FALL FESTIVAL GUIDE 2023 SEPTEMBER
September 7-9
TASTE OF ICELAND
Thursday at noon, First Lady of Iceland and co-founder of the Iceland Writers Retreat, Eliza Reid, discusses her book, “Secrets of the Sprakkar,” regarding gender equality and how to achieve it, at After-Words Bookstore, 23 E. Illinois St. Then, from 7-11 p.m., a free concert features Icelandic artists JFDR and GRÓA at Martyrs', 3855 N. Lincoln Ave.
Friday at 7 pm, catch a screening of Iceland’s official submission to the 2023 Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film, “Beautiful Beings,” followed by Q&A with director Gudmundur Arnar Gudmundssön at the Logan Theatre, 2846 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Saturday at 1 pm, visit the Elemental Sound Bath and Breakfast Bar: escape for an hour of peace and meditation with Jósa Goodlife at Yogaview, 2211 N. Elston Ave., #200.
5-8:15 pm Daily, four-course prix fixe
Icelandic menu inspired by Bistronomic Executive Chef/Owner Martial Noguier and Chef Arnar Pall Sigrunarson of the Blue Lagoon’s Lava Restaurant at Bistronomic, 840 N. Wabash Ave. $85/per person
$135 with wine pairing. Spin Icelandair’s Wheel of Prizes to win a trip to Iceland or luxury items from the nation’s best brands Inspiredbyiceland.com
September 8-10
CHICAGO GERMAN AMERICAN OKTOBERFEST
Lincoln & Western Avenues
Fri 5-11 pm, Sat Noon-11 pm, Sun Noon-10 pm
Saturday, 2 pm Parade on Lincoln Avenue to Irving, Eastwood and Lawrence German hospitality – food, beer and wine -- in two large tents; traditional bands Saturday and Sunday. FREE admission. germanday.com/oktoberfest
September 9
WORLD DUMPLING FEST
CTA Blue Line Plaza
@ Logan Square
Sat Noon-7 pm.
The Chicago Cultural Alliance, composed of 40+ cultural heritage organizations from 30+ neighborhoods, uses dumplings from neighborhood restaurants of 15 different nations – Polish, Haitian, Himalayan, Colombian, Japanese and more – to illustrate our city’s diversity and also our commonality. Enjoy cultural performances, live music, interactive crafts. FREE admis sion, tasting tickets on-site and at www. starevents.com/event/world-dumpling-fest
September 9-10
MIRACLE IN MUNDELEIN
RISE Dispensary parking lot, 1325 Armour Blvd., Mundelein Doors open at noon Sat, 2 pm Sun Inaugural fest is first Illinois concert to permit legal, on-site cannabis consumption. Lineup includes Cypress Hill, Action Bronson, 8-time Grammy winner Stephen Marley, DJ Papa G, Joe Russo’s Almost Dead, Lettuce, Karina Rykman and DJ Mitch Please. 21+ only. starevents.com
September 9- 10
PRINTERS ROW LIT FEST
On Dearborn, Polk to Ida B. Wells Sat & Sun, 10 am-6 pm Largest FREE outdoor literary showcase in the Midwest features nearly 100 authors on six indoor and outdoor stages. Headliners are Toluse Olorunnipa and Robert Samuels, authors of “His Name is George Floyd: One Man’s Life and Struggle for Racial Justice,” the 2023 Pulitzer Prize winner for nonfiction. printersrowlitfest.org
September 9-10
RENEGADE CRAFT FAIR
Division Street, Damen-Ashland Sat-Sun, 11 am-7 pm Renegade’s flagship, hometown fair features 400+ craft artists, designers and makers from Chicago and beyond. Suggested donation $12, 10% of which benefits The Nature Conservancy. renegadecraft.com/city/chicago
September 10
FIESTA RAVINIA
Ravinia Festival, 201 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park Gates open 2 pm
7th annual daylong celebration of Mexican culture, with Reik and special guest DJ Chava, performances, and activities throughout the park. Concert starts at 7:30 pm. Lawn General Admission, $27+, Pavilion Reserved Seating $55-$90 at ravinia.org
September 10
RUN FOR THE PARKS
3100 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
8 am-noon
Chicago Parks Foundation’s inaugural event seeks to bring more equitable and accessible events to the city’s Central and South Sides by highlighting Burnham Wildlife Corridor, a hidden gem. Race will be followed by a pancake party with DJ, refreshments and community fun. $20 party-only, $40 includes 5K Walk/Run/Roll at chicagoparksfoundation.org/run
September 14-16
ENGLEWOOD JAZZ FEST
Hamilton Park Cultural Center, 513 W. 72nd St.
Thurs & Fri 6 pm, Sat 11:30 am-6 pm
The Chicago Park District and Live the Spirit Residency present this 24th annual event for three days of FREE music in the community – rain or shine! Artists include Frank Russell, Jeff Parker, Joel Ross, Ernest Dawkins, Sean Jones, Marques Carroll, Alexis Lombre and Isiaiah Collier.
www.streetwise.org 5 PrintersRow Lit Fest
September 15-17
RIOT FEST
Douglass Park, 1401 S. Sacramento Drive
Fri-Sun 11 am- 10 pm
Now in its 18th year, fest strives to be the definitive touchstone for independent music: punk, rock, alternative, metal and hip-hop. Lineup includes Foo Fighters, The Black Angels, Bowling For Soup, Yard Act, and more. Carnival rides, food vendors, shopping. Tickets $100+ at riotfest.org
September 16
UNCF WALK FOR EDUCATION
1199 E. Oakwood Blvd.
9 am
Walk, run, bike or skate in Burnham Park Grove 7, South Lake Shore Drive at 39th Street. “Education Row” is an upgrade to “Information Row” at this 40-year annual event. $20 children (under 14 must be accompanied by adult), $35 adults at uncf. org/events/2023-uncf-walk-for-educationchicago
September 16
26TH STREET MEXICAN INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE
26th St.& Albany Ave. up 26th to Kostner Starts at noon
Little Village Chamber of Commerce celebrates on the actual anniversary of Mexican independence: the day in 1810 when the priest Miguel Hidalgo rang a church bell to urge townspeople in Dolores, Guanajuato, to rise up against the Spanish crown. Parade features brightly colored floats, mariachi bands and folkloric dancing. FREE.
September 16-17
WEST LOOP BAVARIAN BLOCK PARTY
Washington @ Sangamon Sat Noon-10 pm, Sun Noon-7 pm
Enjoy brats, bretzels, and beverages both alcoholic and non alcoholic. Lineup includes 7th Heaven, Bumpus, Mr. Dave, Roma Strings, Rod Tuffcurls & the Bench Press, The Boy Band Night, The Happy Wanderers and the Justin Roberts Duo. $10 donation suggested. Benefits The Haymarket Center, whose mission is providing recovery services to the community. starevents.com
September 16-17
RAVENSWOOD ART WALK
Ravenswood Industrial Corridor, Lawrence to Irving Park Road Sat & Sun 11 am-6 pm
Enjoy pop up performances, outdoor art market featuring 50+ local makers, Malt Row beer garden, food trucks, and more. ravenswoodchicago.org/signature-events/ ravenswood-artwalk
September 16
OKTOBERFEST
Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St. Sat 6:30-10 pm
This 21+ event features both adult and non-alcoholic beverages, pretzels, brats and more amid the zoo’s lush gardens and habitats for 170+ species. There’s also live music, pop up bars, lawn games; DJ leading dancing on the South Lawn and Die Musikmeisters on the Main Mall. Admission $15-35 on Eventbrite.
September 17
OKSOBERFEST
Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St Sun 6-9 pm
Sponsored by Lincoln Park Zoo and Chicago AF, a non-profit sober community focused on fostering alcohol-free connection and redefining sobriety’s social scene, this fest still gives you the chance to snack on brats and pretzels with mustard flights and dance with hundreds of new friends to a live Polka band, or explore the zoo’s animal habitats. 21+ only. Tickets $20-$30, and include unlimited samples of non-alcoholic beverages, free rides on the carousel, lawn games, and much more. lpzoo.org/event/oksoberfest
September 21-October 8
REELING FILM FESTIVAL
Second longest running fest of its kind shows best LGBTQ films of the year to counter stereotypes. Opening the fest is The Mattachine Family: a loving gay couple find they have different ideas about what making a family means after their first foster child returns to his birth mother. Tickets $12-$40. Venues include Landmark Century Centre Cinema, 2828 N. Clark St., and Chicago Filmmakers, 1326 W. Hollywood Ave., with streaming starting September 29. Reelingfilmfest.org
September 22-23
OAKTOBERFEST
Downtown Oak Park: Marion St. & North Blvd.
Fri 4-10 pm, Sat Noon-10 pm
Enjoy fall foods from local restaurants, craft beers, a kids’ root beer garden, and a premier music lineup: the Joel Paterson Trio, Nathan Graham, Lilly Hiatt, School of Rock Oak Park, Soldial, Cole DeGenova, DeeOhGee, Clayton Joseph Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band. FREE admission. oaktoberfest.net
RavenswoodArtWalk
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RiotFest
September 22-24
ALADERRI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Facets Cinema, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave. Fri 4-10 pm, Sat & Sun 10 am-10 pm
Aladerri International Film Festival is an IMDB Award Listing Qualifier dedicated to the celebration of short films. Multi-day event seeks to bring the most inspiring and impactful voices forward. Ticket prices at aladerrifilmfestival.com
September 22-Oct 1
WORLD MUSIC FEST
Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., and Citywide Global grooves by 30+ award winning artists and ensembles representing 22 countries and regions of the world, now in its 22nd year of live performances. FREE admission. www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/ dca/supp_info/wmf.html
September 23-24
HYDE PARK JAZZ FESTIVAL
Sat 1 pm-midnight, Sun 1-7 pm 17th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival brings Chicago’s most critically acclaimed artists, nationally and internationally recognized talents, on stages across the neighborhood. Lineup includes Ari Brown Quintet, Artifacts +Dal Niente: Works by Nicole Mitchell, Brown Savage World Music Project, Meagan McNeal, Tomeka Reid and Junius Paul, Bethany Pickens Trio, Chico Freeman Quinet, Dee Alexander’s Ancestors Reign, Joan Collaso and The Family, and more. $10 donation suggested. www.hydeparkjazzfest.org
September 23-24
RANDOLPH STREET MARKET
1341 W. Randolph St. 10 am-5 pm
Chicago’s version of the market at London’s Portobello Road is the spot to get your hands on pieces you see in the homes of influencers, and the unexpected in decor, vintage clothes, jewelry, and books.
General admission
$12; Seniors/kids
$5; under 12 FREE. randolphstreetmarket. com
September 23-24
CHICAGO LIVE!
Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. Grammy winner and Blues and Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Famer Mavis Staples headlines a weekend of back-to-back performances on three stages by artists from all of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods. Every artistic genre will be represented: music, dance, theatre, spoken word, improv, vocal performance and more.
At 4:50 p.m. Saturday, the Soul Children of Chicago will perform “O-o-h, Child,” originally recorded by the South Side’s Five Stairsteps over 50 years ago. With its lyrics (“O-o-h, child…Some day, yeah, We’ll walk in the rays of a beautiful sun. Some day. When the world is much brighter…”) the performance is intended as a balm against violence. Covered by Nina Simone, the Wondermints and Dusty Springfield, it is No. 402 on Rolling Stone’s 500 best songs, Dave Hoekstra noted in a blog on his website, davehoekstra.com
Joining more than 40 returnees, Staples is among 20+ new performers: Aerial Dance Chicago, Aloha Chicago, Melody Angel, Ballet Folklorico Sones Mexicanos, Brave Soul Movement, Breakbeat Creatives, Celeda, Chicago Tap Theatre, DanceWorks Chicago, Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas, Filament Theatre, Ron Haynes’ GAME CHANGERS, The Happiness Club, Nataya Dance Theatre, Nico Rubio’s Three Thirty Three, Poetry Foundation, Remy Bumppo Theatre Company, Svet, Teatro ZinZanni, The Baton Show Lounge, Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre, Third Coast Percussion, Too Much Molly, and Water People Theater.
“The cultural sector in Chicago is a multibillion-dollar industry,” said Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) Comm. Erin Harkey. “Navy Pier’s Chicago Live! event uplifts the diversity of talent on our stages, builds new audiences, and employs hundreds of working Chicago artists.”
Navy Pier seeks to become Chicago’s cultural hub, “which is especially important right now, as Chicago’s theater community–one of the proud pillars of our international reputation–continues to rebuild in the wake of the pandemic,” said Pritzker Foundation Trustee Penny Pritzker, a sponsor. FREE. navypier.org
MavisStaples
BalletFolklorico
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TooMuchMolly
September 23-25
OKTOBERFEST CHICAGO
1429 W. Wellington Ave. Fri 5-10 pm, Sat Noon-10 pm, Sun Noon-7 pm
Enjoy authentic German fare inside and outside St. Alphonsus Church, a landmark at Southport/Wellington/Lincoln since 1896. $10 admission. Craft beer tasting 6-9 p.m. Friday and 4-7 p.m. Sat, limited to 700 tasters. For $40, you get 15 tastings, souvenir glass, admission to Oktoberfest. Live music lineup includes Dancing Queen and Trippin Billies, Leslie Hunt Band and Stache on Fri; Fletcher Rockwell, The Gingers, Hello Weekend, 16 Candles, School of Rock, The 77 Solution, iPop and The Polkaholics on Sat. chicagoevents.com/ event/oktoberfest-chicago
September 24
LIFETIME CHICAGO HALF MARATHON AND 5K
Jackson Park, 6401 S. Stony Island Ave.
7 am start
Paced to a 16-minute mile, run on a traffic-free South DuSable Lake Shore Drive, in historic Jackson Park, site of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Wind through Hyde Park and the University of Chicago campus, taking in views of Lake Michigan, the Chicago skyline and the Museum of Science and Industry. www. chicagohalfmarathon.com/half-marathon
September 24
“OUI” RUN 5K & KIDS' RACES
Lycée Français de Chicago, 1929 W. Wilson Ave. Sun, 8-10 am
The Lycee Francais de Chicago hosts the “5K with a French flair.” Open to all, its flat, USATF-sanctioned course savors the “Old World feel” of Ravenswood and Lincoln Square. French pastries at the finish line. Kids $15, 5K $40 at OuiRun5K.org
September 28-November 9
CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL LATINO THEATER FESTIVAL
Produced by the Chicago Latino Theater Alliance (CLATA), fest offers 17 productions new to Chicago. These include four world premieres, two North American premieres, one U.S. premiere, and five Midwest premieres. Tickets for most productions at destinosfest.org
September 29-30
WEST TOWN ART WALK
Chicago Avenue,
JFK Expressway-Western Avenue
Fri 5-8 pm, Sat Noon-8 pm
View art through every door, with walking tours, galleries, home and garden retailers, and artists hosted by businesses. www. westtownchamber.org/west-town-art-walk
September 29-October 1
ANDERSONVILLE ARTS WEEKEND
4700-5600 N. Clark and adjacent streets Opening receptions Friday Sept 29, 5 pm
AIDSRun/Walk
The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce transforms the neighborhood for the 19th year into a "walkable art gallery," with multiple genres: visual, theatre, dance, music, makers, film, culinary, student art, public art. Self-Guided Art Walk on all three days and the Night of Parties, an evening of artist receptions, kicking off Friday at 5 pm. andersonville.org/events/arts-weekend
September 29-October 29, October 9
FALL FEST
Lincoln Park Zoo, 2400 N. Cannon Drive
10 am-5 pm Fri-Sun & Mon October 9
Free musical entertainment, story times, chats with zoo staff, chalk art, pumpkin patch and professional carvers, fall-themed enrichment for the animals – every weekend, something new! Ticketed attractions ($4 each, $10 for 36, $20 for 69) include Endangered
Species Car
ousel, Lionel Train
Adventure, Pirate’s
Revenge, fun slide, Harvest Maze, inflatables. www.lpzoo.org/ event/fall-fest
September 30
AIDS RUN/WALK
Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Drive 10:35 am start
5K/10K Walk/Roll/Run raises awareness and funds for AIDS Foundation Chicago, programs and services for Chicagoans living with or vulnerable to HIV and chronic conditions. Registration $30+ at www. classy.org/event/aids-run-and-walk-chicago-2023/e480632/register/new/selecttickets
September 30 & October 1
APPLE FEST
Lincoln Avenue, between Lawrence and Sunnyside
Sat & Sun 9 am-6 pm
Welcome fall with cider, apple-flavored dishes, 50 vendors of fall essentials, family fun, and live music. $5 donation suggested. www.lincolnsquare.org/apple-fest
September 29-October 1
LAKEVIEW EAST OKTOBERFEST
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church East Parking Lot, 708 W. Belmont Ave. Fri 5-10 pm, Sat 11 am-10 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm
Beer and pretzels starting in the morning: what’s the Wurst that can happen? Tapping of the Keg, raffle, bingo and nighttime live music, to benefit Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce.
chicagoevents.com/event/lakeview-eastoktoberfest/
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B e e r i n t h e W o o d s
September 30 BEER IN THE WOODS
LaBagh Woods, 5275 N. Cicero, Grove 2 2 - 6 pm
Sample 40+ craft beers and ciders while enjoying nature at this Friends of the Forest Preserves (FOTFP) fundraiser (food and non-alcoholic beverages also available). Take expert guided walk through LaBagh’s diverse landscape, connect with nature, get up close and personal with cool animals. Meet business owners who are helping neighborhoods thrive. General Admission $55, VIP Admission (allows entry at 1 p.m.) $85, Non-drinkers $15 at Eventbrite and fotfp.org/event-item/7th-annual-beerin-the-woods
OCTOBER
Oct. 6-7, 13-14, 20-22, 27-29, Nov. 4
SCREAM SCENE HAUNTED HOUSE,
4701 Oakton St., Skokie
Oct. 6-14, 20, 27 7-10 pm, Oct. 21 & 28, 7-11 pm, Oct 22 & 29, 7-9 pm, Nov. 4, 7-10 pm
Seasonal haunted house offers new characters each year, but its chainsaw maniacs and insane clown maze have been terrifying visitors since 1997. Not recommended for kids under age 10! Lights-on haunted house 3-5 p.m. Oct. 28, $3 per person; Nov. 4, navigate Scream Scene using only a glowstick. $13 admission, $20 Speed Pass at screamscene.org
October 6-8
LINCOLN PARK WINE FEST
1001 W. Wrightwood Ave.
Fri 5-10 pm, Sat 11 am-10 pm, Sun 11 am-7 pm
Jonquil Park becomes an open-air market, featuring food and wine pavilions to benefit Wrightwood Neighbors Conservation Program. Ticketed wine tastings at chicagoevents.com/event/lincoln-park-wine-fest
October 7
WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S
1410 Museum Campus Drive
9 am start
Annual event in 600 communities across U.S. is the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s research, prevention and a cure. No fee to walk, but participants urged to raise funds. chicagoevents.com/event/ walk-to-end-alzheimers/
October 7
CHICAGO BEER FESTIVAL
Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive
Sat 8-11 pm
Taste seasonal fall beers from 65+ breweries and access museum exhibits. $50 General Admission; $65 Early Admission allows 7 pm entry. www.thechicagobeerfestival.com
October 7 & 8
PULLMAN HOUSE TOUR
11141 S. Cottage Grove Ave.
11 am-5 pm
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this tour showcases homes surrounding the National Historic Park, a 19th century planned community that was influential in labor history. Enjoy food, live music and on Sunday, antique cars. Tickets $20 in advance, $27 on-site, $22 seniors at www.pullmanil.org/ event/50th-annual-pullman-house-tourweekend-save-the-date/2023-10-08
October 7 & 8
CHICAGO FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
La Bagh Woods, Grove #2, 5275 N. Cicero Ave.
Sat & Sun 10 am-6 pm
Get a taste of Chicago’s foodie culture from top gourmet food trucks with a splash of sangria or some of Chicago’s best beers; live music and games. chgofoodtruckfest.com
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October 8
BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON
Grant Park
7:30 am start
Cheer runners from all over the world as they wend their way through 26.2 miles of Chicago neighborhoods. Check website for best access via Chicago Transit Authority L stations. After-party to follow until 4 p.m. chicagomarathon.com
October 9
COLUMBUS DAY PARADE
State Street, Wacker Drive to Van Buren Street
Mon 12:30 pm
The Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans (JCCIA) invites the public to the 2023 Columbus Day parade. After 9 am mass at The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, 1244 Lexington Ave., there’s a procession at Arrigo Park, 801 S. Loomis St., and wreath laying ceremony honoring Italian American war veterans. Admission is free. www.jccia.com/columbus-day
October 11
CHI FILM FEST OPENING NIGHT BLOCK PARTY
3733 N. Southport Ave.
5-10 pm
From Waveland to Grace, enjoy food trucks, music, vendors, pop-up screen with short films, themed activities. chicagoevents.com/event/chi-film-festopening-night-block-party
October 11-15, 18-22
NIGHT OF 1,000
JACK-O’-LANTERNS
Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
6:30-10:30 pm
Monstrous vibes meet crisp fall evenings, when artist-carved pumpkins light your way through the Garden after dark. Find costumed entertainers and live carving demos along the paved path, seasonal light fare and drinks for purchase. Advance tickets: Adults $19-21, children $13-$15, under 2 free, parking $15 non-members; day-of: Adults $21-23, children $14-$16, under 2 free; parking $25 non-members at chicagobotanic.org/halloween
October 11-22
59 TH CHICAGO
INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Venues across Chicago
Chicago International Film Festival is North America’s longest running competitive film festival. Films will play on the big screen, or stream from home with a curated virtual selection. 90+ features and 60 short films from around the world. Admission $12+ www.chicagofilmfestival.com/festival
October 14-15
OPEN HOUSE CHICAGO
The Chicago Architecture Center hosts this public festival that offers behind-the-scenes access to architecturally, historically, and culturally significant sites across the city. Volunteer signups at openhousechicago. org. FREE admission.
October 14-15
NATIVE AMERICAN HARVEST POW WOW
DuPage County Fairgounds, 2015 N. Manchester Road, Wheaton Sat 11 am-10 pm, Sun 11 am-6 pm Arts, crafts, food, native flute players, children’s art and crafts, contests for men’s and women’s dancing, drumming, storytelling, ocelotl-cihuacoatl Aztec dancers. Sponsored by not-for-profit Midwest SOARRING (Save Our Ancestors’ Remains and Resources Indigenous Network Group) Foundation. Admission: Adults $15, Seniors 62+ $10; Kids 3-12 $7; under 3 free. Weekend pass online by Oct 7: Adults $12, Seniors $9. www.harvestpowwow.com
October 21
9TH ANNUAL ARTS IN THE DARK HALLOWEEN PARADE
State Street, from Lake to Van Buren
6 - 8 pm
This family-friendly evening parade showcases cultural organizations from every Chicago ward with puppets, floats and performances. FREE.
October 21
ROSEHILL CEMETERY CRYPT 5K RUN/WALK
5800 N. Ravenswood Ave.
7 pm chip-timed run;
7:15 pm, Fun Run/Walk
Fall’s most “spirited” event lets you roam sprawling 350-acre cemetery that opened in 1864, followed by post-party. Eternal souls who reside there include 10 Chicago mayors, Oscar Mayer, John G. Shedd, Cubs announcer Jack Brickhouse, Sears founder Julius Rosenwald and scores of Civil War vets. $40+ at chicagoevents.com/ event/rosehill-cemetery-crypt-5k-run-walk
October 21
OUT OF THE DARKNESS CHICAGOLAND WALK
Montrose Harbor (601 W. Montrose Ave.)
9 am start
Every dollar raised allows American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to invest in life-saving research, education, advocacy and support. Virtual option available. chicagoevents.com/event/out-of-thedarkness-chicagoland-walk
ArtsintheDarkHalloween Pa
Native American H arvest Pow Wow
October 27 -November 5
312 COMEDY FESTIVAL
City wide
First-ever comedy festival with some of the biggest names playing venues across the city. Lineup includes Chad Daniels, Jamie Lissow, Jeff Ross and others. 312comedyfestival.com
October 28
HAUNTED HALLOWEEN BALL
Congress Plaza Hotel, 520 S. Michigan Ave.
9:30 pm-2 am
Dance to the dark and dirty beats of DJs amid vampire bellmen and zombie cocktail servers dressed as French maids, with theatrical performances by costumed gogo dancers. Dress up in the outrageous, bizarre and risqué to compete for $2,000 in prizes. More than a century old, the Congress Plaza was called one of the most haunted hotels in the world by USA Today. 21+ with ID. Early Bird Admission $20 at hauntedhalloweenball.com
October 29
POLISH INDEPENDENCE 10K-5K RUN/WALK
601 W. Montrose Ave.
11:11 am start
Poland became an independent nation again on Nov. 11, 1918. A 30-year tradition in Poland, the walk has been organized annually since 2018 in Chicago by WPNA 103.1 FM, Polish-American Mix. Virtual run available. $40+ at chicagoevents.com/ event/polish-independence-10k-5k-runwalk
October 31
HAUNTED HALSTED HALLOWEEN PARADE
Halsted Street, from Belmont to Brompton
Tues 6 pm start
Rain or snow, gore-geous parade will go on, followed by costume contest, awards show and music performance ’til 10 p.m. at Halsted/Roscoe. Free to watch or participate, but sign up to compete for thousands of dollars in prizes at chicagoevents.com/ event/haunted-halsted-halloween-parade
NOVEMBER
November 3-4
FESTIVAL OF WOOD
BARREL-AGED
BEER
UIC Credit Union 1 Arena, 525 S. Racine Ave. Fri., 6-10 pm, Sat., 1-5 pm Illinois Craft Brewers Guild helps you sample hundreds of beers, ciders, meads and perries across 12 style categories from coast to coast. It’s a celebration –and an education – on the innovation that defines barrel-aged brewing. General Admission $85; ImBIBE member entry 5 pm Friday and noon Saturday at fobab.com
November 3-16
BLACK HARVEST FILM FESTIVAL
Gene Siskel Film Center, 164 N. State St. 29th annual event explores, celebrates and shares the Black, African American and African Diaspora experience, programmed by Black leaders and authentic to the experiences of its audience. https://www. siskelfilmcenter.org/blackharvest
November 3-19
CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL
Facets, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave. 40th annual event, the first Academyqualifying film fest in the world, inspires creativity and challenges the perspectives of kids and teens by opening their minds through film. CICFF is the oldest children’s film fest in the U.S. and reaches audiences diverse in age, socioeconomic background and ethnicity. Special events also at the Chicago History Museum and AMC New City 14. facets.org/cicff
rade Htnuade Hlatsde Hla l ewo e n P a r a d e www.streetwise.org 11
November 4-19
POLISH FILM FESTIVAL IN AMERICA
Various venues
35th annual event is the world’s most extensive showcase of Polish film and the largest annual Polish cultural event outside of Poland. VIP Opening Night Gala, with Polish film stars in attendance, is 8 pm Sat. Nov. 4 at AMC NewCity, 1500 N. Clybourn Ave., preceded by reception at Society for Arts, 1112 N. Milwaukee Ave., which is also venue for the closing night gala at 3 p.m. Nov. 19. Screenings at AMC New City, AMC Village Crossing, 7000 N. Carpenter in Skokie and Gallery Theatre, 1112 N. Milwaukee Ave. Tickets at pffamerica.org
November 4-5
CHICAGO HOLIDAY TOY & GAME FAIR
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 10 am-5 pm Gel Blaster, last year’s favorite toy, is back; along with Jedi sword fights, Mercy Magic, Dave & Busters Beer and Board Game Garden and the Young Inventor Challenge for those age 6-18. Adults $12, children over 3, $6 at chitag.com/2023-fair; $15 & $7 on-site.
November
5
HOT CHOCOLATE RUN
Grant Park: 301 S. Columbus Drive
7:30 am start America’s sweetest run is back, with 5K, 10K, 15K and 2-mile distances, and a post-run party that’ll make you go cocoacrazy. Finisher mug overflows with fondue, dippables – and hot chocolate! Pre-event expo, postrun party, merch. $39+ hotchocolate15k.com/ city/chicago/
November 5
SKYRISE CHICAGO
233 S. Wacker Drive 7-11 am
Climb the Willis Tower to support Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, a leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation for adults and children with the most severe, complex conditions – from traumatic brain and spinal cord injury to stroke, amputation and cancer-related impairment. The 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit enhances quality of life with treatment that is often not covered by insurance. Help out virtually by climbing 105 flights (2,149 stairs), walking or running 6,327 steps, or cycling 3.2 miles. Register at chicagoevents.com/event/skyrisechicago
November 11
THE WEST LOOP SPIRITS & WINE FEST
Plumbers Hall, 1340 W. Washington Blvd. Sat Noon-7 pm
Spirits Brand Ambassadors will discuss their process and will demonstrate the art of mixed cocktails. Wine representatives will offer the same experience as visiting their winery. Complimentary non-alcoholic Artisan Chocolate and speciality samples. Proceeds benefit A Boy and His Dream. www.gourmetexpos.com/spiritsfestival. html
Mid-November-January 2024
CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD & HOLIDAYS OF LIGHT
Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
9:30 am-4 pm daily
Find your family’s traditions among 50 trees decorated by volunteers from Chicago’s many ethnic communities, which surround a four-story, floor-to-dome Grand Tree. A Chicago mainstay since 1942. msichicago.org
November 17-December 24
CHRISTKINDLMARKET
50 W. Daley Plaza
Sun-Thu 11 am-8 pm; Fri & Sat 11 am-9 pm;
Thanksgiving & Christmas Eve 11 am-4 pm
German-style holiday market offers a safe outdoor experience for the whole family with roasted nuts, pretzels, bratwurst, beer and spiced wine, music, sparkling tree ornaments and shopping for gifts from all over the world. FREE admission. christkindlmarket.com
At Wrigleyville through December 31
3635 N. Clark St. @ Gallagher Way
Mon-Thu 3-9 pm; Fri-Sat, 11 am-10 pm; Sun, 11 am-7 pm
Thanksgiving & Christmas Eve, 11 am-4 pm, closed Christmas Day
December 26-28 11 am-9 pm,
December 31, 11 am-4 pm
At River Edge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora
Thu 11 am-7 pm; Fri-Sat, 11 am-9 pm; Sun 11 am-6 pm
Thanksgiving & Christmas Eve, 11 am-4 pm
December 18-20, 11 am-7 pm
November 18
MAGNIFICENT MILE LIGHTS FESTIVAL
Mickey and Minnie Mouse lead a parade of fabulous floats, helium balloons, marching bands, celebrities and musical performances down a Michigan Avenue filled with one million lights on its 200 trees. It’s the largest nighttime parade in the U.S. FREE. themagnificentmile.com/lightsfestival
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ChicagoHolid a yT o y & Game Fai r
November 23
THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE
State Street, Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph
Thu 8-11 am
Where grateful hearts gather to watch marching bands, massive helium balloons and floats before dinner. FREE. Or volunteer at chicagothanksgivingparade.com
November 23
LIFE TIME TURKEY TROT
2430 N. Cannon Drive
45th annual 5K & 8K and Plymouth Rock Ramble Kids’ Race returns Thanksgiving morning! Gather your flock to support the Greater Chicago Food Depository, so that no family goes hungry this holiday season. Post-race, en joy Corn Hole, Football Toss and warm apple cider. Kids’ Ramble $20, 5K $45, 8K $50 at chicagoevents.com/event/ life-time-turkey-trot
DECEMBER
December 2
SANTA HUSTLE
1410 Museum Campus Drive
9 am, 8:30 am Kids’ Dash
Dress up as Santa or in your favorite holiday gear and run 5K to benefit Cal’s Angels, a 501 (c)(3) pediatric cancer foundation with a mission of granting wishes. Celebrate af terward with holiday music, candy and cookies. Adults $60, Kids $25 at santahustle.com
December 16-17
RENEGADE CRAFT FAIR
Morgan Manufacturing, 401 N. Morgan St. Sat-Sun, 11 am-5 pm
170+ curated artists give you the chance to do good by shopping small for creative goods and handmade gifts. $12 suggested donation, 10% of which benefits The Nature Conservancy. renegadecraft.com/fair/chicago-winter
a gnifi c e n t M i e L g h t s eF s t avi l
