Chicago events: your guide to the Windy City
Chicago’s Salsa and Bachata Festival brings together a diverse slate of international instructors, performers, and DJs for a weekend on the dance floor. This all-age event lets kids 14 and younger dance free, so the whole family can get in on the fun.
Art Battle Chicago
At this epic art throwdown, creative geniuses produce detailed pieces of art in 20 minutes or less. The knockout-style tournament is judged by ticket buyers, so you’ll be part of the decision-making process that crowns the eventual champion.
Tarot Round Robin
Whether you’re a seasoned tarot card reader or just starting your practice, this immersive event is a great educational opportunity that allows you to test out your skills. Participants are led through exercises before being split into groups to read for one another.
History Shmistory
Chicago comics perform as historical figures, and in character and in costume, at this brilliant, zany, and perhaps even educational comedy show. Hosted by comedian Christian Lawrence, the comedians are led to jump out of your history books and into today’s comedy clubs.
Lust For Lana
Hosted by Chicago scene queens Ramona Slick and Irregular Girl, with sounds by DJ Virago, Never Have I Ever transforms into la la land for this party paying tribute to pop star Lana Del Rey. Come leave the cruel world behind as you dance 'til you cry.
Godzilla Origami Workshop
Godzilla season is in full swing following the success of "Godzilla Minus One" and this is your chance to learn how to fold the big guy in this hands-on origami class. Although it’s a very complex folding pattern, this workshop is open to all levels.
For the Love of House
As the city preps for the return of the Chicago House Music Festival this summer, The Promontory hosts a party celebrating the 40th anniversary of the genre, featuring legendary house DJs and producers Alan King, Gene Hunt, and Mike Dunn.
Margarita Fest at Hubbard Inn
Spring is officially springing so it’s time to bust out the fresh margs at one of River North’s hottest venues. Your ticket includes 15 margarita tastings, plus loads of freebies and photo opportunities.
An Evening of Mariachi
This evening of the Sor Juana Festival honors the importance of women in mariachi music and the genre’s growing influence throughout America, via a performance that showcases the magnificent sounds of Mariachi Sirenas.
Ball & Battle: A Drag Show & Latte Art Throwdown
To celebrate its first birthday, Andersonville’s café and bookstore The Understudy hosts a one-of-a-kind competition, combining drag and foamy beverages. The drag show begins at 7pm, and the latte art competition kicks off at 7:45pm, with winners crowned later in the evening.
Studio 312 at FMK
Queer artists present Studio 312, a new party where art, music, and fashion collide. Each month welcomes an array of rotating hosts and guests — Gidget Glitch produces March's event with co-hosts XO Carrington and Christi Da Vinci — so get ready to dance and express yourself.
Cubs Opening Day Blue Beer Party
You’ve heard of green beer, but blue beer? Cubs fans can fuel up for Opening Day at this bash, celebrating a new baseball season with festivities that kick off at10am with an all-inclusive food and drink package.
"I Feel That Completely" Premiere
Emerging filmmakers Tess Lincecum and Chloe Zarensky Werner have worked on this quirky film series for two long years, dropping clips on Instagram for all their followers to see. Check out the finished three-part series screened back-to-back at the Davis Theater.
Eric Kim "Korean American" with Jesse Szewczyk
New York Times cooking columnist Eric Kim is the son of Korean immigrants and believes food at the heart of his tale. Promoting his debut cookbook, Kim shares recipes for the food that has shaped him and exchanges insights with fellow New Yorker Jesse Szewczyk.
Smart Salon: Meiji Architecture & the Built Environment
Meiji Modern co-curator and professor Chelsea Foxwell is joined by scholar Erez Golani Solomon to discuss the impact and landscape of Meiji-era Japan. This hands-on event includes art-making materials and refreshments.
Beyond the Barons: Exploring Overlooked Chapters of Beer History
This unique, informative event honors National Beer Day by giving voice and recognition to the voices and creators throughout the history of beer that have been underrepresented. Tickets include light apps, access to the Siebel, and of course, delicious brews.
Meet IRL: A Cute Little Singles Cocktail Party
Esco in the West Loop hosts Meet IRL’s latest singles event, a casual gathering with prompts and ice breakers to keep conversation free and flowing. Your ticket includes a complimentary cocktail or mocktail and light bites for the first 50 attendees.
Five for Fighting with String Quartet
Singer-songwriter Five For Fighting brings piano-based pop and rock hits to Northwestern University’s Cahn Auditorium, performing with a string quartet — just like the act's 2018 live album.
Lincoln Park Conservancy's Spring Show: Meet the Artists
The Lincoln Park Conservancy keeps its doors open late for a very special event, where attendees can meet the artists behind the Sweet Gnome Chicago spring show that is taking place until May 12th. Celebrate the start of spring at this charming showcase.
New Beers Eve
Ravenswood’s opulent space Artifact Events is hosting some of Chicago’s finest breweries for a fun, dog friendly night of tasty brews and snacks. A number of the incredible brew partners will be providing a taste of some of their newest and most exclusive concoctions.
Opening Reception: BODY/MATTER
The International Museum of Surgical Science has become a destination for great art exhibits and openings, showcasing talented visual artists in its unique and sprawling space. This free opening highlights works by some of the emerging talents at Columbia College.
Oddities Flea Market
Your expectations will be defied when the Oddities Flea Market returns to Morgan MFG to present an array of dazzling delights. Let curiosity take you by the hand as you secure historical items, home decor, and various ephemera at this one-of-a-kind bazaar.
Health Nut: Cookbook Event with Jess Damuck & Courtney Storer
City Lit hosts this cookbook chat with "Health Nut" writer Jess Damuk as she celebrates her latest book focused on fresh, produce-driven cooking. She’ll be joined in conversation by Chicago native Courtney Storer, the culinary producer behind FX series "The Bear."
Chicago Prine Fest
The Irish American Heritage Center hosts the first ever Chicago Prine Fest, a one-day, four-band celebration of songwriting great John Prine. The fest features Lawrence Peters Outfit and Barb & Barrett Show, with headliner Arlo McKinley (signed to Prine’s own Oh Boy Records).
Glow Concert Series Premiere: Candlelight Concert
The Glow Concert Series brings candlelit live music to Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston. This showcase will feature a string quartet and piano quintet, performing music by the Beatles, ABBA, and some of Taylor Swift’s most popular songs from the Eras Tour.
Learn to Meditate
Learn how to develop a sustainable (and beneficial) meditation practice with the help of The Chakra Shoppe, which hosts this monthly class that explores various techniques.
Selena Service
If you'd do anything for the Queen of Tejano Music, Selena, then this is the night for you. Dress up in your favorite iconic look, enjoy exclusive Selena-inspired cocktails, and watch incredible performances by a cast of Selena impersonators.
All Levels Yoga with Adoptable Puppies & Kittens
Big Shoulders Yoga hosts an accessible and restorative session, where you’ll be surrounded by adorable and adoptable puppies and kittens. The event raises money for the SAYv Animals Organization, with representatives on site to help you take home your fur-ever buddy.
April Sip & Savasana at EasyBar
Not every yoga pass includes a complimentary drink and is hosted at a Wicker Park bar. At this HealthSource-sponsored event, you’ll enjoy an hour-long vinyasa flow, followed by a casual gathering where you can chat with friends new and old. Bring your own mat!
Zai Lamb at The Promontory
Houston R&B sensation Zai Lamb stops in Chicago to promote his latest album, "Sex Ed," with a performance at The Promontory in Hyde Park. Local openers and vendors will be on site to support the Bayou City’s king of rhythm and blues.
40th Chicago Latino Film Festival: Opening Celebration
The Davis Theater proudly hosts the opening night celebration for Chicago’s 40th Latino Film Festival, which features a screening of "The Wingwalker," a bold and incisive migration story that depicts the harsh realities of crossing the U.S. border.
Level Up Social Club Networking Event at Godfrey Rooftop
Level Up Social host ambitious young professionals and potential mentors for an evening of conversation (and cocktails), as guests expand their networks and learn from one another. A complimentary drink is provided to help spur genuine connection.
Hootenanny Fundraiser Vol. 4 at Midwest Coast Brewery
Show up to this event to support Out Our Front Door, a nonprofit organization that plans and hosts overnight cycling adventures that begin in Chicago and journey to nearby natural locales. Each ticket to this fundraiser includes two drinks, raffle ticket, and a chili mac dinner.
Uncontrolled Variables
The Lincoln Lodge conjured up the perfect show for science enthusiasts who love to laugh. Comedians present scientific data and try to explain what it means, followed by the actual scientists who conducted the research clarifying the details. Great Scott!
East of California West of New York
Chicago's Asian American comedians come together at the Lincoln Lodge for a hilarious showcase that raises funds for the mutual aid projects overseen by Argyle community and arts organization Axis Labs.
Let's Read a Play
Ever wanted to act but fear you lack the chops or years of experience to make it on the big stage? Fear not! Let’s Read a Play invites thespians and citizens alike to participate in a casual-but-fun reading of new and classic plays. To be or not to be? Just be here already!
Choir Rehearsal with Friends
Whether you’re a veteran singer or just love to belt out songs in your shower or car, Choir Rehearsal with Friends allows you to share your passion for choral music and group singing. Learn new techniques and harmonize as you connect with fellow choir enthusiasts.
Two Day Make it Take it: Mixed Hardwood Cutting Board
Hungry for hands-on woodwork? This two-day event provides expert guidance and all the materials you need to craft a beautiful mixed hardwood cutting board. Perfect for beginners or seasoned pros, your end product will be the perfect gift for you or someone you love.
Latte Art: Chicago
Get the training you need to create amazing designs with milk (and dairy alternatives) during this Counter Culture class, which covers the intricacies of steaming milk and pouring it in creative ways. Expect to drink plenty of lattes and cappuccinos along the way!
Make it, Take it: Leopold Bench
The simple-yet-sturdy Leopold Bench is exceedingly pragmatic, but you'll be floored by how useful it is when you make (and then take home) one in this workshop. Participants learn about the bench creator's "land ethic" ideals while working with provided, reclaimed lumber.
Powerpoint Night Live: Future of Comedy Festival Edition
This monthly, slide-based showcase hosts an edition during The Lincoln Lodge's Future of Comedy Festival, which enables the venue to keep art and education affordable in the city. Expect crude Word art and presentations that take the boardroom format in absurd directions.
Historic Homes, Cottages & Buildings of Wicker Park – Walking Tour
Every area of Chicago has its own unique culture and history. This walking tour explores the remarkable, creative, and quirky architecture scattered throughout the city’s bustling Wicker Park neighborhood. Bring comfy shoes and a curious mind, you’re sure to be enchanted.
Singles Scraptacular
Meet new people (and see if any sparks fly) during this creative event for singles, where you'll repurpose an old cabinet door, turning it into stylish, sustainable home decor.
Chicago's Midway & Movies Walking Tour
Combining two classic American pastimes, this walking tour on the famous, tree-lined site of the1893 World's Fair explores early and modern cinema's use of Chicago's famous Midway. Films featured on the tour include "Sunset Boulevard," "Flatliners," and "Chicago the Beautiful."
TEDxWilmette: Salon
TEDxWilmette returns to watch and discuss an impactful TEDx talk. This time, founder Heather Hehman facilitates a conversation about Michele Weldon’s powerful 2023 talk, Truth is a Dare: The Power of Claiming Your Story.
Make it Take it: Mirror Frame Chicago
Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who made the fairest mirror of all? Attend this hands-on crafting event and let the answer to that question be you! You’ll work with experts to utilize salvaged mirrors and reclaimed wood as you build a beautiful new piece to admire in your home.
Air Max Day Chicago: Max Is Major
Some of the city’s top DJs and freshest dressers head to Bar 22 to celebrate Air Max Day and the shoe that changed the sneaker game forever. Sport your favorite pair of Maxes and soak up Chicago’s finest vibes as you enjoy specialty cocktails among fellow sneakerheads.
Chicago events: your guide to the Windy City
Chicago Salsa & Bachata Festival 2024
Chicago’s Salsa and Bachata Festival brings together a diverse slate of international instructors, performers, and DJs for a weekend on the dance floor. This all-age event lets kids 14 and younger dance free, so the whole family can get in on the fun.
Art Battle Chicago
At this epic art throwdown, creative geniuses produce detailed pieces of art in 20 minutes or less. The knockout-style tournament is judged by ticket buyers, so you’ll be part of the decision-making process that crowns the eventual champion.
Tarot Round Robin
Whether you’re a seasoned tarot card reader or just starting your practice, this immersive event is a great educational opportunity that allows you to test out your skills. Participants are led through exercises before being split into groups to read for one another.
History Shmistory
Chicago comics perform as historical figures, and in character and in costume, at this brilliant, zany, and perhaps even educational comedy show. Hosted by comedian Christian Lawrence, the comedians are led to jump out of your history books and into today’s comedy clubs.
Lust For Lana
Hosted by Chicago scene queens Ramona Slick and Irregular Girl, with sounds by DJ Virago, Never Have I Ever transforms into la la land for this party paying tribute to pop star Lana Del Rey. Come leave the cruel world behind as you dance 'til you cry.
Godzilla Origami Workshop
Godzilla season is in full swing following the success of "Godzilla Minus One" and this is your chance to learn how to fold the big guy in this hands-on origami class. Although it’s a very complex folding pattern, this workshop is open to all levels.
For the Love of House
As the city preps for the return of the Chicago House Music Festival this summer, The Promontory hosts a party celebrating the 40th anniversary of the genre, featuring legendary house DJs and producers Alan King, Gene Hunt, and Mike Dunn.
Margarita Fest at Hubbard Inn
Spring is officially springing so it’s time to bust out the fresh margs at one of River North’s hottest venues. Your ticket includes 15 margarita tastings, plus loads of freebies and photo opportunities.
An Evening of Mariachi
This evening of the Sor Juana Festival honors the importance of women in mariachi music and the genre’s growing influence throughout America, via a performance that showcases the magnificent sounds of Mariachi Sirenas.
Ball & Battle: A Drag Show & Latte Art Throwdown
To celebrate its first birthday, Andersonville’s café and bookstore The Understudy hosts a one-of-a-kind competition, combining drag and foamy beverages. The drag show begins at 7pm, and the latte art competition kicks off at 7:45pm, with winners crowned later in the evening.
Studio 312 at FMK
Queer artists present Studio 312, a new party where art, music, and fashion collide. Each month welcomes an array of rotating hosts and guests — Gidget Glitch produces March's event with co-hosts XO Carrington and Christi Da Vinci — so get ready to dance and express yourself.
Cubs Opening Day Blue Beer Party
You’ve heard of green beer, but blue beer? Cubs fans can fuel up for Opening Day at this bash, celebrating a new baseball season with festivities that kick off at10am with an all-inclusive food and drink package.
"I Feel That Completely" Premiere
Emerging filmmakers Tess Lincecum and Chloe Zarensky Werner have worked on this quirky film series for two long years, dropping clips on Instagram for all their followers to see. Check out the finished three-part series screened back-to-back at the Davis Theater.
Eric Kim "Korean American" with Jesse Szewczyk
New York Times cooking columnist Eric Kim is the son of Korean immigrants and believes food at the heart of his tale. Promoting his debut cookbook, Kim shares recipes for the food that has shaped him and exchanges insights with fellow New Yorker Jesse Szewczyk.
Smart Salon: Meiji Architecture & the Built Environment
Meiji Modern co-curator and professor Chelsea Foxwell is joined by scholar Erez Golani Solomon to discuss the impact and landscape of Meiji-era Japan. This hands-on event includes art-making materials and refreshments.
Beyond the Barons: Exploring Overlooked Chapters of Beer History
This unique, informative event honors National Beer Day by giving voice and recognition to the voices and creators throughout the history of beer that have been underrepresented. Tickets include light apps, access to the Siebel, and of course, delicious brews.
Meet IRL: A Cute Little Singles Cocktail Party
Esco in the West Loop hosts Meet IRL’s latest singles event, a casual gathering with prompts and ice breakers to keep conversation free and flowing. Your ticket includes a complimentary cocktail or mocktail and light bites for the first 50 attendees.
Five for Fighting with String Quartet
Singer-songwriter Five For Fighting brings piano-based pop and rock hits to Northwestern University’s Cahn Auditorium, performing with a string quartet — just like the act's 2018 live album.
Lincoln Park Conservancy's Spring Show: Meet the Artists
The Lincoln Park Conservancy keeps its doors open late for a very special event, where attendees can meet the artists behind the Sweet Gnome Chicago spring show that is taking place until May 12th. Celebrate the start of spring at this charming showcase.
New Beers Eve
Ravenswood’s opulent space Artifact Events is hosting some of Chicago’s finest breweries for a fun, dog friendly night of tasty brews and snacks. A number of the incredible brew partners will be providing a taste of some of their newest and most exclusive concoctions.
Opening Reception: BODY/MATTER
The International Museum of Surgical Science has become a destination for great art exhibits and openings, showcasing talented visual artists in its unique and sprawling space. This free opening highlights works by some of the emerging talents at Columbia College.
Oddities Flea Market
Your expectations will be defied when the Oddities Flea Market returns to Morgan MFG to present an array of dazzling delights. Let curiosity take you by the hand as you secure historical items, home decor, and various ephemera at this one-of-a-kind bazaar.
Health Nut: Cookbook Event with Jess Damuck & Courtney Storer
City Lit hosts this cookbook chat with "Health Nut" writer Jess Damuk as she celebrates her latest book focused on fresh, produce-driven cooking. She’ll be joined in conversation by Chicago native Courtney Storer, the culinary producer behind FX series "The Bear."
Chicago Prine Fest
The Irish American Heritage Center hosts the first ever Chicago Prine Fest, a one-day, four-band celebration of songwriting great John Prine. The fest features Lawrence Peters Outfit and Barb & Barrett Show, with headliner Arlo McKinley (signed to Prine’s own Oh Boy Records).
Glow Concert Series Premiere: Candlelight Concert
The Glow Concert Series brings candlelit live music to Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston. This showcase will feature a string quartet and piano quintet, performing music by the Beatles, ABBA, and some of Taylor Swift’s most popular songs from the Eras Tour.
Learn to Meditate
Learn how to develop a sustainable (and beneficial) meditation practice with the help of The Chakra Shoppe, which hosts this monthly class that explores various techniques.
Selena Service
If you'd do anything for the Queen of Tejano Music, Selena, then this is the night for you. Dress up in your favorite iconic look, enjoy exclusive Selena-inspired cocktails, and watch incredible performances by a cast of Selena impersonators.
All Levels Yoga with Adoptable Puppies & Kittens
Big Shoulders Yoga hosts an accessible and restorative session, where you’ll be surrounded by adorable and adoptable puppies and kittens. The event raises money for the SAYv Animals Organization, with representatives on site to help you take home your fur-ever buddy.
April Sip & Savasana at EasyBar
Not every yoga pass includes a complimentary drink and is hosted at a Wicker Park bar. At this HealthSource-sponsored event, you’ll enjoy an hour-long vinyasa flow, followed by a casual gathering where you can chat with friends new and old. Bring your own mat!
Zai Lamb at The Promontory
Houston R&B sensation Zai Lamb stops in Chicago to promote his latest album, "Sex Ed," with a performance at The Promontory in Hyde Park. Local openers and vendors will be on site to support the Bayou City’s king of rhythm and blues.
40th Chicago Latino Film Festival: Opening Celebration
The Davis Theater proudly hosts the opening night celebration for Chicago’s 40th Latino Film Festival, which features a screening of "The Wingwalker," a bold and incisive migration story that depicts the harsh realities of crossing the U.S. border.
Level Up Social Club Networking Event at Godfrey Rooftop
Level Up Social host ambitious young professionals and potential mentors for an evening of conversation (and cocktails), as guests expand their networks and learn from one another. A complimentary drink is provided to help spur genuine connection.
Hootenanny Fundraiser Vol. 4 at Midwest Coast Brewery
Show up to this event to support Out Our Front Door, a nonprofit organization that plans and hosts overnight cycling adventures that begin in Chicago and journey to nearby natural locales. Each ticket to this fundraiser includes two drinks, raffle ticket, and a chili mac dinner.
Uncontrolled Variables
The Lincoln Lodge conjured up the perfect show for science enthusiasts who love to laugh. Comedians present scientific data and try to explain what it means, followed by the actual scientists who conducted the research clarifying the details. Great Scott!
East of California West of New York
Chicago's Asian American comedians come together at the Lincoln Lodge for a hilarious showcase that raises funds for the mutual aid projects overseen by Argyle community and arts organization Axis Labs.
Let's Read a Play
Ever wanted to act but fear you lack the chops or years of experience to make it on the big stage? Fear not! Let’s Read a Play invites thespians and citizens alike to participate in a casual-but-fun reading of new and classic plays. To be or not to be? Just be here already!
Choir Rehearsal with Friends
Whether you’re a veteran singer or just love to belt out songs in your shower or car, Choir Rehearsal with Friends allows you to share your passion for choral music and group singing. Learn new techniques and harmonize as you connect with fellow choir enthusiasts.
Two Day Make it Take it: Mixed Hardwood Cutting Board
Hungry for hands-on woodwork? This two-day event provides expert guidance and all the materials you need to craft a beautiful mixed hardwood cutting board. Perfect for beginners or seasoned pros, your end product will be the perfect gift for you or someone you love.
Latte Art: Chicago
Get the training you need to create amazing designs with milk (and dairy alternatives) during this Counter Culture class, which covers the intricacies of steaming milk and pouring it in creative ways. Expect to drink plenty of lattes and cappuccinos along the way!
Make it, Take it: Leopold Bench
The simple-yet-sturdy Leopold Bench is exceedingly pragmatic, but you'll be floored by how useful it is when you make (and then take home) one in this workshop. Participants learn about the bench creator's "land ethic" ideals while working with provided, reclaimed lumber.
Powerpoint Night Live: Future of Comedy Festival Edition
This monthly, slide-based showcase hosts an edition during The Lincoln Lodge's Future of Comedy Festival, which enables the venue to keep art and education affordable in the city. Expect crude Word art and presentations that take the boardroom format in absurd directions.
Historic Homes, Cottages & Buildings of Wicker Park – Walking Tour
Every area of Chicago has its own unique culture and history. This walking tour explores the remarkable, creative, and quirky architecture scattered throughout the city’s bustling Wicker Park neighborhood. Bring comfy shoes and a curious mind, you’re sure to be enchanted.
Singles Scraptacular
Meet new people (and see if any sparks fly) during this creative event for singles, where you'll repurpose an old cabinet door, turning it into stylish, sustainable home decor.
Chicago's Midway & Movies Walking Tour
Combining two classic American pastimes, this walking tour on the famous, tree-lined site of the1893 World's Fair explores early and modern cinema's use of Chicago's famous Midway. Films featured on the tour include "Sunset Boulevard," "Flatliners," and "Chicago the Beautiful."
TEDxWilmette: Salon
TEDxWilmette returns to watch and discuss an impactful TEDx talk. This time, founder Heather Hehman facilitates a conversation about Michele Weldon’s powerful 2023 talk, Truth is a Dare: The Power of Claiming Your Story.
Make it Take it: Mirror Frame Chicago
Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who made the fairest mirror of all? Attend this hands-on crafting event and let the answer to that question be you! You’ll work with experts to utilize salvaged mirrors and reclaimed wood as you build a beautiful new piece to admire in your home.
Air Max Day Chicago: Max Is Major
Some of the city’s top DJs and freshest dressers head to Bar 22 to celebrate Air Max Day and the shoe that changed the sneaker game forever. Sport your favorite pair of Maxes and soak up Chicago’s finest vibes as you enjoy specialty cocktails among fellow sneakerheads.