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!
The Great Migration and the Great War
Focusing on some of the most significant events of the first half of the 20th century, historian Clarence Goodman will explore why Black southerners gravitated toward the industrial North as Woodrow Wilson grappled with the looming crisis in Europe and a hitherto unheard-of portion of the nation made its collective voice heard.
Date: February 24
Time: 2:00PM
Cost: $10, $8 for Members
Location: Glen Ellyn History Center, 800 N. Main St, Glen Ellyn
More Info: gehs.org
Get Jazzed This Weekend in Elmhurst
The Elmhurst University Jazz Festival is back for its 57th season, featuring a stellar lineup of professional musicians complemented by stand-out university and high school jazz bands and ensembles.
Date: Feb 22-25
Time: Concert times vary by day and performing group
Cost: Weekend Pass $110; Concerts from $12 to $45; Livestream from $6 to $46
Location: Elmhurst University, 190 Prospect Ave, Elmhurst
More Info: elmhurst.edu
Dreaming of Your Spring Garden?
Sponsored by Sustain DuPage, this free Seed Share event will get you ready for spring planting. Even if you don’t have saved or purchased seeds to offer, you are welcome to come and take some seeds to add to your garden this year.
Date: February 24
Time: 1:00 to 3:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Wheaton Public Library, 225 N. Cross St, Wheaton
More Info: wheatonlibrary.org
Celebrating Black Artists and Makers
Head down to Navy Pier for the 2024 Black Makers Market and discover the immense creativity percolating, incubating and thriving in neighborhoods across Chicago. Featured partners include Curl’s Bracelets, Soul Language Scents, Red Elephant Candle Company, and Sound Chick Accessories.
Date: February 24
Time: 12:00 to 6:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion, Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago
More Info: navypier.org
Cupid’s Undie Run
Since 2010, this annual nationwide event has raised over $23 million for the Children’s Tumor Foundation. This year’s Chicago event at Sluggers Sports Bar in Wrigleyville kicks off with drinks and dancing followed by a mile(ish) run.
Date: Feb 24
Time: 12:00PM to 4:00PM. Run starts around 2:00PM.
Cost: $50
Location: Sluggers, 3540 N. Clark St, Chicago
More Info: cupids.org
Flowers and Gnomes
“Sweet Gnome Chicago” is the theme of this year’s Spring Flower Show at the Lincoln Park Conservatory. Celebrate spring as you marvel at nearly 300 gnomes set in vignettes featuring beautiful, vibrant spring flowering shrubs, perennials, annuals and bulbs.
Date: Through May 12
Time: 10:00AM to 4:15PM
Cost: Free, reservation required
Location: Lincoln Park Conservatory, 2391 N. Stockton Dr, Chicago
More Info: lincolnparkconservancy.org
Gala for a Good Cause
Known for its long history of philanthropy, the Junior Council’s Annual Snowball Gala directly benefits the Pediatric & Adolescent HIV/AIDS Clinic at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. The event features live music, dancing, silent auction, premium open bar and tastings from local restaurants.
Date: February 24
Time: 7:00PM to 12:00AM
Cost: $180
Location: Drake Hotel, 140 E Walton Pl, Chicago
More Info: juniorcouncil.org
This Ain’t Your Typical Art Show
Forget the wine, cheese and subdued conversation of your typical gallery opening. Founded 14 years ago in L.A., Pancakes & Booze has spread to more than 40 cities across Europe and North America. In a safe space for new artists and creators to share their talents, you’ll find a chill, buzzy environment with beer and unlimited pancakes.
Date: February 24
Time: 8:00PM
Cost: $15 Advance & $20 Day of Show
Location: Reggie’s Rock Club, 2109 S. State St, Chicago
More Info: pancakesandbooze.com
