CHICAGO BULLS

March 16, 18, 19 | Time varies
United Center | 1901 W. Madison Street
The Chicago Bulls will face off against the Memphis Grizzlies (16), Toronto Raptors (18), Cleveland Cavaliers (19). 
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

BRIDAL MARKET CHICAGO

March 15-17 | 
The Mart | 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza
National Bridal Market Chicago is the leading tradeshow for your Bridal & Special Occasion needs, offering the latest styles from the Industry’s top Designers. Two times per year, the National Bridal Market Chicago convenes in the iconic Merchandise Mart. The show features a modern open-booth format with a layout that spans the entire 7th Floor – nearly two square city blocks!.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE DE CHICAGO FESTIVAL DE LA FRANCOPHONIE

February 27-March 31 | Time Varies
University Club of Chicago | 76 East Monroe Street
The a flagship celebration of francophone creativity, ideas, and performance that showcases the relevance of French-speaking cultures worldwide will hold all of March. This week there will be a wine tasting(18), Sip & Sculpt workshop (19) and Dance Party Konpa Sware (20). AF Chicago is designed for Francophones, Francophiles, and anyone curious about the arts, the season celebrates diversity and excellence across dance, theater, music, visual art, film, gastronomy, and literature. Featuring artists and thinkers with roots from Francophone lands around the world, our program reflects the vibrancy of the francophone cultural landscape, blending tradition with contemporary innovation.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THIS WEEK AT THE SISKEL

March 16-20 |
The Siskel Film Center | 164 N. State Street
In addition to regular film programming the Siskel will host the Chicago European Film Festival: Cyprus. Thirteen films from Cyprus in Three days only. The Chicago European Union Film Festival (CEUFF) will shine a Spotlight on Cyprus, the current holder of the EU presidency. There is also the weekly African Cinema from Independence to Now Lecture Series. Coming soon Conversations at The Edge.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

RAVINIA 2026 TICKETS

March 17 | 7-11pm
Ravinia Park | 2301 S Martin Luther King Drive
Ravinia’s 2026 Summer Lineup Is Here! Now its time to plan your summer visits and get tickets. Members get first priority to tickets starting Tuesday. With the highly anticipated opening of the new Hunter Pavilion, 50+ artist debuts, and 90+ concerts, this summer at Ravinia is shaping up to be one of our most exciting seasons yet! .
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

SAVOR LINCOLN PARK

March 18 | 6pm – 9pm
Theater on the Lake | 2401 N. DuSable Lake Shore
Savor Lincoln Park returns as Chicago’s premier indoor neighborhood food festival, bringing together more than 25 of the neighborhood’s top restaurants under one roof for an unforgettable evening of food and drink. With one ticket, guests can sample a wide variety of bites and beverages, discover new favorites, and enjoy Lincoln Park’s delicious dining scene.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

FRANK X WALKER, KELLY NORMAN ELLIS, NIKKY FINNEY, PARNESHIA JONES

March 19 | 6pm-
Poetry Foundation
Frank X Walker coined the term Affrilachian to describe the third space of Blackness in Appalachia and “to create a sense of place that had not existed for us.” Join us to celebrate the new folio in the January/February issue of Poetry magazine, “Frank X Walker: Kinfolk,” which features a sampling of X’s poems from the last three decades and essays highlighting his influence and community. X’s fellow readers hail from the Affrilachian Poets Collective, including visiting poet Nikky Finney and Chicago poets Kelly Norman Ellis and Parneshia Jones. Witness an artistic community “beholden to each other: bonded to place and people,” as Kelly Norman Lewis describes X’s workshops and gatherings.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

AMERICAN AIRLINES GLOBAL WINE DINNER SERIES: SOUTH AFRICA RISING

March 18| 6:30pm
City Winery | 1200 W Randolph St.
City Winery & American Airlines present American Airlines Global Wine Dinner Series: South Africa Rising. Discover South Africa’s rising wines in a five-course dinner that includes: Frikadellen, Wild Grilled Mushrooms, Beet Root Salad, Grilled Lamb Roast, Malva Pudding each with a special wine pairing.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

50TH ANNIVERSARY BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL 

March 18 & 19 | 7pm
The Music Box Chicago | 3733 N Southport Avenue
Join us for the 50th anniversary of the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour in Chicago to celebrate the world’s best mountain films! Experience an exhilarating lineup of films showcasing outdoor adventures, mountain culture, and environmental stories.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

GLOW WILD A LANTERN FESTIVAL OF HOPE

March 19-May 10 | Thursday – Sunday
Brookfield Zoo | 1615 S. Clark Street
The Glow Wild lantern festival transforms the night into a glowing celebration of art, culture, and conservation. Wander illuminated pathways surrounded by handcrafted lanterns inspired by wildlife global traditions and mythical worlds. This breathtaking outdoor experience is perfect for families couples and anyone who loves immersive nighttime events. Glow Wild is a special after-hours event and requires a separate event ticket for admission.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

AN OPERA NIGHT WITH RICCARDO MUTI

March 19-21 | 7:30pm
Symphony Center | 220 S. Michigan Avenue
Verdi will be part of mix when Muti returns, in his Music Emeritus for Life capacity, to lead the CSO and Chorus in An Opera Night with Riccardo Muti. Along with six Verdi selections, the program will feature works by Catalani, Giordano and Puccini, including the complete Act IV of Puccini’s Manon Lescaut. Guest vocalists will be tenor Francesco Meli and soprano Lidia Fridman, in her CSO debut.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THE COSTUME COUNCIL PRESENTS | A FASCINATING EVENING WITH KOKIN

March 19| 6pm-9pm
The Fortnightly of Chicago | 120 E. Bellevue Place
The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum invites you to join them for a stylish and story-filled evening celebrating internationally acclaimed hat designer Kokin, whose designs have crowned some of the most iconic moments in Clueless, Pretty Woman , Sex and the City, Dr. T & the Women, and more.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CIVIC NIGHT AT LYRIC: MADAMA BUTTERFLY

March 19 | 7:30pm
Lyric Opera House | 20 N. Wacker Drive
The Women’s Board of Lyric Opera of Chicago warmly invites you to their 3rd Annual Civic Night at Lyric, an exclusive evening to celebrate the art of opera alongside our esteemed corporate and community partners. Join us for a stunning performance of Puccini’s timeless Madama Butterfly.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO HUMANITIES SPRING 2026 FESTIVAL TICKETS ON SALE

March 17 | 7:30pm
Lyric Opera House | 20 N. Wacker Drive
Chicago Humanities full lineup for its Spring Festival 2026 is out! With conversations ranging from the U.S. Constitution, social justice, healthcare, literature, food, poetry, architecture, and much more. This year’s Spring Festival spans March through June, and hinges on three major festival dates throughout Chicago, in addition to standalone presentations, all reflecting Chicago Humanities’ deep commitment to civic and civil dialogue, creative expression, and community-rooted programming. Member tickets go on sale March 17 and General audience tickets on sale March 19.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MAHJONG AT THE GWEN

March 19 | 7pm-9pm
The Gwen Chicago | 521 North Rush Street
Presented by SoBAMFun, enjoy an evening of cocktails, great company, and American Mahjong! Beginners can join a lesson, while more experienced players can drop in for open play and connect with other players. Come solo or with friends — it’s all about having a great night out, whether you’re learning or playing.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

LYP ON TAP

March 18 | 7:30pm
Chicago Symphony Orchestra Hall | 220 S. Michigan Avenue
In partnership with CSO’s Overture Council, we are pleased to invite you to attend the annual Member Salon! Set in the elegant Grainger Ballroom at Symphony Center (220 S. Michigan Ave.), the recital is a great opportunity to discover the hidden musical skills of these organizations’ members! Grab a friend (or two) and RSVP to attend.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

*Cover image credit Unsplash

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JAPANESE & GLOBAL WHISKY RECEPTION

February 27 | 6pm
Miru Restaurant | 201 E. Ontario Street
You’re invited to a curated evening featuring one of Chicago’s largest selections of Japanese whisky. Explore an expansive lineup from Japan and beyond at your own pace, building a personalized tasting with eight ½-ounce pours of your choice.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

HANDS-ON: EATALY & THE SECOND CITY

February 27 | 6:30pm-9pm
Eataly Chicago | 43 E. Ohio Street
Let’s cook and connect at Eat, Laugh, Love! Make pizza with our La Scuola Chef and bring the laughs with a Second City instructor!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

NACERA BELAZA, LA NUÉE

February 27-March 1 | 7:30pm; 7:30pm; 2pm
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago(MCA Chicago) | 220 E Chicago Avenue
n La Nuée, Algerian-born, Paris-based choreographer Nacera Belaza shares a meditation on collective ritual, communion, and ecstatic repetition. Creating a ritual in which circularity, stamina, and shared presence form the basis of community.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

SNOWBALL 2026: FLY ME TO THE MOON

February 28 | 6pm-
Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel | 1 West Upper Wacker Drive
The Junior Council presents Snowball 2026, featuring live music, a robust silent auction, a premium open bar, and tastings from your favorite Chicago restaurants. Snowball supports the Pediatric & Adolescent HIV/AIDS Program at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. 21+ event.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

SYLEENA JOHNSON

February 27 & 28 | 7:30pm; 6pm; 9:30pm
City Winery Chicago | 1200 W. Randolph Street
Grammy-nominated recording artist Syleena Johnson returns home to Chicago for three shows for a powerful night of soul, storytelling, and timeless R&B.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENING OF HOPE GALA 2026

February 28 | 6:30pm-
Ritz Carlton Chicago | 220 E Chicago Avenue
Join Us for the Hope Ignites Chicago 46th Annual Evening of Hope Gala.
A glamorous and lively evening dedicated to supporting our Scholars and Collegians. The evening will include live music, dancing, casino games, auction items, and more!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

VIR DAS: HEY STRANGER

February 27| 7pm-
Chicago Theatre | 175 N. State Street
Vir Das: Hey Stranger – A Tour of the World will come to The Chicago.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EDGEWATER INDOOR MARKET

February 28 | 10am-2pm
Broadway Armory | 5917 N. Broadway Street
Edgewater Indoor Market is BACK and BIGGER than ever in Winter 2026! The indoor market will feature 50+ food vendors, artists, and artisans selling prepared foods, baked goods, winter produce, warm drinks, local treats, art, gifts, and more!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO FIRE FC VS CF MONTREAL

February 28 | 1:30pm
Soldier Field | 1410 Special Olympics Drive
Chicago Fire kick off the home season going head to head with CF Montréal.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO BEER FESTIVAL

February 28 | 7-11pm
Field Museum | 1400 South Lake Shore Drive
The Chicago Beer Festival will feature over 65 breweries, sampling their fall seasonal beers, with attendees having access to a select number of the museum’s exhibits open to attendees.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MOVEMENT CLIMBING FREE DAY

February 28
Movement Gyms (Lincoln Park, Wrigleyville)
Join us for a Free Climbing Day at ALL Movement gyms! Enjoy free access to climbing, yoga, fitness classes, and rental gear, thanks to our friends at The North Face.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MAGGIE O’FARRELL’S HAMNET

February 10–March 8| 7:30pm
Chicago Shakespeare Theater  | 800 E. Grand Avenue
A natural healer meets the Latin tutor, William Shakespeare. Drawn together by powerful but hidden impulses, they create a life together and make a family.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MIGUEL:CAOS TOUR

February 28
Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom |
Miguel: Caos Tour w/ Jean Dawson.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

WWE ELIMINATION CHAMBER

February 28 | 5:30pm
United Center | 1901 W. Madison Street
WWE, in partnership with Choose Chicago, is making its return to the United Center in Chicago, the largest indoor arena in the United States, for Elimination Chamber. This marks the first WWE Premium Live Event to be held at the United Center in more than three decades.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

BLACK MAKERS MARKET

February 28 | 7pm
Navy Pier |
Explore unique vendors spotlighting makers from neighborhoods across the city—from South Shore to Rogers Park. Support Black entrepreneurs while shopping handcrafted fashion, accessories, jewelry, and more, all coming together in one place rooted in creativity, culture, and community.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

RENE VACA

February 28 | 7pm
The Chicago Theatre | 175 N.State Street
Standup NBC winner Rene Vaca will bring his tour to Chicago with a second show added.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

FRIDA KAHLO: A WOMAN WHO DARED

February 28 | 7:30pm
Epiphany Center For The Arts | 201 S Ashland Avenue
“Frida Kahlo ~ A Woman Who Dared” is a powerful multimedia concert by Linda Marie Smith that explores the passionate and turbulent life of the iconic Mexican painter. Through original music, vivid narration, and striking video projections of Frida’s paintings and photographs, Smith and her ensemble guide audiences through Kahlo’s coming of age, tempestuous relationships, physical struggles, and enduring courage.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE

February 28-March 1 | 7pm
The Salt Shed
Rainbow Kitten Surprise: bones North American Tour. The band has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1 per ticket goes to the Rainbow Kitten Surprise Fund, dedicated to building a more just and compassionate world by uplifting marginalized communities, expanding access to vital resources, and delivering critical support in times of need.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHINATOWN LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

March 1 | 1pm
Chicago Chinatown
Year of the (Fire) Horse. The parade will feature traditional dragon and lion dancing teams, colorful floats, marching bands and marching groups.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

27TH CHICAGO IRISH FILM FESTIVAL CLOSING FILM

March 1 | 3:30pm
AMC NewCity
The 27th Chicago Irish Film Festival closing film is “Saipan.” More than a football story, it captures a defining rupture in Irish sporting culture, where conviction, pride, and authority collide under the weight of expectation.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

POLAR PLUNGE

March 1 | 7pm
North Avenue Beach
Don’t miss this iconic Chicago winter event! Polar Plunge® Chicago for Special Olympics Illinois presented by Special Children’s Charities raises funds to support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Chicago!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

*Cover image credit Unsplash

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SIPS & SWEETS FOR SIGHT

February 5 | 5:30pm-9pm
Carnivale | 201 E. Ontario Street
Indulge in Sweets, Sips, and a whole lot of fun! Vision is the gateway to learning, and children with visual disabilities must learn to live in a world built for the sighted by using other senses. The Chicago Lighthouse’s Children’s & Youth Programs help infants, toddlers, school children and young adults reach developmental, social and educational milestones through specialized, individualized, instruction. Join us to support these services with an early evening of delicious tapas-style appetizers, craft cocktails and decadent sweets from Chicago’s top bakeries and confectioneries. All proceeds support The Chicago Lighthouse’s Children’s & Youth Programs..
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THE SELEBRATION BENEFIT & ARC AWARD NIGHT

February 6 | 5pm-
The Arts Club Of Chicago | 201 E. Ontario Street
The Selebration is a night to celebrate artistic collaboration—the engine that powers everything we do at The Seldoms! Join us as we honor outstanding artist and designer Bob Faust with our inaugural ARC Award for Achievement in Remarkable Collaboration. And catch a sneak peek of Floe, performed by the ensemble.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
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WINDY CITY OPEN 2026

February 5-11 | Time Varies
University Club of Chicago | 76 East Monroe Street
Windy City Open 2026 Presented by the Walter Family.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THE CHICAGO AUSTRIAN BALL

February 6 | 6pm-
The Drake Hotel Chicago | 140 E Walton Place
The Chicago Austrian Cultural Foundation requests the pleasure of your company at the 2026 Chicago Austrian Ball, where you can Experience Viennese Elegance.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

FIRST LOOK FOR CHARITY

February 6 | 7-11pm
McCormick Place | 2301 S Martin Luther King Drive
First Look for Charity stands as one of Chicago’s greatest one-day fundraisers, regularly generating more than $2 million for 18 area nonprofits. Guests are treated to champagne, wine, soft drinks, elegant hors d’oeurves, and desserts all while being the first to explore the annual edition of the show. Black Tie Mandatory.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

DAY FOR YOKO ONO: MUSIC OF THE MIND EXHIBITION

February 7 | 12pm – 6pm
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago | 220 E Chicago Avenue
Day for Yoko Ono is part one of two days held in celebration of the close of Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind at the MCA. In this fulsome day, see a rare performance of Ono’s influential Cut Piece (1967), a participatory work that invites the audience to slowly cut away the clothing of the performer, restaged live by artist Anna Martine Whitehead. Later, she is joined onstage by DJ Lady D (Darlene Jackson), Aram Han Sifuentes, and Hannah Higgins to discuss Ono’s influence on art, performance, and music. The day is capped with a screening of Fluxfilm Anthology, a set of more than 30 short films by Ono and her contemporaries, introduced by scholar Magdalena Holdar.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ICE CREAM FOR BREAKFAST

February 7 | 9am-
Jeni’s Chicagoland ice-cream scoop shop
Jeni’s marks the return of Ice Cream for Breakfast Day, the cult-favorite holiday that encourages guests to show up in pajamas, grab a spoon, and start the day sweet. Scoop shops across Chicago will open early. The debut of a newly reimagined House Coffee flavor, Special breakfast-inspired menu pairings to guide the ultimate morning scoop, The return of Maple Soaked Pancakes, a nostalgic breakfast classic made with real Vermont maple syrup and salted buttercream PLUS in-shop surprises, including kids’ activity sheets, stickers, and festive extras
A chance to win free ice cream and coffee for a year.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

IRELAND NETWORK 2026 ANNUAL BALL

February 7 | 7PM
The Drake Hotel Chicago | 140 E Walton Place
Join Ireland Network Chicago’s Ball for a night of Irish music, dance, food, and celebration. Raise a glass to our heritage and honor our IN Spirit awardee at our 22nd annual event.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

WEST TOWN FIRST FRIDAY

February 7 |
West Town Chicago
Explore West Town on the first Friday of every month, when our neighborhood galleries and arts- based businesses stay open until 8
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MARIANO’S LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

February 7 | 12-3pm
Mariano’s South Loop | 1615 S. Clark Street
Mariano’s invites the community to a vibrant celebration of the Lunar New Year. The event will feature an exciting assortment of samples and surprises from a variety of local vendors including Jenny Yang and Phoenix Bean Tofu, Ying’s Kitchen, Himalayan Momo, This Little Goat, Yishi Foods, Tastelli, and more. A special lion dance performance by the Chicago Chinese Cultural Center is scheduled.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

October 16-19 | 6:30-10:30PM
Symphony Center |
This weekend, lineup of events hosted by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra including: Klaus Mäkelä leads Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique, signature Fall in Love with Music event, Notes for Peace and SCP Piano with Yunchan Lim.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

LYRIC OPERA OF CHICAGO PRESENTS COSI FAN TUTTE

February 7 | 7:30pm
Lyric Opera House |
Conducted by Enrique Mazzola and featuring a fresh ensemble of star artists alongside Grammy honorees Ana María Martínez and Rod Gilfry, Così sets off vocal pyrotechnics that bubble and burst with athleticism. Two officers, convinced all women are fickle in love, hatch a plan to switch places and woo each other’s fiancées in disguise — but the women know exactly what they’re up to from the start. Sung in Italian with projected English titles. 3 hours and 30 minutes, including 1 intermission.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

2026 CHICAGO AUTO SHOW

February 7-16
McCormick Place|
The 2026 Chicago Auto Show will feature new vehicle debuts, indoor/outdoor test tracks (including Chicago Drives Electric), and interactive exhibits like Camp Jeep and Chi-Town Alley and more.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

HANNAH BERNER: NONE OF MY BUSINESS TOUR

February 7 | 7pm
The Chicago Theatre
Hannah Berner will bring the None of My Business Tour to Chicago.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

*Cover image credit Unsplash

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CHICAGO 2026 JAMES BEARD SEMIFINALISTS:

Outstanding Restaurateur

Frank Callero, Kara Callero, Joe Flamm, and Steven Zaleski, Day Off Group (Rose Mary, il Carciofo, and BLVD Steakhouse), Chicago, IL

Outstanding Chef

Diana Davila, Mi Tocaya Antojeria, Chicago, IL
Zachary Engel, Galit, Chicago, IL

Outstanding Restaurant presented by Acqua Panna® Natural Spring Water

EL Ideas, Chicago, IL
Kasama, Chicago, IL

Emerging Chef presented by S.Pellegrino® Sparkling Natural Mineral Water

Nicolai Mlodinow, Class Act, Chicago, IL
Bailey Sullivan, Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio, Chicago, IL

Best New Restaurant

Nadu, Chicago, IL
Nic & Junior’s, Chicago, IL

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker

Courtney Kenyon-Snider, Obélix, Chicago, IL

Outstanding Hospitality

Daisies, Chicago, IL

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program

Brasero, Chicago, IL

Outstanding Bar

Hopleaf Bar, Chicago, IL

Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service

Christopher Marty, Best Intentions, Chicago, IL

Best Chef: Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH)

Thai Dang, HaiSous, Chicago, IL
Norman Fenton, Cariño, Chicago, IL
Danny Espinoza and Jhoana Ruiz, Santa Masa Tamaleria, Chicago, IL
Mari Katsumura and Adam Sindler, SHŌ, Chicago, IL
Nick Kleutsch and James Sanders, Sanders BBQ Supply Co., Chicago, IL
Rishi Kumar and Zubair Mohajir, Mirra, Chicago, IL
Ben Lustbader and Sarah Mispagel, Loaf Lounge, Chicago, IL
Jacob Potashnick, Feld, Chicago, IL

The full list of the 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalists is below:

Outstanding Restaurateur
Elizabeth Blau, Blau + Associates (Buddy V’s and Honeysalt), Las Vegas, NV
Stuart Brioza and Nicole Krasinski, Atomic Workshop (The Anchovy Bar, The Progress, and State Bird Provisions), San Francisco, CA
Mike Brown, Bob Gerken, and James Winberg, Travail Collective (Travail Kitchen & Amusements, ie by Travail, and Dream Creamery), Robbinsdale, MN

Frank Callero, Kara Callero, Joe Flamm, and Steven Zaleski, Day Off Group (Rose Mary, il Carciofo, and BLVD Steakhouse), Chicago, IL

Rachel Cope, 84 Hospitality (Elisabetta, Gorō Ramen, and Burger Punk), Oklahoma City, OK

Scott Drewno and Danny Lee, Fried Rice Collective (Anju, Chiko, and I Egg You), Washington, D.C.

Brett Evje and Michael Ochsner, PLONK Bozeman, J.W. Heist Steakhouse, and PLONK Missoula, Missoula, Bozeman, MT

Holly Fox and Adam Weisblatt, Last Word Hospitality (Found Oyster, Rasarumah, and The Copper Room), Los Angeles, CA

Srijith Gopinathan and Ayesha Thapar, Ettan, Copra, and Eylan, Palo Alto, San Francisco, Los Altos, and Menlo Park, CA

Meherwan Irani and Molly Irani, Chai Pani Restaurant Group (Chai Pani and Botiwalla), Asheville, NC

Simon Kim, Gracious Hospitality (COTE, Undercote, and COQODAQ), New York, NY

Tommy Lee, Uncle, Hop Alley, and Molino Chido, Denver, CO

Donald Link and Stephen Stryjewski, Link Restaurant Group (Pêche Seafood Grill, Herbsaint, Cochon, and others), New Orleans, LA

Tom Main, Freeland’s and Tinker Street, Indianapolis, IN

Leslie McCrorey Wells, Pizzeria Verità, Trattoria Delia, Sotto Enoteca, and others, Burlington, VT

Peter Merriman, Merriman’s, Monkeypod, and others, O’ahu, Maui, and Big Island, HI

Hugo Ortega and Tracy Vaught, H-Town Restaurant Group (Hugo’s, Xochi, Urbe, and others), Houston, TX

Dana Street, Fore Street, Scales, Standard Baking Co., and others, Portland, ME

Greg Vernick, Vernick Philadelphia (Vernick Food & Drink, Vernick Fish, and Vernick Coffee Bar), Philadelphia, PA

Jennifer Vitagliano and Nicole Vitagliano, Elizabeth Street Hospitality (The Musket Room, Raf’s, and Cafe Zaffri), New York, NY

Outstanding Chef
Ann Ahmed, Khâluna, Minneapolis, MN

Charleen Badman, FnB, Scottsdale, AZ

Gilberto Cetina, Holbox, Los Angeles, CA

Diana Davila, Mi Tocaya Antojeria, Chicago, IL

Zachary Engel, Galit, Chicago, IL

Manabu Horiuchi, Katami, Houston, TX

David Kirkland and Ernest Servantes, Burnt Bean Co., Seguin, TX

Gabriel Kreuther, Gabriel Kreuther, New York, NY

Joseph Lenn, J.C. Holdway, Knoxville, TN

Rob McDaniel, Bayonet, Birmingham, AL

Niki Nakayama, n/naka, Los Angeles, CA

Dean Neff, Seabird, Wilmington, NC

Josh Niernberg, Bin 707 Foodbar, Grand Junction, CO

Kwame Onwuachi, Tatiana, New York, NY

Peter Pastan, 2 Amy’s, Washington, D.C.

Missy Robbins, Lilia, Brooklyn, NY

Alex Roberts, Alma, Minneapolis, MN

David Standridge, The Shipwright’s Daughter, Mystic, CT

Michael Tusk, Quince, San Francisco, CA

Aaron Verzosa, Archipelago, Seattle, WA

Outstanding Restaurant presented by Acqua Panna® Natural Spring Water
Antico Nuovo, Los Angeles, CA

Bar La Grassa, Minneapolis, MN

Blackbird Kitchen, Bozeman, MT

The Catbird Seat, Nashville, TN

Centrolina, Washington, D.C.

Chubby Fish, Charleston, SC

EL Ideas, Chicago, IL

FarmBar, Tulsa, OK

Foreign Cinema, San Francisco, CA

The Four Horsemen, Brooklyn, NY

Kalaya, Philadelphia, PA

Kasama, Chicago, IL

Le Pigeon, Portland, OR

Mixtli, San Antonio, TX

Nonesuch, Oklahoma City, OK

O Ya, Boston, MA

Oberlin, Providence, RI

Via Carota, New York, NY

Vianda, San Juan, PR

Vicia, St. Louis, MO

Emerging Chef presented by S.Pellegrino® Sparkling Natural Mineral Water
Hector Garate, Palmira Barbecue, Charleston, SC

Anthony Jones, Marcus DC, Washington, D.C.

Steve Joo, Joodooboo, Oakland, CA

Fátima Juárez, Komal, Los Angeles, CA

E.J. Lagasse, Emeril’s, New Orleans, LA

Max Lappé and Jacques Varon, Baso, Houston, TX

Sunny Lee, Sunn’s, New York, NY

Kyle Lussier, The Pines, Grand Rapids, MN

Nicolai Mlodinow, Class Act, Chicago, IL

Ellie Parker, Main Street Provisions, Las Vegas, NV

Rasheeda Purdie, Ramen by Rā, New York, NY

Frankie Ramirez, Amá, Philadelphia, PA

José Olmedo Carles Rojas, Si! Mon, Venice, CA

Vanessa Rose, Mother’s, Milwaukee, WI

Ahmed Suliman, Cafe Suliman, Seattle, WA

Bailey Sullivan, Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio, Chicago, IL

Pao Thampitak, Gaaeng Supper Club, Boston, MA

Adrian Torres, Maximo, West University Place, TX

Bao Tran, Giovedi, Honolulu, HI

Jasmine Watson, Audette, Newport, RI

Best New Restaurant
1033 Omakase, Milwaukee, WI

Agnes and Sherman, Houston, TX

Anacacho Coffee & Cantina, San Antonio, TX

Anjin, Kansas City, MO

Bong, New York, NY

Café Monette, St. Albans, VT

Claudine, Providence, RI

Echelon Kitchen & Bar, Ann Arbor, MI

Emmett, Philadelphia, PA

Evviva, New Orleans, LA

Far-Out, Dallas, TX

The Happy Crane, San Francisco, CA

Indibar, Scottsdale, AZ

Junah, Salt Lake City, UT

Kabawa, New York, NY

Ki, Los Angeles, CA

Kizaki, Denver, CO

Lei, New York, NY

Little Beast Ballard, Seattle, WA

Maison Bar à Vins, Washington, DC

Merci, Charleston, SC

Nadu, Chicago, IL

Nic & Junior’s, Chicago, IL

Peregrine, Raleigh, NC

Robin, St. Louis, MO

ROLi, New Haven, CT

RVR, Venice, CA

Saint Claire, New Orleans, LA

Tamba, Las Vegas, NV

The Wayland Mill, Seattle, WA

Outstanding Bakery
Bánh by Lauren, New York, NY

Born & Bread Bakehouse, Lakeland, FL

The Burque Bakehouse, Albuquerque, NM

Bywater Bakery, New Orleans, LA

Café Dear Leon, Baltimore, MD

Cultured, Sister Bay, WI

Dan The Baker, Columbus, OH

DeLuxe Cakes and Pastries, Iowa City, IA

Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop, Anchorage, AK

Gusto Bread, Long Beach, CA

Librae, New York, NY

The Local General Store, Honolulu, HI

Mercado Sin Nombre, Austin, TX

Niedlov’s Bakery Cafe, Chattanooga, TN

Night Moves Bread, South Portland, ME

Poulette Bakeshop, Parker, CO

Starship Bagel, Dallas, TX

Super Secret Ice Cream, Bethlehem, NH

Weltons Tiny Bakeshop, Charleston, SC

Wild Crumb, Bozeman, MT

Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker
Renata Ameni, Birdee, Brooklyn, NY

Neale Asato, Asato Family Shop, Honolulu, HI

Susan Bae, Moon Rabbit, Washington, D.C.

Youssef Boudarine, J’adore Pastry, Indianapolis, IN

Tavel Bristol-Joseph, Nicosi, San Antonio, TX

Monique Feybesse and Paul Feybesse, Tarts de Feybesse, Oakland, CA

Monica Glass, Verveine Cafe & Bakery, Cambridge, MA

Maggie Huff, Lucia, Dallas, TX

Courtney Kenyon-Snider, Obélix, Chicago, IL

Helen Jo Leach, The Town Company, Kansas City, MO

Eunji Lee, Lysée, New York, NY

Justine MacNeil, Fiore, Philadelphia, PA

Claudia Martinez, Bar ANA, Atlanta, GA

Kimberly Mcintosh, MILKFISH Bakeshop, Las Vegas, NV

Lucia Merino, Lucia Patisserie, San Juan, PR

Oscar Ortega, Atelier Ortega, Jackson Hole, WY

Whitney Stancil, Cuvée at Chatham Inn, Chatham, MA

Emily Thompson, The Wolf’s Tailor, Denver, CO

Christina Wood, Temple Pastries, Seattle, WA

Hannah Ziskin, Quarter Sheets, Los Angeles, CA

Outstanding Hospitality
Ammatoli, Long Beach, CA

Ansots Basque Chorizos & Catering, Boise, ID

Aria, Atlanta, GA

Barley Swine, Austin, TX

Bottega, Birmingham, AL

Bresca, Washington, D.C.

Cosme, New York, NY

Daisies, Chicago, IL

House of Prime Rib, San Francisco, CA

Joan’s in the Park, St. Paul, MN

Louie, Clayton, MO

Mallorca, Cleveland, OH

Ostra, Boston, MA

Providence, Los Angeles, CA

Red Hook Tavern, Brooklyn, NY

Restaurant Olivia, Denver, CO

Sofreh, Brooklyn, NY

State Road, Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Tailor, Nashville, TN

Tutka Bay Lodge, Homer, AK

Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program
Ada’s Wine Bar, Las Vegas, NV

Amara at Paraiso, Miami, FL

Apteka, Pittsburgh, PA

Brasero, Chicago, IL

Caruso’s, Montecito, CA

Chambers, New York, NY

Coquine, Portland, OR

F.L.X. Table, Geneva, NY

Field & Main, Marshall, VA

Kalimotxo, Austin, TX

Kato, Los Angeles, CA

Le Bouillon, Omaha, NE

Le Caviste, Seattle, WA

One Legged Magpie, Red Lodge, MT

The Port of Call, Mystic, CT

The Progress, San Francisco, CA

Stems and Skins, Charleston, SC

Sway Brewing & Blending, Baileys Harbor, WI

Taconeta, El Paso, TX

Talulla, Cambridge, MA

Outstanding Bar
Aldo Sohm Wine Bar, New York, NY

Ayahuasca Cantina, Dallas, TX

Bow & Arrow Brewing Co., Albuquerque, NM

Double Chicken Please, New York, NY

Drastic Measures, Shawnee, KS

Graft Wine Shop & Wine Bar, Charleston, SC

Highball, Phoenix, AZ

Hopleaf Bar, Chicago, IL

Lady Jane, Denver, CO

Lovers Bar at Friday Saturday Sunday, Philadelphia, PA

The Mothership, Milwaukee, WI

Onyx Coffee Lab, Rogers, AR

Post Office Place, Salt Lake City, UT

Realm of the 52 Remedies, San Diego, CA

Roquette, Seattle, WA

Scotch Lodge, Portland, OR

Smuggler’s Cove, San Francisco, CA

Spoke Wine Bar, Somerville, MA

Watch Hill Proper, Prospect, KY

Wild Child Wines, Lafayette, LA

Best New Bar
Almanac, Philadelphia, PA

Bar Bucce, Miami, FL

Bar Chenin, Detroit, MI

Bar Please!, Boise, ID

Bar Snack, New York, NY

Clemente Bar, New York, NY

The Contrary, Des Moines, IA

Daisy, Los Angeles, CA

Daydream Rum Bar, Albuquerque, NM

The Elbow Room, Vancouver, WA

Later Bye, Oklahoma City, OK

Lee’s, Houston, TX

Loma, Providence, RI

Lucky Star, Atlanta, GA

Madeira Park, Atlanta, GA

Nocturno, Las Vegas, NV

Pink Flamingo, Baltimore, MD

Public Parking, Madison, WI

The Valley Club, San Francisco, CA

Van Atta, Telluride, CO

Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service
Zac Adcox, Kid Sister, Phoenix, AZ

Nader Asgari-Tari, Zurito, Boston, MA

Bank Atcharawan, Jipata, Las Vegas, NV

Jack Benchakul, Endorffeine, Los Angeles, CA

Lee Campbell, Borgo, New York, NY

Andrea Ciavardini-Royko, Jianna, Greenville, SC

Paul Einbund, The Morris, San Francisco, CA

Ryan Fletter, Barolo Grill, Denver, CO

Braithe Gill, Brennan’s, New Orleans, LA

Joel Gunderson, Heavenly Creatures, Portland, OR

Brent Kroll, Maxwell Park, Washington, D.C.

Jared May, Vida, Indianapolis, IN

Alyssa Mikiko DiPasquale, The Koji Club, Boston, MA

Celia Pellegrini, Este, Austin, TX

Taurean Philpott, Avize, Atlanta, GA

Amy Racine, La Marchande, New York, NY

June Rodil, March, Houston, TX

Sara Sergent, Alpine Distilling Social Aid & Pleasure Club, Park City, UT

Derek Stevenson, Auro, Calistoga, CA

Dan Suro-Cipolloni and David Suro-Piñera, Tequilas and La Jefa, Philadelphia, PA

Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service
Anu Apte, Rob Roy, Seattle, WA

Doug Atwell, Southpaw, Baltimore, MD

Eric Bennett, Continental Drift, Birmingham, AL

Hastings Cameron, Imaginary Factory, Madison, WI

Diana Condori, Fern Bar, Kansas City, MO

Kevin Diedrich, Pacific Cocktail Haven, San Francisco, CA

Nicky Fas, Pantera, Caguas, PR

Jesse Hedberg, Club Frills, Providence, RI

McLain Hedges and Mary Allison Wright, Yacht Club, Denver, CO

Christine Kim, Service Bar, Washington, D.C.

Jason Lee, Darling, Los Angeles, CA

Miles Macquarrie, Kimball House, Atlanta, GA

Christopher Marty, Best Intentions, Chicago, IL

Mariena Mercer Boarini, Aft Cocktail Deck, Las Vegas, NV

Ivy Mix, Whoopsie Daisy, Brooklyn, NY

Kristine Nguyen, Bludorn, Houston, TX

Gabe Sanchez, Midnight Rambler, Dallas, TX

Ross Simon, Little Rituals, Phoenix, AZ

Mike Stankovich, Longfellow, Cincinnati, OH

Kate Wise, Juniper Bar, Burlington, VT

Best Chefs presented by Capital One (by region)

Best Chef: California
Eric Alexander and Courtney McDonald, Restaurant Josephine, Auburn, CA

Kim Alter, Nightbird, San Francisco, CA

Dave Beran, Seline, Santa Monica, CA

Eric Bost, Lilo, Carlsbad, CA

Harrison Cheney, Sons & Daughters, San Francisco, CA

Sarah Cooper and Alan Hsu, Sun Moon Studio, Oakland, CA

Geoff Davis, Burdell, Oakland, CA

Brian Dunsmoor, Dunsmoor, Los Angeles, CA

Sarah Hymanson and Sara Kramer, Kismet, Los Angeles, CA

Zareen Khan, Zareen’s, Palo Alto, CA

Emma Lipp and Stephanie Reagor, Valley Bar & Bottle, Sonoma, CA

Tara Monsod, Animae, San Diego, CA

Andrew Muñoz and Michelle Muñoz, Moo’s Craft Barbecue, Los Angeles, CA

Charles Namba, Camélia, Los Angeles, CA

Viet Nguyen, Nep Cafe, Fountain Valley, CA

Brandon Rice, Ernest, San Francisco, CA

Daisy Ryan, Bell’s, Los Alamos, CA

Fik Saleh and Reka Saleh, Fikscue Craft BBQ, Alameda, CA

Kosuke Tada, Mijoté, San Francisco, CA

Kwang Uh, Baroo, Los Angeles, CA

Best Chef: Great Lakes (IL, IN, MI, OH)
Javier Bardauil, BARDA, Detroit, MI

Michael Bowe, Red Yeti, Jeffersonville, IN

Vinnie Cimino, Cordelia, Cleveland, OH

Thai Dang, HaiSous, Chicago, IL

Sarah Dworak, Sudova, Cincinnati, OH

Andy Elliott and Emily Stewart, Modern Bird, Traverse City, MI

Danny Espinoza and Jhoana Ruiz, Santa Masa Tamaleria, Chicago, IL

Norman Fenton, Cariño, Chicago, IL

James Galbraith, PostBoy, New Buffalo, MI

Luz Gonza and Omar Gonza, Macizo Restaurant, Indianapolis, IN

Aaron Hansen, Lone Pine, Carmel, IN

Hideki Harada, Kiki, Cincinnati, OH

Jeffrey Harris, Nolia Kitchen, Cincinnati, OH

Christopher Jung and Erling Wu-Bower, Maxwells Trading, Chicago, IL

Mari Katsumura and Adam Sindler, SHŌ, Chicago, IL

Nick Kleutsch and James Sanders, Sanders BBQ Supply Co., Chicago, IL

Rishi Kumar and Zubair Mohajir, Mirra, Chicago, IL

Ben Lustbader and Sarah Mispagel, Loaf Lounge, Chicago, IL

Jacob Potashnick, Feld, Chicago, IL

John Yelinek, Ladder 4 Wine Bar, Detroit, MI

Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic (DC, DE, MD, NJ, PA, VA)
Matthew Adler, Cucina Morini, Washington, D.C.

Darmyelesh Alemu, Beteseb, Silver Spring, MD

Jamilka Borges, Lilith, Pittsburgh, PA

Leah Branch, The Roosevelt, Richmond, VA

Russ Cowan, Radin’s Delicatessen, Cherry Hill, NJ

Nathan Flaim, Luca, Lancaster, PA

Fernando Gonzalez, 2Fifty Texas BBQ, Washington, D.C.

Ian Graye, Pietramala, Philadelphia, PA

Miguel Guerra and Tatiana Mora, Mita, Washington, D.C.

Johanna Hellrigl, Ama, Washington, D.C.

Jesse Ito, Royal Sushi & Izakaya, Philadelphia, PA

Dwain Kalup, La Fia, Wilmington, DE

Matthew Oetting, Marta, Baltimore, MD

Cagla Onal, My Little Chamomile, Washington, D.C.

Randy Rucker, Little Water, Philadelphia, PA

Tarik Sengul, Smyrna, Charlottesville, VA

Amanda Shulman, Her Place Supper Club, Philadelphia, PA

Suresh Sundash, Taipori, Washington, D.C.

Omar Tate and Cybille St. Aude-Tate, Honeysuckle, Philadelphia, PA

David Viana, Judy and Harry’s, Asbury Park, NJ

Best Chef: Midwest (IA, KS, MN, MO, NE, ND, SD, WI)
Zak Baker, Ca’Lucchenzo, Wauwatosa, WI

Nick Bognar, Sado, Pavilion, St. Louis, MO

Kasey Lee Cooke, Mint Mark, Madison, WI

Philip Day, Root Food + Wine, Augusta, MO

Shigeyuki Furukawa, Kado No Mise, Minneapolis, MN

Nick Hanke and Phil Shires, Masao, Des Moines, IA

Alex Henry, El Molino del Sureste, St. Louis, MO

Camillia Hjortnaes and Erik Hjortnaes, Hjem A.M., Custer, SD

Lisa Kirkpatrick and Paul Zerkel, Goodkind, Milwaukee, WI

Johnny Leach, The Town Company, Kansas City, MO

Adam Marty, Ellinor, Appleton, WI

Zach Midgett, Casa Bovina, Lincoln, NE

Diane Moua, Diane’s Place, Minneapolis, MN

Loryn Nalic, Balkan Treat Box, Webster Groves, MO

Swetha Newcomb, Of Course, Overland Park, KS

Jason Rickard and Jordan Rickard, FioRito, Wichita, KS

Ian Robertson, Oak Park, Des Moines, IA

Gustavo Romero and Kate Romero, Oro by Nixta, Minneapolis, MN

David Utterback, Yoshitomo, Ota, Omaha, NE

Yia Vang, Vinai, Minneapolis, MN

Best Chef: Mountain (CO, ID, MT, UT, WY)
Theo Adley, Marigold, Lyons, CO

Alex Cardoza, Susina, Boise, ID

Milo Carrier, Arlo, Salt Lake City, UT

Remle Colestock, Glorietta Trattoria, Jackson, WY

Brandon Cunningham, Pangea, Missoula, MT

Johnny Curiel, Alma Fonda Fina, Denver, CO

Brandon Dearden, Ember, Hamilton, MT

Cal Elliott, The Avery, Boise, ID

Andrew Fuller, Oquirrh, Salt Lake City, UT

Dave Grant and Rocky Hunter, Gladys, Edgewater, CO

Travis Herbert, Felt Bar & Eatery, Salt Lake City, UT

Tommy Nguyen, The Pearl, Salt Lake City, UT

Miles Odell, Odell’s Bagel, Denver, CO

Bo Porytko, Molotov Kitschen + Cocktails, Denver, CO

Earl James Reynolds, Herb and Omni, Whitefish, MT

Kenneth Wan, MAKFam, Denver, CO

Nathan Whitley, Terroir, Boise, ID

Penelope Wong, Yuan Wonton, Denver, CO

Jarrett Wrisley, Shan, Bozeman, MT

Nick Zocco, Urban Hill, Salt Lake City, UT

Best Chef: New York State
Fariyal Abdullahi, Hav & Mar, New York, NY

Christophe Bellanca, Essential by Christophe, New York, NY

Sadie Mae Burns and Anthony Ha, Ha’s Snack Bar, New York, NY

Fidel Caballero, Corima, New York, NY

Giovanni Cervantes, Carnitas Ramirez, New York, NY

Aretah Ettarh, Gramercy Tavern, New York, NY

Efrén Hernández, Casa Susanna, Leeds, NY

Corwin Kave, Deer Mountain Inn, Tannersville, NY

Vikas Khanna, Bungalow, New York, NY

Hooni Kim, Meju, Queens, NY

Yvan Lemoine, Tourmaline, Forest Hills, NY

Nate Limwong, Chalong, New York, NY

Cheng Lin, Shōta Omakase, Brooklyn, NY

Buddha Lo, Huso, New York, NY

Angie Mar, Le B, New York, NY

Ayesha Nurdjaja, Shukette, New York, NY

Joshua Pinsky, Claud, New York, NY

Mads Refslund, Ilis, Brooklyn, NY

Rafiq Salim, Rolo’s, Queens, NY

Stefano Secchi, Rezdôra, New York, NY

Best Chef: Northeast (CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, VT)
Tiara Adorno, The Crooked Ram, Manchester, VT

Jeremy Broucek, Bread & Friends, Portland, ME

Sāsha Coleman, Comfort Kitchen, Boston, MA

Amarilys Colon, La Padrona, Boston, MA

David DiStasi, Materia Ristorante, Bantam, CT

Luke Fetbroth, Tonino, Boston, MA

Chris Gould, Central Provisions, Portland, ME

Evan Hennessey, Stages, Dover, NH

Bolivar Hilario, Community Table, New Preston, CT

Sara Jenkins, Nina June, Rockport, ME

Shi Mei, Lenox Sophia, Boston, MA

Peter Nguyen, Lê Madeline, Quincy, MA

Kevin O’Donnell, Giusto, Newport, RI

Annie Parisi, Jayd Bun, South Kingstown, RI

Jake Stevens, Leeward, Portland, ME

Thomas Takashi Cooke, Izakaya Minato, Portland, ME

Shilimat Tessema, Lalibela Ethiopian Restaurant, New Haven, CT

Paul Trombly, Fancy’s, Burlington, VT

Max Vogel, Ondis, Montpelier, VT

Derek Wagner, Nicks on Broadway, Providence, RI

Best Chef: Northwest & Pacific (AK, HI, OR, WA)
Janet Becerra, Pancita, Seattle, WA

Nathan Bentley, Altura Bistro, Anchorage, AK

Johnny Courtney, Atoma, Seattle, WA

Logan Cox, Homer, Seattle, WA

Michele Di Bari, Sale Pepe, Lahaina, HI

Mike Dodge, Whisky & Ramen, Anchorage, AK

Josh Dorcak, MÄS, Ashland, OR

Ed Kenney, Mud Hen Water, Honolulu, HI

Jordan Koplowitz, Starla’s, Bellingham, WA

Andrew Le, The Pig and the Lady, Honolulu, HI

Taylor Manning and Siobhan Speirits, Cafe Olli, Portland, OR

Melissa Miranda, Musang, Seattle, WA

Kristen Murray, Måurice, Portland, OR

Thai Nguyen and Trinh Nguyen, Ramie, Seattle, WA

Thomas Pisha-Duffly, Gado Gado, Portland, OR

Ryan Roadhouse, Nodoguro, Portland, OR

Sheldon Simeon, Tiffany’s Restaurant and Bar, Wailuku, HI

Jack Strong, JORY Restaurant at The Allison Inn & Spa, Newberg, OR

Aaron Tekulve, Surrell, Seattle, WA

Yuya Yamanaka, Paris Hawaii, Honolulu, HI

Best Chef: South (AL, AR, FL, LA, MS, PR)
Cory Bahr, Parish, Monroe, LA

Michael Beltran, Ariete, Miami, FL

Bryce Bonsack, Rocca, Tampa, FL

Ana Castro, Acamaya, New Orleans, LA

Matthew Cooper, Conifer, Bentonville, AR

Raúl Correa, René Marichal, and Xavier Pacheco, Bacoa Finca + Fogón, Juncos, PR

Toni Elkhouri, Cedar’s Cafe, Melbourne, FL

Hunter Evans, Elvie’s, Jackson, MS

Maria Teresa Gallina and Nicolas Martinez, Recoveco, Miami, FL

Kristen Hall, La Fête, Birmingham, AL

Barry Honan, Lotus Noodle Bar, St. Augustine, FL

Maria La Mota and Chason Spencer, Chancho King, Jacksonville, FL

Wendy Lopez, Reyes Mezcaleria, Orlando, FL

Serigne Mbaye, Dakar NOLA, New Orleans, LA

Geri-Martha O’Hara and Ryan O’Hara, Pizza Grace, Birmingham, AL

Jason Paul, Heirloom at 1907, Rogers, AR

Charly Pierre, Fritai, New Orleans, LA

Joerick Rivera, Bakku, Rincon, PR

Jim Smith, The Hummingbird Way, Mobile, AL

Austin Sumrall, White Pillars, Biloxi, MS

Best Chef: Southeast (GA, KY, NC, SC, TN, WV)
Khaled AlBanna, Calliope, Chattanooga, TN

Robin Anthony, Omakase by Prime Fish, Charlotte, NC

Noam Bilitzer, MeeshMeesh, Louisville, KY

Joe Cash, Scoundrel, Greenville, SC

Matt Dawes, The Bull and Beggar, Asheville, NC

Steven Devereaux Greene, Herons at The Umstead, Cary, NC

Mary Ellen Diaz, Alma Bea, Shepherdstown, WV

Laurence Faber, Potchke Deli, Knoxville, TN

Carlo Gan and Mia Orino, Kamayan ATL, Chamblee, GA

Jimmy Gentry, The Lobbyist, Memphis, TN

J. Trent Harris, Mujō, Atlanta, GA

Philip Krajeck, Rolf & Daughters, Nashville, TN

Cheetie Kumar, Ajja, Raleigh, NC

Colin Marcelli, Renzo, Charleston, SC

Freddy Money, Atlas, Atlanta, GA

Taylor Montgomery, Montgomery Sky Farm, Leicester, NC

Bintou N’Daw, Bintü Atelier, Charleston, SC

Todd Schafer, Abel Brown, Augusta, GA

Heidi Vukov, Hook & Barrel, Myrtle Beach, SC

David Willocks, The Baker’s Table, Newport, KY

Best Chef: Southwest (AZ, NM, NV, OK)
Danny Calleros, Ardovino’s Desert Crossing, Sunland Park, NM

Roberto Centeno, Espiritu, Mesa, AZ

Jeff Chanchaleune, Bar Sen, Oklahoma City, OK

TJ Culp, Progress, Phoenix, AZ

Rochelle Daniels, Atria, Flagstaff, AZ

Graham Dodds, NOSA Restaurant & Inn, Ojo Caliente, NM

Oulay Ceesay Fisher, Calabash African Kitchen, Las Vegas, NV

Armando Hernandez and Nadia Holguin, Tacos Chiwas, Phoenix, AZ

Scott Holmes, Little Miss BBQ, Phoenix, AZ

Brian Howard, Sparrow + Wolf, Las Vegas, NV

Kyle Kent, Chula Seafood, Phoenix, AZ

Brian Momanyi and Stayce Momanyi, Plus254, Oklahoma City, OK

Steve Riley, Mesa Provisions, Albuquerque, NM

Yuri Szarzewski, Partage, Las Vegas, NV

Sarah Thompson, Casa Playa, Las Vegas, NV

Jamie Tran, Black Sheep, Las Vegas, NV

James Trees, Bar Bohème, Las Vegas, NV

Claudia Vindiola, La Frida Mexican Grill & Seafood, Tucson, AZ

Zack Walters, Sedalia’s, Oklahoma City, OK

Veronica Zelada, Café Kacao, Oklahoma City, OK

Best Chef: Texas
Ope Amosu, ChòpnBlọk, Houston, TX

Thai Changthong, P Thai’s Khao Man Gai & Noodles, Austin, TX

Michael Che, Tsuke Edomae, Austin, TX

Ali Clem, La Barbecue, Austin, TX

Kent Domas and Seth Siegel-Gardner, Milton’s, Houston, TX

Francisco Estrada and Lizzeth Martinez, Naco Mexican, San Antonio, TX

Evelyn Garcia and Henry Lu, JŪN, Houston, TX

Shawn Gawle, Camaraderie, Houston, TX

Scott Girling, Osteria Il Muro, Denton, TX

Patrick Hicks and Fasicka Hicks, Smoke’N Ash BBQ, Arlington, TX

Sue Kim, The Magpie, San Antonio, TX

Daniela Landaverde and Rosa Landaverde, La Santa Barbacha, Austin, TX

Emil Oliva, Leche de Tigre, San Antonio, TX

Masayuki Otaka, Mabo, Dallas, TX

Andres Pablos, Accá, El Paso, TX

Gabe Padilla and Melissa Padilla, Café Piro, Socorro, TX

Michael Serva, Bordo, Marfa, TX

Bob Somsith, Lao’d Bar, Austin, TX

Finney Walter, The Nicolett, Lubbock, TX

George Watts III, GW’s BBQ Catering Co, San Juan, TX

The post The 2026 James Beard Award Semifinalists appeared first on SociaLifeChicago: Things to do, Experiences, celebrity.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams announced a new collaboration with Bridgerton which will include two limited-edition flavors designed to transport you to the ton. The Bridgerton x Jeni’s ice cream collaboration will be available at Jeni’s scoop shops in Chicago and nationwide in pints, though the two flavors will debut separately.

The first flavor to drop will be  ‘Queen Charlotte Sponge Cake’ starting on January 15 at Jeni’s scoop shops and to order online. The Queen Charlotte Sponge Cake is a “tribute to the fashionable and discerning monarch of the Ton, the flavor channels the elegance of a Victoria sponge with the lushness of Princess Cake, bright berries, soft sponge, and custard notes coming together in a confection worthy of Her Majesty herself, and tinted lavender at her behest.”

The next month the second of the two part Bridgerton x Jeni’s ice cream collab will see the flavour Earl Grey Crème Brûlée dropping in February (online Feb. 9; at Jeni’s scoop shops Feb. 12). The limited edition tea influenced ice cream will transform the everyday afternoon tea ritual into something quite memorable. Earl Grey Crème Brûlée is decribed as “fragrant Earl Grey is steeped into a silky custard base and finished with burnt-sugar candies that echo the crackle of a freshly torched crème brûlée.”

Both the Queen Charlotte Sponge Cake and Earl Grey Crème Brûlée are limited edition ice cream flavours as part of the collaboration. 

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The post Bridgerton x Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream Unveil Limited-Edition Flavors appeared first on SociaLifeChicago: Things to do, Experiences, celebrity.

LIGHTSCAPE COCKTAILS UNDER THE LIGHTS

January 2 
Chicago Botanic Garden | 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe, IL
Enjoy a festive, adults-only vibe where you can be your merry ole self, complete with specialty cocktails and mocktails. This is a 21 and Over event.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO BEARS VS DETROIT LIONS

January 4 | 3PM
Soldier Field | 1410 Special Olympics Drive
The Bears have won seven of their last nine games and are 11-3 since an 0-2 start. On Sunday, they’ll look to rebound from last weekend’s 42-38. The NFC North champion Bears (11-5) will look to clinch the No. 2 seed in the NFC playoffs and create momentum heading into the postseason Sunday when they close the regular season by hosting the Lions (8-8) at Soldier Field
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MAVIS STAPLES WITH SPECIAL GUEST NATHANIEL RATELIFF

January 10 | Time Varies
Cadillac Palace Theatre | 151 W. Randolph Street
Mavis Staples will perform with special guest Nathaniel Rateliff .
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

BILL MURRAY & HIS BLOOD BROTHERS

January 9-10| 7PM
Thalia Hall | 1000 Lake Cook Road Glencoe, IL
Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers is a blues-rock musical collaboration featuring actor Bill Murray as the frontman with acclaimed guitarists Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia, often joined by other musicians like Jimmy Vivino, performing classic rock covers and originals for energetic, unpredictable live shows.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MCA CHICAGO FAMILY DAY | MYTHS & LEGENDS

January 10 | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago | 200 E. Chicago Avenue
Folklore, fantasy, and fortune! Take inspiration from Firelei Báez and Yoko Ono to venture forth into a mythical land. Designed for children under 12 and their grown-ups, MCA Family Days invite our youngest visitors to be the museum’s artists, thinkers, and collaborators.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

YOKO ONO: MUSIC OF THE MIND EXHIBITION PREVIEW

October 17 | 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago | 220 E Chicago Avenue
Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind presents one of the most comprehensive exhibitions to date of Yoko Ono, the trailblazing artist, celebrated musician, and formidable campaigner for world peace. This remarkable retrospective celebrates key moments of Ono’s career, showcasing art driven by ideas and expressed in poetic, humorous, and profound ways.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

FIRESIDE CHAT WITH ALINEA GROUP CEO

January 13 | 5:30pm
Next Restaurant | 953 W Fulton Market
This intimate reception and roundtable discussion is exclusive to 2026 Season Ticket Holders and their guests. Join us for an evening with our CEO, Jason Weingarten, as he delves into the inspiration behind Next’s 2026 menus and shares exciting insight into the future of The Alinea Group. Cocktails, wine, and light bites will be served.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ARTSIT TALK & RECEPTION: ELLEN HARVEY

January 15 | 6-8PM
Chicago Architecture Center, Gand Lecture Hall|
Join us for a special reception and talk with Ellen Harvey on The Disappointed Tourist, currently on view at the CAC.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

BA-BA!’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY BIRTHDAY BASH

January 15 | 6-9pm
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! | 2024 N Halsted St.
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! Is turning FORTY! To celebrate four decades of memories at Chicago’s original Spanish tapas restaurant, we’re pulling out all the stops for an unforgettable fiesta.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MCA LIVE: ALEX TATARSKY, SAD BOYS IN HARPY LAND

January 15-17 | 7:30pm
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago | 200 E. Chicago Avenue
The 2025 (22nd) Confronting anguish through humor, Sad Boys in Harpy Land is a semi-autobiographical clown show about self-doubt and the artist’s journey.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

2026 CHICAGO CUBS CONVENTION

January 16-18 | 6:30-10:30PM
Sheraton Grand Chicago| 301 E North Water Street
Join Cubs fans, players, legends and members of the front office for three days of festivities and special moments that you can’t experience anywhere else. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Cubs Charities.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

BRIAN REGAN LIVE

January 17| Doors 7PM
Chicago Theatre | 175 N State Street
Regan combines sophisticated writing with expressive physicality, unique vocal delivery, and animated facial expressions to turn everyday situations into laugh-out-loud events.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

KIDS MEET THE MUSIC 1 WITH D-COMPOSED STRING ENSEMBLE + JOSH JONES

January 17 | 2PM
Harris Theatre at Millenium Park | 205 E. Randolph Street
Join us for the first performance in our newly reimagines family series, Kids Meet the Music, featuring D-Composed String Ensemble and percussionist Josh Jones for an afternoon celebrating music by Black composers that uses percussive and rhythmic sounds.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

PILATES AT THE AUDITORIUM

January 17 | 9am
The Auditorium Theatre | 50 E Ida B Wells Drive
The first-ever Auditorium Wellness event arrives at Chicago’s legendary Auditorium offering guests the chance to usher in the new year with movement, mindfulness, and the magic of one of the nation’s most historic architectural treasures.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CRAFTING CHARACTER: THE COSTUMES OF PAUL TAZEWELL

January 19-| 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Chicago |5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
Step into the innovative and imaginative world of award-winning fashion and costume designer Paul Tazewell. This deeply inspiring and immersive exhibition takes you behind the seams of Paul Tazewell’s creative journey — tracing the artistry, imagination and craftsmanship that inspired the creation of iconic costumes from the blockbuster sensation Wicked to Broadway’s Hamilton to Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story and more.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

FIRST BITES BASH 2026

January 22 | 7PM
Field Museum | 1400 S Lake Shore Drive
The official kick-off event for Chicago Restaurant Week, First Bites Bash is an all-inclusive tasting event produced by Choose Chicago that showcases the city’s award-winning restaurant scene.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ROOFTOP PAINT AND SIP WITH BOTTLE AND BOTTEGA

January 22 | 6-8PM
Offshore Roftop Chicago |
Paint the perfect night! Offshore and Bottle & Bottega are teaming up to bring you a cozy winter Paint and Sip event.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

19TH ANNUAL CHICAGO RESTAURANT WEEK

Jan. 23 – Feb. 8
All around Chicago |
Welcome to the 19th annual Chicago Restaurant Week! This 17-day celebration of Chicago’s award-winning dining scene is one of the most anticipated culinary events of the year. This year, diners can enjoy special prix fixe menus for brunch and lunch ($30), and dinner ($45 and/or $60) at a record-breaking 500+ restaurants across the city.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

SALOME

January 25-February 14
Lyric Opera House Chicago | 20 N. Wacker Drive
Based on Oscar Wilde’s one-act play, Salome has been thrilling and fascinating audiences for more than a century. Lyric Opera of Chicago brings Sir David McVicar’s decadent production — which is set in pre-war fascist Italy and sheds a harsh light on the timeless greed and entitlement of the elite — to Chicago. Sung in German with projected English titles.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THE BANCHET AWARDS 2026 & AFTERPARTY

January 25 | 5PM
Venue SIX10 | 610 S. Michigan Avenue
The Banchet Awards is a celebration of culinary excellence in Chicago, gathering more than 400 of Chicagoland’s foremost chefs, culinary professionals, and industry insiders.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

STAGS’ LEAP WINERY WINE DINNER

January 28 | 6PM
Shaw’s Crab House – Chicago | 21 E. Hubbard Street
Shaw’s Crab House welcomes wines from Stags’ Leap Winery. Concept Wine Director Kevin Bratt and Executive Sous Chef Juvenal Reyes will craft a seasonal, seafood-focused menu thoughtfully paired with a curated selection of Stags’ Leap wines. We are honored to host Julie Larsen, Treasury Luxury Sales Manager, as our esteemed guest of honor and speaker for the evening.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

TEDXLAKESHOREDRIVE

January 30|9AM-6PM
The Metropolitan Club | 233 S Wacker Drive
TEDxLakeShoreDrive* is a genuine, curated TEDx event, a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded explorers, from the speakers, performers to fellow attendees. Each in-person ticket includes admission to the event, lunch, entertainment, full-day networking, and a post-event reception.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

*Cover image credit Unsplash

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October 18-19 and Oct 25-26
Ritz Carlton Chicago | 160 E. Pearson Street
Indulge in our afternoon tea experience with a curated selection of “Palais des Thés” teas and a bubbly toast! Savor a Halloween-themed selection of exquisite pastries, teacakes, and fine sandwiches by our Executive Pastry team.
A limited amount of seating is available, advanced ticket purchases are encouraged.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Never Trust The Living

Sept. 21-Nov. 3
The Dandy Crown
Never Trust The Living, a charming and otherworldly Halloween-themed experience, will pop up for the 2025 Spooky season summoning the spirits, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, served in thematic glassware and garnished to evoke the magic of the spooky season. The bewitching brews includes cocktails and one of The Dandy Crown’s infamous Hot Crockpot Cocktail, a mulled wine called Blood Red Lips.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Nightmare On Clark Street (@nightmareonclarkstreet)
Oct. 9-Nov. 3
Stolen Saddle | 3505 N. Clark Street
The iconic Halloween themed attraction will kick off the season starting October 9th and run through November 3rd. With the Cubs in the playoffs, there’s no haunted house this year. But fear not—the full haunt returns in 2026, and our haunted rooftop will keep the scares alive until then! Step inside Nightmare on Clark Street, where spooky season takes over Stolen Saddle! Enjoy over-the-top haunted décor, creepy-themed cocktails, and Instagram-worthy photo ops designed to get you into the Halloween spirit! Happy haunting.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Curse of the Nile

Oct. 25 | 8pm-3am
I|O GODFREY |
I|O Godfrey invites everyone to the Curse of the Nile, featuring eerie chambers inspired by crypts and sarcophagi, hieroglyph-covered walls, golden idols, and haunting shadows. Guests can sip themed cocktails, explore hidden tombs, and enjoy live DJ performances throughout the night. A full food menu will be available until 11 p.m., including spooky specials such as Pharaoh’s Remains, The Cursed Tablet, and Cleopatra’s Cake Pops. Costumes are highly encouraged.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

4th Annual South Loop Halloween Crawl

Oct. 25
1,000 party people, 9 DJs, 6 venues… then the After Party at VU Rooftop. The 4th Annual South Loop Halloween Bar Crawl. Get ready for a night of thrills, chills, and unforgettable memories! Enjoy $5 drinks and $10 shots at select venues while showing off your sexiest or scariest costumes. This is one of the most anticipated bar crawls of the year, and the official bar route will be revealed 48 hours before the event. Costumes are required, and a grand prize awaits the best-dressed participant! You must be 21 or older to attend.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

About Last Knife
Arlo Hotel | 168 North Michigan Avenue
This Halloween season, About Last Knife (ALK) is serving up a spooky take on the espresso martini. Guests and locals are invited to sip on the Nightmare Brew ($18), featuring The Barker Espresso, Misguided Vodka, condensed milk and a drizzle of honey. Shaken over ice and served in a honey and Halloween sprinkles rimmed coupe, the result is a subtly sweet, velvety cocktail that’s perfect for sipping through spooky season.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Halloween Emo Costume Party
Oct. 30 | 8pm
Central Park Bar | 2924 N Central Park Avenue
Halloween Night, Avondale is having a Zombie Apocalypse pub crawl! Dress like a zombie and fill Milwaukee avenue. Central Park Bar marks its fourth anniversary with a night of spooky nostalgia and emo anthems. The Avondale favorite will transform its patio into the ultimate Halloween Emo Costume Party. Guests can belt out their favorite throwback hits as the DJ spins emo classics all night long, while sipping on hauntingly delicious drink specials. Costumes are highly encouraged, and at 10 p.m. the spotlight shifts to a Costume Contest, with prizes awarded for the best Halloween looks.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Talbott Hotel

Oct. 27-31
LAUREL is serving a spellbinding Halloween cocktail this season, (Witch’s Kiss). Crafted with G4 Blanco Tequila, lime, agave, and dry curaçao, the dark, dramatic drink gets its color from activated charcoal and is finished with a volcanic salt–Tajín rim. Perfect for the spooky season, this limited-time cocktail is available during Halloween week.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Terror in the Tropics

October 31 | 8pm
Three Dots & A Dash | 435 N Clark St (in the alley)
Get ready for a Halloween celebration like no other at Three Dots and a Dash! This year, we’re hosting a special ticketed event on Halloween night, featuring six of the best tropical bars from around the country, each serving up a signature cocktail. Join us from 8PM to 12AM for an unforgettable night of unique drinks, festive vibes, and tropical fun.
Featured Bars: Papercut – Austin, TX, Bar Kaiju – Miami FL, Last Rites – San Francisco, CA, False Idol – San Diego CA, Smugglers Cove – San Francisco CA, Hidden Harbor – Pittsburgh, PA
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Black Lagoon

October 1 through November 1
The Parlour at The Albion Manor |
Black Lagoon, a nationwide Halloween pop-up launched in 2022, will return to haunt The Parlour on the second floor (stairs required) of The Albion Manor in Chicago on select dates from October 1 through November 1 this year. Found in 38 cities in the US and Canada this Halloween season, Black Lagoon can be found in Chicago only in The Parlour at The Albion Manor this year. This cocktail-focused immersive Halloween experience is for adults 21 and over only.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Costume Dance Party

October 30
The Gateway | 4530 N Lincoln Avenue
Halloween comes early to Lincoln Square as The Getaway invites guests to a Costume Dance Party! The celebration promises a night of frightful fun with a live DJ spinning high-energy tracks from 10 p.m. until close, keeping the dance floor alive well past the witching hour.Guests are encouraged to dress in costume, and The Getaway will serve its Halloween-themed specials all night long. Guests who arrive early can enjoy The Getaway’s happy hour from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. featuring $10 House Cocktails, $8 Wine, $6 Drafts, $4 Domestics, $8 NA Cocktails, $5 NA Bottles & Cans.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Nightmare on Wacker Drive: Dia De Los Muertos

October 25 | 9
85 East Wacker Drive
Spanning both the LH Rooftop and LH on 21, the evening will feature immersive Day of the Dead–inspired décor, live DJ performances, and sweeping views of the Chicago skyline. Guests can sip from a premium hosted bar from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. (gratuity included), then continue the night with a cash bar until close. The celebration reaches its peak at midnight with a costume contest honoring creativity and flair:
1st Place: Overnight stay at LondonHouse Chicago + two tickets to the New Year’s Eve party
2nd Place: Two tickets to the New Year’s Eve party.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

SINNERS HALLOWEEN @ THE PENTHOUSE AT FIORETTA 2025

October 31 | 9PM-1:00AM
Fioretta | 318 N. Sangamon Street
This Halloween, The Penthouse at Fioretta invites guests to step into temptation at Sinners Halloween, a darkly decadent celebration inspired by the renowned film Sinners. Guests will be transported into a world of mystery and allure high above the city skyline, where every shadow hides a secret and every guest becomes part of the story. The evening will feature electrifying music, rooftop views, and sinfully crafted cocktails designed to ignite the senses. Costumes are strongly encouraged — whether angelic, devilish, or somewhere in between, guests are invited to embrace their alter egos for a night of indulgence and intrigue.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

“Cirque du Bandit”

Oct. 24–25 and Oct. 31–Nov. 1
Bandit | 841 W Randolph St, Chicago
Bandit on Two, the second floor of Bandit located in Chicago’s West Loop–Fulton Market neighborhood, will host Cirque de Bandit over two weekends: .Guests can expect a lively, circus-inspired Halloween experience featuring themed décor, music, and specialty cocktails.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

2025 Chicago Halloween Bar Crawl

Oct. 31 | 7pm-1am
Wrigleyville’s Best Bars | 3554 North Clark Street Chicago
The historic Wrigleyville neighborhood will be full of party-seekers creeping and crawling from bar to bar on the only night where you can act like a kid and drink like an adult! You and your friends can show off your kick-ass costumes as you sing, dance, and drink the night away. Throw on your best costume and join in on all of the frightening fun for this haunted holiday at the BIGGEST Halloween Party in Chicago!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Something Wicked This Way Comes: A Halloween Unbridled Spectacle

Oct. 30 | 8pm
Untitled Supper Club | 111 W Kinzie Street, Chicago
Enter if you dare….Unbridled invites you to Untitled Supper Club for a hauntingly seductive Halloween experience — “Something Wicked This Way Comes.”Inspired by Ray Bradbury’s dark carnival tale, this one-night-only performance conjures a world where beauty and terror intertwine. Step into a dreamscape of shadowy sideshows and velvet-draped decadence as Unbridled’s sensational cast unleashes mesmerizing burlesque, aerial artistry, and spine-tingling choreography. Expect twisted temptations, sinister glamour, and electrifying performances that blur the line between nightmare and desire.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Midnight in Mykonos

Oct. 31 | 9pm-2am
LYRA | 905 W. Fulton Market
This Halloween, LÝRA and Barraki Events invite guests to escape to the Aegean at Midnight in Mykonos – Halloween Dinner Edition, taking place Friday, Oct. 31, from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. The one-night event combines Mykonos nightlife energy with Halloween mystique, featuring a Mediterranean-inspired dinner, modern Greek flavors, and signature cocktails served in a setting of ritual elegance and island-inspired décor. Guests can expect vibrant music, a lively crowd, and a transportive atmosphere blending the spirit of Greece with the allure of Halloween night.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Halloween at Offshore

Oct. 31 | 5-9pm
Calling all witches! Get vamped up for a night of thrills, chills, and drinks to die for
Start Hallo-weekend off with a scary good start at the world’s largest rooftop. Don your spookiest garb for a chance to win our costume content, imbibe in Halloween-themed potions + bites, and snap your pic for the ‘gram against the skyline. Don’t miss our new witchy brews, available 10/31 and 11/1. Midnight Fog—Dark, Spooky Splash,and Jack O’ Margarita.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

October nights at Rooftop Cinema Club Chicago

Oct. 10-31 | time varies
Rooftop Cinema Club Chicago |
October nights at Rooftop Cinema Club Chicago just got a killer twist: Final Girl Fridays — celebrating horror’s fiercest survivors all month long.
From slashers to sci-fi scares, we’re spotlighting the scream queens and last girls standing who always outwit the chaos:
Scream 1 & 2 – Oct 10 @ 7:45PM & 10:30PM
Friday the 13th – Oct 17 @ 10:45PM
Nope – Oct 24 @ 10:30PM
Scream – Oct 31 @ 7:30PM
Halloween – Oct 31 @ 10:15PM
Dress to slay, sip themed cocktails, and cheer on your fave fearless femme under the stars.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

Featured image credit via Ritz Carlton Chicago.

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This year will also include two special awards, the Culinary Excellence Award presented to famed Chef Grant Achatz of the Alinea Group and the first-ever Iconic Restaurant of the Year will be presented to Gene & Georgetti, Chicago’s oldest steakhouse. Gene & Georgetti, founded in 1941 by Gene Michelotti and his business partner Alfredo “Georgetti” Federighi, is now ran by third generation Georgetti family, Michelle Durpetti and her husband Collin Pierson. The Banchet Awards can be described as the James Beard awards for the Chicagoland region where winners often go on to national acclaim, winning Michelin stars and James Beard Awards. Since its creation in 2002, the event, now led by restaurateur Michael Muser, has grown into a celebration of the high caliber and diversity of talent in the Chicago region’s food and beverage industry.

“The Banchet Awards are a night to honor the people and places that define Chicago’s dining scene,” said executive director Michael Muser. “It’s a celebration of the creativity, dedication and hospitality that make our city one of the world’s great food destinations.”
A portion of the 2026 Banchet awards proceeds will benefit the Illinois efforts of Giving Kitchen, a nonprofit providing emergency financial assistance and resources to food service workers in crisis.

AWARD SHOW DETAILS:
WHEN: Sunday, January 25, 2026
WHERE: Venue SIX10 | 610 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
PRICE: $250/pp
DRESS CODE: Black Tie TICKETS HERE

Here is the comprehensive list of all the 2026 Banchet Awards finalists

Rising Chef
Alex Cochran – Cellar Door Provisions
Bailey Sullivan – Monteverde Restaurant & Pastificio
César Murillo – North Pond
Javauneeka Jacobs – Frontera Grill

Bar of the Year or Beverage Program of the Year
Cantina Rosa – Maria Rodriguez
Daisies – Nicole Yarovinsky
Elske – Monica Casillas-Rios
Gus’ Sip & Dip – Kevin Beary and Scott Kitsmiller

Best Design
Adalina Prime
Matilda
Noriko Handroll Bar
The Alston

Best Neighborhood Restaurant
Bungalow by Middle Brow
Coda di Volpe
Mahari
Maplewood Brewery & Distillery Lounge

Sommelier of the Year
Alex Cuper – Brasero
Emily Sher – Elske
Jonas Bittencourt – Class Act
Owen Huzar – John’s Food & Wine

Best Heritage Restaurant
M’daKhan (Bridgeview)
Nine Garden (Chinatown)
Tesfa Ethiopian Cuisine
Torizen (Schaumburg)

Best New Restaurant
Cafe Yaya
Feld
Il Carciofo
Void

Pastry Chef of the Year
Courtney Kenyon-Snider – Obélix, Le Bouchon
Justin Lerias – Del Sur Bakery
Mary Eder-McClure – Galit and Cafe Yaya
Dedra Simmons – Pookie Crack Cakes

Best Counter Service
Kanin
Rendang Republic
Sanders BBQ Supply Co
Taquizas Valdez

Chef of the Year
Andrew Lim – Perilla Fare, Perilla Steak, Noriko Handroll Bar
Jennifer Kim – Proxi
John Manion – El Che, Brasero
Zubair Mohajir – Lilac Tiger, The Coach House, Mirra, Sarima

Best Hospitality
Asador Bastian
Feld
Minyoli
Perilla Fare

Restaurant of the Year
Cellar Door Provisions
HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen
Indienne
Proxi

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The post The Banchet Awards Finalists & Ceremony Date Announced appeared first on SociaLifeChicago: Things to do, Experiences, celebrity.

61st CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

October 16-26 | Varies
AMC NEWCITY 14 | Gene Siskel Film Center | Chicago History Museum| Music Box Theatre |
Chicago International Film Festival was started in 1964 by filmmaker and graphic artist Michael Kutza to provide an alternative to the commercial Hollywood movies that dominated the city’s theaters. Seeking out the best in international cinema, the Festival has opened windows to a world of film previously or otherwise unavailable in Chicago.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THE LION KING

October 3-19 | Time Varies
Cadillac Palace Theatre | 151 W. Randolph Street

Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s THE LION KING. The show is suitable for ages 6 and up.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THEASTER GATES ‘OH YOU’VE GOT TO COME BACK TO THE CITY’ OPENING RECEPTION

October 16 | 5-7pm
GRAY Chicago | 2044 W Carroll Avenue

GRAY is pleased to present OH, YOU’VE GOT TO COME BACK TO THE CITY, a solo exhibition by Theaster Gates. The exhibition opens at GRAY Chicago with a public reception for the artist on October 16, and remains on view through December 20, 2025. This is Gates’s fourth solo exhibition with GRAY. In OH, YOU’VE GOT TO COME BACK TO THE CITY, Gates brings together a new series of tar paintings, sculpture, and installation to tell an allegory of the city in decay and the potential contained within its ruins. The exhibition’s title comes from a song by Chicago musician and poet Marvin Tate, in which the City, personified as a character, has cleaned up its act and attempts to lure its residents back from the suburbs.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

AFRORHYTHMIC: A FELABRATION

October 16 | 8pm-1am
Room 43 | 1401 E. 43rd
Soundrotation, in conjunction with Ty Harvey’s Dungeon Series, is back with one of the most anticipated parties of the year, AFRORHYTHMIC: A Felabration. In observation of what would have been the 87th birthday of Nigerian music pioneer and activist Fela Anikulapo Kuti, join DJ Duane Powell as he curates a musical journey centered around Fela’s vast classic catalog and all that it inspired. African rhythms be it Afrobeat, Afro-Cuban, Afro-Brazil, AfroHouse, Gqom, Broken beat etc.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

YOKO ONO: MUSIC OF THE MIND EXHIBITION PREVIEW

October 17 | 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago | 220 E Chicago Avenue
MCA Members enjoy first-look access to the MCA’s newest exhibitions alongside curators, artists, and fellow art enthusiasts. Pritzker Director Madeleine Grynsztejn and the MCA invite you and a guest to attend the Members’ Preview for Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind. Mingle with fellow MCA Members and enjoy a live DJ set and cash bar, while being among the first to welcome the MCA’s newest exhibition to Chicago.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

19TH ANNUAL MARWEN ART FAIR

October 17 | 6:30-9:30pm
Marwen | 1111 S. Homan Avenue
Art Fair is Marwen’s biggest annual event, transforming 3 floors of our building into a gallery with over 400 unique works by over 150 artists from our expanded community. Enjoy an open bar and heavy appetizers while you bid on artwork by Marwen young artists, Teaching Artists and METAs, staff, and alumni. Tickets are $50 in advance or $60 at the door.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

STEVE AOKI

October 17 | 7PM
TAO Chicago |

Steve Aoki back in Chicago with Nathan Scott.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

WEST LOOP CONTEMPORARY ART FAIR

October 17, 18 & 19 |
Stephen M Bailey Auditorium Plumbers Hall |
A curated boutique expo with over 40 invitation-only fine artists offering direct sales to the public. The Fall West Loop Contemporary Fine Art Expo will feature a Unique Collection of Eclectic, Extraordinary and Diverse Art, and offer the opportunity to meet all the Artists in person.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MAPPING FROM MEXICO: NEW NARRATIVES FOR THE HISTORY OF CARTOGRAPHY

October 16-18 | 12pm
Soldier Field | 1410 Special Olympics Drive
The 2025 (22nd) Nebenzahl Lectures series continue to promote new thinking in map history by asking how orienting our stories from Mexico, looking out toward the rest of the world, challenges common narratives and popular assumptions in the history of mapmaking. Despite the prominent role mapping in Mexico has played, cartographic histories are often told from a European perspective
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

October 16-19 | 6:30-10:30PM
Symphony Center |
This weekend, lineup of events hosted by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra including: Klaus Mäkelä leads Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique, signature Fall in Love with Music event, Notes for Peace and SCP Piano with Yunchan Lim.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

LYRIC OPERA OF CHICAGO PRESENTS MEDEA

October 17 | Doors 7PM
Lyric Opera House |
Lyric Opera of Chicago presents Medea, a tale of infidelity and revenge like no other. Euripides’s millennia-old tragedy comes to life — and gruesome death — in this presentation of acclaimed director Sir David McVicar’s iconic, grand-scale production.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

WE LOVE YACHT ROCK

October 18 | 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Navy Pier|
Set Sail—Without Leaving Shore! Experience the smooth sounds and effortless cool of the late ’70s and early ’80s at We Love Yacht Rock, a free one-day celebration at Navy Pier.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

BALD BROTHERS: KEVONSTAGE & TONY BAKER

October 18 | 6pm(Doors)
The Chicago Theatre
Bald Brothers: KevOnStage and Tony Baker will bring a freestyle comedy show to Chicago.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

WINES IN THE WILD: SIP & SAFARI

October 9 | 7PM
Brookfield Zoo Chicago | 31st Street and Golfview Avenue, Brookfield
Wines in the Wild features the perfect blend of wildlife and – you guessed it – wine! Join us for a wonderful evening in the newly renovated Discovery Center at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. The evening will include wine/liquor tastings with representatives from wineries and distilleries throughout the United States, delicious food from our catering team, the SSA Group, animal ambassadors, as well as a silent auction with unique travel, wine, and Zoo-centric items! It’s a night you won’t want to miss!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO FIRE FC DECISION DAY GAME WATCH PARTY

October 18 |
Revolution Brewing Chicago |
Join us on Saturday, October 18, at Revolution Brewing (3340 N Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL) for the ultimate Chicago Fire FC Watch Party! The fun starts at 4 PM, with kickoff at 5 PM as we take on the New England Revolution in a Decision Day matchup that determines our playoff position. We’re also bringing back the fan-favorite Hazy Pitch IPA, brewed in celebration of the Fire. Plus, enjoy exclusive opportunities throughout the event:
Connect with Fire front office executives to discuss 2026 season memberships, Enter raffles for exciting prizes, enjoy a free drink, learn how to enjoy free playoff tickets. Celebrate with fellow fans and enjoy great vibes as we cheer on the Fire.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

BRANDY AND MONICA BOY IS MINE TOUR

October 18 |
United Center |
The highly anticipated The Boy Is Mine Tour is coming to United Center on October 18! The iconic GRAMMY Award-winning artists, Brandy and Monica, will embark on their first-ever co-headlining tour. It also marks a historic moment more than 25 years in the making, building on the legacy of their 1998 game-changing duet “The Boy Is Mine,” which spent a record-shattering 13 consecutive weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a defining cultural touchstone of late ‘90s R&B.Joining them is a powerhouse lineup of special guests: GRAMMY-winning superstar Kelly Rowland, chart-topping singer-songwriter and GRAMMY winner Muni Long, and rising star Jamal Roberts, fresh off his 2025 American Idol Season 23 win.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

OPEN HOUSE CHICAGO 2025

October 18-19
Chicago
Open House Chicago (OHC), one of the largest architecture and urban exploration festivals in the world, returns to celebrate 15 years of architecture, culture and community.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO ARTISTS COALITION

October 18 | 6-10:30pm
SECRIST | BEACH |
Celebrate 51 years of creativity and connection-building with us in your funkiest 70’s attire. We’ll honor 15-year CAC board member and EXPO founder Tony Karman, enjoy a performance by CAC Alum Celeste, and disco the night away with our outstanding DJ Duane Powell. Bites by All Together Now and beverages included!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

INVICTUS & AN AFRICAN AMERICAN REQUIEM

October 18 | 7:30pm
Harris Theater at Millennium Park | 205 E. Randolph
Ear Taxi Festival, the Chicago Philharmonic, Apollo Chorus of Chicago, and Cedille Records have partnered together for the world premiere of Stacy Garrop’s Invictus and Midwestern premiere of Damien Geter’s powerful An African American Requiem. Nearly 200 musicians take the stage, amplifying voices past and present in a stirring call for justice, resilience, and empathy.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO HUMANITIES FEST UCHICAGO ARTS & HUMANITIES DAY

October 18 | 10am-7:00pm
Harris Theater at Millennium Park | 205 E. Randolph
What makes us human? On October 18, Chicago Humanities and the University of Chicago Arts & Humanities Division join forces to explore this timeless question through a dynamic series of events. For more than four decades, UChicago’s distinguished faculty have hosted an annual Humanities Day each fall — presenting vibrant humanistic research and teaching to a broad audience. Together, we’re expanding this beloved tradition, creating new opportunities to discover how the arts and humanities allow us to understand, individually and collectively, who we’ve been, who we are, and who we might become..
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

BOO! BRUNCH

October 19 | 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago | 31st Street and Golfview Avenue, Brookfield
Join us for a fun-filled brunch in the Pavilions! Enjoy a live Interactive DJ spinning spooky tunes, capture memories at our spine-tingling photo ops, and enjoy spooky face painting for all kids – included! Every child also receives a free pumpkin to decorate at our festive Pumpkin Painting Station.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO BEARS VS NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

October 19 | 12pm
Soldier Field | 1410 Special Olympics Drive
Coming off a win against the Commanders, the Bears (3-2) face the New Orleans Saints (1-5).
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

LINCOLN SQUARE GREEKTOBERFEST

October 18-19 | 1-5PM
St Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church | 2727 W. Winona Street
Lincoln Square GreekToberfest 2025. Authentic Greek Food, Pastries, Loukoumades, Greek Music & Dancing (Dine In or Carry Out)
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

*Cover image credit Unsplash

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ADULTS NIGHT OUT: HOWL-O-WEEN PRESENTED BY GREY GOOSE (21+)

October 24 | 6:30PM–10PM
Lincoln Park Zoo | 2001 N. Clark Street
Calling all ghouls and goblins: Adults Night Out: Howl-o-ween Presented by Grey Goose Vodka and Patrón Tequila is back! This 21+ Halloween party at the zoo includes a haunted trail, Halloween-themed animal chats, free face-painting, a live DJ, and seasonal pop-up bars and concessions. Costumes are encouraged!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ROSEHILL CEMETERY ‘CRYPT’ 5K RUN/WALK

October 18 | 7PM
5800 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago
Monuments! Mausoleums! Scenic paths! And then there’s the eternal spirits who reside in Rosehill.  More than 10 Chicago mayors, Oscar Mayer, John G. Shedd, Cubs’ announcer Jack Brickhouse, legendary adman Leo Burnett, Sears founder Julius Rosenwald and scores of Civil War vets are just a few of the souls who call Rosehill home. Check out fall’s most ‘spirited’ event, the 12th annual 5K on the grounds of the north side’s historic Rosehill Cemetery. Run or walk on the sprawling 350-acre Victorian-era cemetery that opened in 1864. It’s by far the largest cemetery in the City of Chicago. You will run through the cemetery at night, via a candlelit course.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ROSCOE VILLAGE HALLOWEEN BLOCK PARTY

October 19 | 12-6PM
Roscoe Street between Damen and Hoyne
Celebrate the spooky season Roscoe Village style with your neighbors, local schools and businesses, featuring live music, a drink tent, photo ops and of course lots of candy! This is a FREE event thanks to our amazing sponsors and your support of Retro on Roscoe. Join us for an afternoon filled with live music, fun activities, and Halloween spirit!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

HAUNTED HALSTED HALLOWEEN PARADE

October 31 | 7:30PM
The 28th annual Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade in Chicago’s landmark LGBTQ Northalsted neighborhood. The free-to-watch parade, has a spectacular Costume Contest with hundreds of entrants featuring $4,000 in cash prizes and concludes with an awards presentation. Emmy- winning makeup artist and drag superstar RAVEN, celebrated from RuPaul’s Drag Race and RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars, will serve as Grand Marshal and Costume Contest Host for the 2025 Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade & Costume Contest Festival.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CAMP TAO 2025

October 30-November 1
TAO Chicago | 632 North Dearborn Street
Camp Tao takes place over multiple nights with a twisted summer camp horror theme. The events feature DJ headliners like DJ Pauly D and Dillon Francis, highlighted by specific parties like “Sapphic Slasher” on October 31.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

NORTHHALSTED HALLOWEEN PUP CRAWL

October 18 | 10AM-2PM
North Halsted Street (Aldine to Cornelia)
Join us for our 11th Annual Northalsted Halloween Pup Crawl! Trick-or-Treat for Dogs & Their People! You and your 4-legged friends can peruse the sidewalks and meet a variety of Northalsted Business and pet centric vendors. Join us at 2pm on the Lark Patio where Miss Foozie will be hosting the official after-party brunch! Costumes Encouraged!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ARTS IN THE DARK HALLOWEEN PARADE

October 18 | 6-8PM
Randolph & State Street
Arts in the Dark is a FREE magical evening parade that delights the audience with unique floats, spectacle puppets, and creative performance. Don’t miss your chance to see the artists and cultural organizations that make Chicago the incredible city that it is. Over 90 cultural organizations, guilds, and artists’ collectives will proceed on State Street, bringing delight to an audience that may exceed 100,000.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW 50th ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR TOUR

October 19 | 7:30PM
The Chicago Theatre | 175 N. State Street

The Rocky Horror Picture Show brings their 50th Anniversary Spectacular to Chicago. Join the original ‘Brad Majors’ – BARRY BOSTWICK, the original ‘Columbia’ – NELL CAMPBELL and the original ‘Magenta’ – PATRICIA QUINN – for a screening of the original unedited movie like you’ve never seen it before! Plus, a live shadow cast and audience participation, a memorabilia display with artifacts and an actual costume from the movie, a costume contest and more!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

SLIGHTLY SPOOKY SATURDAY

October 25 | 12-6PM
Navy Pier | 600 E. Grand Avenue
Celebrate the spooky season with trick-or-treating throughout the Pier while wearing your favorite costumes. Enjoy sweet treats, free workshops, live performances, and more!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

NIGHT OF 1,000 JACK-O-LANTERNS

October 8-12, 15-19, 22-26 |
Chicago Botanic Garden |
Dare to walk an eerily enchanting path, aglow with artist-carved pumpkins for Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns—featuring glowing tributes to Chicago sports teams, plant monsters, famous vampires, pets in Halloween costumes, and fan favorites from ten seasons of ghostly gourds. Among them, 75 giants tip the scales at 150 pounds each. Watch live carving in action, meet costumed characters, and enjoy playful frights around every corner. With five extra nights to explore and light bites available for purchase, it’s a spirited evening of family-friendly fun—just creepy enough to keep you on your toes.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THE PLAYERS BALL

November 01 | 9PM-2AM
The Sinclair | 17 N. Wabash Chicago
A costume party for the pimps and players featuring Player Hater of the Year Award.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

LURKING IN THE LOOP HALLOWEEN BAR CRAWL

October 25 | 8PM-Midnight
Revel in the fantasy of Halloween with an adults-only Loop bar crawl. This one-of-a-kind event is free and open to the public If you’re ready to sip, stroll, discover special drink and food deals, and spook your way through the city, be sure to RSVP.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

OLD JOLIET HAUNTED PRISON

Through November 9 |
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ZOO AFTER DARK: BOOs & BREWS

October 25 | 6-9:30PM
Brookfield Zoo | 400 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513
An unforgettable evening of thrills, chills and specialty drinks awaits for guests ages 21+ at Zoo After Dark: BOOs & Brews. This adults-only evening features seasonal brews and cocktails, a costume contest with coveted prizes, music by DJ Nurotic, up-close encounters with Animal Ambassadors and more.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

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The United States retains 16 Three-Key hotels in 2025, with the majority in New York (Aman New York, Casa Cipriani, Crosby Street Hotel, The Whitby Hotel) and California (Post Ranch Inn, The Beverly Hills Hotel, SingleThread Inn, Hotel Bel-Air, Canyon Ranch Woodside, Auberge du Soleil, Meadowood Napa Valley) and one each in Arizona (Canyon Ranch Tucson), Florida (Little Palm Island Resort & Spa), Hawaii (Kona Village), Montana (Sage Lodge) and Utah (Amangiri). Though Chicago did not place any hotels that were awarded Three Keys this year we did have 7 hotels that were designated Two key and One key.

Two Key Hotels

Pendry Chicago: Only in Chicago can a hotelier reasonably hope to set up shop in a masterwork like the 1929 Art Deco Carbide & Carbon Building, with its stately dark stone and immaculate gold trim. It’s a perfect fit for Pendry, the urban luxury-boutique cousin to the Montage resorts; Pendry Chicago combines contemporary boutique-hotel good looks with upscale comforts and impressive views of the distinctive Loop cityscape. Beds come dressed in Fili D’Oro linens, bathrooms clad in marble with custom-made bath products, and rooms come supplied with modern necessities like Bluetooth speakers and espresso machines, plus the ageless temptation of a well-stocked bar.

The Langham, Chicago: Today, though, Chicago’s best hotels are more than worthy of its status as a world-class city. A hotel like the Langham, Chicago, then, is a sign of the times, and a remarkably complete package as well: contemporary design, state-of-the-art comforts, thoughtful, professional service, and a link to the city’s urban history, embodied in its location formerly known as IBM Plaza, the last work of the modernist master architect Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe.

The Peninsula Chicago: In the middle of Chicago’s Magnificent Mile of department stores and designer boutiques is the Peninsula Hotel, only the third in America. The Peninsula Chicago brings Far East style and hospitality to the heartland for a level of refinement previously unseen. The lobby is spacious and grand, located five floors up, above a retail concourse—another detail that’s more Far East than Midwest. Rooms are elegant as well, with flat-screen televisions, broadband internet, and messages thoughtfully delivered via a near-silent fax machine hidden in a desk drawer.

One Key Hotels

The Gwen, a Luxury Collection Hotel: The Gwen doesn’t just echo the aesthetics of Twenties and Thirties Chicago, it’s an authentic piece of history — its façade comes from the 1929 McGraw-Hill building, and it’s named for the sculptor Gwen Lux, whose work still adorns it today. Inside it’s a thoroughly contemporary boutique-style luxury hotel, with Art Deco accents and 21st-century comforts. There’s an open-air rooftop bar (complete with firepits) and a weekend “Tipsy Tea” served in the hotel’s lounge; an ideal prelude to an afternoon in what might be one of Chicago’s finest shopping districts.

Viceroy Chicago: The Viceroy hotels exist at the intersection of luxury-hotel extravagance and boutique-hotel tastefulness, and the brand-new Viceroy Chicago is no different. The building, a gently undulating glass tower, is pure luxe modernity, but the lower floors blend effortlessly into Chicago’s Gold Coast, thanks to the meticulously preserved façade of the 1920s-vintage Cedar Hotel, which was reassembled brick by brick once the tower was complete. The view commands the bulk of your attention, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows, but these rooms are full of subtle stylistic charms.

Chicago Athletic Association: this Venetian Gothic landmark, previously a private club for the city’s (male) movers and shakers, dates back to the final decade of the 19th century. But now, after a renovation by architects Hartshorne Plunkard and an interior redesign by hospitality wizards Roman and Williams, the Chicago Athletic Association, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, is a thoroughly up-to-date boutique hotel, in that retro-modern, luxury-boutique sort of way.It doesn’t hurt that you’re looking straight out over Millennium Park, but there’s plenty worth looking at indoors as well. It’s not just any old building, but a beautiful old building.

Waldorf Astoria Chicago: the Waldorf Astoria Chicago feels like a remarkably grand hotel and is currently one of very few hotels in the United States to carry the handcrafted European Vi-Spring bed, adorned in suitably fine linens. One look at the huge English courtyard, or the museum-like marble lobby, and it’s clear that this is a full-scale luxury hotel all the way — especially since all this black, white, and polish gives off a dazzling Art Deco vibe.

You can check out the full 2025 Michelin Keys list HERE. Have you stayed at any of these notable hotels?

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The post Chicago Hotels Named to 2025 Michelin Key list appeared first on SociaLifeChicago: Things to do, Experiences, celebrity.

AN EVENING OF STYLE, SOUNDS AND SPIRIT TO CELEBRATE VIRGIL ABLOH

October 7 | 7-11PM
Cerise Rooftop Virgin Hotel(26th Fl) | 203 N. Wabash Avenue Chicago

What Would Virgil Do? Join us as we celebrate Virgil’s brilliance at the intersection of art, design and music. Come dressed to impress to honor the life and work of the creative visionary we all came to love.Enjoy sets from three of the City’s Best DJ’s.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THE LION KING

October 3-19 | Time Varies
Cadillac Palace Theatre | 151 W. Randolph Street

Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s THE LION KING. The show is suitable for ages 6 and up.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

AFTER 5 AT THE FIELD

October 7 |
The Field Museum of Chicago |

After 5 at the Field offers discounted All Access admission, including the latest special exhibitions, the Chicago Archaeopteryx, and all your Field favorites n the first Tuesday evening of every month.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

THE CURIO FALL FASHION SOCIAL

October 8 | 7-9PM
Celeste | 111 W. Hubbard Street

The Curio Fall Fashion Social in partnership with Celeste — a spectacular kickoff to October’s incredible lineup of Chicago Fall Fashion programming. Join us at the stunning Celeste where we will be taking over both the Garden and Disco floors, where the city’s most fabulous will gather to toast the new season.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

SHAWN MENDES

October 8 | 7:30PM
Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island | 1300 S Linn White Drive, Chicago

Shawn Mendes is back in Chicago to put on yet another legendary show as always. With more determination than ever, and over 10 years worth of experience in the music industry, he continues to write and rehearse for countless hours upon endless nights, ensuring that he brings you and all his other fans, nothing but the absolute best!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

NORTH LAWNDALE EMPLOYMENT NETWORK CRAFT YOUR PATH

October 8 | 1-5PM
North Lawndale Employment Network campus | 1111 S. Homan Avenue

NLEN is hosting an Open House for our “Craft Your Path” program on Wednesday, October 8th from 3-6PM on our 1111 S. Homan Avenue campus. Craft Your Path is a comprehensive workforce training program for job seekers ages 18-24 years old, and includes workforce training, paid work experience, wraparound supportive services, and an $8,000 grant scholarship for further education upon completion of the program.

CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MUMFORD & SONS LIVE ON TOUR

October 8 | 7PM
United Center |

Mumford & Sons with Michael Kiwanuka will be stopping in Chicago for their 2025 tour, in support of their fifth album RUSHMERE.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

RAPHAEL SAADIQ NO BANDWIDTH TOUR

October 8 | Doors-7PM
Chicago Theatre |

Raphael Saadiq will bring the No Bandwidth Tour! to Chicago. Per the artist’s request, no recording devices will be allowed at this event, including but not limited to the items listed below: No cellphones No cameras No tablets No laptops No smart watches No bluetooth enabled headphones Upon arrival, small devices will be secured in Yondr pouches that will be unlocked at the end of the event. Guests will maintain possession of their Yondr pouches throughout the night.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

NIGHT OF 1,000 JACK-O-LANTERNS

October 8-12 | 6:30-10:30PM
Chicago Botanic Garden |

Dare to walk an eerily enchanting path, aglow with artist-carved pumpkins for Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns—featuring glowing tributes to Chicago sports teams, plant monsters, famous vampires, pets in Halloween costumes, and fan favorites from ten seasons of ghostly gourds. Post your photos with the jack-o’-lanterns on Instagram #nightof1000jackolanterns and be entered to win 2 VIP Lightscape tickets.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

JIMMY CARR LAUGHS FUNNY

October 9 | Doors 6PM
The Chicago Theatre |

Jimmy Carr laughs funny and he wants to make you laugh by being funny. Jimmy Carr will bring the Laughs Funny Tour to Chicago this fall.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO FASHION WEEK

October 9-19 |
Various Locations

Chicago Fashion Week makes its return in 2025, weaving together the city’s past and present with a celebration of Chicago’s evolving fashion history. #312FASHION #CHIFW
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO BULLS VS CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

October 9 | 7PM
United Center |

The first Bulls home pre-season!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

LAUFEY A MATTER OF TIME TOUR WITH SUKI WATERHOUSE

October 10 |
United Center |

GRAMMY®-winning Icelandic-Chinese artist, composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Laufey (pronounced lay-vay) who has captivated a generation with virtuosic songs of love and self-discovery by manifesting her vision of jazz-and classical-infused pop music is bringing the “A Matter of Time Tour,” in partnership with AEG Presents, to Chicago. Suki Waterhouse will provide support. The tour highlights her latest album release, A Matter of Time.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHANCE THE RAPPER AND WE BACK TOUR

October 10 |
Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island |

All the way from 79th to worldwide to back on the Ave once again,get ready for a night that’s gonna make any and all of us OGs jump for joy – ‘cause Lil’ Chano is back y’all! And he’s got a new album and a WHOLE tour!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ROMEO + JULIET HALLOWEEN BALL

October 10 | 8PM
Chicago Athletic Hotel

You are cordially invited to the enchanting second edition of our Romeo + Juliet Halloween Ball! Get ready to dance the night away to captivating tunes spun by some of our favorite DJs, ensuring a lively atmosphere for all.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS VS MONTREAL CANADIENS

October 11 | 6PM
United Center |

Get ready for an evening celebrating the Harvest Moon with music, live performances, delicious mooncakes, bubble tea, a native plant giveaway, archery, a lantern procession down the lake, astronomical moon viewing, and much more!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

A CONVERSATION WITH KAMALA HARRIS

October 11 | 3PM
Auditorium Theatre |

For the first time, and with surprising and revealing insights, former Vice President Kamala Harris tells the story of one of the wildest and most consequential presidential campaigns in American history. During this special event, Harris will share what she saw, what she learned, and what it will take to move forward. With nuance, candor, and a unique perspective, Harris will lead a conversation about how we collectively chart a blueprint that sets an alternative vision for our country now. This event is in partnership with Anderson’s Bookshop.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

NIGERIAN ILLINOIS NURSES ASSOCIATION WALK-A-THON 2025

October 11 | 9AM
Foster Beach | 5100 N Lakeshore Drive

Join members of The Nigerian Illinois Nurses Association (NINA) family and friends for a walk to bring awareness to domestic violence prevention. NINA is a united organization of Nigerian Nurses working to improve the health and quality of lives of Nigerians at home and abroad.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

LINCOLN BRUNCH FEST 2025

October 11 | 10AM-2PM
2800 N. Lincoln Avenue

If brunch is your jam (pun fully intended), then Lincoln Brunch Fest is the place to be this fall! Back for its 2nd annual celebration, this can’t-miss event—presented by the West Lakeview SSA 27—takes over Lincoln Avenue from Diversey to Wellington this October, serving up a morning-to-afternoon feast of flavor and fun. Top local restaurants will dish out their signature brunch bites (and your new favorites), while live entertainment and kid-friendly activities turn the street into a brunch lover’s paradise. It’s the ultimate way to kick off your weekend—and start planning your next one.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

GOODMAN THEATRE COSTUME SHOP EVENT

October 11 | 10AM-4PM
The Goodman’s Healy Rehearsal Room | 170 N. Dearborn Street

Step inside our Costume Shop Sale and take home a bit of stage magic! From whimsical accessories to show-stopping gowns—each handcrafted by costume artists—you’ll discover unique treasures from past Goodman productions. Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind conversation piece, the perfect Halloween costume or a keepsake from a century of storytelling, this is your chance to bring Goodman history home.Prices range from $.50 to $300.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO LA-BOO-BU BASH HALLOWEEN MARKET

October 12 | 1-5PM
Haz Studio | 1706 S Halsted St

The FIRST-EVER La-boo-bu Bash is here!! A Halloween Pop Up market full of Labubu lovers , Local Artisians , the coolest small businesses in the city, and just the right amount of spook!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

ZOO FIESTA

October 11 | 6-10PM
Lincoln Park Zoo |

¡Deléitese con los animales, las culturas y los esfuerzos de conservación de Latinoamérica en Zoo Fiesta! Zoo Fiesta es un evento para mayores de 21 años que celebra las culturas y comunidades latinas. Disfrute de espectáculos culturales gratuitos, música en vivo y charlas sobre animales nativos de Centroamérica y Sudamérica.
Delight in the animals, cultures, and conservation efforts of Latin America at Zoo Fiesta! A play on “su fiesta,” Zoo Fiesta is a 21+ event celebrating Latine cultures and communities. Enjoy free cultural performances, live music, and chats highlighting animals native to Central and South America.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

MCA FAMILY DAY

October 11 | 11AM-3PM
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago |

Come greet your neighbors and make new friends. Connect with the artworks in City in a Garden: Queer Art and Activism in Chicago and celebrate the city we live in with Gerber/Hart and Borderless Magazine. Designed for children under 12 and their grown-ups, MCA Family Days invite our youngest visitors to be the museum’s artists, thinkers, and collaborators.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

CHICAGO SPRITZ FEST

October 11 | 1-5PM
I|O Godfrey Rooftop |

Chicago Spritz Fest returns to I|O Godfrey Rooftop for an afternoon of bubbly cocktails, city views and lively music. Guests will enjoy four hours of tasting a variety of spritz-style drinks, along with giveaways and photo opportunities at one of Chicago’s most popular rooftops. Presented by River North Fests. 21+ Event.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

BANK OF AMERICA CHICAGO MARATHON 2025

October 12 |
Chicago
The 47th Bank of America Chicago Marathon is a world class running event returning to the streets of Chicago.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

*Cover image credit Unsplash

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BGV’s Pitch Competition is like ‘Shark Tank’ mixed with the elements of a classic ‘Rent Party. ’ At a BGV pitch competition, the audience decides the winner through Raisify.co, our voting platform, with their dollars. The winner is determined by a point system, not the dollar amount raised. The money raised goes to the founders in the form of a grant despite placement in the competition.

The prizes for the pitch competition are:

1st place: $15k
2nd place: $10k
3rd place: $5k

Come support 7 local founders as they pitch their businesses to win up to $30k in grants. What You’ll Gain
Community Building/Networking
Free food and refreshments
Live music

The BGV {Chicago} Pitch Competition details is below:
Date/Time: Wednesday July 9 (7 – 9pm) & Thursday July 10 (6 – 8:30pm)
Location: Muse Coffee Studio (747 South Western Avenue Chicago 60612)
Impact House (200 West Madison Street Chicago 60606)

Click HERE to RSVP and let’s make some noise for women building dope businesses.

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The post BGV Brings In Your City Tour To Chicago with Two Events appeared first on SociaLifeChicago: Things to do, Experiences, celebrity.

ChiArts 15th Anniversary Benefit: BOLD VISIONS

LOCATION: Morgan MFG | 401 N. Morgan Street
DATE | TIME: Thursday May 1 | 5:30pm-10:00pm
ATTIRE: Cocktail Attire
CO-CHAIRS: Arnett Faulkner, Chardai Johnson
 Special Guest Host Val Warner. The ChiArts Foundation annual spring benefit event will be especially meaningful as we celebrate the 15th anniversary of The Chicago High School for the Arts (ChiArts) and its donor-funded arts conservatories in Music, Theatre, Dance, Creative Writing, and Visual Arts. Over 350 supporters, arts partners, and civic leaders will gather to honor ChiArts’ remarkable legacy and vibrant future, supporting hundreds of current scholar-artists and over 1,600 alumni worldwide. Guided by Co-Chairs Arnett Faulkner and Chardai Johnson and hosted by Emmy Award-Winning host Val Warner, guests will enjoy captivating performances and exhibitions by ChiArts’ scholar-artists across all five conservatories, along with an immersive cocktail and dining experience where the arts take center stage. LEARN MORE.

Teach For America 25th Anniversary Gala

LOCATION: Navy Pier Aon Grand Ballroom | 401 N. Morgan Street
DATE | TIME: Thursday May 1 | 6:00pm-10:00pm
ATTIRE: Cocktail Attire
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
 The 25th Anniversary Gala will be a gathering of Teach For America Greater Chicago–Northwest Indiana’s community in celebration of transformative progress in education, united by a shared mission to make a difference. We hope you will join us to foster meaningful connections and represent TFA’s legacy to create an evening that embodies the past, present, and promise of the next 25 years. Mike and Lindy Keiser have issued a $1 million challenge grant, matching all new, increased, and lapsed donations made now through May 9, 2025, including gifts made in honor of our Gala. Your contribution will go twice as far in advancing educational excellence for every child. LEARN MORE.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Butterfly Ball 2025

LOCATION: Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum | 2430 North Cannon Drive Chicago 60614
DATE | TIME: Friday May 2 | 6:00pm-
ATTIRE: Colorful cocktail 
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
The Butterfly Ball is the premier fundraising event for the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum of the Chicago Academy of Sciences. This annual celebration fuels every aspect of the museum’s mission—from dynamic exhibits and educational programs to groundbreaking conservation research and community outreach. Through the support of this event, the museum continues to inspire a positive relationship between people and nature, helping to grow connection to the world of nature and science. LEARN MORE.

Lincoln Park Zoo Auxiliary Board Zoo-ologie 2025

LOCATION: Café Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo | 2021 N. Stockton Drive
ATTIRE: N/A
DATE | TIME: Friday, May 2 | 5:30p.m.-10p.m
CO-CHAIRS: N/A 
Party with the Auxiliary Board and support Lincoln Park Zoo! Want to help your favorite animals and have an unforgettable night? Join the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo for the 13th anniversary of its signature cocktail party, Zoo-ologie! Tickets to the event include an open bar, bites from Chicago’s best restaurants, dancing, and a raffle—all inside the beautiful historic landmark, Café Brauer.
Funds raised from Zoo-ologie will help keep the zoo free and open to all 365 days a year. Your philanthropy also enables best-in-class animal care and welfare practices, global conservation initiatives, and community engagement programs. LEARN MORE.

National Museum of Mexican Art Gala de Arte: Orgullo Mexicano

LOCATION: Hyatt Regency Chicago | 151 E Wacker Dr, Chicago 60601
DATE | TIME: Friday May 2 | 6:00 – 11:00 pm
EVENT CHAIRS: Jessica Ferrari and Sarah Glavin
The National Museum of Mexican Art’s Board of Trustees invites you to support this year’s Gala de Arte. All event proceeds will directly benefit the Museum’s mission: To stimulate knowledge and appreciation of Mexican art and culture from both sides of the border through a significant permanent collection of Mexican art, rich visual and performing arts programs, high-quality arts education programs and resources, and professional development of Mexican artists. LEARN MORE.

High Jump A Spring of Opportunity 35th Anniversary Benefit

LOCATION: Four Seasons Hotel Chicago | 120 East Delaware Place, Chicago 60611
DATE | TIME: Friday May 2 | 6:00pm
ATTIRE: N/A
CHAIRS: Jenny Bekkerman, Jymme Chaouki, Eleni Griesemer, Christina Greviskes, Kelley Kaleta, Irene Parisi
Join us to empower Chicago middle schoolers with the transformative power of a High Jump education which profoundly impacts the lives of each and every one of our students, their families, their communities, and our city today and for years to come. For 35 years, High Jump has reshaped the educational landscape of Chicago, providing pathways of opportunity for nearly 3,000 scholars to confidently actualize their potential as learners and as leaders who go on to thrive in high school, college, and beyond. LEARN MORE.

The 2025 Newberry Library Award Celebration

LOCATION: The Drake Hotel Chicago | 140 East Walton Place Chicago
DATE | TIME: Friday May 2 | 5:00pm-
ATTIRE: N/A
The Newberry Honors Henry Louis Gates, Jr. Join the Newberry in honoring Henry Louis Gates, Jr. for his outstanding contributions to the humanities. The Newberry Library Award is presented annually to recognize achievement in the humanities in the tradition of the Newberry, which has cultivated the life of the mind since its founding in 1887. Past recipients include filmmaker Ken Burns; Ira Glass and This American Life; Lonnie G. Bunch III, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution; and Carla Hayden, 14th Librarian of Congress, among others. LEARN MORE.

The Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital BLOOM Spring Benefit

LOCATION: Elawa Farm | 140 Middlefork Drive Lake Forest 60045
DATE | TIME:Saturday May 3
ATTIRE: N/A
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
Enjoy an evening of fine dining, engaging entertainment and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our communities.  LEARN MORE.

WTTW/WFMT CELEBRATION 2025

LOCATION: Lyric Opera of Chicago | 20 North Wacker Drive
ATTIRE: Cocktail
DATE | TIME: Wednesday, May 7 | 5:30pm
CO-CHAIRS: Renée and Lester Crown
In celebration of the mission of WTTW | WFMT, Event Chairs Renée and Lester Crown and the Board of Trustees invite you to an inspirational evening marking the 70th anniversary of WTTW. The WTTW | WFMT Renée Crown Leadership Award is presented to The Walsh Family in recognition of their civic leadership in Chicago and beyond and longtime partnership with WTTW and WFMT. Their philanthropic and community involvement and that of The Walsh Foundation have had a significant impact on our region. LEARN MORE.

A Better Chicago Wine Auction Grape + Grain 2025

LOCATION: Theater on the Lake | 2401 North DuSable Lake Shore Drive Chicago
ATTIRE: Cocktail
DATE | TIME: Thursday May 8 | 5:30pm
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
Join us for an extraordinary evening featuring dinner and an exciting auction with specially curated fine wines and spirits. Net proceeds from the event will go towards advancing A Better Chicago’s mission to invest in bold, innovative opportunities for Chicago’s youth. We will also be celebrating A Better Chicago’s 15th Anniversary!  LEARN MORE.

Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute Minds Matter Benefit Dinner

LOCATION: The Ritz-Carlton Chicago | 160 East Pearson Street Chicago 60601
ATTIRE: Black tie optional
DATE | TIME: Friday, May 9 | 5:30pm
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
We hope you’ll join us for this special event in support of our relentless pursuit of transformative research and better medicine to treat brain and spine tumors. Support of the Minds Matter Benefit is crucial to fueling innovations within the Malnati Brain Tumor Institute (MBTI) to aid in improving care for brain tumor patients everywhere. LEARN MORE.

Alzheimer’s Association 2025 Rita Hayworth Gala

LOCATION: The Old Post Office | 433 W. Van Buren Street 60607
ATTIRE: Cocktail
DATE | TIME: Saturday, May 10 | 6:30p.m.
CO-CHAIRS: Rozmin & Ebrahim Valliani
Join us to honor the legacy of Rita Hayworth, celebrate the strides made by the Alzheimer’s Association and anticipate a future filled with hope and progress. Princess Yasmin Aga Khan Honorary Vice Chair, Alzheimer’s Association. LEARN MORE.

Steppenwolf Gala 2025

LOCATION: Steppenwolf Theatre | 1650 N. Halsted Street
ATTIRE: Formidably fabulous. Vibes are electric.
DATE | TIME: Saturday May 10 | 5:30pm
CO-CHAIRS: Chanel W. Coney, Caroline and Keating Crown
Steppenwolf’s Ensemble and Board of Trustees invite you to our 2025 Gala – an unforgettable night kicking off the theater’s 50th anniversary celebration! Join Steppenwolf’s famed artists alongside civic and business leaders at our stunning expanded campus for cocktails, dancing and a one-night-only performance honoring the theatre’s legacy. Keep the celebration going with a live auction that features once-in-a-lifetime experiences with our artists and an after-hours lounge. Steppenwolf’s Gala generates vital funding to provide an artistic home for our Ensemble, bring bold and innovative theatrical experiences to the stage, and create educational programs that reach thousands of teens throughout the Chicago region. LEARN MORE.

The Woman’s Board Rush Medical Center 30th Annual Spring Luncheon

LOCATION: Four Seasons Hotel Chicago | 120 E Delaware Pl
ATTIRE: Chic
DATE | TIME: Monday, May 12 | 11:00 am
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
Please join us for our 30th Annual Spring Luncheon featuring Bestselling Novelist and Essayist Anne Lamott! Funds raised will support The Woman’s Board Endowed Fund for Research and Clinical Trials at Rush. LEARN MORE.

Service Club of Chicago Spring Hat Luncheon – Styles in Bloom

LOCATION: Ritz Carlton Chicago | 160 E. Pearson Street
DATE | TIME: Tuesday May 13 | 11am-2pm
CO-CHAIRS: Paula Borg, Sherry Lea Holson, Kathleen Haines-Finley
The Service Club of Chicago presents The Spring Hat Luncheon. Please join Co-Chairs Paula Borg, Kathleen Haines-Finley, and Sherry Lea Holson for a fantastic fashion presentation of “Styles in Bloom” showcasing exquisite Millinery and Fashions. The event will be held at The Ritz Carlton Chicago and the afternoon will include an Elegant Champagne Greeting Hour and Luncheon with Exciting Auction Items and Fabulous Raffle Prizes. We value your support helping others for what is definitely “THE” Hat Luncheon of Chicago. LEARN MORE.

Big Shoulders Fund 2025 Humanitarian Award Dinner

LOCATION: Marriott Marquis Chicago | 2121 S. Prairie Ave, Chicago 60616
ATTIRE: Cocktail.
DATE | TIME: Thursday, May 15 | 6:00 pm
CO-CHAIRS: N/A
Big Shoulders Fund will host its biennial Joseph Cardinal Bernardin Humanitarian Award Dinner will honor two extraordinary champions of our mission, Liz and Kent Dauten. Their philanthropy is known for being both transformative and daring, truly “making no small plans,” just like Daniel Burnham, the architect of our fine city. This approach, both strategic and bold, has led to an unwavering commitment to empowering students at Big Shoulders Fund schools and advancing other philanthropic initiatives to make the world a better place for all. Connected by love for the communities we serve and a commitment to transform lives, Big Shoulders Fund is making no small plans, like the Dautens, for our next 40 years. We hope you will join us for this one-of-a-kind celebration and further our mission to make a difference in the lives of the nearly 25,000 students we serve. LEARN MORE

Make-A-Wish® Illinois 2025 Wish Ball

LOCATION: Navy Pier | 900 E. Grand Avenue Chicago 60611
ATTIRE: Black Tie
DATE | TIME: Saturday, May 17 | 6:00 pm
CO-CHAIRS: Janis Douglas, Kristin Komar, Simon Landon
Wish Ball, an exciting evening that brings WishMakers together in support of Illinois children with critical illnesses, will feature performance by comedian Dana Carvey. This inspirational and entertaining black-tie event supports the organization’s mission to grant wishes.Guests will also hear a heartfelt testimonial on the power of a wish from a wish parent. The evening includes live and silent auctions, live music and dancing. Like a thousand stars, the support of each guest is a shimmer. Together we can shine brightly, creating a constellation of hope for wish kids across Illinois. LEARN MORE.

Goodman Theatre Gala 2025 | Centennial Celebration

LOCATION: Fairmont Chicago | 900 E. Grand Avenue Chicago 60611
ATTIRE: Black Tie
DATE | TIME: Saturday, May 17 | 6:00 pm
CO-CHAIRS: Jill Javors, Swati Mehta, Jackie Robinson
Musical Performance by Tony and Grammy Award-winning performer Leslie Odom, Jr. who will headline the Goodman Theatre Centennial Gala, performing a set of favorites from his wide-ranging and critically acclaimed stage and recording career. Celebrating 100 years, the black-tie event begins with a cocktail reception, followed by the performance and an elegant three-course dinner, and concludes with dancing to the sounds of The Gentlemen of Leisure. Lester N. Coney and David Fox, Jr. are Gala Trustee Co-Chairs; the Benefits Events Leadership Chair is Joan E. Clifford, Board of Trustees Past Chair and Life Trustee. Goodman Theatre is grateful for the support of the Elizabeth Morse Charitable Trust. Proceeds from the Gala benefit Goodman Theatre’s Education and Engagement programs. LEARN MORE.

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Spark! 2025

LOCATION: Rockwell on the River | 3057 North Rockwell Street 60618
ATTIRE: Black Tie
DATE | TIME: Thursday, May 22, | 6:00pm 10:30pm
CO-CHAIRS: Lori & M. Jude Reyes, Shirley & Pat Ryan
Mingle with friends, old and new, and connect with likeminded visionaries who are committed to pushing boundaries in integrated rehabilitation science and medicine. Join us and fellow business, civic and community leaders for a special celebration and an exclusive opportunity to:
-Learn how promising discoveries are enabling us to reimagine rehabilitation across the ability spectrum.
-Understand how we are revolutionizing recovery research with novel, data-driven insights.
-Hear how Accelerate Ability, our fundraising campaign, is propelling these achievements and our vision to be the global source of science-driven breakthroughs in Human Ability.. LEARN MORE.

BGCC’s Woman’s Board 76th Annual Summer Ball

LOCATION: The Dalcy | 302 N. Green Street Chicago
ATTIRE: Black Tie
DATE | TIME: Friday, May 30 | 6:00 pm
CO-CHAIRS: Kate Melman and Kelly Rosen Lagrange
Founded in 1902, Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago (BGCC) is one of the oldest youth development organizations in Chicago. Its mission is to enable all young people, especially those who need them the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. With more than 20 locations throughout Chicago, we serve nearly 20,000 young people ages 5 to 20+ every year. BGCC works to equip members with the emotional, educational, physical, and cultural resources that allow them to enjoy their childhood and thrive in adulthood. LEARN MORE.

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The post Social Calendar — Can’t Miss May 2025 Charity Events appeared first on SociaLifeChicago: Things to do, Experiences, celebrity.

EVENT: Renaissance Society’s RenBen 2025

What: AN EVENING TO BENEFIT THE RENAISSANCE SOCIETY CONCEIVED BY MERIEM BENNANI.
Where: Vertiport Chicago | 1339 S Wood St Suite A
When: April 23
Time: 7pm-10pm
Cost: Tickets required. Attend Here
Why: RenBen is the Renaissance Society at the University of Chicago’s annual gala which raises a significant portion of the museum’s annual budget, enabling new artistic commissions. RenBen 2025 will challenge expectations of what an art gala can be, shaped by the inventive vision of Meriem Bennani. Known for her sharp humor, resourcefulness, and ability to blend the absurd with the deeply human, Bennani is the latest artist to lead the Renaissance Society’s tradition of artist-conceived galas
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Melinda French Gates and Hoda Kotb

What: A conversation with philanthropist Melinda French Gates and former Today Host Hoda Kotb.
Where: Auditorium Theatre | 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago 60605
When: Wednesday, April 23
Time: Doors open at 6:30pm | Event starts 7:30pm
Cost: $54.50+
Why: Join us for an evening with Melinda French Gates in conversation with Hoda Kotb as they discuss Melinda’s book, The Next Day: Transitions, Change, and Moving Forward. Ticket includes admission for one and a hardcover copy of The Next Day. In The Next Day, Melinda offers a rare window into some of her life’s pivotal moments, drawing from previously untold stories to offer a new perspective on encountering transitions.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Vernissage 2025-EXPO Chicago

What: Vernissage is the opening celebration of EXPO CHICAGO, which presents artwork from more than 170 leading galleries from around the world.
Where: Navy Pier Festival Hall | 600 E. Grand Avenue
When: Thursday April 24
Time: 10:00am-12:00pm
Cost: $350+
Why: The Women’s Board of the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago invites you to attend the Vernissage Champagne Brunch—this year’s spectacular benefit—on the opening day of EXPO CHICAGO Contemporary Art Fair. Enjoy a lavish brunch from 10 am-12 pm, first access to EXPO CHICAGO beginning at 11:30 am—before the art fair opens to the public—and complimentary cocktails from 12–4 pm. Tickets also include access to EXPO CHICAGO for the entirety of the fair, from Thursday, April 24, through Sunday, April 27, at any time during General Admission hours.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: 2025 Miller Lite Draft Party

What: The Miller Lite Draft Party is back at Soldier Field to celebrate the future of the Bears!
Where: Soldier Field | 1410 Special Olympics Drive Chicago 60605
When: Thursday, April 24
Time: 6:00pm
Cost: Varies Buy Here
Why: New for 2025, the 50-yard line stage will bring the party to the field with music, games and player appearances throughout the evening. Fans can watch NFL Draft coverage live on the video boards or visit the Miller Lite Midway for a dedicated Draft viewing experience.
United Club and VIP Lounge tickets are available for fans looking to enhance their experience. With exclusive access to the United Club, these tickets come with additional player appearances, dedicated food & beverage and live Draft analysis from the Voice of the Bears and ESPN Chicago’s Jeff Joniak and Color Analyst Tom Thayer.CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: WINGS BLOSSOM Fashion Show

What: Proceeds from BLOSSOM will be used to launch new domestic violence programming and critical support services in the North Shore and beyond.
Where: 21c Museum Hotel |  55 E Ontario Street Chicago 60611
When: Thursday, April 24
Time: 6:00pm
Cost: $250 each
Why: We invite you to join us and our movement for the second annual BLOSSOM fashion show as we come together to eliminate the stigma surrounding domestic violence and celebrate victors who have blossomed. Nigel Barker returns as our event host. Our guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar, raffle, and a L’Oreal swag bag.CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: An Evening at the Auditorium

What: An Evening at The Auditorium, hosted by alumnus and actor Parvesh Cheena,is presented as part of Roosevelt University’s 80th Anniversary Celebration.
Where: Auditorium Theatre | 50 W. Ida Wells Street Chicago 60605
When: Thursday April 24
Time:  7:00pm
Cost: $Varies
Why: Broadway sensation and Roosevelt University alumna Courtney Reed returns home to Chicago for An Evening at The Auditorium—a musical journey from the beloved classics of the 1940s to today’s show-stopping hits!
See inside some of Reed’s most iconic performances, ‘Jasmine’ from Aladdin and ‘The Sparkling Diamond’ from Moulin Rouge! The Musical, along with highlights from Carousel, The King and I, Chicago, Annie, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, and more. Reed will be joined by music director Benjamin Rauhala—as well as a surprise performer.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: The Thresholds Gala ’25: Expressions of Hope

What:This inspiring evening will highlight our client artists and their work, exploring how mental health and substance use challenges impact our world.
Where: The Geraghty | 2520 S Hoyne Ave
When: Thursday, April 24
Time: 5pm – 9:30pm
Cost: $400/per person
Why: Join us for the 2025 Thresholds Gala: Expressions of Hope, a celebration of the arts as a pathway to healing and growth. Our strengths-based, trauma-informed creative arts programs foster self-expression and create safe spaces for individuals and communities to flourish and recover.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: EXPO CHICAGO Contemporary Art Fair 2025

What: EXPO CHICAGO sets the stage for 2025 with programming featuring international and local artists, curators and industry leaders.
Where: Navy Pier Festival Hall | 600 E. Grand Avenue
When: Thursday April 24– Sunday 27
Time:  5 to 7:30 p.m
Cost: $165 (Opening Night) | $40 (Single Day)
Why: Immerse yourself in Chicago’s premier contemporary and modern art fair. Choose from single-day admission, a three-day pass, or elevate your visit with the Opening Night Ticket for exclusive access to the fair with special benefits. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: One of A Kind Show {SPRING} 

What: Find thousands of handmade products across 20 categories.
Where: The Mart| 2301 S. King Drive, Chicago
When: Friday April 25 – Sunday April 27
Time: 10am-7pm.
Cost: $15+
Why: The One of a Kind Spring Show showcases over 350 talented creators and connects them with thousands of shoppers who appreciate original, handcrafted work. It’s the perfect event in Chicago to refresh your Spring style and discover unique gifts for every occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Katt Williams – Heaven On Earth Tour

What: Buckle up for a wild ride of laughs with Katt Williams’ & the Heaven on Earth tour. Katt Williams and special guests break boundaries & ignite laughter.
Where: United Center | 1901 W. Madison Street Chicago 60612
When: Friday April 25
Time: Doors 6:30p.m. | Showtime 8p.m.
Cost: $Varies
Why: On the heels of his explosive Netflix comedy special, WOKE FOKE, critically acclaimed comedian Katt Williams announces the HEAVEN ON EARTH TOUR. Produced by North American Entertainment Group, the upcoming tour with new material kicks off in January 2025, making stops across the U.S., including United Center on April 25, 2025.
With a career spanning over 20 years, Katt Williams has earned a worldwide reputation as one of today’s top entertainers, having developed a career seeded with thousands of sold-out arenas, an expansive list of starring roles on the small screen and memorable performances in major box office hits. 
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Lyric Opera Chicago Rising Stars in Concert 50th Anniversary

What: Experience the artistry of tomorrow’s opera stars as they demonstrate the exceptional and unparalleled training that defines the Ryan Opera Center. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate its incredible legacy and bright future.
Where: Lyric Operahouse of Chicago | 20 N. Wacker Drive Chicago 60606
When:Friday April 25
Time: 7:00pm
Cost: Admission is complimentary, registration required
Why: Join us for an extraordinary evening celebrating the 50th anniversary of The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center, Lyric Opera of Chicago’s premier artist-development program.
This milestone concert features the 2024/25 Ensemble performing with members of the acclaimed Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Music Director Enrique Mazzola and directed by Paul Curran.CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Afterschool Matters Sneaker Ball 2025

What: Hosted by the After School Matters Associate Board, hundreds of guests came out in their freshest outfits.
Where: Punch Bowl Social | 310 N Green St, Chicago 60607
When: Friday, April 25
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Cost: $175
Why: Prepare to step into an evening of impact, style, and entertainment. Lace-up your coolest kicks  on Friday, April 25, 2025 and join us at Punch Bowl Social for this immersive event featuring teen talent, exciting raffle prizes, cocktails, food, and more! Dress to impress…with your best sneakers, of course!
All proceeds from the event will directly support the After School Matters Stipend Fund, providing valuable paid program opportunities for Chicago’s teens.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago Big Bash 2025

What:Presented by Ulta, join over 400 young professionals, community leaders and corporate partners from the Chicagoland area will gather for an unforgettable night of music, food, custom cocktails, casino games and amazing raffle prizes.
Where: Venue West | 221 N Paulina St, Chicago
When: Friday, April 25
Time: 6:30pm-10:30pm
Cost: $200
Why: In celebration and support of Big Brothers Big Sisters life-changing mentoring programs, The Leadership Board of BBBSChi will host its 13th Annual BIG Bash event. A party like no other, hosted by The Leadership Board of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Chicago for its 13th year in a row. This will be a networking event, sure, but really this is the perfect chance to party and have a great time for a great cause. Over 400 young professionals, community leaders and corporate partners from the Chicagoland area will gather for an unforgettable night of music, food, custom cocktails, casino games and amazing raffle prizes in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood. All proceeds benefit BBBSChi’s free one-to-one mentoring programs.
We have amazing raffle prizes that have been generously donated by our supporters so that every dollar raised goes straight towards BBBSChi.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: 2025 Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens

What: Step into history and elegance at the 2025 Infant Welfare Society Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens—a breathtaking 1895 estate featuring 30 rooms, English walled gardens, and timeless architecture by Henry Ives Cobb.
Where: Pembroke Lodge | No parking available at the Showhouse (Uber & Lyft services cannot be accommodated) See parking information
When: Saturday April 26 through May 25 (open to visitors Tuesday through Sunday)
Time:9am-2pm (Tue-Fri); 10am-3pm (Sat & Sun)
Cost: $50; Tickets must be purchased in advance for a specific date and time.
Why: Thirty-eight interior designers, along with several top landscapers, have been selected to reimagine the 15,000-square-foot mansion and its 3.5 acres. Pembroke Lodge is one of the earliest estates developed along Lake Forest’s Green Bay Road. Originally built on nearly 40 acres, with landscape architecture by Frederick Law Olmsted, the home was designed to take advantage of sunsets over the prairie landscape. It was built for real estate and zinc mining entrepreneur David Benton Jones and remained in the family for 67 years. Architect Henry Ives Cobb designed the Union Club of Chicago, Chicago Athletic Association Building, Chicago Varnish Company Building (a National Landmark of Historic Places and a Chicago Landmark), Newberry Library and several pre-1900 buildings at Lake Forest College and the University of Chicago. Cobb is also responsible for the design of the University of Chicago’s Yerkes Observatory on Geneva Lake in Williams Bay, WI.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Merit School of Music Gala 2025

What: Honoring Emanuel Ax and Richard L. Thomas
Where: Four Seasons Chicago | 756 N. Milwaukee Avenue
When: Friday, April 25
Time: 6pm
Cost: $750 (Afterparty)
Why: Prepare for unforgettable evening benefiting equal access and excellence in music education at Merit’s Gala 2025. Join us as we gather together as a Merit community, experience amazing student performances, and honor Emanuel Ax and Richard L. Thomas.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Grand (Re)Imagining Party

What: Intuit is a museum in the West Town neighborhood of Chicago dedicated to outsider art.
Where: Intuit Art Museum | 756 N. Milwaukee Avenue
When: Saturday April 26
Time: 6-9:30 p.m.(party) | 10:00-12:00am (After party)
Cost: $75 (Afterparty)
Why: The Board of Directors and Party Co-Chairs Nick Cave and Bob Faust welcome you with giddy anticipation to a private grand reopening celebration for our newly reimagined and renamed Intuit Art Museum.
Enjoy delicious bites, spirited libations, and a special performance by the Grammy-nominated Kahil El’Zabar Ethnic Heritage Ensemble.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: 2025 Hide N Seek – Chicago Children’s Museum

What: Hosted by the Chicago Children’s Museum Associates Board. 2025 Hide N Seek A Night in Monte Carlo, Dare to Play?
Where: Chicago Children’s Museum | 600 E. Grand Avenue
When: Saturday, April 26
Time: 7:00pm-12:00am
Cost: $125
Why: Try your luck as you explore a transformed museum after hours in this glamorous adults’ night out including drinks, food, dancing, and play. Hosted by Chicago Children’s Museum’s (CCM) Associates Board, Hide N Seek: A Night in Monte Carlo offers a rare night out for adults to exclusively explore the museum with friends and colleagues, contributing to brighter futures for children across Chicagoland.
By raising vital funds for CCM’s access initiatives, this event makes it possible for all children and families – regardless of background and abilities – to visit CCM, often at little to no cost for families in need. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana Annual Gala

What: supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana.
Where: The Geraghty | 2520 S Hoyne Ave, Chicago
When: Saturday April 26
Time: 6pm
Cost: $300 (Afterparty)
Why: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana wants to celebrate YOU – our community of families and supporters – during our biggest fundraising night of the year! Join us for a captivating evening filled with exclusive auction items, entertainment, heart-felt moments and more. Your presence is the key to making this night truly exceptional. Attire: Step into the spotlight with red shoes and build your Gala ensemble! Be it stilettos or sneakers, the choice is yours! Cocktail attire encouraged.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Brookfield Zoo Chicago Whirl 2025

What:Brookfield Zoo Chicago celebrates the 44th anniversary of its annual black-tie gala, the Whirl
Where: Hilton Chicago | 720 S. Michigan Avenue
When:Saturday, April 26
Time: 6:00pm-11:30am
Cost:$1,000
Why: Co-hosted by the Board of Trustees and the Women’s Board, this celebration highlights the impactful work of the Zoo’s education, animal welfare, and conservation programs. Whirl welcomes Various civic, business, and philanthropic leaders from the Chicagoland area, who are passionate about conservation, nature, and wildlife.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: Press & Play Cafeton

What:V5 x DJ Miriam x Press & Play x Collectiv Presents Cafeton Road To Suenos
Where: Recess Fulton Market | 838 W. Kinzie Street
When:Sunday, April 27
Time: 10:00am-6pm
Cost: RSVP required (shown at the door). $Free-$20
Why: CAFETÓN IS BACK — AND IT’S BIGGER THAN EVER. Live Latin DJs. Coffee. Brunch. Vibes. This is for the ones who want to dance, sip some coffee, and enjoy something new. Come solo or bring your friend — either way, you’re leaving with new friends. Oh… and there’s a surprise twist this time. Coffee drinks exclusively until noon.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

EVENT: the Walk MS® Chicago 2025

What: Every Step Counts at Walk MS — Support the Movement to End MS and Make an Impact.
Where: Soldier Field South Lot
When:Sunday April 27
Time: 11:30am
Cost: $Varies
Why: Centered around the theme of Circles of Support, the Walk MS® experience emphasizes the people and organizations that help improve a person’s life with MS. At the same time, we move together toward a world free of MS. Everyone at Walk MS plays a powerful role in the MS community, whether you live with MS or care about someone who does.CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS

*Cover image credit EXPO Chicago

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The post Social Diary — Things To Do in Chicago This Week & Weekend (April 21-27) appeared first on SociaLifeChicago: Things to do, Experiences, celebrity.