Chicago is known for its vibrant cultural scene and the city is buzzing with exciting events happening this weekend. From music festivals to puppet theater shows, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here are 25 things you can do in Chicago this weekend.
Tomorrow Never Knows Music Festival
If you're a music lover, don't miss the Tomorrow Never Knows Music Festival happening through Sunday. This five-day event features performances by local and national artists like Girl K, Fuerza Bruta, L'Rain, PawPaw Rod, and many more. Bundle up and brave the cold for a good show!
Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival
For a unique and enchanting experience, check out the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival. Running through January 28, this festival showcases dozens of puppetry performances and events throughout the city. Don't forget to visit the pop-up Puppet Hub at the Fine Arts Building, where you can relax, grab a bite, shop for marionette merch, and more.
Garfield Park Skate Meetup
Join the Garfield Park Skate Meetup on Thursday for a fun-filled evening of skating. This free, family-friendly event is held in partnership with the Garfield Park Advisory Council and Chicago Park District. Bring your own skates or rent them for free, and enjoy concessions and a live DJ.
An assortment of dishes at Andros Taverna. The Logan Square restaurant offers one of the better Chicago Restaurant Week deals, according to Reddit user Dani Valverde’s calculations. Credit: Facebook/Andros Taverna
Chicago Restaurant Week: First Bites Bash
Foodies, rejoice! Chicago Restaurant Week is back for its 17th edition with hundreds of participating eateries. Kick off the week at the First Bites Bash, the official opening event held at the Field Museum. Sample delicious dishes from 50 of the city's top chefs, and enjoy wine, beer, and spirits. Tickets can be purchased online and range from $115 to $150.
Diners at Big Star West Town, 551 N. Ogden Ave., can enjoy food and shopping from local vendors during Chicago Restaurant Week. Credit: Provided
Big Star West Town Restaurant Week: Mexican Night Market
Experience the flavors of Mexico at Big Star West Town's Mexican Night Market. As part of Chicago Restaurant Week, this event transforms the eatery into a vibrant market serving up fresh ceviche, oysters, tamales, elotes, churros, and more. Additionally, local vendors will be present, selling art, accessories, hot sauce, books, and wellness products. Pay a $42 cover at the door and explore the culinary wonders.
Book Reading & Signing With Madeline Pendleton
If you're a fan of TikTok sensation Madeline Pendleton, don't miss her book reading and signing event at Everybody's Coffee. She will be sharing excerpts from her new book, "I Survived Capitalism and All I Got Was This Lousy T-Shirt!" This part-memoir, part-financial survival guide is sure to provide a unique perspective. Tickets are available online for $10 (regular admission) or $35 (includes a copy of the book).
Música Poética
Immerse yourself in the music of Puerto Rican composer Carlos Carillo at the Música Poética concert. Grammy-winning Chicago-based Third Coast Percussion will perform poetry-inspired pieces using percussion, cello, and clarinet. This unique fusion of music and poetry is not to be missed. Tickets can be purchased online for $10 to $20.
Bridgeport’s Zhou B Art Center at 1029 W. 35th St. Credit: Provided
Winter Visual Arts Exhibition
Art enthusiasts should head over to the Zhou B Art Center for the Winter Visual Arts Exhibition. This exhibition, hosted by the Chicago Alliance of Visual Arts, showcases a diverse collection of artwork and runs through March 3. Immerse yourself in the creativity of local artists and experience the vibrant art scene in Chicago.
Iranian Cinema Film Screening: 'Taxi'
Film lovers can enjoy a screening of Jafar Panahi's Golden Bear-winning movie, "Taxi," at the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures. As part of their Iranian cinema film series, this event offers a unique opportunity to delve into Iranian culture through the lens of cinema. General admission tickets are available online for $7.
Plant Chicago Indoor Farmers Market
Support local businesses and enjoy fresh produce at the Plant Chicago Indoor Farmers Market. This market offers a rotating selection of small businesses, family-friendly activities, prepared food, and even a plant swap. This weekend, you'll find vendors like Bee-utiful Honey & Candles, Cedillo's Fresh Produce, Jenny B's Pottery, Tarot by Laura González, and Zeitlin's Deli.
Stan's Donuts in Wicker Park. Credit: Hannah Alani / Block Club Chicago
Stan's Donut Fest
Indulge your sweet tooth at Stan's Donut Fest, a celebration of the Chicago doughnut shop's 10th anniversary. This tasty event offers donut tastings, a live DJ, photo opportunities, and free gift cards to Stan's. Tickets are available online and range from $20 to $30.
Casa Arte Grand Opening
Humboldt Park welcomes a new community art space with the grand opening of Casa Arte. Curated by the founders of Somos Arte, this space features a coworking area, drop-in workshops, art programs, and an event space for local creatives. Support the opening by donating an amount of your choosing and be part of this exciting new venture.
Cheese 101: Guided Cheese Tasting
Cheese enthusiasts can expand their knowledge at the Cheese 101 class offered by Eataly Chicago. Learn about cheese-making styles and techniques while enjoying a guided tasting of six cheeses and three glasses of Italian wine. Tickets can be purchased online for $70.
Wine, meats, and cheese at Eataly Chicago. Credit: Provided
Guided Wine & Antipasto Tasting Tour of Italy
Embark on a culinary tour of Italy with Eataly's guided wine and antipasto tasting experience. Sample a variety of Italian wines, cheeses, and meats while learning about the ingredients and the history of the vineyards. Discover the perfect pairings and savor the flavors of Italy. Tickets can be purchased online for $70.
Jazz, Art & Whiskey
Immerse yourself in a night of live musical performances, whiskey tasting, and art at the Green Living Room. This event offers a unique combination of entertainment, allowing you to explore different artistic expressions while enjoying the ambiance. Tickets are available online for $25.
Kashmir & Sonic Currency At Reggies
Music lovers can enjoy Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd tributes by Chicago bands Kashmir and Sonic Currency at Reggies Music Joint. Get ready for a night of classic rock hits and energetic performances. Tickets can be purchased online for $12 or at the door for $15.
Barre & Brunch
Start your Sunday with a workout at Barre & Brunch, an event that combines ballet, pilates, and yoga elements. After the workout, indulge in a delicious brunch spread with friends and neighbors. This is a perfect opportunity to prioritize your well-being and enjoy a leisurely morning. Tickets are available online for $25.
You can flow through a 60-minute vinyasa session in a taproom, then follow it up with a beer. Credit: Provided
Taproom Yoga
Take part in a unique yoga experience at Midwest Coast Brewing Company with Taproom Yoga. This 60-minute vinyasa flow session is open to all levels, and after the class, you can reward yourself with a crafted beer or seltzer of your choice. Tickets are available online for $20.
Half of the Bitter Pops storefront is dedicated to its retail selection of craft beers, wine, and spirits. Credit: Jake Wittich/Block Club Chicago
Move Meditate Mingle
Join your neighbors for a workout session combining yoga, bodyweight exercises, and meditation at Bitter Pops. This event allows you to focus on your physical and mental well-being, and afterwards, you can mingle at the craft beer shop and eatery. Tickets can be purchased online for $30.
The Rock & Roll Playhouse: Fleetwood Mac & More
Bring the whole family to Thalia Hall for a concert by The Rock & Roll Playhouse. This family concert series performs hits by Fleetwood Mac and other classic-rock artists. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $15 or on the day of the show for $17.
Bagel Making Drag Queen Brunch
Experience a unique brunch event at Get in the Kitchen. Learn how to make a bagel from scratch while sipping on a mimosa and enjoying a fabulous drag show. This event combines culinary skills with entertainment, creating a memorable and fun-filled experience. Tickets can be purchased online for $69.
Some of Wild Blossom's locally-made meads and wines. Credit: Ariel Parrella-Aureli/Block Club Chicago
Sunday Brunch
Enjoy a delicious Sunday brunch at Wild Blossom Meadery and Winery. Feast on hot shrimp, grits, waffles, chicken, and more, accompanied by bottomless mimosas and live music. Treat yourself to a relaxing and indulgent morning. Tickets can be purchased online for $35.
Zero-Proof Cocktails Class
As Dry January continues, join the Zero-Proof Cocktails Class at Kit: A Bar Supply Store. Learn how to make delicious no- and low-ABV cocktails and discover new flavors and techniques along the way. Bring your own shaker and jigger or purchase them in-store. Tickets are available online for $25.
Rendezvous Arts: Christian Dillingham Jazz Quartet
Experience an afternoon of jazz music with the Christian Dillingham Jazz Quartet at Artifact Events. Enjoy Grammy-winning bassist Christian Dillingham's tunes from his new album, "Cascades," while appreciating the visual work of fiber artist Pat Kroth. Tickets can be purchased online for $30.
Comedy At The Kibbitznest
Laugh away the Sunday blues with a pop-up comedy showcase at Kibbitznest Books, Brews & Blarney. Enjoy the performances of some of Chicago's best comedians, who have graced stages on HBO, Comedy Central, and local establishments. This event is a perfect way to end the weekend on a high note. Tickets can be purchased online for $10.
With such a wide array of events happening this weekend, there's no shortage of things to do in Chicago. Whether you're interested in music, art, food, or wellness, the city has something to offer for everyone. Don't miss out on these incredible opportunities and make the most of your weekend in the Windy City.
