What are our picks for the best events happening in Chicago worth your time this week through to the weekend (September 24-29)? From the fun farmer’s market at MCA, the annual Chicago Gourmet is back, cultural outing for Lyric Opera’s Rigoletto, The GOAT tour with Olympians Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles and so much more through to the weekend. This is the Week toWeekend Guide you need, you can pass on the others.
EVENT: SOAR Farmers Market
What: The Streeterville Organization of Active Resident’s ( SOAR) summer farmer’s market.
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago (MCA) |
When: Every Tuesday June through October
Time: 7am-2pm
Cost: Free to attend; price of goods varies
Why: Every Tuesday, the SOAR Farmers Market will have fresh produce, yummy baked goods, gorgeous flowers and much more. You can even meet your friends on the MCA Plaza to grab a light lunch from one of the vendors.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Tituss Burgess Live
What: Tituss most recently starred as Harold Zidler in Moulin Rouge! The Musical on Broadway.
Where: City Winery Chicago |
When: Tuesday September 24
Time: 7:30
Cost: $40+
Why: Emmy and SAG-nominated Tituss Burgess has quickly emerged as one of the entertainment industry’s most versatile and dynamic performers, with his work in television, film, and theater generating both critical and commercial acclaim. Tituss has starred in Season 2 of the hit Apple TV+ series Schmigadoon!, hit Netflix comedy series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, alongside Jane Krakowski in Center Of The YOUniverse for Audible,MGM Aretha Franklin biopic, Respect, and in the Netflix films Set It Up and Dolemite Is My Name and much more.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Silent Reading Soiree
What: This event is part of the 2024 One Book, One Chicago season, exploring the book Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin.
Where: Harold Washington Library Center, Winter Garden, 9th Floor
When: Wednesday, September 25,
Time: 5:00pm-7:00pm
Cost: $FREE
Why: Come read Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin with other Chicagoans at our first ever Silent Reading Soiree! Join us for refreshments, activities and some silent reading in Harold Washington Library Center’s Winter Garden. The first 50 people will receive a free copy of the book!.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters – Love & Hate Tour
What: The “2024 Love & Hate Tour” kicked off in Tomball, Texas at The Main Street Crossing.
Where: City Winery Chicago
When: Wednesday September 25
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: $45+
Why:In conjunction with the release of their newest album on August 30th, “Love & Hate In Desperate Places”, The Boxmasters will also be kicking off a tour of the United States and Canada. This marks their 17th release as the ever-prolific J.D. Andrew and Bud Thornton tweak their sound for this album and add longtime road musicians Kirk McKim and Raymond Hardy to the recordings.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Chicago Gourmet 2024: Fashion, Plated
What: The 2024 edition of Chicago’s favorite foodie fest returns for a weekend long array of festivities.
Where: Various location in Chicago |
When: Wednesday September 25-Sunday September 29
Time: Varies
Cost: Varies Eventbrite
Why: The 2024 edition of Chicago’s favorite foodie fest Chefs Get Pickled presented by SPF Chicago (Sept. 25); House of Gourmet Italian Dinner presented by Eataly(Sept. 25); Tacos & Tequila presented by US Foods and Tourism Board of Guadalajara, Mexico (Sept. 24); Somm Sessions presented by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (Sept. 27); Hamburger Hop presented by Sysco, Blue Moon Light and DoorDash (Sept. 27); Late Night Gourmet presented by TAO Chicago (Sept. 27); Grand Cru presented by UnitedHealthcare® and BMW USA (Sept. 28); Rise & Shine Gourmet presented by Performance Foodservice and Kerrygold (Sept. 29).
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: This Week At The Siskel
What: Support the best in independent, international, and classic film at Chicago’s premier art house cinema.
Where: The Gene Siskel Film Center
When: Tuesday September 24-Sunday September 29
Time: Various
Cost: Discounted pricing for members. Not currently a member? Join or renew here!
Why: This week’s lineup of films includes: “Matt and Mara,” “The Goldman Case,” “Sambizanga,” and more.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Grubhub’s Food Feastival
What: All hungry Chicagoans are invited to a free lunchtime event to connect with a variety of Grubhub’s restaurant partners.
Where: Daley Plaza | 50 W Washington Street
When: Wednesday, September 25
Time: 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
Cost: $FREE
Why: Grubhub is hosting its first-ever Food Feastival—a FREE food festival that invites all hungry Chicagoans to enjoy a lunchtime experience filled with local flavors. This special event continues Grubhub’s 20th anniversary celebration and pays tribute to the small business restaurants that define Chicago’s iconic food scene. The Feastival will spotlight more than 20 local restaurants from neighborhoods across Chicago, offering small bites of their most popular dishes—from empanadas and shrimp and grits to the city’s famous Chicago dogs and deep-dish pizza.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Kygo & Zara Larsson
What: Kygo is bringing all your favorite dance anthems like “It Ain’t Me,” “For Life,” and “Higher Love”
Where: Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island | 1300 S. Linn White Drive
When: Wednesday, September 25 & Thursday September 26
Time: 5:30pm-7:30pm
Cost: $88+ fees&tax
Why: Norwegian electronic dance producer and DJ Kygo is hitting the road and making his way to Chicago’s premier venue hot on the heels of dropping his brand new single, “For Life”, starring Zak Abel and Nile Rodgers. Joining the electronic dynamo on stage in Chicago is Swedish hitmaker Zara Larsson. Just like Kygo, she’s a bonafide superstar who has a long line of number one singles to her name, including “Lush Life” and “Never Forget You.” This legend is also treating fans to her latest studio album, Venus, starring David Guetta. On Thursday Kygo plays solo.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Chicago Blackhawks vs. Detroit Red Wings-
PRESEASON
What: The Chicago Blackhawks will take to the ice for a preseason matchup against the Detroit Red Wings.
Where: United Center | 1901 W. Madison Street
When: Wednesday September 25
Time: Gates Open at 5:30pm
Cost: Varies
Why: Come cheer on the Blackhawks!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: 260 Chicago Sample Sale
What: Billionaire Boys Club & Ice cream (BBC and Icecream) Rowing Blazer for 70% off.
Where: 260 Sample Sale Chicago | 51 E. Ohio Street
When: Wednesday September 25-Sunday September 29
Time: 5:30pm-
Cost: Cost of goods
Why: BBC and Rowing Blazers will be making their debut at the 260 Sample Sale Chicago with deals up to 70% off.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Weekend at City Winery
What: A unique culinary & cultural experience for urban wine enthusiasts passionate about music.
Where: City Winery | 1200 W Randolph Street
When: Thursday September 26-Sunday September 29
Time: Varies
Cost: Varies
Why: This week through weekend lineup includes: Eric Hutchinson with Ernie Halter, B5, Keke Wyatt. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Hyde Park Jazz Festival
What: The Hyde Park Jazz Festival is a collaborative platform dedicated to supporting the presentation and ongoing development of jazz, particularly on the South Side of Chicago.
Where: Various Locations in Hyde Park
When: Saturday September 28 & Sunday September 29
Time: 8pm
Cost: Free but $10 donation suggested
Why:The 18th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival is made possible through the support of the Reva & David Logan Foundation; Reva & David Logan Center for the Arts; Walder Foundation; MacArthur Foundation’s Art Together at the Field Foundation; Harper Court Arts Council; New Music USA; University of Chicago Office of Civic Engagement; University of Chicago Medical Center; Oppenheimer Family Foundation; Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs; Illinois Arts Council; National Endowment for the Arts; and through the generosity of many individual donors.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Fall Fest Presented by Jewel-Osco
What: This year’s Fall Fest features ticketed attractions throughout the zoo, including a Fun Slide, Ferris wheel, inflatable activities, and much more.
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo
When: Fridays-Sundays, September 27–October 27
Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m
Cost: $FREE
Why: Dive into the wonderful world of autumn—from picking the perfect pumpkin to taking in the scents of hot cider and toasted s’mores—with Lincoln Park Zoo’s tenth annual Fall Fest Presented by Jewel-Osco. This year’s Fall Fest features ticketed attractions throughout the zoo, including a Fun Slide, Ferris wheel, inflatable activities, and much more. While you stroll through the decorated gardens bursting with fall color, you’ll enjoy free musical entertainment, professional pumpkin carvers, a pumpkin patch, and fall-themed enrichment for the animals. Every weekend will offer something new!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Randolph Street Market
What:Randolph Street Market Festival has been named ‘TOP 10 Flea Market in the USA.
Where: 1341 W. Randolph Street, Chicago
When: Saturday September 28 & Sunday September 29
Time:10am-5pm
Cost: $12+
Why: Rain or shine, prepare to be WOW’d by the fun and excitement of one of the country’s best loved treasure hunt fests and entertainment extravaganzas!Find the best art, antiques and vintage decor, ephemera, vintage and indie designer fashion and jewelry, vinyl, global goods, fancy and fun foods – thousands of top-quality goods presented by dealers from around the country at this fancy European style flea market festival! Enjoy our market bars, cabana and air-conditioned beaux-arts building plus a continuous variety of live bands each day to make for an exceptionally fun shopping vibe.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: 11th Annual Beverly Art Walk
What: The free, family-friendly event features nearly 150 artists in 40+ venues, the return of the popular Uprising Craft Market.
Where: Beverly Neighborhood Beverly, Chicago
When: Saturday, September 28
Time: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Cost: $FREE
Why: The 11th Annual Beverly Art Walk, September 28th, 12-5 pm, is a celebration of art and music, showcasing a diverse array of unique cultural assets. The return of the popular Uprising Craft Market—at 103rd & Wood Street—the Family Fun Park at Sutherland in conjunction with Sutherland’s I Madonnari street painting festival, live music, and public art activations. The After Party will start immediately after the Art Walk at Nicky’s of Beverly, 105th and Western, with live music by rapper Serengeti.
Join us for the Art Walk Preview Party on Friday, September 27th at the Beverly Arts Center, 6-10 pm featuring unique works by more than 25+ artists, live music, and libations.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Kings of Leon & Phantogram
What:Kings of Leon is determined to give you a night you will never forget!
Where: Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island | 43 East Ohio Street
When: Saturday September 28
Time: 7:00pm
Cost: $112
Why: Grammy award winner and multi-platinum rock band Kings of Leon will be joined on this show with Phantogram, known for their street beat and psych pop sound!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Chicago Performs 2024
What: Experience one weekend of groundbreaking performances by Chicago artists.
Where: MCA Chicago Anne & John Kern Terrace Garden |
When: Thursday September 26–Sunday September 29
Time: Varies
Cost: $30; Student Discount $10. Get 20% off when you buy tickets two or more performances.
Why: Chicago Performs returns to the MCA for its third year with a four-day festival of dynamic, electrifying performances by artists Lin Hixon and Matthew Goulish, Lykanthea, and cat mahari. Taking place within and outside of the museum’s walls, this annual festival of performance puts the wealth of revelatory live arts made by the Chicago creative community front and center, inviting a small cohort of local artists to share new performance works, including those developed through the MCA’s In Progress series and New Works Initiative. Chicago Performs supports artists who are entering a new phase of their practice—whether stepping onto a larger stage for the first time, exploring new directions, or expanding the scale of their projects—and offers the public an unprecedented chance to witness the city’s groundbreaking performance artists in action.
Chicago Performs is organized by Laura Paige Kyber, Assistant Curator of Performance. Chicago Performs is supported by the New Works Initiative, which puts the creative process at the heart of the MCA’s relationship with Chicago by supporting the development of new performances and creative projects. Lead support for the New Works Initiative is provided by Elizabeth A. Liebman.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Gasolina Y2K Brunch & Day Party
What: The ultimate brunch and day party that takes you back to the top Reggaeton & Hiphop hits and artists of the 2000s.
Where: Azul | 1177 North Elston Avenue
When: Saturday September 28
Time: 12:00pm – 7:00pm
Cost: $30+
Why: A brunch & day party dedicated to all your favorite Reggaeton & Hiphop hits from 2000’s!”Gasolina Y2K is the ultimate brunch and day party that takes you back to the top Reggaeton & Hiphop hits and artists of the 2000s! Come enjoy a lively gathering with friends and family, offering indoor seating as well as a patio and rooftop with breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline. Savor a delectable brunch, groove to the best beats with some of Chicago’s finest DJ’s, and check out one of Chicago’s trendiest new brunch spots. You won’t want to miss it!”
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Oktoberfest at Brookfield Zoo
What: Prost! to Oktoberfest at Brookfield Zoo, presented by Leinenkugel’s.
Where: Brookfield Zoo | 3300 Golf Rd,
When: Saturday September 28
Time: 11am-5pm
Cost: $29.95 (Adults); $24.95 (Over 65); $20.95(3-11)
Why: This German-style event, which takes place on the Zoo’s East Mall, is free with general admission. Zoogoers can toss on their lederhosen and experience: Live polka music from Happy Wanderers and Die Musikmeisters Band between 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Oktoberfest seasonal menu items including bratwurst, specialty beers, pretzels with cheese, and much more available for purchase. Festive themed giveaways from Leinenkugel’s.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Atsuko Okatsuka
What: Atsuko Okatsuka will bring the Full Grown Tour to Chicago.
Where: Chicago Theatre
When: Saturday September 28
Time: Doors at 6:00pm
Cost: Varies
Why: Taiwanese-American stand-up comedian, actress, and writer based in Los Angeles, California Atsuko tackles making friends as an adult and the facade of marriage now that she’s completely matured and needs no improvement.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Smithsonian National Conversation on Race
What:
The National Conversation on Race series comes to Chicago where it will immerse attendees in neighborhood tour excursions, thought-provoking conversations, film screenings, and artist-led workshops, all aiming to deepen participants’ understanding of how race is woven into every aspect of daily life.
Where: Various Chicagoland locations
When: Thursday, September 26-Saturday, September 28
Time: Varies
Cost: Free, Registration required
Why: The Smithsonian’s “Our Shared Future: Reckoning with Our Racial Past” initiative will launches its the next National Conversation on Race in Chicago with a series of programs. The program series will be hosted by, and in collaboration with, Chicago’s Center for Native Futures, National Museum of Mexican Art, National Public Housing Museum and South Side Community Art Center (SSCAC). All events are free and open to the public.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Shedd’s Wonder of Water Gala 2024
What: Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the stark beauty and sheer wonder of biodiversity.
Where: Shedd Aquarium| 1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
When: Saturday, September 28
Time: 5:30 p.m. Cocktails; 7:00 p.m. Aquatic Presentation; 8:00 p.m. Dinner; 9:15 p.m. Dessert and Dancing
Cost: Varies
Why: Join co-chairs Liz and Matt Connelly, board members and supporters of the Shedd Aquarium for a celebration of the interconnectedness of water and amplify Shedd’s work to protect these precious waterways for future generations. This is a Black Tie event. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Woman’s Board of Rush University Medical Center 2024 Fall Benefit
What: The Woman’s Board of Rush University Medical Center’s 2024 Fall Benefit: A Night in the White City – themed after the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair
Where: Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel | 17 E. Monroe Street
When: Saturday September 28
Time: 6:00 pm
Cost: Varies
Why: The Woman’s Board of Rush University Medical Center’s 2024 Fall Benefit: A Night in the White City – themed after the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair – to honor the innovative history of Chicago, The Woman’s Board, and RUSH! Join us for an evening to celebrate the long history of Chicago, RUSH, and The Woman’s Board, foster community spirit, and drive a sense of nostalgia and unity. A Night in the White City, themed after the 1893’s Chicago World’s Fair, will inspire and innovate us to dream big and achieve the seemingly impossible. The evening will feature a live band, silent auction, and a formal sit-down dinner.. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: National Hellenic Museum Gala 2024
What: Join us for an evening of fine dining, music, dancing and a spectacular auction to benefit the National Hellenic Museum.
Where: Hilton Chicago | 720 S. Michigan Avenue 60605
When: Saturday September 28
Time: 6:00p.m.–Reception; 7:00pm Dinner, Auction, Music, Dancing
Cost: $375+
Why: We look forward to seeing you at our most important fundraising event of the year, as we celebrate the lasting and enriching Hellenic legacy.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Law Roach: How to Build a Fashion Icon
What: Discover the secrets of creating a fashion legacy with legendary stylist Law Roach, the world’s only Image Architect.
Where: Thalia Hall
When: Sunday September 29
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Cost: $41
Why: Law Roach: How to Build a Fashion Icon – Notes on Confidence from the World’s Only Image Architect presented by Chicago Humanities. Join us for an exclusive live discussion of his new book, How to Build a Fashion Icon. Roach, known for transforming celebrities like Celine Dion, Ariana Grande, and Zendaya into style sensations, will share anecdotes from his illustrious career. Learn how to cultivate a unique personal brand, navigate the fashion world, and leave a lasting impression. The Chicago native returns to the neighborhood of his first boutique to share insider tips on the most essential fashion accessory: confidence.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: AIDS Run & Walk
What: Join the movement to end the HIV epidemic!
Where: Soldier Field | 1410 Special Olympics Drive
When: Saturday September 28
Time: 9:00am
Cost: Varies
Why: AIDS Run & Walk Chicago raises awareness and funds for AIDS Foundation Chicago and 25+ CommunityDirect partners, with proceeds directly benefiting programs and services improving the lives of Chicagoans living with and vulnerable to HIV or chronic conditions. Join our incredible community as we run, walk, and roll
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Life Time Chicago Half Marathon & 5k
What: The Life Time Chicago Half Marathon presented by HOKA gives you the chance to run on traffic restricted Lake Shore Drive
Where: Jackson Park
When: Sunday, September 29
Time: 6:00am
Cost: $65 (5k)
Why: Hit the pavement for exclusive access to Lake Shore Drive, historic Southside neighborhoods and unrivaled skyline views! Whether you’re chasing a PR, need a tune-up for your next race, or a memorable family weekend in the city, an historic Chicago race experience awaits you at the Life Time Chicago Half Marathon.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Athleta Presents Gold Over America Tour Chicago
What: Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles, Paul Juda, Hezly Rivera, Brody Malone and more.
Where: United Center
When: Sunday September 29
Time: Gates Open at 6:00pm
Cost: Varies
Why: Join the excitement at the Athleta Presents Gold Over America Tour, starring Simone Biles and America’s best gymnasts, stopping at United Center on September 29, 2024! This celebration of world-class gymnastics is designed to inspire the next generation of champions. Led by Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time, Athleta Presents Gold Over America Tour (GOAT) delivers an exhilarating display of jaw-dropping athletic brilliance and high-energy choreography. Every tumble, twist, and gravity-defying trick will have audiences on the edge of their seats. Get tickets now for a thrilling night of family entertainment..
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: 2nd Annual Sky Blue Music and Culture Fest
What: Event was rescheduled from late August.
Where: Southside YMCA Field | 6330 S Stony Island Avenue
When: Sunday September 29
Time: 11am – 6pm
Cost: $FREE
Why: The 2nd Annual Sky Blue Music and Culture Fest is back and we are bringing the vibes! We are honoring the community of Chicago & Woodlawn! This year you will get the ultimate in R&B + Soul musical performances, Yoga & Meditation, Contemporary Artist Showcases, the Livest DJs, a Virgil Abloh Tribute, Chicago Brands + Merchandise Marketplace, featured Art + Culture Panels, Local Food Courts, Chicago-Owned Wine Bar and Wellness Lounge areas for all guests attending!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
*Cover image credit via Chicago Gourmet
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