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!
Who Was Sheldon Peck?
Learn about this fascinating man at a documentary screening of “Sheldon Peck, Portrait of an Ordinary Man in Extraordinary Times.” Often referred to as Lombard’s most famous son, Mr. Peck was a 19th-century folk artist, a progressive social activist, and a conductor on the Underground Railroad.
Date: February 17
Time: 2:00 to 3:00PM
Cost: Free but registration is required
Location: Lombard Historical Society, 23 W Maple St, Lombard
More Info: lombardhistory.org
Direct From London’s West End
Founded by two alumni from the London production of Les Misérables, this musical quartet promises an electrifying evening of song and dance. Delight in your favorite show tunes from the emotion of Les Misérables to the energy of West Side Story, blended with pop and rock music from the world’s greatest songwriters including Billy Joel and Elton John.
Date: February 18
Time: 4:00PM
Cost: From $60
Location: Belushi Performance Hall, McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd, Glen Ellyn
More Info: atthemac.org
Come Out for a Cold Brew
Beer Fests aren’t just for summer! With heated tents, bonfires and food trucks, the Westmont Winter Beer Festival promises good times to warm body, heart and spirit. Featuring craft brewers from all across Chicagoland, admission includes twenty 4-ounce pours.
Date: February 17
Time: 3:00PM to 7:00PM
Cost: General Admission $50 until Feb 16; At the door $70
Location: Ty Warner Park, 800 N Blackhawk Dr, Westmont
More Info: westmontparks.org
Back to the 80’s with Sixteen Candles
Chicago’s favorite 80’s cover band returns to the House of Blues this weekend. From local music venues to summertime street festivals, the 5-member Sixteen Candles band has been entertaining their fans, old and new, with their fun, nostalgia-infused music.
Date: Feb 17
Time: Doors open at 7:30PM; Performance at 9:00PM
Cost: From $48
Location: House of Blues, 329 N Dearborn St, Chicago
More Info: houseofblues.com
Get Ready to Dink
Whether you’re an expert banger or a novice dinker, just remember to stay out of the kitchen! If you have no idea what this means, then check out Chicago’s newest pickleball facility and discover America’s fastest growing sport. Experienced players will appreciate their online court reservation system and instant replay technology.
Date: Now Open Daily
Time: 6:00AM to 11:00PM
Cost: Open Play from $20 for two hours; Classes & Clinics from $30
Location: SPF, 2121 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago
More Info: playspf.com
Welcome the Year of the Dragon
Head up to Uptown as the businesses and cultural organizations on Argyle Street celebrate the Lunar New Year. Local organizations are planning family-friendly activities from 10:00AM to 4:00PM, with community groups, dancers and performers coming together for the lively New Year Parade along Argyle, Broadway, Winona and Sheridan.
Date: February 17
Time: Parade Kick-Off at 1:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Parade Kick-Off at Argyle & Winthrop, Chicago
More Info: exploreuptown.org
Final Curtain Call: Chicago Theater Week
Don’t miss out! Chicago Theater Week ends on Sunday, so this is your last chance to take advantage of special value-priced tickets. Choose from dozens of performances at theaters all across Chicago, from musicals and drama to comedy and children’s theater.
Date: Through February 18
Time: Varies by Show
Cost: Special Theater Week Pricing: $15 or $30
Location: Varies by Theater
More Info: choosechicago.com
Dine Out During Chicago Black Restaurant Week
From Hyde Park to Lincoln Park, dozens of Black-owned restaurants and food & beverage businesses across Chicagoland will have special offerings as part of CBRW 2024. From the tasty treats at Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream to the Michelin-recommended bistro fare at 1308 Chicago, there’s something for every mood and palate.
Date: Through February 25
Time: Varies by venue
Cost: Varies by venue
Location: 48+ participating restaurants and businesses across Chicagoland
More Info: chiblackrestaurantweek.com
