8 Things to do in the City & Western Suburbs: February 2

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! 

Blend Your Own Scented Candle

Choose from over 30 essential oils to blend your signature scent in this hands-on candle making workshop! With insight and advice from the staff of this cool candle bar, you’ll create your own custom soy wax candle. 

Date: February 4 
Time: 10:30AM to 12:00PM 
Cost: $45 
Location: Einnim Candle Bar, 1020 Lake St, Oak Park 
More Info: einnim.com 

The Perfect Trifecta…

Chocolate, Cheese, and Wine! Enjoy a tasting of fine wines, specialty cheeses and tempting chocolates from around the world. Sponsored by the Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce, your admission includes tastings and a memento wine glass. Local restaurants will also be on hand to showcase samples from their menus.

Date: February 2 
Time: 5:00 to 7:30PM 
Cost: $40 
Location: Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1250 E Roosevelt Rd, Glen Ellyn 
More Info: glenellynchamber.com

In Honor of Black History Month

Celebrating African Americans who forged progress by breaking down barriers, The Black Trailblazers is a limited-time exhibit at the DuPage County Historical Museum. The focus is on several individuals who significantly impacted DuPage County through their contributions in a variety of fields, from education and sports to civil rights and the arts.

Date: Through February 28 
Time: Fri, 10:30AM to 4:00PM; Sat & Sun, 12:00 – 4:00PM 
Cost: $5 suggested donation 
Location: DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E Wesley St, Wheaton 
More Info: dupagemuseum.org

Films of Vision, Creation & Design

Head down to the Chicago Architecture Center for the Architecture & Design Film Festival, featuring 20 films from around the world including Denmark, Sri Lanka, Belgium and the USA. Discover stories of creative vision, design innovation, and human relationships embodied in architecture across the globe. 

Date: Through February 4 
Time: Varies by film 
Cost: $20 per film, $15 for CAC members 
Location: Chicago Architecture Center, 111 E Wacker Dr, Chicago 
More Info: filmfestarchitecture.com

An Extraordinary Photography Exhibit 

Recipient of numerous awards including the National Press Photographers Award, Steve McCurry is famed for images that reveal cultures, conflicts and traditions—while never losing the human element. Discover the life and works of the man whose iconic photos include “Afghan Girl” that graced the June 1985 National Geographic cover. 

Date: Through March 3 
Time: 11:00AM to 7:00PM 
Cost: $23 on Fri; $26 on Sat & Sun. 
Location: Loyola University Museum of Art, 820 N Michigan Ave, Chicago 
More Info: stevemccurryicons.com

Catch a Vocal Concert

Committed to equity, diversity and inclusion – as well as musical excellence – Constellation Men’s Ensemble is a Chicago-based vocal group that offers distinct performances in unique spaces. Just back from their East Coast tour, this Friday’s homecoming concert features their recent album, Man Up / Man Down.

Date: February 2 
Time: 7:30PM Showtime; Doors open at 5:00PM 
Cost: $25 General Admission 
Location: Epiphany Center for the Arts, 201 S Ashland Ave, Chicago 
More Info: constellationensemble.org

Indigenous Portraits Unbound

Published in the mid-1800’s, McKenney and Hall’s “History of the Indian Tribes of North America” features 120 portraits of Indigenous people, mostly tribal leaders visiting Washington, DC as part of official delegations. This exhibit is a rare opportunity to view the lithograph prints in their original form of publication as large unbound pamphlets. 

Date: Through March 30 
Time: Thu, 10AM to 7PM; Fri & Sat 10AM to 5PM 
Cost: Free 
Location: Newberry Library, 60 W Walton St, Chicago lL
More Info: newberry.org

The Chicago Architecture Biennial

The Chicago Cultural Center is one of the main exhibit venues for CAB 5, the fifth event organized by the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Featuring projects from more than 80 global designers, architects and community leaders, the exhibition explores how modern issues from the economy to the environment are addressed differently around the world through art, infrastructure, architecture and civic engagement. 

Date: Through February 11 
Time: 10:00AM to 5:00PM 
Cost: Free 
Location: Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E Washington St, Chicago 
More Info: chicagoarchitecturebiennial.org

Related Posts