What are our picks for the best events happening in Chicago worth your time this week through to the weekend (November 11 through 17)? 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: Black Harvest Film Festival
What: Celebrating its 30th year in 2024, the Black Harvest Film Festival is Chicago’s annual showcase for Black film across the diaspora.
Where: The Gene Siskel Film Center | 164 N. State Street
When: Friday November 8 – Thursday November 21
Time: Varies
Cost: Discounted pricing for members. Not currently a member? Join Here
Why: Born from an urgent need to celebrate the Black experience, the Black Harvest Film Festival unites filmmakers and audiences to showcase the power of Black cinema. This annual festival highlights emerging and established talents and historical narratives, enriching the landscape of Black culture. The festival curates both short and feature length films, proudly presenting influential auteurs and emerging filmmakers of color side by side.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Celebrating Women Winemakers: Celler Piñol’s Cristina Borrull Tasting Events
What: A 5 Course Tasting Experience Featuring Celler Piñol’s winemaker from Spain, Cristina Borull with small bite pairings by Chef Marcos Campos.
Where: Bronzeville Winery | 4420 South Cottage Grove Avenue 60653
When: Tuesday November 12
Time: 6:30pm
Cost: $125
Why: Its going to be an Unmissable Night for Wine Lovers!!! Bronzeville Winery invites you to an exclusive VIP tasting event unlike any other, where you’ll savor exquisite wines and dishes crafted by two of today’s most daring young talents: Cristina Borrull. Spain’s rising star in winemaking, and Chef Marcos Campos, an acclaimed culinary artist reinventing Spanish cuisine. If you love wine and unforgettable dining experiences, this is a night you simply can’t afford to miss!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: ANNIE By Crossroads Live
What: ANNIE returns to Chicago this November for a limited run!
Where: The Chicago Theatre | 17 East Monroe Street
When: Tuesday Nov. 12-Sunday Dec. 1
Time:6:00pm-9:00pm
Cost: Varies
Why: ANNIE, directed by Jenn Thompson, features the iconic book and score, written by Tony Award®-winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin. This celebration of family, optimism and the American spirit remains the ultimate cure for all the hard knocks life throws your way.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Friends of James Beard Dinner
What: Featuring a four-course menu, with each course prepared by a different acclaimed chef, including James Beard Finalist Maya-Camille Broussard, Top Chef’s Joe Sasto, and Casey Doody from BOKA Restaurant Group.
Where:Adorn Bar & Restaurant at Four Seasons Chicago |
When: Thursday, November 14
Time: 6:30pm (reception) | 7:00pm (Dinner)
Cost: $95/per person
Why: A special Friends of James Beard dinner hosted by Chef Richie Farina. This exclusive event will feature a four-course tasting menu, with each course prepared by a different acclaimed chef, including Top Chef’s Joe Sasto, and Casey Doody from BOKA Restaurant Group. Brooks Wine, recognized as one of the World’s Best Vineyards in 2023, will provide expertly paired beverages for the evening. As a certified B Corporation and a leader in sustainable winemaking, Brooks Wine adds a meaningful touch to this extraordinary culinary experience. All proceeds will support the James Beard Foundation. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Rooftop Dating Event – Singles, Sips, & Snaps 📸
What: One rooftop, up to 200 singles.
Where: Offshore at Navy Pier | 1000 E. Grand Avenue 60611
When: Thursday November 14
Time: 7:30pm
Cost: $25
Why: There’s no better time to cozy up for cuffing season. Lake Michigan and the city skyline make the perfect backdrop. Plus, we’ll have our photographer on-site to capture the action. Don’t strike a match this time around? You might just land a great, new shot for your dating profile instead 😉.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Billie Eilish ‘Hit Me Hard and Soft’ The Tour
What: Billie Eilish is bringing Hit Me Hard and Soft The Tour to Chicago, with special guest Nat & Alex Wolff!
Where: United Center | 1901 W. Madison Street
When: Wednesday November 13-Thursday November 14
Time:Gates Open at 5:30 p.m.
Cost: Varies; In keeping with her commitment to making a difference in the environmental impacts of her music and touring, a portion of the proceeds from ticket sales in North America will go to REVERB and its ongoing effort to help support organizations across the country addressing the impacts of food insecurity and the climate crisis.
Why:Billie Eilish is back on the road on her seventh headlining tour through North America Australia and Europe in support of her third studio album titled “Hit Me Hard and Soft”.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Joe Torry with J.McNutt Live presented by City of Laughs
What: City of Laughs presents Joe Torry with J. McNutt live.
Where: City Winery Chicago | 43 East Ohio Street
When: Wednesday November 13
Time:Doors 6:00 p.m.
Cost: $30+.
Why: You’ve seen him featured in the many box office hits, and on HBO’s DEF Comedy Jam now catch Joe Torry live with City Of Laughs, held exclusively at the exquisite City Winery Chicago! Brace yourself for an unforgettable evening filled with non-stop hilarity as the nation’s top touring comedians take the stage. Grab your friends and join us for a night of uproarious entertainment that will leave you gasping for breath with tears of joy streaming down your face. You can’t miss out on this belly-laugh inducing spectacle – come and experience the unmatched wit and infectious energy that makes City Of Laughs the ultimate comedy event!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Sip, Shop & Give Back at Vintage Fest
What: Special VIP experience at Vintage Fest, where you can sip and shop early while supporting a great cause!
Where: Olio Wicker Park | 1421 North Milwaukee Avenue Chicago 60622
When:Thursday November 14
Time: 6-9:30 pm
Cost: $Registration required
Why: Join us for a VIP experience at Vintage Fest, where you can sip and shop early while supporting The Quilt Collective Chicago, which provides warm blankets to those in need. Bring any spare blankets to donate, and know that a portion of ticket and vendor fee proceeds will benefit the collective. Enjoy a unique shopping experience that also warms hearts!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Culinary Care Gourmand Gala
What:Don’t miss your chance to be part of the community that’s redefining cancer care.
Where: Union Station | 500 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, 60661
When: Thursday, November 14
Time: 6:00pm
Cost: $225+
Why: Culinary Care is a nonprofit making nourishment part of everyone’s cancer care — delivering free restaurant-prepared meals and community support at a time when it’s needed most. This year’s event theme, ‘The Magic of Hospitality,’ highlights the impact of care, connection, and a thoughtfully prepared meal. To help us celebrate the magic of an incredible meal, we’ve rounded up Chicago’s top chefs and mixologists.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: 2024 Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape Preview
What: Hosted by The Botanic Garden’s Board of Directors and the Woman’s Board of the Chicago Horticultural Society, join us for an exclusive first look at Lightscape!
When: Thursday, November 14
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Cost: Sponsorship tiers vary
Why: Be among the first to experience this year’s new Lightscape trail before it opens to the public. Lightscape Preview is the Garden’s annual fundraising event. This year’s Preview promises an enchanting evening filled with wonder and giving. Guests will enjoy beverages and trail bites along the way and savor a selection of dinner entrees indoors before completing the trail with a final stop for dessert.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: 23rd Annual Chicago Innovation Awards: The Power of Community
What: The largest annual celebration of new products, services and organizations across industries and sectors in the Midwest.
Where: UIC Forum | 1618 West Devon Avenue
When: Thursday November 14
Time:5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Cost: $175+
Why: The Chicago Innovation Awards shine a bright light on the creative spirit of Chicago by focusing attention on the most significant new products and services. Be among the esteemed attendees in Chicago’s innovation community to experience the largest annual celebration of innovation in the Chicago region where you will: Discover the most innovative new products and services across industries. Connect with leaders from large corporations, startups, non-profits, government and investors in attendance. Celebrate the biggest night of the year to honor innovators with Chicago’s innovation community
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Hyde Park Art Center Gala & After Party 2024
What: Hyde Park Art Center hosts its annual Gala that activates its entire building.
Where: Hyde Park Art Center | 5020 S. Cornell
Chicago, IL 60615
When: Friday November 15
Time: 5:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m.
Cost: $750+
Why: Co-chaired by Jim Dempsey, Sandhya Mullangi, Cheryl and Thomas Rudbeck III, the lively event is packed with hands-on art activities, performances, open studios, art auctions, and DJs from Lumpen Radio, offering a unique and interactive experience while benefiting the art center’s various programs supporting Chicago art and artists. The Gala after party is hosted in partnership with Lumpen Radio. Artists interventions and performances by Jonathan Castillo, Marco Guagnelli, Erica Littlejohn, Gaozhe Max Li, Kathryn Trumbull Fimreite, Kushala Vora, and teen artists in Hyde Park Art Center’s Youth Board of Artists.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: USO Salute Gala 2024: An Evening of Honor and Support for America’s Heroes
What: The USO is proud to host the 2024 Salute Gala, a fundraising event dedicated to honoring and supporting the brave men and women of America’s military.
Where: The Old Post Office | 433 W Van Buren St
When: Friday November 15
Time: 6:00 p.m.–
Cost: $750+
Why: USO Salute Gala 2024: An Evening of Honor and Support for America’s Heroes, featuring special guests, Miss America Madison Marsh, USO Canine Apache, Miss Illinois, Miss Wisconsin, and Staley da Bear, the Bears mascot..
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: PAWS Chicago 2024 Fur Ball
What: One of the only few gala’s in town where Dogs are welcome!*
Where: The Drake
When: Friday, November 15
Time: 6 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Cost: $1,000
Why: The PAWS Chicago Fur Ball, presented by Nan & Wayne Kocourek, is Chicago’s premier pet-friendly black tie event! Set at the legendary Drake Hotel, this unique gala invites guests to dress their pets in four-legged formal wear and walk the red carpet for an exciting celebration to benefit PAWS Chicago. Guests will delight in the silent and live auctions with one-of-a-kind items, raffle, dancing, and dinner buffets. Lucky dogs in attendance will also be treated to an evening of indulgences – including a divine dinner served in crystal goblets at the special dog buffet.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute
What: Fronted by a dynamic Agnetha and Frida duo, the music of the greatest pop band in history comes to life in a joyful celebration of these timeless tunes.
Where: City Winery| 1200 W. Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60607
When: Saturday, November 16
Time: 12:00 p.m.
Cost:$25+
Why: Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute is the ultimate tribute to the music of ABBA – sure to capture the hearts of fans and audiences of all ages! This live show is full of musical precision, fabulous flair and fashion, and promises a mesmerizing ABBA experience for every Chiquitita, Super Trouper, Fernando, and Dancing Queen around!
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Pops For Champagne Tasting Series
What:Tasting selections will include Champagne Michel Gonet, Grand Cru Mesnil Sur Oger 2015, Champagne J.M. Seleque Solessence Extra Brut NV, Champagne Hure Freres, Invitation Extra Brut to name a few.
Where: Pops For Champagne | 601 N State St.Chicago
When: Saturday November 16
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Cost: $125/per person
Why: João Alves de Sa, a native from Portugal who managed the wine programs at Next Restaurant and Verve Wine before joining wine distributor Grand Cru Selections will join Michael Seward as we explore their impressive grower champagne portfolio.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: The Makeup Show
What: The Makeup Show is returning to the Windy City with our intimate beauty experience!
Where: Rockwell on the River | 3057 N Rockwell St
When:Saturday, November 16 – Sunday, November 17
Time: 9 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Cost: $45(One day); $58 (two day)
Why: The Makeup Show Chicago will feature some of the most influential artists and brands in today’s beauty industry. Join us for a fun and unforgettable two-day experience with 4 stages of education and pro-discounted shopping opportunities with some of the best brands in the industry.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Maverick City Music Good News Tour
What: After the success of ‘The Maverick Way’ tour in 2023, Maverick City Music aims to bring fans across the U.S. together to celebrate the enduring passion for spiritual connection through transformative music.
Where: United Center | 1901 W. Madison Street
When: Saturday November 16
Time: Gates Open at 6:00 p.m.
Cost: Varies
Why: Five-time GRAMMY Award-winning music collective Maverick City Music is bringing the Good News Tour to United Center on 2024! The tour will feature performances from Naomi Raine, Chandler Moore, Tasha Cobbs Leonard, JWLKRS, Nick Day, Todd Galberth, Mara Justine, Brunes Charles, and Genavieve. Special guest performers include Tim Godfrey, Stephen McWhirter, and Sam Rivera.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Don Toliver Psycho Tour
What: With special guests Monaleo, Molly Santana
Where: Credit Union1 Arena at UIC | 525 S. Racine Avenue
When: Sunday November 17
Time: 6:00pm (Doors)
Cost: $Varies
Why: Don Toliver brings his unique blend of rap to the arena on his Psycho Tour. Experience his energy and flow live on stage, featuring songs from his albums and popular singles. His rap style combines melodic elements with a raw narrative, resonating with fans around the world. Fans shouldn’t miss this opportunity to catch this rising star live in concert.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: Chicago Botanic Garden 2024 Lightscape
What: Check off a holiday bucket list experience at Lightscape with stunning artistic light and music installations.
Where: Chicago Botanic Garden | 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022
When: November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Time: based on availability
Cost: Member and Non-member pricing
Why: Embrace the spirit and beauty of the season at Lightscape, setting the Garden aglow with light, music and art. This year’s reimagined trail takes our holiday celebration to new heights and lights with dazzling installations debuting in the U.S. for the first time. Leave your to-do list at home and make lasting memories at Lightscape.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
EVENT: ZooLights Presented by ComEd and Invesco QQQ
What:Celebrate 30 years of ZooLights Presented by ComEd and Invesco QQQ, Chicago’s favorite holiday tradition!
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo | 2001 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL 60614
When: Friday November 15, 2024–January 5, 2025
Time: based on availability
Cost: $7–$10 | Free Admission Select Mondays
Why: Join us in a milestone year for Chicagoland’s favorite holiday tradition, back with new artistic, interactive displays and programming! ZooLights will feature more than 3 million lights, including hundreds of luminous LED displays and festive seasonal experiences.
CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS
*Cover image credit via Black Harvest Film Festival
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