Reggae Festival

August 23-24: Bucktown Arts Fest

August 23-24: Taste of Greece

August 23-24: Viva! Chicago Latin Music Festival

August 24: Festa di Tutti i Santi

August 28-31: Chicago Jazz Festival

August 29-Sept. 1: African Festival of the Arts

August 29-Sept. 1: The Last Fling (suburbs)

August 29-Sept. 1: Taste of Polonia

August 30-31: Bash on Wabash

August 30-31: Randolph Street Market Festival

SEPTEMBER Fall Festivals and Events in Chicago

Through Sept. 1: The Last Fling (suburbs)

Through Sept. 1: Taste of Polonia

September 5-6: Windy City Wine Festival

September 5-7: German-American Festival

September 6: Guinness Oyster Fest

September 6: Von Steuben Parade

September 6-7: Ukrainian Village Fest

September 11-14: Festival de la Villita

September 13: The Wine Crush in Old Town

September 13-14: Celtic Fest Chicago

September 13-14: Lincoln Park Art Faire

September 13-14: Renegade Craft Fair

September 21-22: Hideout Block Party

September 26-28: Eighth Annual Oktoberfest

It finally feels like spring in Chicago and we should get out and enjoy it before the oppressive heat starts! Here are some suggestions for activities and events this weekend in Chicago.

1. Chicago Green City Market opens on May 14th and they have a special event with Mayor Daley on Saturday May 17th. The Market will be open weekends now until fall at 1799 N. Clark, and Stockton Drive. This is very close to Lakeview and Lincoln Avenue. Green City Market’s 10th Anniversary Rally for Local Sustainable Farming  Saturday, May 17, 9:00-10:00 am, South Lincoln Park *RAIN OR SHINE*. Come see what fruits, vegetables and foods have been locally grown and delivered fresh. I assume though that because of the location and the premium to raise produce locally these prices will be higher than your grocery store. I think that if you can afford it, locally grown food is a better choice for ecological sustainability.  Check out the Green City farmer’s market for what food is fresh and local this weekend.  (Many of the suburbs have local farmer’s markets also starting soon)

2. Lollapalooza Tickets  are still on Sale and if you want to make it to this fantastic festival this summer get them now before they are sold out. They have also set up a contest called Last Band Standing that you can find out more about on their site.

3. Eddie Izzard  is playing at the Chicago Theater on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm. Tickets are about 95% sold. See Ticketmaster for those last few nosebleed seats if you can get them. Eddie is fantastically funny and not to be missed since it may be another 5 years before he comes to Chicago again.

4. Chocolate Grape Restaurant opened last weekend and now that the crazy rush has passed it might be a good time to stop in and give them a try. Expect wine and chocolate themed food. It sounds luscious. Chocolate Grape Restaurant is located at 2113 West Division Street, between Damen and Hoyne Ave. call 773-772-3990 for reservations. 

5. The Field Museum  has  several new exhibits opening in May 2008. Nature Unleashed: Inside Natural Disasters opens next weekend May 23rd and advance tickets can be purchased online. This may not seem like regular Field Museum Fare (maybe more Science and Industry?) but it will be interesting in our current climate crisis. They also have a new permanent exhibit the “DNA Discovery Center” open now and “Mythic Creatures: Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids” is open at The Field Museum through September 1, 2008.

6. Before you blow your $600.00 government economic stimulus rebate check at Home Depot on a giant grill consider these options. Jewel food stores are offering a 10% bonus if you give them the entire check amount. This may seem like a lot of money for groceries, but with no time limit for the card usage, who wouldn’t really get good use out of a 10% bonus on your money?  Also, consider the tax implications of this money. I think you still have to pay taxes on it like income. If you have most everything you need right now, why not stash it away in an interest bearing savings account like the ones online at ING? This will provide a safety net for when you need it later. You never know how much worse the economy is going to get or how global economic conditions will affect your job in the long term.

7. Register to start training for the Chicago Marathon.  I know this is a huge bragging right of passage in Chicago every year, to say you ran and finished the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon. (they were bought by Bank of America so the name may change?) What most people don’t know is that you have to train for 6 months to get in shape enough to run 26 miles of Chicago city streets. It is about 6 months from now, so if you are interested the Chicago marathon site has training program guides available and Nike.com has some great running training tools and groups they coordinate for running locally. Check them out to get into better shape and stay away from the malls this summer.

8.  Chicago Mayfest  is this weekend and this opens the summer event festival season officially. Expect streets to be blocked off and traffic to be backed up for social-networking yuppies to be drinking al fresco all summer. The Chicago Mayfest includes the ambiguous staples such as beer, live music and dogs. It is located in Lakeview at 3100 N. Ashland Ave. It will be open from noon to midnight Friday Saturday and Sunday and is $5 to enter.

9. Try the ginormous Iron Maiden Burger  on a yummy pretzel bun at Kuma’s Corner.  (seen in the picture above) They are located at 2900 W. Belmont Ave in Chicago, IL 60618. Phone 773.604.8769 for more info.

It’s rainy here in Chicago right now and believe it or not, the weekend plans you have very much depends on the weather. And guess what? The forecast sais it will rain all day today (Friday) and part of Saturday as well. So that said, I advise indoor recreational activities instead of outdoor ones. It isn’t great for the list of events planned for this weekend in Chicago, but then again when has mother nature ever cooperated with the citizens of Chicago?

There will be 3 things everyone will hear about this weekend. Looptopia, Cinco de Mayo and the Kentucky Derby.  These may or may not be good choices depending on the weather, but who knows really until the night really falls. Anyway, here are some events happening this weekend and some that I recommend as well:

1. Everyone has been talking about Looptopia 2.0 on Friday night May 2 from dusk till dawn. This loop night festival is about arts and culture in Chicago. Last year they had interesting artists that ranged from DJs to Improv to 3-d works of art on display to performance artists that posed as statues on the steps of the cultural center and almost got trampled. Most everything in this festival was obscure and hard to understand, and I’m not that old. (32) I also found the crowds of teens and college students blocking the sidewalks and streets while yelling and being rowdy to be annoying and unnecessary. (maybe I am getting old?) This year it is pouring rain anyway, so the only thing worse than being shoulder to shoulder with a bunch of shoving teens is being shoved pushed and pulled in a crowd while being drenched by rain. I don’t recommend this event even though it is free.

Instead there is a special boat tour that won’t be as crowded or deal with any traffic because it is on the Chicago River. See the city lights from a unique perspective during Looptopia with the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture Tour on May 2. Their web site says: The tour will leave from the Sears Towner Shoreline Taxi Dock at Quincy Park along the Chicago River. (200 S. Wacker Dr) for 3 tours. (7:30 pm, 8:30 pm & 10 pm) Tickets are available online at  or at the dock the night of the cruise if they are not all sold out. The price is $24 for the cruise, $21.00 for seniors and $12 for kids under the age of 12. This would be a better option than most of the free events included in Looptopia. Check them out.

2. I also recommend to see Iron Man with Robert Downey Jr Friday night. I saw the movie last night and it was a fun movie (although a little violent for my taste) that everyone seemed to enjoy. The characters and story are very good even though it was based on a comic book. They didn’t just make it about the special effects, the story and characters draw you in too. Afterwards why not go to Buffalo Wild Wings like we did? I enjoy some good  boneless sweet wings when I can find them, and if you are there with a group of guys there will be an inevitable wing-off competition with the insane wings which can be epic-hot.

3. On Saturday May 3 the Kentucky Derby is on NBC Channel 5 at 4pm and the coverage will last 2.5 hours. Tune in and wear a big frilly hat just for fun. I am going to a Kentucky Derby party here in Chicago so maybe this horse racing thing is getting more popular again. (despite Arlington Racecourse’s issues with profitability)

4. Also, on Saturday May 3rd if it is not raining, there is a Chicago History Museum walking tour of the Gold Coast. The tour starts at 10 AM promptly and is $10.00 and they are located at 1601 N. Clark St. in Chicago, IL. For more information visit the chicagohistory.org web site or call 312.642.4600. 

5. Saturday Night will be full of margaritas and quesadillas because Cinco de Mayo is Monday May 5th and we like to celebrate a little early when it doesn’t land on a weekend. Numerous Mexican bars and restaurants have special menus, drinks and music planned for this un-official Mexican holiday.

6. And finally make reservations for Lettuce Entertainment’s new premium modern seafood restaurant (which I think might be their take on the concept of TRU). They announced their opening of L2O in Lincoln Park May 14th, 2008 and are taking advance reservations now. If you aren’t familiar with the TRU experience, it is a multi course, jacket required, very expensive meal. A dinner for 2 might run $500.00 including wine and desert. It is usually a splurge restaurant for special occasions unless you are from the jet set. Many yuppies like to go there too even if they can’t really afford it, just to see how the other half lives and see the extravagant glass caviar presentation staircase. L2O is not going to be the same of course, but it will be in the same price range and be all about the extreme premium dining experience. The email announcement read

“Mimicking the elemental formula for water, the restaurant’s name, L2O, is an abbreviation for “Laurent” and “Water” evoking Chef Laurent Gras’ reverence for seafood and the ocean.  The dining experience at L2O ranges from the lounge’s alluring atmosphere where guests order from an à la carte menu, to an evening in the elegant dining room where both a four-course prix-fixe menu and tasting menus are offered.”

L2O is open for dinner on: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Friday & Saturday from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM and Sunday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. For your reservation call 773-868-0002 or visit the web site at l2orestaurant.com.

7. And make reservations to take mom out to brunch next week end for Mother’s day before everything is booked.

And happy belated RSS Awareness day which was May 1st. In celebration sign up for the ChicagoWeekendFun.com RSS feed to read the weekly posts!

The weather has gone from cold and frigid to balmy and a little humid in Chicago. Everyone is outside enjoying the sun (and rain) thankful that the snow has finally ended. There are lots of things happening this weekend but here are my recommendations and picks. Personally it’s time to change the brakes on my car, but if you don’t already have plans, check out these suggestions:

1. Put your air conditioners in the windows but don’t turn them on yet. I am thinking this is a great time to get ready for the oppressive heat that is to come this summer and fit all the air conditioners in the windows of my condo now, before it is 90 degrees and sweltering humid inside. It also may be a good time to check if you need a new air conditioner since the freon or whatever cooling material they use now doesn’t last forever. Mine maybe has one more year left. I will also be sealing better around the air conditioner this year to try and conserve some energy on cooling.

2. Rake the lawn and garden, plant some flowers and fertilize the lawn. I have seen many families tackling these tasks already but most of us have not yet. It is time to pull yourself away from the television and internet to get working outdoors. At least if you live in the suburbs it is. If you live in the city, lucky you.

3. Spring clothing sales at the mall. Since gas is near $4.00 a gallon and people are cutting back on non-essential purchases like clothing, the retailers are not having a great season and they are putting stuff on sale. So, if you need yet another pair of red shoes, see Macy’s or DSW.

4. New movies this weekend. Baby Mama should be plenty weird and possibly funny. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler get wacky with surrogates. Harold & Kumar escape from Guantanamo Bay. This could be really funny satire or really awkward and sad. I am hoping for funny. Chicago native and Second City alum Helen Hunt stars and directed the film “Then She Found Me” with Bette Midler which actually sounds like a  good drama-comedy type movie. That is my best bet recommendation for this weekend. If more manly fare is your style, Forbidden Kingdom and Forgetting Sarah Marshall are still playing too.

5. Rodeo in Chicago?Someone in our office said that they had a Rodeo bull rider on the morning news a few days ago and there is a Rodeo at AllState Arena this weekend. They had it almost right. If you enjoy seeing men flung off livestock you can attend the Professional Bull Rider’s Show at 6:50 PM Saturday April 26th. Ticket prices range from $20-$100.00. Call 312-559-1212 for tickets.

6. The NFL Draft is Saturday and Sunday.This means most men will be glued to the TV or Internet all weekend. This is the pre-cursor to the Fantasy Football season draft. It’s necessary educational programming if you play the fantasy league.

7. Artropolis is an Art and Antique show at the Merchandise Mart. Tickets are $20.00 just to walk around, but the volume, rarity and quality of art and antiques is supposed to be high. If you are in the market for rare antiques or a window shopping day this is for you. I found their website artropolis.com confusing, but what I can gather is that it is open from 7am to 6pm (I think) but you may want to check it out yourself just to be sure. Parking is pretty difficult in the Merchandise Mart area downtown, take the brown, green or any line that stops by the Merchandise Mart for an easier trip.

I went to go see the Art Institute of Chicago’s Exhibit featuring Edward Hopper about a week ago. It was fantastic (despite some logistical issues) and I wanted to post about it here to let everyone know that this exhibit is only here in Chicago until May 10.  The tickets were $20.00 each for regular admission to the Art Institute and the special Edward Hopper Exhibit. If you decide to go on a weekend like we did (Saturday) it pays to get there early. There was a line down the front steps of the Art Institute and around and down the sidewalk to buy tickets. Apparently the line of people showing up for a day with art is more than they can handle. We got there just about 2 pm.

When we finally got through the 1/2 hour line out front, got our tickets and were inside, we couldn’t find the exhibit. We asked for directions and they pointed to keep going all the way to the back of the museum, so we did. And after walking through a long hallway with punctuation printed all over it’s walls we came to the line for the audio tours for the Edward Hopper Exhibit. Not what we wanted. I hate audio tours. It’s just another way to make money off of people and I didn’t come there to hear other people’s ideas about the art. I came there to form mine. So, we cut around the line and try going up the stairs where it was open and were promptly directed to go back and through the original headsets and audio tours line. So, we had to say “no” again to the people with the audio tours, and then wait in line to get in. The same confusion happened at our way out because nothing is labeled, and they have people telling you where to walk only after you go through there.

So, finally (!) we got to the actual exhibit. They took Edward Hopper’s most well known painting, Nighthawks and blew up a print of it in high resolution to fill the first wall of the exhibit when you walk in. It was striking. It makes me think that wall decals (blick graphics) and wall paper are just the beginning. Why not sell full wall prints of art too? The exhibit starts off slow with early drawings, self portraits and etchings that Edward Hopper did early in his career. It struck me as interesting that he had the intent to be a serious artist from the beginning and not to become a 20th century pop-culture artist at all, which is what I think more people know his work from and what keeps his Nighthawks print posters popular for dorm rooms.   

After producing serious art for many years, getting married and working in advertising to make a living Edward Hopper was able to start selling paintings and finance his work. In later years he finally did gain wide acclaim and there was a brief movie narrated by Steve Martin (who is also an avid art collector) about his life and aspirations. Edward Hopper never did like the modernist or abstract movements in the 50’s-60’s and always said he just wanted to paint light coming in a window and hitting a wall. That was the subject of some of his last paintings, and although the subject matter is simple, they are beautiful.

I like that Edward Hopper had certain things he looked for in a scene or landscape to paint. He looked for dramatic light and shadows, real views that were from an angle a person may see every day (rather than front on posted pictures) and he captured the industrialism, landscape and architecture of America at that time. He also was happy to use bright colors that really brought the scenes to life. There is a lot made of the ambiguous expressions or situations he paints with people as the subject. I think they are ambiguous so they can apply to anyone, not because they are particularly somber or lifeless.

The paintings have been gathered from all over the world, and are grouped in somewhat of a chronological order. the exhibit starts with etchings and paintings from his early career and ending with the last painting he completed before he died in 1967.

The artwork Edward Hopper created always has a dramatic realism to me. I look at the paintings of apartment buildings and wonder about the people living in the windows. I see the lighthouses and think it looks like I might have looked up on a walk up a hill to a lighthouse. It’s like Edward Hopper learned all the traditional methods and techniques to creating artwork and paintings and just applied it to regular urban and suburban life that was handy at the time.

They mentioned that after one of his first few paintings sold he bought his first car, which meant he could travel farther to paint new scenes. He also painted in the car when it was cold, dark or raining outside. They mention some paintings were done under the dome light of the car at night. How awesome is that for adaptation?

I also appreciate that he tries to represent things as they really are in the paintings. Edward Hopper did not embellish or make things surreal or fantasy in any way. The perspectives and shadows were dramatic because they were real and they give us a window into the past and into ourselves.

After we saw the Edward Hopper Exhibit we tried to look at a contemporary 20th century photography exhibit in the basement area near the kids section (which was cool) and then the Art Institute was closing. I am now thinking I should get one of Edward Hopper’s prints for my home just because they capture moods and light that are interesting to look at again and again.

If you are in Chicago check out the Edward Hopper exhibit at the art Institute of Chicago until May 10, 2008.

I am a fan of car shows and will be attending the Spring 2008 Chevy Vette Fest at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL (Chicago) next weekend. The Chevy Vette Fest is scheduled for April 5th and 6th. (The show is open from 9 am to 6 pm Saturday and Sunday) Tickets are $14.00 at the door and parking in the garage is $11.00. (kids under 12 are free)

Why would you go to a Chevy Vette Fest in a time like this when so many people buy foreign cars? Well this is a car show for people who either like to build and customize cars or people who still idolize that old fashioned American way of building cars that are powerful and classic. (and mostly gas guzzlers) But, you don’t have to own one to go enjoy and apreciate the craftsmanship or the designs. Sometimes cars are more like art than we think.

Chevy Vette Fest features all kinds Chevrolet cars. They call it Chevy Vette Fest because Corvettes have a special attraction for people and I think it needs to be in the name for promotional purposes. Corvettes are a very non-Chevy Chevy. They are designed by different people and built in different factories than all the other Chevrolets. Corvettes are also the only American car that TopGear presenters and other Europeans really like. The performance, power and quality is near super-car standards and like nothing else from any American car company. That fact alone about the Corvette demands respect.

So, if you like vintage cars, fast cars or just pretty cars, come see the Chevy Vette Fest in Rosemont next weekend April 5th and 6th. There will be many show cars on display that were custom built, classic cars restored to perfection and new cars like Corvettes on display that are the best you can buy for the money. They are always entertaining as sports cars and as rolling works of art.

Times are tough for the Tribune company, so tough that 19% profit margin on everything they sell isn’t enough anymore. So, the latest plan hatched by the new quirky Tribune owner Sam Zell is to sell the naming rights to Chicago Cubs’ Wrigley Field to the highest bidder. Will we see Ebay Field? Amazon Wrigley Field? Google Field? Kraft Field? State Farm Wrigley Field? Geico Field? I can’t imagine what other ubiquitous large local consumer brand company that would want the rights to a baseball stadium in Chicago? CDW Field? 

Three large Chicago employers US Cellular, AllState Insurance and United Airlines have already bought stadium naming rights here, and technically the Cubs’ Wrigley Field naming rights were already sold once to Wrigley the chewing gum company. Maybe they should buy it again? Or would Altoids be interested? 

I hate to think that this has to happen but it reinforces that the only reason that these executives and board members are in business for is money. They feel no corporate stewardship, community responsibility in Chicago or corporate responsibility to provide anything but low level-low paying jobs and minimum benefits. When will the greed stop?

Apparently selling off the naming rights for historical institutions like Wrigley Field in Chicago is going to be the norm now. What’s next? Ebay Art Institute of Chicago (bid on artifacts!) and The Boeing Museum of Science and Industry? This is pathetic for our city and for our history in Chicago. And expect the price of tickets to go up too. Again…the little guy looses.

Looptopia is a Chicago festival that celebrates the Loop area (inside the L tracks loop) downtown. Looptopia is a night time festival with arts performances, exhibitions, music, food comedy and many other cool entertainment to take in that evening. It is meant to help celebrate the rebirth and renewal of the Loop area of Chicago in 2008 since many businesses have returned to the area recently and many condo and apartment buildings have returned to the area making living and playing in the Loop possible again after about 20 years of neglect, crime and poverty.  Looptopia usually starts at dusk and goes until dawn. They schedule performances and exhibitions and music events all night long and they are all free to attend and see.

I attended the event last year (see picture above from 2007) and took some photos but it was very crowded with a lot of teenagers and college kids and it was very difficult to walk around and get anywhere. It was even more impossible to see any of the exhibits, shows or theater that they had put together for the event because of the immense crowds that were much larger than the spaces that they had available. I tried to go to the Chicago Cultural Center to see TJ and Dave perform their amazing Improv show and I couldn’t even walk up the stairs because of the packed people standing there not being able to get through. So, after pushing my way around in the crowds for a while, I just left. I walked around the block and saw hundreds of kids blocking intersections and loitering around everywhere. There were some cops but not many. Everyone was orderly but it was difficult because people came to see the events and no one could find them (no map with schedule on it) and no one could actually get anywhere. Many people resorted to walking in the street to get home or to the bus or train they needed, and just gave up frustrated.

The Looptopia web site says the following summary about the festival: 15 Hours; 100 Venues, 300+ Artists, 200,000 attendees = Looptopia May 2, 2008.  What they left out is massive crowds and no parking.

I hope this year they provide better maps and schedules and allow for more people to access the events. It was difficult to enjoy the Loop last year during Looptopia under those circumstances. I think Chicago has a lot to offer in the arts and this should be a great festival to showcase that. They just need some better resource planning and organization to manage it. And some older viewers might help too, but all night parties don’t really always appeal to over 40 people. Check back in a few weeks and I will try and post more about this year’s 2008 lineup of performances and schedule.

The official PDF looptopia map can be downloaded here and the full event and performer schedule is available on looptopia.com. If you go, plan out your evening first since wandering into random events won’t be possible. They will have too many people there and no space to get around. It will take a lot of work to actually get to what you want to see and plan on getting there early.

The Chicago Field Museum (of natural history) has announced that admission to the museum is free during the month of February. This is great news this winter because it is usually $12.00 for Adults and $7.00 for Kids. (students and seniors are $7.00 also) Special exhibits and sections of the Field Museum are not included in this free general admission in February. Target sponsors the Field Museum’s free admission days and I think it is a great way to get families and kids out to the museum and to Chicago for a fun afternoon for less money than usual. Parking is not free though so expect to still pay $20.00 per car there. Food isn’t free either, so be ready for the usual costs of dining at the museum. But saving $24.00 admission for 2 parents and $14.00 admission for 2 kids is not bad.

Since this will be a great success in February the Field Museum and Target have decided to offer Free second Mondays of the month for the rest of 2008. The dates for these free second Mondays are:

Target Free Second Monday dates are:

March 10th
April 14th
May 12th
June 9th
July 14th
August 11th
September 8th
October 13th
November 10th
December 8th

Some of the cool exhibits you can see at the Field Museum for free are SUE (the giant T-rex Dinosaur fossil re-assembled in the main hall), Evolving Planet (about the world at the time of the dinosaurs) and Inside Ancient Egypt. These are great for kids age 3-10 who are really into Dinosaurs and exploring. If your kid really wants to go on an archaeological dig, take them to the Field Museum this February to see Sue.

The Field Museum Hours are: 
Daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Last admission at 4 p.m

For more information about special exhibits and attractions coming to the Field Museum this year see the fieldmuseum.org web site. (you can buy tickets in advance online there also) Or sign up for their email newsletter to always get announcements on what is new at the museum.

The holidays are upon us in Chicago and the snow showed up too. This weekend may be your chance to write out Christmas cards and buy gifts oryou could procrastinate a little bit longer and have some fun. I am feeling a little procrastinatory right now so I wanted to list these recommended events and happenings around Chicago.

The Field Museum has a new exhibit on Maps. They look like they are from a variety of times in history as well as locations around the world. I would also expect some new statistics on populations and ecological concerns around the world. Really maps can be used to illustrate just about anything about life on earth. Why not check it out for an interesting way to spend an afternoon? Tickets are only available for dates before January 27 when the exhibit ends. Adults are $19.00 and kids are $9.00. For more details and hours please see the fieldmuseum.org.

The Chicago Improv Rebellion is playing at IO Theater on Friday night at Midnight. A far better choice than open court for that time slot. Come see the SNL and TV commercial stars of tomorrow at their best on the stage at IO doing improv. Every time I have been there it has been a great show regardless of what the review or the people I knew said. Support Improv in Chicago because it’s funny and for no other reason. Tickets are available for 5 bucks by calling 773-880-0199 .

If you’re a fan of Etsy.com come out to the Renegade Craft Fair this Saturday at the Pulaski Field House. This is a great place to pick up Christmas gifts and everything is hand made. It’s great to see new crafters and small businesses make it locally and do well because they make a great product, as good or better than mass produced commercial goods and the revenue goes back into our own community rather than into China. Get some cool stuff from some great crafters at the Renegade Craft fair. It’s December 8 th 12 pm – 8 pm December 9 th 12 pm – 8 pm Admission is Free!! A complete list of vendors can be found at renegadecraft.com 773-227-2707 Pulaski Park Fieldhouse in West Town 1419 W. Blackhawk St. Chicago, IL 60622

Anything else happening that is fun? Let me know with some comments below, and save me some eggnog. 

As a change of pace from all the shopping and the food this holiday season why not consume some comedy instead? A great show is happening this December at the Donny’s Skybox theater in Piper’s alley on North Ave and Wells St in Chicago. If you haven’t been over to Second City for their student or regular shows, you don’t know what you are missing. Improv and Sketch comedy lives in Chicago and will always be a part of our culture and heritage. Going to see these future stars while they are here in our city to learn is a great benefit to us. We get great (cheap) high quality funny entertainment. These performers get to have a regular audience to see their work as they refine their craft.

I have a several friends that are very talented at acting and improv in Chicago. One has shows going on throughout December that you should not miss. I wanted to post about it since it’s hard for these shows to get the word out and attract a packed audience. They usually have the theaters 1/2 full, which is good, but why not pack the place? These shows are great and the improv is at a very high level for it being people who haven’t made maisntage yet. But I am pretty sure most of these performers will be Second City Alumni at some point and maybe your next SNL favorites. Check out these shows at Second City’s Donny’s Skybox Theater at Piper’s Alley (3rd floor) in old Town at North Ave and Wells Street. Tickets are available at the Second City box office.

Dr. Bear Hugg

The name comes from the leader of this show, Kevin Guillaume. He is a big tall bearded guy that is the nicest person ever, basically he is Dr. Bear Hugg himself. He brings different friends and players to each show to accompany him in free form improv that is based on some Harold format logic. You never know what he or his friends are going to bring to the table, and it is always unpredictable and funny. You can usually see Dr. Bear Hugg at IO with Atilla or at The Playground with Damascus Steel but for this short run they are playing at Donny’s Skybox Theater in Piper’s Alley at Second City. Come see the brilliance and unpredictability to their shows this December.

I was lucky enough to attend the Second City Training Center’s Conservatory program last year and I lasted through class levels 1a, 1b, 2 and 3 and 2 auditions. I dropped out before the class session #4 started because I was in over my head and I had a day job that I had to maintain for a lifetime, rather than make a living in comedy. But I learned some valuable lessons in these classes and will always look back on that time with positivity and remember the foundations of Improv when I look at comedy on TV and in Movies.

Here are the 2 graduation shows from the classes that I was in (for a short time) a long time ago. These people may be in classes but they are not amateurs at comedy or acting. Many have been acting for 10+ years and doing improv for 5 years or more. This is a tough program and the inside jokes that named the shows call attention to the relationship these instructors have with their students and the odd but fun atmosphere they create. Look for the players in these shows to be famous and on SNL in a few years, they are very funny and the future of Improv and Comedy in Chicago.

Both shows have a format of short blackout scenes with punchlines mixed with longer comedic sketch scenes. Most of the material has been developed from improvising in class and writing scenes from the exploratory improvised form. The shows run back to back with 1 other class. Each show is about 45 minutes long and it’s only $5 dollars to see all three.  (tickets can only be bought in person at the box office) They are scheduled through December and January in the Second City ETC Theater at 8pm. (in Piper’s Alley on North Ave and Wells in Chicago on the 2nd floor) Go check them out for some great laughs! 

Show Dates:

Nov. 12, 26
Dec. 3, 10
Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28

Affable Mike is: J.C. Aevaliotis, Brooke Bagnall, Tyler Barkley, Mikala Bierma, Mickey Brawner, Maritza Cabrera, Kristin Clifford, Neal Dandade, Kevin Guillaume, Jay Hill, Liz Kenny, Megan McGee, Kenny Metroff and Pam Tierney.

Bouuuiittt @ Second City ETC Theater Mondays through December and January

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Affable Mike @ Second City ETC Theater Mondays through December and January

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The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago has a special Star Wars exhibit (Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination) running right now through the end of January with all kinds of fun stuff to see. This is a must see for dedicated lifetime Star Wars fans that have all the collectibles and have dressed up as Star Wars characters at the midnight openings of all the movies at theaters. It is so popular it is sold out until mid December right now. I tried to get tickets today and the next 3 weeks are sold out for the weekends. So, this is a lesson in get your Christmas Holiday Vacation planned a month in advance with the kids. 

The cost is $21.00 for 1 adult ticket (before tax) and it only runs through January 6, 2008.  (ticket includes admission into the general museum for the day as well) Chicago residents get a cost break and 1 adult ticket is only $18.75. Children from age 3-11 are $16.00 per ticket. So it is a little expensive, but it’s a special event. Plus a day with the kids exploring the entire museum is worth that much since they will be home from school and need activities to do anyway.

The exhibits include over 80 artifacts (props models and costumes) from the actual movies, engineering design labs where you can play around and discover all kinds of new things about the technology used to make the movie and a full size millennium falcon cockpit that you can sit in and see what it would really be like to travel at light speed.  The millennium falcon area is a first come first serve area and there is usually a long line and wait. The earlier you go to this the better. All in all the exhibit combines movie making knowledge with the science of human robot interaction and it is a cool learning experience. Check it out before it leaves Chicago on January 6th 2008.

This past summer’s local Chicago Theater hit from Steppenwolf Theater August: Osage County won six Joseph Jefferson Awards this year for 2007. The Jeff awards are given to celebrate the best in Chicago theater. (no a Jeff award isn’t an award given by some random guy named Jeff) I saw this play back in August in Chicago and it was amazing. I highly recommend that if you live in NY or go see broadway plays, to go see this while it is in New York. It is outstanding and a rare new work in the theater world on Broadway.At the award ceremony on Monday October 29, Steppenwolf Casting Director Erica Daniels accepted the award for Best Ensemble saying “On behalf of Executive Director David Hawkanson and Artistic Director Martha Lavey and our 13 actors, 11 who are currently in New York for the Broadway production, we are very grateful to accept this award in the category of ensemble that is so important to us.”Osage County won the following awards:

Check out the new video feature of ensemble members Jeff Perry, Francis Guinan, Amy Morton and Mariann Mayberry talking about taking the Steppenwolf production of Osage County all the way to New York and to Broadway.

What’s going on in Chicago this weekend?

It’s fall now, the leaves have mostly fallen and we are picking through the last of the Halloween candy and thinking about Thanksgiving and Christmas. (started you shopping yet?) But there are still a lot of things going on in Chicago during this holiday intermission. There are always new movies released every Friday and this week there look like a few I would actually go see. On Sunday we have some free cultural events at Millennium Park and some Musical Improv Theater. Saturday is open with artistic and theater possibilities.  Check out all the listings below and plan your weekend today:

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Friday November 2

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Friday night is Movie Night! These new movies open this Friday in Chicago:

American Gangster - this highly anticipated Oscar buzzy film is very popular before it’s opening. The buzz for this movie started back in July. The American public is always interested in gangster life drama that balances the wrongs they do in society with the strong family bonds and entrepreneurial spirit that they use to make a living in hard places. This movie promises a lot of drama and surprises.

Martian Child - John Cusack is finally starting to look like his sister. I never saw the resemblance before. In this movie he is a guy that adopts a boy. Why not in this world? If dads can get full custody they should be able to adopt too. Maybe it’s not a manhood movie in the sense of blowing things up but its still a manly characteristic to be a good father.

Bee Movie - Jerry Seinfeld’s animated “B” movie featuring a Bee has been getting hype for about a year now. How a film takes 3 years to develop and involves so many people that even Eddie Izzard is in the trailer I don’t know. It was a random unfocused project, we will see if it is a random unfocused movie or if it will be memorable and get Jerry out of the Seinfeld rut that so many long running sitcom people have after the shows end.

Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead - Ethan Hawke and Phillip Seymour Hoffman (playing brothers) are in this movie and they say there are Oscar nominations waiting in the wings. Yet there has been little or no advertising support for this. So maybe it is good? Or not? Or just doesn’t have a marketing budget? Seriously, if we didn’t bring you the rundown, where would you find out about these un-promoted movies?

Darfur Now - Don Cheadle has made a documentary about the places in Africa in Darfur that he learned about while making Hotel Rwanda. It seems that a few celebrities really take the time to go learn about a humanitarian crisis and do something to try and help. He seems like one genuinely dedicated to promoting this problem but aside from another military invasion we can’t support I am not sure what any of us are supposed to do in this situation.

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Saturday November 3

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DANCE Chicago is now playing at the Athenaeum Theater on Lincoln and Southport in Lakeview/Lincoln Park. Check out all kinds of dance styles and performances all month long from the traditional to the modern and avant garde. Tickets are very affordable at $10, $20 and $30 dollars depending on the show and the seat. The tickets can be purchased from dancechicago.com or ticketmaster.

Dane Cook - Standup Comedian extrordinaire is playing the very large house of United Center Saturday night. Last minute tickets might be found at ticketmaster or by checking ebay or stubhub or craigslist. They orginally listed at $30-$100 bucks, now being last minute expect to pay double. Go rock out the su-phi finger thing with all the other college and 20 somethings. He is funny, but it’s getting a bit overplayed. Please Dane, some more new material…we like A:46 but we need some new stuff to chew on.

Drink for Hunger - Charity bar club event at Aliveone. Open Bar 8-11 pm and music all night long. Located at 2683 N. Halsted Street Chicago, IL 60614-2301 call 773-348-9800 for more info and tickets.

SOFA Chicago - The 14th annual International Exposition Sculpture Objects and Functional Artfeatures three-dimensional fine art in glass, ceramics, wood, metal and fiber, from 100 galleries in 18 countries, including dealers from England, Scandinavia, the Czech Republic, Argentina, the U.S. and others. Also includes a lecture series on art-related topics. All artwork is for sale. Located in the pier’s festival hall. I have yet to see this but it is supposed to be really spectacular. The creativity here influences the consumer products we buy and use years down the road. Get hip to the emerging trends here first. Open at Navy Pier Friday Saturday and Sunday this weekend only. Tickets $15 bucks at the door. Call 800-563-7632 for more information.

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Sunday November 4

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Second City Danny’s Skybox Theater – The Second City Musical Improv House Ensemble puts on one heck of a show. Not only are they all skilled improvisers, they are also great singers and end up improvising a lot of very funny songs. Check out this week’s Sunday show at 8pm. Tickets are $10 dollars at the door.

Arctic: Soundscape Millennium Park- As part of the Chicago Humanities Festival 2007 “The Climate of Concern,” this  outdoor audio/video installation will have you revisioning the outdoor Pavilion as a giant iceberg. A collaboration between composer Max Eastley and video artist David Buckland, Arctic combines chilling video footage with sounds recorded on the Arctic island of Spitsbergen, (part of the Cape Farewell Project), reassembled into a haunting hour-long sound and video spectacular. Max Eastley’s Arctic will be played over the speakers of the Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion and the Great Lawn from 9am – 10pm. It’s a Free event!

This is new. The City of Chicago is hosting a Museum of Modern Ice exhibit in Millennium Park this February. The City of Chicago’s Tourism Bureau is always coming up with new cool things to see and do in Chicago in the winter since it’s too cold to just hang out and have fun. We like our city but it is more fun with these extra community events. Most of the time the Mayor’s Office pays for them and they are free to the public. See past work and exhibits pictured in this post. Apparently Painting on Ice is trickier than it looks.

Event Dates: February 1-29, 2008

In February the exhibit will feature a brightly colored Ice Wall that will be the US debut the work of artist Gordon Halloran titled “Paintings Below Zero“. His unique artwork features paint on ice that will be on an Ice Wall that is 12 feet high and 95 feet long. (Yes Millennium Park is one of the few places in Chicago where 95 feet of straight  space is actually available) Apparently they are saying that the “Bean” will get a companion, the “popsicle”, in the news. It is kind of like a popsicle, it is long and frozen and brightly colored.

Gordon Halloran will also embed an abstract painting in the bottom ice of the ice rink at the Millennium Park. (The McCormick-Tribune Ice Rink Officially) If they haven’t resurfaced the ice lately though you probably won’t really be able to see it. It will be best viewed right after the Zamboni (or Olympia) machine clears and resurfaces the ice rink. And skating on the Millennium Park ice rink is always free. So now there is even more reason to drive in from Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio and the Suburbs for a weekend in Chicago. (it’s cheaper than you thought)

Chicago has been promoting a Winter Delightsfestival during these dark cold days of blizzards and winter to help promote tourism and people coming downtown in general. It’s tempting to just stay inside and at home when it is -10 degrees out. You will be rewarded though if you do make the post-holiday trip. Most hotel rooms are more than 1/2 off because it’s not the peak season and there is a lot of room availability they want to fill and if you need an extra discount to make it happen, just ask, they might be able to work something out because business is slow and some money is better than no money for a room that goes un-rented. You can get the best rooms and views in hotels in Chicago during the winter and it’s way cheaper than in the summer. You do have to remember to bring a winter coat and hats and gloves because its cold, but that is a small price to pay for a luxury accommodation and close by getaway vacation. 

Anyway stop by the Millennium Park Painting Below Zero Exhibit in Chicago in February to see how this turns out. I am pretty curious as to how the ice wall will look and how they will light it. Ice has a lot of neat transparent possibilities for artistic interpretation and crystal fractal light reflecting freezing patterns if put together right. And bring your warmest coat, because it will be way below Zero in Chicago that time of year.

Dance Chicago is a wonderful festival that runs all through November with several different programs that feature local Chicago Dance Troupes performing different styles of dance. Every dance troupe taking part in the festival is top notch and puts on a spectacular show. Even if you don’t know much about dance, you should go and see some performances. They will open your mind to what dancing can be. It’s not all stiff ballet. They have every style imagineable from tap, to jazz to modern, to tango, to Irish dance, to ballroom (ala Dancing with the Stars) to Latin to all kinds of free form interesting work. I have attended Dance Chicago every year for the past 5 years and I love seeing what creative, innovative, new movement these troupes will create with music and usually a story too. Every dance tells a story, even if they don’t say it does, let your mind wander and interpret one. You will enjoy watching dance performances more. I always look into the dance as a story with characters and a plot. They don’t have to talk at all for there to be a dialouge going on. It’s so amazing you go home wanting to dance yourself.

The festival is run by John Schmidt and he always has brought together amazing and different styles of dance to create these amazing shows. His partner in running the shows passed away within the past few years and I am glad to see that the show still goes on. It’s a memory and tribute to him and I am sure he would have wanted it to continue. John also runs a space in the St. Alphonsus church school on the 3 rd floor where he rents out the classrooms to dancers and arts performers of all kinds that need affordable rental space to practice. I have rented those rooms at times, and I have really appreciated that they were available. It’s a simple space but it is crucial to the arts community’s survival that it is available.

This year’s program is divided into 13 different “programs” which are all different shows with different groups performing their best dances. So there is a lot to see and a lot to choose from. Here is a rundown of the different programs in a list and summary and dates that you can get tickets for Dance Chicago this year.  (from the dancechicago site) Tiekcts are available at the Athenaeum Box office or through Ticketmaster. Or to have them send out a brochure booklet of all the listings call 773/935-6860.

Opening Weekend – Fri, Nov. 2, 2007, 6:30 pm
Fri, Nov. 2, 2007, 8:00 pm
Sat, Nov. 3, 2007, 8:00 pm
Sun, Nov. 4, 2007, 3:00 pm
Tickets: $25 A high-octane, foot-to-the-floor Opening Weekend with River North Chicago Dance Company, Deeply Rooted Productions, Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Istanbul Dance Theatre, Joffrey dancers and more. See ballet, tap, Irish, jazz, hip hop, contemporary and live music.
 

Dance for Kids too! - Sat, Nov. 3, 2007, 2:00 pm
Sat, Nov. 10, 2007, 2:00 pm
Sat, Nov. 17, 2007, 2:00 pm
Tickets: $15 adults and $5 children under 12
Dances for kids, yes, but also for the entire family. All dance forms are represented. Dances are short, fun and accessible. If your kid wants to dance, this is a must see. It’s a Dance Chicago tradition: The ROPE WARRIOR does moves with jump ropes you never thought possible.

Extended Views – Wed, Nov. 7, 2007, 7:30 pm Contemporary
Wed, Nov. 14, 2007, 7:30 pm Hip Hop
Tickets: $20  Ever wanted to see several dances of that special artist all on the same program? Well, we’ve got the answer. For years these award winning Chicago choreographers have been creating dances you love. Now they put it all together on one magical EXTENDED VIEW. Curated by the artists. This show is more intended for people who have a knowledge of the dancers and their work already. If you’re new to Dance Chicago an opening or closing night might be a better cross section and sample of dances to enjoy.

New Moves (always one of my favorites) – Thu, Nov. 8, 2007, 7:30 pm
Fri, Nov. 9, 2007, 8:00 pm
Thu, Nov. 15, 2007, 7:30 pm
Tickets: $20   See Chicago’s newest, hottest choreographers and the city’s best dancers. Together they create all-new dances – and each night is different. See the best dances before anyone else.

International Rhythms – Sat, Nov. 10, 2007, 8:00 pm
Sun, Nov. 11, 2007, 3:00 pm
Tickets: $25  In this new program, live music weaves together works and sounds from world cultures into a single, seamless collaboration. INTERNATIONAL GUESTS and Chicago’s rich ethnic companies show you Latin, Spanish, African, Russian ballet, Turkish, Indian, contemporary fusion and surprises galore.

Dance Slam – Tue, Nov. 13, 2007, 7:30 pm
Tue, Nov. 20, 2007, 7:30 pm
Tue, Nov. 27, 2007, 7:30 pm
Tickets: $10  Interactive dance competitions, with a non-stop beat! This is a fast race – each work is five minutes or less, and you vote for the winners. Every night is different. This show is the most affordable to try if cost is a concern. It is still packed with lots of excitement and great dancing though.

Dance Slam Part Two – Wed, Nov. 28, 2007, 7:30 pm
Tickets: $15 Your favorites from each night of Part One return to the race track, and our panel of experts picks the winner. Someone has to be the overall winner. Come back again to vote!

Dance Chicago All Stars – Fri, Nov. 16, 2007, 8:00 pm
Sun, Nov. 18, 2007, 3:00 pm
Tickets: $25  We’ve taken the best of the Dance Chicago repertory and created our own dance company that now tours the world. See the show before it takes off on its global journey. This is a good place to start if you have never seen Dance Chicago before. It’s a sample of a lot of different dances.

Best Moves: Sat, Nov. 17, 2007, 8:00 pm
Fri, Nov. 30, 2007, 8:00 pm
Tickets: $25  See the victory lap as the best new acts from New Moves and other programs earn a place in our hearts and in to future festivals.

Holiday Kids Show – Sat, Nov. 24, 2007, 2:00 pm
Sat, Dec. 1, 2007, 2:00 pm
Tickets: $15 adults, $5 children under 12  The most popular holiday dance program in Chicago! Created for all ages. You’ll see Nutcracker excerpts, magical stories and seasonal delights. And, yes, the Rope Warrior is in this program as well. Get the kids out to get inspired to start dancing.

Jazz Fusion – Fri, Nov. 23, 2007, 8:00 pm
Sat, Nov. 24, 2007, 8:00 pm, Sun, Nov. 25, 2007, 3:00 pm
Tickets: $20  Sleek, hot and daring. Year after year, this is a gold standard of urban beat. You’ll see jazz, steppin’, tap, hip-hop, Latin and contemporary fusion. Chicago’s jazz is world renowned and this showcases the mind-boggling artistry and precision of the city’s best interpreters of that sound.

Anything Goes the Barzel Entertainment Awards Show – Thu, Nov. 29, 2007, 7:30 pm
Tickets: $20  Part dance, part comedy, part cabaret, all of it entertaining – just the way Ann liked it. The winner takes home a $1000 prize. Prepare to be entertained…big time. This is new this year, and I am going to go see it and find out what this new show is all about. And how comedy fits in with Dance.

Grand Finale – Sat, Dec. 1, 2007, 8:00 pm
Sun, Dec. 2, 2007, 3:00 pm
Sun, Dec. 2, 2007, 7:00 pm
Tickets: $25  Speeding to the finish line, here is the last performance of our season! The best works of the finest companies showcase ballet, tap, jazz, Irish, hip-hop, contemporary and live music in a grand sendoff. If you don’t see any other shows, go see this one. Its the best of the fest and the last weekend in the festival.

I also have to mention that if you can’t atted this year’s Dance Chicago festival and still love and support the arts through yearly charitable contributions, please consider adding them to your list. I don’t know of a more deserving organization that brings such amazement to audiences through the arts. If you would like to send a contribution to Dance Chicago please send it to them at: Dance Chicago, Emergence Productions, 5851 N. Kenmore, 3F, Chicago, IL 60660

And enjoy the show!

I went to go see a preview performance for Jersey Boys at the LaSalle Bank Theater at 18 W Monroe Street in Chicago, IL. The Jersey Boys 2006 Tony Award winning best Musical show runs there through next April of 2008. Tickets range from $37.50 for balcony seats to $147.50 per seat for the front row. They are available to purchase online through BroadwayInChicago and Ticketmaster as well as by calling the LaSalle Bank Theater’s Box Office at 312-977-1700. The official Jersey Boys show opening was on 10/5/07 and they have the Musical scheduled until 4/30/08. This is a must see for baby boomers and people who remember the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. JERSEY BOYS the musical features their hit songs “Sherry”, “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Rag Doll”, “Oh What a Night”, “Let’s Hang On” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”. And I personally think that because they have updated the harmonies, background instrumentation and have clearer recordings, the official Jersey Boys soundtrack album is better than some of the old original recordings. I downloaded them to listen and they were not nearly as dynamic, crisp and clear as what you hear in the theater. You react the same way in the theater like these were the old recordings, but they’re better. But then again that is what 30 years of technology development can do.

The story follows Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons as they get together through various connections back in New Jersey and then become a huge national hit singing group through their first single “Sherry”. Then they take a wild roller coaster ride in the music business through tours, TV shows, performances and the behind the scenes drama of living life on the road and being away from your family. They also chronicle the lives of all 4 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame members, the Four Seasons group members: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. they all started out as average American blue collar working class kids in New Jersey and then became a national sensation selling over 175 Million records worldwide and trying to keep the career moving and balance life in the fast lane at the same time. There were good times and bad times, but all in all many people would say they lived the American Dream.

I was blown away by the performances and singing in this Musical and I didn’t think it would be that great going into it last Thursday night because I am not old enough to have known the Four Seasons or Frankie Valli while growing up. What I found out though was that I knew all the songs anyway since they are always used in commercials, movies and TV shows. Plus the story is told in a very honest contemporary way that people will all be able to relate to.

I ended up getting there a few minutes late, which can be a huge rude move in theater, but we just waited in the lobby and watched the show in a flat screen TV for a few minutes and then entered in between scenes. There was a slight mix-up with the seats, some other people were sitting in them, but eventually we got seated and were quickly engrossed in the story.

The show makes great use of the stage with a lifting section from below and many scenery elements dropping from the ceiling throughout the show. There is a catwalk above the stage as well where they use the space to either look down on the scene below or give monologues direct to the audience from each group member’s perspective. The costumes are pure 1950’s and 1960’s with lots of bright colors and flashy suits to look just as they did performing back in the day. The monologue format in between scenes is really effective in filling in the storyline as time passes and to give a personal connection with each of the Jersey Boys and their own story. All the 4 Season’s actors have a unique combination of great acting, great monologues, fantastic singing ability and they’re good dancers too. It’s a complete package and they wow you every minute they are on stage. You want to get up there and sing along with them, the music is just so moving.

So, I guess it is obvious that really enjoyed the music and was very impressed by the singing. A lot of their songs are used in the show and performed in full as they were performing on stage in different cities throughout the story. This gives you a front row seat at a great concert at the same time as seeing a impeccable musical in a theater. The story winds through time until the point where they are accepted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame which for many artists is the highest level award one can receive for their work.

The show echoes a slightly similar path with the Academy Award Winning Movie “Ray” from 2004 ending on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame note. They also update you on where each of the Four Seasons Members is now and what they are doing. I think the clever scene changes, monologues, updated songs, choreography, stage direction and great story of all four of the Four Seasons members makes this a great dramatic story and unforgettable Musical.

I think everyone should go see this show, it is a part of 20th century American History and a great entertaining show for all ages. I am not a baby boomer and I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you were a big fan of Frankie Valli and of the Four Seasons you will enjoy it even more. You will probably be transported back in time to the place you were when these songs were popular. If you can, get tickets now, they are sold out through January so they are selling out quick!

There is a lot going on this weekend to choose from, and it is finally cold!  Movies, theater, dance, fashion shows, celebrity chefs, Maytag’s 100 Year Anniversary at the Museum of Science and Industry and a bears Game. If you need to decide what to do this weekend, just pick from this list:

Friday October 12: Friday Night is Movie Night!

New Movie Releases at the theaters this weekend:

Lust Caution - A Chinese thriller that has an erotic NC-17 rating. Only available in certain cities and theaters. Some people will dislike the sexual content but others see it as truly revealing in life and art. This is only playing in Chicago at the Landmark Century Cinema in Lakeview.

We Own The Night - New movie with Joaquin Phoenix and Mark Wahlberg. (who we have forgotten ever had a music career) Brothers. Mob. Police. Drama. Violence. Nuff Said.

Elizabeth The Golden Age - Cate Blanchett is playing Queen Elizabeth again and we love her in this role. Such an unbelievable place for a woman to be in that time. Full of drama and old England style medieval life.

Lars and the Real Girl – Slightly eccentric movie about a guy who orders a “doll” in the mail and rather than viewing it as a sex toy, really falls in love with it as if it was a woman. The town knows this is a delusion and struggles to accept and embrace the fiction rather than fact.

Michael Clayton – **Best Pick This Weekend**  George Clooney is a lawyer who has cleaned up some messes in his time. Now someone wants to wipe him off the face of the earth. Hopefully a smart chase thriller ala Bourne Ultimatum, but expect less action and more thinking.

Why Did I get Married – A drama about 4 African American couples and their relationship struggles while on vacation together. It might be interesting to anyone, but I get the feeling it was targeted for a certain market. Stars Janet Jackson and is from new hot director Tyler Perry.

Sleuth - It stars Jude Law and Michael Caine. This has potential to be great and is released in Oscar time zone, so why haven’t we heard a word about it?? Apparently a remake of an old film by Harold Pinter of a movie which Michael Caine was in originally, although no one remembers the film, so we aren’t really looking for it. Still, consider this one.

Control - Music rocker guy commits suicide. Not really interesting to me.

The Final Season - A baseball movie staring the guy from Rudy! Sean Astin finds another heartwarming sports story role as the ever all American guy and sometimes hobbit. This film is not being released in all areas. Check local listings to find if it is playing by you.

Not finding anything worth seeing? The Game Plan and The Kingdom are still playing at most theaters and have had mostly good or great reviews. Check them out instead.

Macy’s Charity & Celebrity Chef Gala - October 12th @ 6 p.m. – 12:30 am.  $100-$350. Tickets online at mealsonwheelschicago.org or call 312-744-2120  The charity event is at Macy’s on State Street ( 111 N. State St Chicago, IL 60602 312-781-1000)  Jimmy Bannos of Heaven on Seven, Rick Bayless of Frontera Grill and other big names in the Chicago culinary scene are going to be there for this Meals on Wheels Chicago 2007 Celebrity Chef Gala. Attend the  cocktail reception, four-course meal served by the Chefs and a decadent dessert bar and dancing.

Saturday October 13:

Around The Coyote Festival (Fall Edition) A great wicker park arts festival featuring all kinds of talented and emerging artists. I have only been to the freezing cold February version of this festival, but it had great sculpture, paintings of all styles and 3-D art that would brighten and enlighten any loft space in Chicago. Of course it’s all on sale as well, many people come in hopes of finding a breakout new artist and investing in buying before the prices go sky high.  This also features theater performances and films. Tragically cool. Expect to feel way out of place at this event if you are a working business professional or over 40. One day pass is $10.00 a full weekend pass is $40.00. ½ W. North Ave and aroundthecyote.org.

MayTag 100 Year Anniversary at The Museum of Science and Industry -  Washers make our lives more live-able and more clean. Come see the history and ingenious machinery behind the invention that gave you 40 minutes or more free time every day. You get Free Museum of Science and Industry admission for the day if you pre-register (TODAY) at www.maytag.com/100years by Tuesday, Oct. 12, First 100 attendees 18 and older receive a $100 gift card to the Home Depot, Drawing for free Maytag Centennial top-load laundry pair and (Bonus) a chance to meet the Maytag Repairman and Willard Scott!! There will be some great exhibits at the museum on Oct. 13. I don’t know about you, but I like a bit of consumer history and the Museum of Science and Industry in my Chicago weekend. And while you’re there check out the Main Street of Yesterday, that was always my favorite part of the museum. And say Hi to Willard Scott for me! **Best Pick This Weekend**

The Chicago International Film Festival is still running. Check out their films at any of the 5 theaters running them this weekend.

The Crucible @ Steppenwolf Theater- This classic Arthur Miller play has been extended due to increasing demand. It is a riveting story that is uncannily applicable to today’s struggles with terrorism and Iraq. See what all of Chicago is talking about a Steppenwolf this weekend. Tickets are sold out some days and cost from $40-$70 dollars each. (duh, this is award winning theater) Call (312) 335-1888 or go to steppenwolf.org.

Giordano Dance at the Harris Theater in Millennium Park – See this world class dance company perform new works and the ones they are known for. Tickets are $25 each. The Harris Theater is cold and stark but the dancers will bring it alive with their amazing creativity and choreography. Call (312) 334-7777 for tickets. 

Sunday October 14:

I suggest going out to see the fall leaves before they are gone, taking some photos, getting you Halloween Costume ready or bobbing for Apples if you are BORED. The Chicago Bears are playing the Minnesota Vikings at Noon at Soldier Field, so avoid that area if you are not going to the game. See it on FOX Channel 32 in Chicago. 

Fashion Focus at Millennium Park - A Free event from the city of Chicago. See the latest styles at five runway shows at Millennium Park, plus check out garments and installations by design students, learn about illustration techniques and more during Chicago’s annual fashion event. Most are for sale there too. See fashionfocuschicago.com for details.

Sweet Treats: Take a break from the hectic weekend before the new week starts the roller coaster all over again. Check out all the sweets at the Sweet Collective, is located at 5333 North Lincoln Avenue and Berwyn Avenue in Chicago. Phone: 773-293-0888

Have a great weekend!

It’s about that time again that everyone is wondering what’s happening this weekend in Chicago? And they start to search for something to do this Friday and Saturday night in Chicago. Well there are a lot of movies, art exhibits and events this weekend. And the weather should be great. It should be in the 70’s all weekend and clear with no rain, so get in that last Barbecue on the grill before it gets too cold. I will be celebrating my birthday so who knows what will happen. Here is a list of what I found happening around town in the city and suburbs this weekend.

Friday September 21: (Yom Kippur begins at sundown)

New Movies opening this Friday in Chicago:

Resident Evil Extinction - Part Horror, part action, part zombie movie. Looks kind of dumb and gross to me, but men like Milla Jovovich in a heroine role kickin ass.

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford – New Brad Pitt movie getting rave reviews all over the place. Good Morning America was singing its’ praises this morning in order to get some celeb time.

Jane Austen Book Club – The chick flick of the weekend. This seems a little odd that people would find this concept believable. I bet it’s cheezy but women will want to see it anyway.

Good Luck Chuck – I’m not sure why Dane Cook keeps getting movies. And how did he get a movie with Jessica Alba? Anyway, I would expect dumb humor all through this one. Not very good for Jessica’s career.

Into the Wind – A serious film from Sean Penn but not starring him. A guy leaves a family of wealth and privilege to go live in the wilderness and find himself. He ends up dying. Somehow this is about discovering yourself at all costs and what you learn from it while our time is fleeting on earth. He probably could have found himself with less death though.

The Brave one and 3:10 to Yuma are still playing and doing well as is the Bourne Ultimatum. If none of these cracker jack boxes appeal to you, go see last week’s all stars.

Jen Stark’s Little by Little(seen at left) Art Exhibit at the Heaven Gallery at 1550 N. Milwaukee Ave., between Damen Avenue & Honore Street on the second floor. You may have seen her amazing works in pictures passed around online. All these works are made from card-stock and glue. That’s it. They are visually and architecturally amazing. She does things with paper that I never thought possible. It runs through October 7th Saturday: hours 1-5 pm (photo courtesy of jenstark.com)

After Dark at the Art Institute of Chicago: The after hours event to go see the Art Institute in a whole new light. @ the Art Institute 111 South Michigan Avenue at Monroe Drive. Call for Tickets at 312-575-8000. Featuring: Life During Wartime DJs, theater performances from Collaboraction, and photos by Jeff Wall with some drinks, and yummy appetizers too.  Friday from 6-10 PM.

Saturday September 22: (the first official day of Fall)

Winefest Chicago- Yet another Wine Festival – If you haven’t already gone to the Chicago wine Festival and the Naperville wine festival in the last  2 weeks you’re in luck, because there is a 3rd this weekend. People must really love their wine!
September 21 - 5 pm – 10 pm
September 22 - 12 pm – 10 pm
September 23 - 12 pm – 10 pm
Free to enter; $25 dollars for a wine tasting glass and food tickets
Call for more information at: 773-525-3609  
Location: North Lincoln and Berenice Avenues (North Center neighborhood) 3840 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60613

Oktoberfest At Sheffields- Oktoberfest in September again – September 22nd : 11:30 a.m. till ?? Come drink beer like the Germans do and listen to the music of the Polkaholics…
Price: No cover
Event Phone Number: 773-281-4989
Sheffield’s is in Lakeview at 3258 N. Sheffield Avenue Chicago, IL 60657-2211

Sunday September 23:

Second Annual Andersonville Dessert Crawl – Sundays are for sweets! Hello yummy! 26 dessert destinations in three hours for any possible kind of dessert you can imagine. It’s worth not eating all day to go to this event. It is Sunday from 4-7 PM so you’re in bed before Dr. Who is on TV. Tickets are available at the Swedish American Museum Center 5211 North Clark Street at Foster Avenue or at brownpapertickets.com. You can also call for more information 773-728-7552.
 

The Chicago International Film Festival is a great festival celebrating the independent film movement and films made in Chicago. There will be 150 movies from 35 countries to shown in the 2007 festival in local theaters over two weeks in October. I have attended this event for the last 2 years and it has been amazing both times. I will be buying my tickets soon for the opening night event and the other movies that I think sound like they would be interesting and unique to the festival. This year’s festival is being dedicated to Roger Ebert and his contributions to the movie business and to Chicago over the years. He has helped put Chicago on the map in the movie business with his written reviews and TV movie review shows Siskel & Ebert and Ebert & Roeper. I don’t see the information updated on their site yet with the opening and closing gala events listed, but I will update the blog when I do.

I always like that you can usually see a few movies that will be released months later, at the festival. It is fun to go see a movie at an advance screening like this before anyone else has seen it. There are also so many films that are just otherwise not released in many cities so this may be your only chance to see them. Especially if they are from other countries and wouldn’t otherwise be shown here. Check out their schedule (it can be confusing because there are so many movies being shown at the same time at various theaters) and see what looks like an intriguing film to see.

The best advice I have for this festival is to buy tickets early. The gala events are usually sold out weeks before the actual event and usually feature a Q & A with famous actor or director on stage and then an advance screening of a film they will have for release soon. They had Susan Sarandon and Elizabethtown in 2005 and I saw Will Ferrell and Dustin Hoffman with Stranger than Fiction as the feature of the opening night gala event in 2006. They also showed The Weatherman and had Nick Cage there for the closing event in 2005. These tickets of course sell out quickly, so buy them now as soon as you can.

The Chicago Theater is usually where they show the opening night gala event and it is packed. I have heard that it holds 3,000 people and it is always difficult finding a way into the building and out of the building with that many people in a crowd. Your best bet is to go early and have a drink beforehand at the theater and then don’t be in a rush to get out. It just takes a lot of time to get 3,000 people through the exits.

You can buy tickets to the event in a bundle, or ala carte. They sell a 10 pack of tickets for $115.00 and a 40 pack for $400.00. (seeing 40 movies in 2 weeks is more than I could make time for). I usually go see the opening and closing night galas for around $30.00 each.  You can call their information phone 24 hour hotline at 312-332-FILM for more information.

The theaters they will be showing the Chicago International Film Festival movies at this year are:

AMC River East 21
322 E. Illinois St.
(Illinois & Columbus)

Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema
2828 N. Clark St.
(Clark & Diversey)

Music Box Theatre
3733 N. Southport Ave.
(Southport & Waveland)

Opening Night Premiere (Kite Runner)
October 4, 2007
The Chicago Theatre
175 N. State St.

Closing Night (The Savages)
October 17, 2007
Harris Theater
205 E. Randolph St.

Update 9/20/07: The full Chicago International Film Fesival schedule can be downloaded here, and the official Chicago International Film Festival calendar here.

Opening Night Event Feature: the U.S. Premier of “Kite Runner” with special guests Mark Forster and Roger Ebert. At the Chicago Theater on State Street, Starts at 7:00 pm 10/4/07. Tickets are $30.00 – $36.00 each. Buy in advance now, even with 3,000 seats, they sell out fast.

Closing Night Event Feature: “The Savages” with Laura Linney and Phillip Seymor Hoffman. The special Guest will be Laura Linney. Wednesday 10/15/07 at the Harris Theater in Millennium Park @ 7pm. Tickets are $20.00-25.00 each.

Various ticket prices are available for buying a pack for admission to 1, 10 or 40 movies during the festival.

Tickets on sale at these locations!
Festival stores: Borders 830 N. Michigan Ave on the 2nd Floor
Borders Book Store at 2817 N. Clark St.
The Festival box office @ 30 E. Adams St., Suite 800 HOURS: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (Closed Saturdays and Sundays)

Theater Box Offices offer tickets for Cash Only
Beginning October 5, theater box offices are open one hour before each day’s first screening and close shortly after the last film is seated.
AMC River East 21 322 E. Illinois St.
Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema 2828 N. Clark St.
Music Box Theatre 3733 N. Southport Ave. (Music Box events only)
TICKETMASTER: 312-902-1500
FESTIVAL HOTLINE: 312-332-FILM

No refunds or exchanges unless film is canceled.  All programs are subject to change. You must be in the theater 15 minutes before the film’s published start time or they reserve the right to sell your seat. Advance sales must be placed at least 48 hours prior to showtime. 

I was asked yesterday what the top 5 things were that someone has to see if they have never been to Chicago. I also get asked “where the bean is”, “how to get to the Art Institute”, “can you go up in the Sears Tower?” and “who makes the best Chicago Pizza?” a lot. I thought for a moment and realized I have been giving this tour to my friends and family when they come to town for years and I should share it with all of you.

There are a lot more than 5 things you can do in Chicago that are a lot of fun, and it can fill more than a weekend of a few days, so if you can stay longer and want a longer list, I will work on that too. For now, these are the top 5 things that people either want to see when they come to Chicago or should see when they come to Chicago. There is a slight difference.

Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Chicago:

1. The Sears Tower. Everyone seems to remember that from 1973 to 1998 the Sears Tower was the tallest building in the world. (previously it was the World Trade Center in NYC, now it is the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia) They think also that like the Empire State Building it somehow was built for tourists. In fact it was not. It is more of a working office building than a tourist attracttion and is only open for tour visits during working hours. So I have never even been up in the Sears Tower and I live here.

What you should see instead: The John Hancock Building. The John Hancock tower is a tall enough building to get a good view of the city in all 4 directions and they had the sense to make a restaurant on the 95th floor called “The Signature Room” in addition to the observatory level on the 94th floor. It is open until 11 pm and that is good because you want to be able to go in the evening to see the city lights. I feel like the John Hancock Center was more in tended to be shared with the public and has a better consumer experience.

2. Chicago Pizza. Everyone has different ideas of what Chicago Restaurant has the best Chicago Pizza. There are several that seem to get the public buzz for being the best in Chicago and have regular crowds. Pizzarina Uno (good), Giordano’s (very yummy), Lou Malnotti’s (good) and Gino’s East (good). The deep dish pizza is the standard for out of towners because you can’t find it in other cities, but thin crust pizzas at all these restaurants are great too. There is also a smaller local brand called Home Run Inn that just does the thin crust pizza, that I think is the best thin crust pizza because of their rich salty buttery crusts. You can find them mostly in the suburbs though, the only Home Run Inn that is in the city is not near downtown. It’s more the working class man’s pizza, which is why my family knew it from the 50’s and still prefers it today.

What you should do instead: If Pizza isn’t your thing, Go to the original Billy Goat Tavern under Michigan Avenue and have a double or tripple cheeseburger, or go to Portillo’s for a Chicago Hot Dog or a Maxwell Street Polish. (notice none of the foods we are known for are healthy or expensive.) There are plenty of expensive restaurants in Chicago with everything from Brazilian Beef to exotic sushi but the fast fatty foods seem to still be the most popular norm.

3. The Art Institute of Chicago. It is the biggest and best Fine Art museum in the state and probably the Midwest. The museum is known for its collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and American paintings. There are special exhibitions several times a year ranging from Monet (they own over 30 Monet painings from in adition to Van Gogh and Picasso) to Photography. You have the best in world of art from historical dark ages (swords, knight’s armor, ancient chinese pottery and egyptian jewelry are all there too)  until the present (mid century modern furniture and Georgia O’Keefe paintings) available to view at at any time you visit the museum. The special exhibits are a bonus on top of that. They even let you take pictures (in the regular exhibits), which I was suprised about. The Art Institute of Chicago is located on Michigan Ave close to Millennium Park. The staff is knowledgable and friendly and there is so much there to see that you can spend 2-3 hours walking around.

What you should see instead: They have this one right, there is no comparsion. Go see the Art Institute of Chicago. If you like more modern avant garde works, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) is also good, but nothing compares to the Art Institute of Chicago.

4. The Shiny Coffee Bean thing. (cloud gate by Anish Kapoor) The bean is a very cool artistic monument type thing that you should go see, but it takes about 15 minutes to take it all in and then what? Well you are in the middle of Millennium Park, which has some things to do, but I always have thought of Millennium Park as Chicago’s answer to New York City’s Central Park. It is about lounging on break from work and not really about tourism. The only things to really do there are to have lunch or dinner at the Park Grill (which is a little snobby if you ask me), go Ice Skating on the outdoor rink if it is winter time or go see a concert at Pritzker Pavillion. Most times you need tickets for the concerts though, so if you are a tourist just here one day or weekend, you may not have anything to see there.

What you should see after the 15 minute Bean viewing and photo taking session: If there isn’t something going in Grant Park to see like Taste of Chicago, Lollapalooza or a Free Movie Night you can always wander over to Summerdance in the evenings (Thursday-Sundays) all summer (just south of the Art Institute on Michigan Ave) or go on a Chicago Boat Tour (wendella boat tours have been around the longest) of the lakefront and the Chicago River or a double decker bus tour of the downtown area. Most of these tours set off early in the morning (10 am) to around mid afternoon (3pm) on the corner of Wacker and Michigan Ave.

5. Shop on the Magnificent Mile. Everyone thinks that this area of Michigan Avenue has something unique and you must shop there when you visit Chicago.  In the old days before cars, airplanes and the internet it really did. You would go to the Mag Mile to see the best that stores and retailers had to offer. All the best department stores and ritzy fancy brand name stores were there (Chanel, Prada, Coach, the Apple Store) Now I wonder if there is anything there that you couldn’t find at a normal local big mall like Woodfield or Oak Brook? The crowds that shop there now are usually people who work or live downtown and they do more out of convienience because it’s world class shopping within walking distance. (there is an american girl store though that draws people from several neighboring states)  So it’s interesting to see, but a lot of what made the Magnificent Mile a draw has been made moot by the internet and the growth of high end shopping all over the country. We are no longer the shining OZ capital in the large and flat prarie that people ride trains to go do their twice yearly shopping like in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

What you should see instead: There is always something going at Navy Pier. If nothing else, ride the ferris wheel and view the city from the only piece of land in the lake. Or if you prefer a more high tech way to view the city, the latest craze is the guided Segway Tours. I think people go on them just to ride a segway really. (I would) They are expensive and long though. Expect to pay from $70-$100 and spend from 2-3 hours on a segway listening to a tour guide. It is all the novelty right now to tell people that you rode around Chicago on a segway. (our police force also uses them a lot, as an alternative to horses, although you do still see some horse cops around occasionally)

6. Honorable Mention – People used to ask to go see the Marshall Fields on State Street, but now that it is a Macy’s I am not sure people feel the same way about it. They have preserved a lot of the traditions and activities that Marshall Fields had, but it’s still much less about Chicago now.