We know it’s cold as ice in Chicago this weekend, but don’t let that stop you from attending some of the hottest events that the city has to offer. From works of art to tasty treats, Chicago never stops putting on a great show, no matter the weather!
Enjoy a Winter Adventure at Big Marsh Park
Calling all cold-weather explorers! Flock to Big Marsh Park this Saturday for a Polar Adventure day hosted by the Chicago Park District. Enjoy the wonders of nature in winter: take a guided bird hike, do a nature-inspired winter craft, see Husky teams mush around the park – then warm up around the bonfire to enjoy stories, music, hot cocoa, and more!
Date: January 20
Time: 12pm – 3pm
Cost: Free
Location: Big Marsh Park, 11559 S Stony Island Ave
More info:chicagoparkdistrict.com
Cut Your Strings and Head to the Puppet Festival
An enduring Chicago tradition makes its 6th annual appearance as the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival returns for eleven days of puppetry. Featuring performances, symposiums, workshops, and more, this festival highlights the world of puppets by featuring some of the world’s most prominent puppeteers.
Date: January 18 – 28
Time: Opening night at 7:30pm
Cost: $15+
Location: Various locations
More info: chicagopuppetfest.org
Feast on Donuts at Stan’s Donut Fest
A legendary purveyor of delectable donuts, Stan’s Donuts, is hosting their 10th Anniversary Donut Fest in River North this weekend. Indulge your sweet tooth with Stan’s famous flavors including Blueberry Fritter, Lemon Pistachio, Tiramisu, and more!
Date: January 20
Time: 11am – 3pm
Cost: $20+
Location: Stan’s Donut Pop-Up, 155 W Kinzie St.
More info: eventbrite.com
Discover Chicago’s Newest Artists at Tomorrow Never Knows
For over 10 years, Tomorrow Never Knows has gathered Chicago’s rising indie artists and given them a stage to put on a legendary show. Hosted by the teams at Schubas, Lincoln Hall, GMAN Tavern, and Sleeping Village, this festival gives a promising glimpse of the future of music in Chicago, that’s well worth the trip through the cold to see.
Date: January 17 – 21
Time: Various times
Cost: $20+
Location: Schubas Tavern, Lincoln Hall, GMAN Tavern, and Sleeping Village
More info: tnkfest.com
Go Behind the Curtain at the Auditorium Theatre
This weekend, go backstage at Chicago’s famed Auditorium Theatre, to learn about the secrets and stories that make this space unique. Take a tour and discover the brilliance of the architecture, from the classical artwork to the 24-karat gold-leafed ceiling arches, as well as the hidden gems that make this theatre a true work of art.
Date: January 21 (plus later dates)
Time: 12pm
Cost: $18
Location: The Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Ida B. Wells Dr
More info: auditoriumtheatre.org
