KICKOFF TO FALL
September signals the return of football season—and this issue of Talk of the Town gets into the spirit of the game. We’re serving up crowd-pleasing snacks for game day, spotlighting classic football movies, exploring fan-worthy travel ideas from Canton to Madrid, and supporting organizations that use sports to empower underserved youth.
As the fall market picks up, I’m here to help you make your next play—whether you’re planning a big move or just testing the field.
Whether you’re at home watching the Bears or tailgating with friends, snacks are half the fun. This season, try a new kind of rivalry by pairing iconic Chicago bites with classic favorites from the other team’s hometown. It’s an easy way to add a little culinary competition to your game day spread—and a fun conversation starter, too.
Heading to the Detroit Lions game on September 14? Set up a side-by-side tasting of coney dogs and Chicago-style hot dogs to see which city’s dog is the real fan favorite. Mustard lovers, this one’s for you!
When the Dallas Cowboys come to town on September 21, serve up smoky Texas brisket bites alongside juicy Polish sausage—both are bold, flavorful, and built for football weather.
Hosting for the New Orleans Saints on October 19? Pair deep dish pizza with cups of gumbo or spicy jambalaya for a delicious Cajun-meets-Windy City combo that’s perfect for fall.
For the Cincinnati Bengals game on November 2, serve up sweet-and-salty Chicago Mix popcorn with plates of hearty Cincinnati-style chili—served over spaghetti, of course!
When the Bears take the field against the Philadelphia Eagles on November 28, set out Italian beef sandwiches and Philly cheesesteaks—two regional legends, both delightfully messy and impossible to resist.
And for the big match-up with the Green Bay Packers on December 7, bring together these fan favorites: squeaky Wisconsin-style cheese curds and Chicago’s own jibarito—a garlicky steak sandwich with crisp, golden fried plantains
in place of bread.
Fall football season doesn’t have to mean staying on the couch. Around six hours from Chicago, Canton, Ohio is home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame—an ideal weekend getaway for fans who want to relive gridiron glory and explore decades of football history.
While the hometown Bears don’t have any upcoming international games, fans of other teams might want to pack a passport. This year’s NFL International Series includes Atlanta vs. Indianapolis in the historic Berlin Olympic Stadium on November 9 and Washington vs. Miami on November 16 in Madrid’s Bernabéu Stadium, home to Spain’s beloved Real Madrid football club. It’s an exciting chance to combine American football with a European adventure.
Looking ahead to 2026, the NFL is eyeing as many as 10 international matchups, including the first-ever regular season game in Australia. The L.A. Rams are slated as the home team for a matchup at the legendary Melbourne Cricket Ground, the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere.
Prefer to stay closer to home? College football fans won’t want to miss Michigan vs. Northwestern at Wrigley Field on November 15. Big Ten football in one of baseball’s most beloved stadiums? That’s a Chicago weekend to remember.
You don’t have to be a football fanatic to enjoy a good football movie. From character-driven dramas to comedies and compelling documentaries, these films capture the heart, grit, and occasional humor of the game—and the people behind it.
Remember the Titans (2000)
This fan favorite, based on a true story, stars Denzel Washington as a high school coach uniting a newly integrated team in 1970s Virginia.
Friday Night Lights (2004)
Inspired by H.G. Bissinger’s non-fiction book, this gritty, emotional look at small-town Texas football inspired the popular TV series.
American Underdog (2021)
The true story of quarterback Kurt Warner, who went from stocking grocery shelves to winning a Super Bowl. A family-friendly, feel-good pick.
Rudy (1993)
Based on the true story of Rudy Ruettiger, a determined young man who dreams of playing football for Notre Dame despite overwhelming odds. An inspiring classic about perseverance and heart.
The Replacements (2000)
Keanu Reeves and Gene Hackman lead this feel-good comedy about a team of misfits getting one shot at gridiron glory. Light, fun, and rewatchable.
Sports can be a powerful force for confidence, connection, and opportunity—especially in underserved communities. Consider supporting these organizations that help young people gain access to athletics, mentorship, and essential resources:
Bears Care – The charitable arm of the Chicago Bears focuses on education, health equity, and youth athletics for disadvantaged families across Chicagoland.
Good Sports – This national nonprofit provides brand-new sports equipment, apparel, and footwear to youth organizations in high-need areas, helping kids stay active and involved.
Girls on the Run – With a very active Chicago-area chapter, GOTR inspires participants through running-based programs that blend fitness with life skills and community.
Give if you can—every dollar helps more kids get in the game!
