What are our picks for the best events happening in Chicago worth your time this week through to the weekend (April 21-26)? This is the Week to Weekend Guide you need, you can pass on the others. Bring out your paper calendars or iCal and lets get to the fun.
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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