Chicago is the birthplace of the skyscraper. Among the most well-known skyscrapers is the John Hancock Center, which towers more than 1,127-feet and is 100 stories high - enough aluminum in the building to cover 12 football fields! 

One very fast elevator ride to the top and you'll be in one of the world's most expansive and entertaining observatories, home to an open-air skywalk; a sky-high cafe; a free, multimedia tour; and spectacular bird's eye views.

Light-polluted, inland cities such as Chicago don't generally lend themselves to star-gazing and dolphin-spotting. Nature-lovers head to rural hills or beachside towns for such thrills.

But with just a day at the Chicago Museum Campus, visitors can check out Orion's belt, sit in on a dolphin show, and study dinosaur fossils--with just a pleasant, lakeside stroll between each of the Chicago museums housed here.

The city's oldest museum, the Chicago Historical Society, reopened its doors after a multi-million dollar renovation, unveiling not only its new name—The Chicago History Museum—but also a new motto that Chicago history begins here. So trek on up to Lincoln Park and immerse yourself in Chicago's spectacular past.

In the northern region of Grant Park, right on Michigan Avenue, lies the Art Institute of Chicago, which houses more than 5,000 years of human artistic expression from all over the world.

The newly opened Modern Wing at the Art Institute of Chicago is home to the museum's expansive contemporary and modern art collections, several public areas, and more! Check out our guide to the Modern Wing at the Art Institue of Chicago.

Known for man-made landmarks like the gargantuan Willis Tower, Chicago is still a city that likes its nature. Natural life abounds here and nowhere more so than the grounds of the Chicago Botanic Garden. Plants of every kind are organized around the 385-acre property and the avian species (birds!) know a good thing when they see it.

For animals lovers in the Windy City, Lincoln Park Zoo is where you want to be. Admission is free and the family friendly exhibits are guaranteed to entertain.

In a city that is continually becoming more busy--and costly--it is a relished treat to chill out for an afternoon at Lincoln Park Zoo and hang out with some of man’s best friends. Did we mention admission is free? With over 1,250 animals to love and observe, Lincoln Park Zoo will delight even the most fastidious of Chicago zoo-goers.  

Founded in 1857 as "the teaching and learning center" of the Chicago Academy of Sciences, the Notebaert Nature Museum has been preserving the environment and promoting environmental consciousness for over 150 years.

Children will love the Notebaert whether they are seeing the world through the eyes of a bug or monkeying around in a tree house. There are also a number of fun workshops and other programs where adults and kids alike can join in the museum's daily activities, like animal feedings and butterfly releases, and learn more about the earth and saving it.

The United States of America hadn't been in existence for 100 years when the most difficult crisis in the nation's history hit in the form of Civil War. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum honors not only the man who kept the country from falling into anarchy, but the state where he was raised.

The Chicago Cultural Center is a city landmark for exquisite art, architecture, music, theater, and history.

The most prominent elements of the Cultural Center are the two famous glass domes (including the world’s largest Tiffany dome) that rest atop this “People’s Palace”.

Free art exhibits, renowned performers, and glorious architecture draw a range of people to Chicago’s cultural home.

Chicago's John G. Shedd Aquarium not only houses more than 22,000 animals but it is one of Chicago's historic landmarks. Located on Lake Michigan with a breathtaking view of the city, it offers so much more than a traditional aquarium. They have sharks, penguins, dolphins and one of the oldest fish in the world.

The Field Museum has it all, from 3-D movies to Sue, the world's most complete T-Rex fossil. No matter your age or preference for museums, this Chicago museum is a must.

The Field Museum resides on the downtown lakefront property known as the Museum Campus, where other prestigious museums like the John G. Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium can be found.

Legendary tough guys such as Al Capone made Chicago the home to America's first gangsters. These hardened hooligans left a permanent mark in the history books of this bustling city by coining the Windy City as their center of operations for organized crime.

Only an exceptional crew of gangster connoisseurs could pack all of the history, excitement, and scandal of the 1920s into an interactive tour. These whirlwind tours give guests an insider view of the complex inter-workings of Chicago's gang system and even provokes the electric feeling of a dangerous gangster adventure.

Millenium Park is filled with a countless selection of art, stunning architecture and landscapes, and events for the whole family to enjoy in its 24.5 acres of land. You can venture out and explore the grounds freely, or take one of the guided tours the city has to offer.  Experience Chicago's most famous park in the most detailed way.

Overview

The first museum of its kind in the U.S., the DuSable Museum of African American History shares the stories of the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout U.S. history. The museum focuses not only on the well known leaders, but also on those unsung heroes who paved the way for equality through history.

This emotionally moving gallery is not for the light of heart. A complex jumble of feelings scream out from the paintings, sculptures, photographs, poems and stories collected in the world’s only museum focusing solely on art created about the subject of war.

The pieces displayed in the warehouse-like setting continuously help the artists, veterans and the general public cope with the controversial and frustrating sensation of war.

Standing on the corner of Erie and Wabash, you can find a piece of Gilded Age Chicago preserved in the middle of modernity. The home of a 19th century banker has been restored and opened to the public as the Driehaus Museum.

Each year, the Illinois Governor's Conference on Tourism brings together industry professionals and experts for the chance to connect and learn about new advances in the Illinois tourism industry. 

This year's conference, The New Reality, will give conference attenees the chance to gain new insights from speakers at the top of their fields; to learn about advances in products, services, and technology; and network with industry peers. The conference wraps up with the Excellence in Tourism awards luncheon. 

Segway Tours are the hottest new trend in guided tours all over the country and Segway Experience of Chicago – as the only authorized Segway Touring and Sales dealership for the City of Chicago – has become the largest Segway tour operator in the country with over two dozen Segways available in their fleet.

Ask about corporate and private events, too.

The Chicago Theatre Tour shows the history and amazing architecture of the famous building. The tour takes you to the beautiful auditorium, lobby areas, and backstage where many famous performers have performed, including Frank Sinatra, Tom Jones, and David Copperfield. The tour runs every Tuesday and Thursday at 12pm and the third Saturday of every month at 11am and 12pm. Tickets are $5.

Cost: $5-$25, depending on event

What to expect: Five weeks of dance events, from hot new choreographers to kids shows.

Why to go: The Dance Slam. If you've got a limited attention span, check out this event: five minutes of dance or less from hundreds of artists, all different styles.

Additional info: This event takes place at the Athenaeum Theatre.

Location(s): mulitple

What to expect: Over 25 exhibitions citywide from cultural and scientific institutions, covering maps, globes, art and more. The exhibitions will cover both past achievements and future technology.

Additional info: Participating institutions include the Adler Planetarium, Art Institute of Chicago, Brookfield Zoo, Chicago Architecture Foundation, Chicago Botanic Garden, Chicago Cultural Center, Chicago History Museum, Field Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Science and Industry, Spertus Museum and the University of Chicago.

Be sure to check www.festivalofmaps.com to for the most accurate date and times of events.

Cost: Free Units:
Giant helium balloons, fabulous floats, award-winning marching bands, talented equestrian units, unique performance groups, local and national celebrities.

Viewers:
1.5 million

On-street:
400,000

Weather:
Average high – 42; Average low – 29; Late November in Chicago can bring a variety of temperatures and conditions. You should be prepared for all weather conditions. The show
will go on regardless of the weather.

Directions:
From the Northwest, take I-90 or I-94 East (Kennedy or Edens Expressway) and exit at Ohio Street. Turn right on State Street.

From the East, take the Chicago Skyway to the local traffic lanes of I-94 West (Dan Ryan Expressway). Exit onto I-55 (Stevenson Expressway) and follow the signs to Lake Shore Drive north. Turn left on Balbo to State Street.

From the West, take I-290 East (Eisenhower Expressway) into downtown as it turns into Congress Parkway and runs right into State Street.

From the South, take I-55 (Stevenson) and follow signs to Lake Shore Drive north. Turn left on Balbo to State Street.


By Public Transportation:

Metra operates 12 commuter rail lines into downtown Chicago from the surrounding six counties. Call 312.322.6777 for the holiday schedule. Check online at www.metrarail.com

Amtrak has 50 trains that arrive or depart Chicago daily. Only a 20 minute walk from the parade route, Union Station is located on Canal Street, between Jackson and Adams. Call 800.USA.RAIL. Check online at www.amtrak.com

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) offers convenient bus and train lines to the parade route. El passengers should take the Red Line to Harrison or the Brown/Orange/Green Line to the Library/State/van Buren stop. For route, fare and schedule information, call 888.968.7282. Check online at www.transitchicago.com. CTA offers service from both O’Hare and Midway airports.

What:  Exhibit examines the life of the former mayor and provides an overview of several projects initiated during his tenure.

When:

Sundays : 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays : 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays : 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Price: Free

Cross Street: Roosevelt Steet

Tommy Gun's Garage is an audience interactive "speakeasy" which offers a musical comedy revue with the gangsters, the flappers and you! After dinner join "Vito", "Gloves", the "mugs" and the "molls" for non-stop comedy and dangerous fun as they entertain you with singing, dancing and a lot of audience participation!

Looking for that special wine or want to discover something different? Check out Park Grill's "Wednesday Wine Tastings" the third Wednesday of the month at the Park Grill.

Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Tasting

Park Grill presents a tasting of twelve premium Beaujolais Nouveau wines from France. “Le Beaujolais nouveau est arrivé!”. Each year the new Beaujolais is officially released on the third Thursday of November and no time earlier, which has been mandated by French Law. Just after midnight, a race begins to ship the wine out all around the world as quickly as possible. This red wine is a classic at the American Thanksgiving Dinner table so stop by to get a hint of what to drink at this year’s holiday celebration. Selections will include Georges DuBouef and others from the Beaujolais region of France. A wonderful array of bite sized hors d'oeuvres will be paired with the wines of the evening.

Where: Park Grill, 11 N. Michigan Ave, Chicago
Price: $35 in advance
When: November 21st, 5:30 PM — 7:30 PM

For reservations call 312.521.7275.

Called "The funniest, fastest 90 minutes in Chicago bar none!" by Chicago Tribune. This 90 minute show has been extended due to popular demand.

Tickets:

Box Office 312-988-9000 or forbiddenbroadway.com

Take a sneak peek into this new place. Complimentary beer, wine, and hors d'oeuvres.

A four-course menu to entice diners: champagne and wine pairings, Maine lobster broth, smoked mussels, calamari, smoked duck, champagne poached pear and MUCH more! Dessert options will surely not disappoint.

Hours:

5:30pm-1am

Cost:

$48/person, $18/person for wine pairings, $28/person for champagne pairings 

See the insult comic know as the Queen of Mean. Definitely for mature audiences only. January 12, 2008 @ 8pm.

Tickets:

Ticketmaster: On sale November 30, 2007 @ 10am

$37.50-$45/person

Additional Information:

http://www.thechicagotheatre.com/events.htm 

Order off the menu or dine on Chef Jackie Shen's special ala carte menu

Cost:

$85 5:30pm-midnight

Reservations Recommended 

redlight-chicago.com or 312-733-8880

Celebrate the new year at DeLaCosta with two different seating options.

First Seating: 5-7pm $85/person Four-course meal

Second Seating: 8:3-10pm $135/person and includes champange toast, live entertainment, DJ, dancing, and party favors.

Reservations:

Call Elaine or Jennifer at 312-464-1700 

Emerald City Theatre presents the works of Hans Christian Andersen at the Apollo Theater. See the story of the author as a young boy being an "Ugly Duckling". 

Tickets:

Adults $15, Children $12

Call 773-935-6100 or Visit emeraldcitytheatre.com 

This performance is from women of color and reveals emotions about intimacy, performed in the style of The Vagina Monologues. This black perspective is honest, funny, and poignant. It theme is about women's health and HIV/AIDS awareness. 

Tickets:

$34 Visit: www.steppenwolf.org or Call: 312-335-1650 

Celebrate the coming of the new year at D4 Irish Pub & Cafe. Open bar, appetizer buffet, music and dancing, champagne toast and favors at midnight. Semi-formal attire is required.

Reservations:

Call 312-624-8385

Additional Information:

Email: deb@d4pub.com 

This month American Perspectives takes an architectural focus with three outstanding lectures. On April 3 Thomas Hines discusses the modernist work of Richard Neutra and Lloyd Wright, the son of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Alice Friedman explores the role of women in American architecture on April 17, and Mardges Bacon traces architect Le Corbusier's experiences in 1930s Chicago on April 18. Check out the entire month's offerings at the American Perspectives Web site.

On April 25, see the work of the seminal Pop and Conceptual artist Ed Ruscha in a brand new light. Amidst the evening swirl of live music from DJ Daisy O'Dell, theatrical performances from Collactoraction, complimentary appetizers, and cocktails, take a tour of the 115 original photographic prints displayed in "Ed Ruscha and Photography."

April 25, 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

The Midwest Premiere of the Tony Award-winning musical
Grey Gardens

Book by Doug Wright, music by Scott Frankel, lyrics by Michael Korie

Directed by BJ Jones

Music Direction by Doug Peck
November 12 – December 21, 2008

This brand new musical comes to Chicago after its 2007 Tony Award-winning Broadway run, giving Northlight audiences the chance to rub elbows with Edith Bouvier Beale and her daughter "Little Edie," Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis' most scandalous relatives!  Once the highest of high society, the two have become East Hampton's most notorious recluses, living in a dilapidated 28-room mansion with 51 cats for company.  Set in two eras—1941 when the celebrated estate was the picture of wealth and sophistication, and 1973 after it had been reduced to squalor—Grey Gardens is a hilarious and heartbreaking look at two indomitable women.

The World Premiere of Po' Boy Tango

By Kenneth Lin
January 7 – February 15, 2009
 
A celebration of the human spirit and the joy of cooking, Po' Boy Tango tells the story of Richie Po, a Chinese immigrant who turns to his estranged friend Gloria to help him recreate his mother's "Great Banquet."  Despite the challenges of shark fin soup, duck po' boy sandwiches and underlying cultural tensions, Richie and Gloria find common ground through their shared humor and the blending of traditional Taiwanese cuisine and African-American "Soul Food."  Helped by lessons from Po Mama’s television cooking show, the two discover a deeper understanding of food, culture and the nature of friendship.  Po’ Boy Tango comes to the Northlight stage for a full production after a successful workshop and reading as a part of the Northlight Interplay series—the third production to make such a transition (Lady, Better Late).

Creative Chiacgo Expo
Saturday, April 12, 10am - 4pm
Chicago Cultural Center
Chicago's fifth annual resource fair for artists and creators in all disciplines.  For more information, visit www.chicagoartistsresource.org

GALLERY TALK: HereThereEverywhere
Thursday, April 3, 12:15pm
Exhibit Hall
Gregory Knight, Deputy Commissioner, Visual Art, and Sofia Zutautas, Assistant Curator of Exhibitions, Chicago DCA, will discuss this exhibition.

FRIENDS OF DOWNTOWN: "Preserving the Landmarks of LaSalle Street"
Thursday, April 3, 12:15pm
Claudia Cassidy Theater
Don Faloon, Executive Vice President of The Prime Group, Inc., will discuss the reasons for the renovation of 11 S. LaSalle and 208 S. LaSalle and how the space is marketed to new tenants. Alfredo Marr, principal at Lucien Lagrange Architects, is overseeing the architectural renovation of 208 S. LaSalle and will discuss the strategies used to update and improve the building while preserving its historical charm.

THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO FIRST FRIDAY LECTURES: "Blaise Pascal and Pierre Bayle on the Status of Christianity"
Friday, April 4, 12:15pm
Claudia Cassidy Theater
George Anastaplo, Basic Program instructor, will explore the ideas and influences of these two distinguished French thinkers who have assessed, each in a distinctive manner, the consequences of the Christian movement, especially for the modern world.

MUSICIANS AT WORK FORUMS: "Bands and Venues - Make it Work!"
Monday, April 7, 6pm
Claudia Cassidy Theater
This forum discusses finding the right venue for a band, with topics like approaching local and out of town venues, preparing a list of questions for the venue, including where to park, where to load in, how long to play, show time, when to arrive, and more.

INTERSECTIONS: "The Countryside of the City: Puerto Rican Culture in the 1950s"
Wednesday, April 9, 6pm
1st Floor Garland Room
Carmelo Esterrich, the director of the Cultural Studies program at Columbia College Chicago, explores the 1950s in Puerto Rico, the moment when the island weny from a rural society to an urban, industrialized nation at breakneck speed. Through the analysis of government produced educational films, the danceable music of Cortijo y Su Combo, and the output of a generation of new "urban" writers, Professor Esterrich tackles the how and why of national culture formation.

CREATIVE LIVING IN THE CITY: "The Care and Feeding of Chicago's Wilderness: Best Land Management Practices for Natural Areas"
Thursday, April 10, 12:15pm
Claudia Cassidy Theater
Panelists will discuss land management practices used by Forest Preserve Districts in the region as well as the Chicago Park District to maintain the health of natural areas in parks and forests, savannahs, woodlands and prairies.

MILLENNIUM PARK LURIE GARDEN LECTURE SERIES: "'Know' Maintenance: Developing Perennial Plant Communities Based on Time and Cost"
Thursday, April 10, 6pm
5th Floor Millennium Park Room
Roy Diblik is co-owner of Northwind Perennial Farm in Burlington, Wisconsin, and plant purchasing coordinator for the Lurie Garden in Milennium Park. Roy grows 400,000 plants of 360 different species each year and has been growing plants for over 25 years. In this springtime lecture series, gardening experts explore issues ranging from man's relationship to nature to basic gardening questions.

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO WORKS OF THE MIND LECTURE SERIES: "Should Marx be Treated like a Dead Dog?"
Sunday, April 13, 1pm
Fifth Floor Washington Room
In this lecture, Daniel Brudney will try to resuscitate some of Marx's ideas about the good life, ideas that come from his early work, written in 1844. They focus on our capacity to be concerned for one another and on the value of engaging in cooperative labor to improve human life. Adapting a famous question posed about Hegel, our question in this lecture will be, "Which of Marx's ideas can be made to come alive and which are irredeemably dead?" Speaker: Daniel Brudney, Associate Professor, Department of Philosophy, and the College, the University of Chicago.

NEW MILLENNIUM NEW MUSIC: "A Power Stronger Than Itself: A history of the AACM"
Tuesday, April 15, 4:15pm
Performance approximately 5:15pm
Claudia Cassidy Theater
See Music article for details of this discussion and jazz performance event.

GALLERY TALK: Dean Sharp: Photographs of the Chicago Picasso, c. 1967
Thursday, April 17, 12:15pm
Michigan Avenue Galleries
The artist will discuss his work.

PRESERVATION SNAPSHOTS: "A City Cannot Be A Work of Art"
Thursday, April 17, 12:15pm
Claudia Cassidy Theater
In 2008, Chicago celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Chicago Landmarks Ordinance. Originally envisioned to protect individual architectural landmarks, the ordinance also covers dozens of historic districts. Vince Michael, John H. Bryan Chair in Historic Preservation Director, Historic Preservation Program The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, looks at the history of historic districts as a distinct phenomenon, an expression of the community planning impulse that shaped the modern historic preservation movement.

CHICAGO OPERA THEATER'S ANDREW PATNER LECTURE SERIES: "Don Giovanni"
Thursday, April 24, 12:15pm
5th Floor Washington Room
Arts commentator and critic-at-large for 98.7 WFMT, Andrew Patner, explores Mozart's Don Giovanni, the first of Chicago Opera Theater's spring productions. Members of the Chicago Opera Theater's Young Artists Program will perform excerpts.

GALLERY TALK: Three Hours Between Planes
Friday, April 25, 5pm
Michigan Avenue Galleries
The curators and several of the artists lead a walk through the exhibition.

Conversation with Arnaldo Roche
Saturday, April 26, 2pm
Exhibit Hall
Robert Hobbs, a New York based curator, educator and featured essayist in the Arnaldo Roche catalog, will guide visitors through the exhibition Arnaldo Roche: Brotherhood / Hermandad as he interviews the artist and discusses his work.

CAFÉ SOCIETY
Ongoing, Wednesday, 12:30pm
Randolph Café
Café Society is presented by The Public Square at the Illinois Humanities Council and the Chicago Cultural Center. The current event topics are chosen a few days in advance in order to be up-to-the-minute. For the week's topic and suggested readings, email thepublicsquare@prairie.org or call 312-422-5580.  
Click here to learn more about lectures and discussions at the Chicago Cultural Center.

Dance Intersections: All Things Chi
Monday, April 28, 6pm
Claudia Cassidy Theater
"All Things Chi" presents three distinct urban dance styles - tap, footworkin' and steppin' - on one stage. M.A.D.D. Rhythms, a high energy tap ensemble, teams up with the fast paced dance battle champions FootworKINGz and the smooth-dancing National Steppers Society to take you on a uniquely Chicago dance adventure. Dance Intersections is a new series which presents two or more accomplished dance companies or choreographers whose work shares a common point of intersection on the same stage.

Chicago Public Schools All City Dance Ensemble Spring Concert
Sunday, April 5, 3pm
Claudia Cassidy Theater
The Chicago Public Schools All City Dance Ensemble is the newest group of the Chicago Public Schools All City Performing Groups. Established in the Fall of 2001 it is an intermediate to advanced dance program for students in grades 8 - 12. Students in the program perform in many venues throughout the city and suburbs and presents an annual spring concert at the Chicago Cultural Center. The All City Dance Ensemble presents culturally diverse choreography ranging from African and modern dance to ballet taught by master dance teachers from the Chicago Public Schools and the Arts Community.

ABOUT DANCE: Ayako Kato
Thursday, April 10, 6:30pm
Dance Studio
Choreographer Ayako Kato and collaborators introduce her most recent dance work, Sound and Movement Mandala - Ten Nights Dream, inspired by a novel written 100 years ago by Japanese author Soseki Natsume. Through the installation and performance, viewers are invited to experience furyu (literally, wind flow) - the beauty of being. Part of the Chicago Dancemakers Forum series featuring the 2007-8 lab artists. About Dance is a monthly series featuring short performance excerpts by acclaimed companies and choreographers and discussion with dance critic Lucia Mauro about their artistic process.

Singer as Body, Dancer as Soul: Witnessing Dance & Opera in Process
Monday, April 14, 2008, 6pm
Dance Studio
Seeing the singer as body and the dancer as soul is part of a process choreographer Karole Armitage engages when working with opera singers and companies around the world. During the program, Armitage will work with Lyric Soprano Lauren Curnow and pianist Celeste Rue in approaching the 1st recit and aria of Haydn's Arianna A Naxos, to expose Armitage's process in action.

Think afternoon tea is only complete with miniature watercress sandwiches and white-gloved service for dainty ladies? Think again! WAVE restaurant is redefining afternoon tea by tempting both girls and guys to partake in a “Uni-Tea” experience beginning April 30th, 2008. Sure you’ll find tea, but you’ll also find tea-infused vodka elixirs (Mar-TEA-nis), plenty of bubbly and a selection of hand-crafted brews in the form of beer for the boys.WAVE’s resident “Spice Girl," Executive Chef Kristine Subido, has created The Teatotaler, a selection of savory and sweet bites to satisfy any appetite.

For $30 per person, The Teatotaler menu includes: A selection of five savory small bites (guest choose either the “Gals” or “Guys” menu); sweets accompanied by Devonshire cream, lemon curd and jam; an individual pot of hot tea (13 varieties are offered from green, oolong and herbal blends) or an iced tea of the day.

Tempting bites include:
 
Gals
Brie, basil and roasted tomato grilled brioche
Smoked salmon and roasted fennel cannolli
Bleu cheese and red grape cannolli
Chilled shrimp and cucumber salad on rosemary bread
Curry deviled eggs

Guys
Beef tartar toasts with white truffle drizzle
Grilled beef tenderloin and dried fruit chutney
Mini Angus beef sliders with bread and butter pickles
Sea salt and parmesan frites with lemon aioli
Serrano ham, quince and manchego grilled brioche

Sweets
Macaroons- sea salt and caramel, lemon, chocolate and berry
Scones- butter and orange-vanilla
Madeleine- vanilla and orange zest
Market fresh fruit tarts
Tea cakes- lemon-poppy seed and chocolate chip

And for the non-teetotaller, the following beverage additions are available to The Teatotaler experience:

• Mar-TEA-ni - Choose from Raspberry Nectar, White Ginger Pear or Citrus Mint tea-infused elixirs paired with Grey Goose Vodka for an extra $10 per person.

• Bubbly TEA - Add a little life to your tea party and enjoy a glass of Moet Chandon White Star or Schramsberg Rose for an extra $12 per person.

• Masculini-TEA – A different kind of brew for the boys! Enjoy one of a selection of four handcrafted beers like Goose Island Matilda or Chimay Triple for an extra $8 per person.

Here it is - The Crosstown Classic!  The Chicago White Sox take on the Chicago Cubs at U.S. Cellular Field.

Here it is - The Crosstown Classic!  The Chicago White Sox take on the Chicago Cubs at U.S. Cellular Field.

The Chicago Cubs take on the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field.

The Ravinia Festival presents Gilberto Gil, co-creator of the group Tropical Movement. Tickets.

Willie Nelson performs with special guest James Hunter.

Tickets.

Ravinia Festival presents Betty Buckley, star of "Cats" and "Sunset Boulevard."

Tickets.

The Chicago Fire take on the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium. Tickets.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra performs at Ravinia presenting Kiri Te Kawana, soprano and James Conlon conducting. "Breaking the Silence" including performances of Schreker- Intermezzo; R. Strauss- Morgen, Op. 27, No.4; Zueihnung, Op. 10, No. 1; Standchen from Sechs Lieder, Op. 17; Canteloube- Three selections from Chants de Auvergne, Bailero, La Delaissardo, Lo Fiolaire; Puccini- Two selections from la boheme, Si, mi chiamano Mimi' Cilea- "lo son l' umile ancella" from Adriana Lecouvereur. Tickets. 

He's been lighting up the stage as Nick Massi, one of the Four Seasons, in the Chicago Broadway Production of "Jersey Boys," and now Michael Ingersoll is coming to Metropolis for one night only. Be a part of this very intimate evening as Michael shares stories of his journey of a lifetime including appearances on Jay Leno's Tonight Show, the Emmy Awards, his role in the Academy Award-nominated film Walk the Line, and even his back-stage tales with musical legend Tony Bennett.

Experience the magic of his unforgettable voice as he sings his all-time favorite songs from musical theater, American standards and the swinging sounds of the Rat Pack – all backed up by his powerful four-piece band. It's one man, timeless songs, unforgettable stories and one magical night.

"Fly Me to the Moon" is a groundbreaking 3-D animated adventure.  Three young flies set off on a courageous mission to become the first insects on the moon by hitching a ride on the historic Apollo 11 space flight.  Based on the actual transcripts and the original blueprints from NASA, the film’s stunning visuals and meticulous attention to detail introduce a whole new generation to the awe-inspiring achievements of the space program’s most momentous mission. 

Fly Me To The Moon opens at Navy Pier IMAX Theatre, 700 E. Grand Ave, Friday, August 22.  Tickets are $15 for adults, $14 for seniors and $13 for children. Tickets may be purchased in advance via the website at www.imax.com/chicago.

Neil Giuntoli's "Hizzoner" is a personal look at Richard J. Daley - authoritarian politician, family man and dynasty builder, whose life was inextricably bound to Chicago, the city he loved. Stefan Brun directs. Hizzoner calls forth from history of the 60's and 70's while featuring a theatrically intimate look at the man atop Chicago's political machine. The show concentrates on the man himself and how he viewed Chicago as his city, as well as how he saw his associates and the population who depended on his leadership. Hizzoner offers up personalities who worked with Daley and some - like Jesse Jackson - with whom he had a crucial crossing of paths. There is also a glimpse into how "Da Mare" may have seen himself.

For more information, visit http://www.hizzonertheplay.com/

Whether a wine connoisseur or a novice, the Made in the USA Sparkling Wine Festival is a terrific opportunity to taste and learn about 15 different domestically produced sparkling wines with tasting glass portions beginning at $6. Guests can enjoy wine from some of the country’s most noteworthy houses including Domaine Carneros, Mumm Cuvee Napa, Roederer Estate and Schramsberg. To complement the wine with something savory, Executive Chef Andrew Brochu will be offering a special half slab of Baby Back Ribs with peach barbeque sauce and coleslaw during the evening. The Made in the USA Sparkling Wine Festival takes place from 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. and no reservations are necessary.

Author/chef Dave Lieberman of The Food Network has created exclusive dishes for each of the W Hotels locations in Chicago.  The hotels will feature four of Dave's dishes on the restaurant and in-room dining menus through December.

Liberman's menu selections include:

Warm balsamic asparagus, pea shoot and baby arugula salad with shaved pecorino
Truffled taleggio grilled cheese served with tomato soup, balsamic caramelized onions, fried rosemary, spicy mustard, cornichons and radishes
Moroccan chicken kebabs with harissa ketchup and cucumber yogurt sauce
Meatball “hoagie” with red paper tomato sauce and provolone

Chicago Shakespeare Theater, recent recipient of the 2008 Regional Theatre Tony Award, continues its celebrated World’s Stage Series of international theatrical events with a stunning outdoor arts spectacle entitled "Maudits Sonnants."

On Friday and Saturday evenings, July 11 and 12, a beautiful human carillon will be suspended 200 feet in the air over Gateway Park at Navy Pier. Set against the extraordinary theatrical backdrop of Chicago’s architectural skyline, a telescopic crane will lift a “musical chandelier” adorned with performers who will ring bells, beat drums and swing on trapezes above the heads of tens of thousands of Pier visitors. From this impromptu aerial stage, the players speak to the city, charming the awestruck populace below with their music box performance—a celestial sound which will reverberate up and down the shoreline and out across Lake Michigan.

This is a free event; no tickets are required. For further information visit the Theater’s website at www.chicagoshakes.com/express.

 

The Chicago Sympony Orchestra presents a special night with conductor John Williams and acclained cellist Yo-Yo Ma perform Arnaud/Williams- Bugler's Dream-Olympic Fanfare and theme; Williams- Song for World Peace, The Olympic Spirit, excerpts from Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Flight to Neverland from Hook, Three pieces from Indiana Jones, Sound the Bells!, and Memoirs of a Geisha, suite for cello and orchestra. Tickets.

Blue Chicago welcomes Big Time Sarah & the BTS Express.

Blue Chicago welcomes the Shirley Johnson Blues Band.

Blue Chicago welcomes the Charlie Love Blues Band w/ Patricia Scott.

Blue Chicago welcomes the Shirley Johnson Blues Band.

Blue Chicago welcomes the JW Williams Blues Band w/ Patricia Scott.

The Deb Seitz Blues Band performs at Harlem Avenue Lounge.

Five hundred years of history and hundreds of artifacts have been conglomerated into a collection that has been five years in the making. Benin - Kings and Rituals: Court Arts from Nigeria comes to Chicago for the grand finale of the tour before the artifacts are
returned to their rightful home of Nigeria. The collection first toured through European museums and now comes to The Art Institute of Chicago as the only venue in North America.

The Benin culture is very unique to Nigeria. The culture is dominated by mysticism and the arts. The king, known as an oba, is believed to be both divine and divinely chosen. The oba is believed to have power over both land and sea. Because of this, there are several animals that represent the power of the oba and are depicted throughout the Benin art. Some of these creatures are snakes, frogs, and mudfish because they seamlessly adjust from land-dwelling to sea-dwelling. Besides those amphibious creatures, another animal is said to represent the oba and be his animal equal. That creature is the leopard; the Benin believe that the leopard is the most powerful creature in the world.

The Benin culture holds artists in high regard, especially those who work with brass and gold;because of this, much of the artwork is cast bronze. Not all of the artwork is done in bronze or gold though. There is also a high regard for coral beads and for ivory carving.

The collection is comprised of over 220 pieces from both museums and private collections around the world. The exhibit will be on display in Chicago from July 10 until September 21, 2008.

Watch as the Bears take on the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field!

"The Boys from Syracuse," based on Shakespeare's "A Comedy of Errors," revolves around the escapades and romantic mix-ups of long-separated identical twins Antipholus of Ephesus and Antipholus of Syracuse, whose servants, the two Dromios, are also long-separated identical twins. Complications arise when the wives of the Ephesians, Adriana and her servant Luce, mistake the two strangers for their husbands. The ironic tale of these separated brothers is a hilarious take on the classic Shakespearean story.  This runaway Broadway hit combines Richard Rodgers’ rich melodies and Laurence Hart’s witty lyrics in the classic score, including “Falling in Love with Love,” “Sing for Your Supper,” and “This Can’t be Love.” The Boys from Syracuse is as entertaining, vibrant, and riotous as when it first took Broadway by storm.

The performance schedule is as follows:  Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. ($28), Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. ($28) and 8 p.m. ($31), Fridays at 8:30 p.m. ($33), Saturdays at 5 p.m. ($33) and 8:30 p.m. ($33) and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. ($33) and 6 p.m. ($31). 

Season subscriptions start as low as $95 for five shows. Dinner packages range from $42.75 to $54 (depending on the day of the week). A special family four pack offer is available for $95 to select performances.  Inquire at box office or website for details and prices.

For reservations, phone (630) 530-0111 or call TicketMaster at 312-559-1212. You can also visit www.ticketmaster.com or www.drurylaneoakbrook.com.

The Venue at the Horseshoe Hammond Casino in Chicago hosts Sarah Silverman--she plays guitar, sings and performs her own comedy.

Meet Me in St. Louis is a musical the whole family will enjoy. With memorable music and a great story, this will be a night that will leave a smile on your face.

Kid’s Menu  
$12.00 per person

Includes one full entrée & dessert

 
Baby Bento

Grilled organic chicken, steak or salmon served with purple potato mash, veggie roll & seasonal fruit


Samba Sliders

Two mini burgers with sweet potato fries & seasonal fruit


Anticuchos

Grilled organic chicken, beef, shrimp or vegetable skewers served with jumbo corn on the cob & seasonal fruit


Noodles

Buckwheat udon with cherry tomatoes

 
Sushi Bites

Four bite-sized rice balls topped with tuna, yellowtail, salmon and cucumber served with a veggie roll & seasonal fruit

In an undisclosed location, three men scheme with a weapons specialist to eliminate the opposition in Jason Wells' dark comedy of negotiation, conspiracy and assassination.

"Men of Tortuga" was developed through the New Plays Initiative by Steppenwolf Theatre and was presented as part of the “First Look Repertory of New Work” in 2005.  The show received rave reviews, enjoyed a popular run and was eventually nominated for the Steinberg New Play Award in November 2005.  The Profiles production, directed by Steppenwolf ensemble member Rick Snyder, will feature Profiles ensemble members, Darrell W. Cox (to play the role he originated) and Eric Burgher.

Following the Steppenwolf production, "Men of Tortuga" received its world premiere production in November 2006 at the Asolo Repertory Theatre in Florida. Mr. Well’s most recent play Perfect Mendacity, directed by David Cromer, is currently being produced as part of Steppenwolf’s First Look Repertory.

 

 

The proceeds benefit The Children's Memorial Hospital while you along with family or friends enjoy music, food and wine. The events include a Ferrari showcase, clowns, magicians and more for everyone to have a good time. There will also be an Italian Buffet to treat yourself to in between events.

For more information call 312-332-7005

This program for two and three-year-olds includes a short hike through the botanic garden's apple orchard, exploration of the parts of an apple tree and cultivation an apple-flavored mint plant.

For more information, click here.

Special Surprise Gift and $10 gift certificate to all dine-in customers.

New this month, Sweet Baby Ray's offers an all-you-can-eat barbecue buffet every Monday, beginning at 5 p.m. Hungry patrons enjoy rib tips, pulled pork, jerk chicken, Windy City stir fry with Italian sausage, pepper, onions and potatoes, barbecue beans, coleslaw, smoked tomato pasta, tossed salad and cornbread. Be sure to save room for dessert with Sweet Baby Ray's mouthwatering bread pudding.

The buffet is available Mondays $9.99 for adults and $7.99 for children, 12 and under. Extra hungry guests may order a single 1/3 slab of Ribs for only $5.

Salud celebrates Mexican Independence Day with a fiesta featuring live music, beer and tequila specials.

Lawrence B. Schlack, Architectural Historian, speaks on Solon S. Beman and Charles D. Faulkner who were founders of Christian Science Church architecture. For more information, check out CAF's website. 

CAF presents Aaron Durnbaugh from the City of Chicago's Department of Environment and Susan Ask from the University of Illinois Extension speak on the new ways the City of Chicago is using to make its landscaping more environmentally friendly and sustainable. For more information, check out CAF's website. 

Charles A. Birnbaum, founder and president of The Cultural Landscape Foundation, presents a lecture at the Chicago Architectural Foundation on the role patrons and landscape architects have played.

Join Barker and Meowsky outdoors at Bridgeview Bank (at the corner of Armitage/Halsted)

* Enter our Costume Contest

* Play Fun Games

* Win Great Prizes

*Enjoy Spooky Story Time & Treats

* Get Your Kid's and Your Furry Pal's Picture Taken in their very scary, and we're sure very adorable, costume.

Proceeds benefit PAWS Chicago!

Enjoy Trick-or-Treating on Armitage, Halsted & Webster Streets!

Bring your kids in their costumes by the stores for treats. Includes participating stores on Armitage from Racine to Halsted, Halsted from Armitage to Webster, and Webster at Racine.

Green is the New Red
90+ Wine Dinner Menu
Tuesday, November 11 and Wednesday, November 12, 2008
6:30 p.m., $95 per person

Who knew red wine could go green and still maintain its palette appeal? Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, Chicago, is serving its first-ever wine dinner with an earth-friendly twist and declaring “Green is the New Red” at its 90+ Wine Dinner on Tuesday, November 11 and Wednesday, November 12 at 6:30 p.m.

The five-course dinner will feature wine selections made from grapes that are sustainably, organically and/or biodynamically farmed and rated 90 points or above by top wine reviewers. These “green” wines were selected from the Fleming’s wines-by-the-glass list – known as the “Fleming’s 100™” – and its wines-by-the-bottle list, both designed by Fleming’s Director of Wine Marian Jansen op de Haar. Paired with creative dishes featuring seasonal ingredients from Fleming’s executive chef Russell Skall, these glasses are sure to please any taste bud.
“Many family vineyard owners have known for decades how important it is to use earth-friendly farming techniques to preserve vineyard land for future generations, said Jansen op de Haar. “We’re proud to benefit from their foresight with these outstanding wines.”

Of the variety of eco-friendly farming techniques available, each method has the ability to produce high quality grapes for winemaking while preserving the earth’s resources. Jansen op de Haar provides a general overview of the growing techniques:

•    Sustainable – A non-certified designation referring to the environmentally responsible treatment of land and its produce. The goal is to avoid depleting the long-term health of the land for short-term gain.
•    Organic – Farming that emphasizes the use of renewable resources and works to conserve soil and water quality in order to leave a healthy environment for future generations. Certified Organic growing conditions have been inspected and meet USDA organic standards.
•    Biodynamic – Indicates winemakers who treat the vineyard and the winery as a self-sustaining ecosystem. Some examples include using natural predators instead of pesticides, and to use compost for fertilizer. Certified Biodynamic is a designation from Demeter, the international biodynamic regulating organization, and refers to a vineyard that has practiced these methods for at least two years.

The five-course 90+ Wine Dinner can be enjoyed for $95 per guest (not including tax or gratuity). To make a reservation at a Chicagoland location or for more information, visit www.flemingssteakhouse.com.

MENU

Passed Appetizers
Black Lentil Cakes with tomato Vergé
Cherry-Glazed Pork Medallions
J. & F. LURTON, Douro Barco Negro Portugal, 2005
Wine Enthusiast 90 pts., sustainable

Soup
Fire Roasted Red Pepper Bisque with a
Mini Grilled Cheese Sandwich
FLORA SPRINGS, Merlot Napa Valley, 2005
Wine Enthusiast 91 pts., organic and biodynamic

First Course
Organic Chicken Roulade, Petite Vegetables, Consommé
CORISON, Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 2000
Wine Spectator 90 pts., organic and sustainable

Second Course
New York Strip, Mushroom Risotto, Organic Green Bean Bundles
FREEMARK ABBEY, Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 2004
Wine Advocate (Robert Parker) 90+, sustainable

Dessert
Parmesan Pana Cotta, Honey Crème Fraîche
Organic Black Mission Figs
YALUMBA, Tawny Port Barossa Museum Release Antique Australia NV
Wine Advocate 96 pts., sustainable

ANDERSON “THE SPIDER” SILVA vs. PATRICK “THE PREDATOR” COTE

JOSH “KOS” KOSCHECK vs. THIAGO “PITBULL” ALVES

Las Vegas, NV (USA) – The Ultimate Fighting Championship® (UFC®) organization will host UFC 90: SILVA vs. COTE at Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois on Saturday, Oct. 25.

Go here for more info on this top-notch MMA (mixed martial arts) event!

WHO:             

· Anderson “The Spider” Silva, UFC Middleweight Champion

· Patrick “The Predator” Cote, Number One Middleweight Contender

· Josh “Kos” Koscheck

· Thiago “Pitbull” Alves


WHEN: Sat., Oct. 25

About UFC 90
Sports fans in Chicago unite! The UFC® is coming to town and it is bringing the world's greatest pound for pound fighter, Anderson "The Spider" Silva, for a middleweight title fight against his number one contender, Patrick "The Predator" Cote. Welterweight contender Diego Sanchez was forced to withdraw from his UFC 90 bout against Thiago Alves due to torn rib cartilage, but the October 25th co-feature bout is not lost, as standout 170-pounder Josh Koscheck has stepped up to face Brazil’s “Pitbull” in an equally intriguing welterweight matchup. The UFC will make its historic first trip to Chicago this fall when it presents UFC 90: SILVA vs. COTE live from Allstate Arena on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2008.

About the Ultimate Fighting Championship
The Ultimate Fighting Championship is the world’s leading professional mixed martial arts organization and offers the premier series of MMA sports events. Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., UFC produces over twelve live pay-per-view events annually that are distributed residentially through North American cable and satellite providers including iNDEMAND Networks, DIRECTV, DISH Network, TVN Entertainment, Shaw Pay-Per-View, Bell ExpressVU, Viewers Choice, SaskTel Max™ and via the Internet worldwide on Yahoo! Sports, and commercially through Joe Hand Promotions in the U.S. and Canadastar in Canada.  In addition to its North American distribution, UFC programming is distributed in over 100 countries and territories throughout the world. For more information, or current UFC fight news, visit ufc.com or uk.ufc.com or ufcespanol.com.

Ultimate Fighting Championship, Ultimate Fighting, UFC, The Ultimate Fighter®, Submission®, As Real As It Gets®, Zuffa™, The Octagon™ and the eight-sided competition mat and cage design are registered trademarks, trademarks, trade dress or service marks owned exclusively by Zuffa, LLC in the United States and other jurisdictions. All other marks referenced herein may be the property of Zuffa, LLC or other respective owners.

Join Park 52 at the Hyde Park Farmer’s Market for a complimentary fall cooking demonstration.  Park 52 will discuss how to pick the perfect fall produce from Hyde Park’s own Hyde Park Farmer’s Market and demonstrate how to cook the perfect end-of-summer/early fall meal. The menu will include mini turkey burgers with homemade coleslaw and cranberry mayonnaise. Participants will enjoy samplings of the dish and entry into a raffle for prizes including gift certificates to Park 52.

Hyde Park Farmer’s Market
52nd Pl and Harper Ave.
(next door to Park 52)

Call Park 52, (773) 241-5200 for more information

COST: FREE

Blues Blast Magazine will be hosting their first-ever awards ceremony on Sunday, November 2nd. It is going to be a great event with confirmed appearances by Magic Slim & the Teardrops, Lurrie Bell, Nick Moss & Gerry Hundt, John Nemeth, The Kilborn Alley Blues Band, Dave Riley & Bob Corritore, Eden Brent, Sugar Ray Norcia, Teeny Tucker, Tim "Too Slim" Langford (from Too Slim and the Taildraggers), and Gina Sicilia.  
 
Tickets are $25 and are available in advance through Blues Blast here.

Buddy Guy's Legends is not selling any tickets in advance, so please go through Blues Blast. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the show if it hasn't sold out. Doors open at 6:00PM with entertainment all night starting at 7:00PM.

 
Visit the Blues Blast Music Awards Myspace page for more info here on MySpace!

Master Sommelier Serafin Alvarado presents a tasting: "Champagne: Brut to Sec".

In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Month, Park 52 will offer teachers (with teacher ID), $5 appetizers in the bar and lounge area.  This is more than a 50% savings for Chicago’s honorable teachers from Jerry Kleiner’s newest restaurant concept located in Hyde Park.  An appetizer menu is listed below.

Every Tuesday through November from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

PARK 52 APPETIZER MENU

SPINACH DIP

Parmesan & Cayenne

CRAB CAKE

With Celery Root Slaw

CRISPY SHRIMP

With Chipotle Tartar Sauce

CHICKEN QUESADILLA

Roasted Tomato Salsa

FRIED CALAMARI

Cocktail Sauce

SPICE-RUBBED WINGS

Blue Cheese Dressing

MINI CHEESE BURGERS

Spicy Mayo

The winter months are the perfect time to cozy up with a loved one and venture out to Pops For Champagne (601 N. State St.) to hear some of the city’s best jazz musicians perform downstairs at the Parisian-inspired Jazz Club. The annual Holiday Candlelight Concert returns back to Pops during the first three Sundays of December including the 7, 14 and 21 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., creating a warm atmosphere to enjoy the live tunes while sipping champagne and enjoying delicate cuisine prepared by Executive Chef Andrew Brochu.

A good opportunity to get into the holiday mood, the three-hour show will feature the critically-acclaimed and vibrant T. Monique Trio who will be playing songs from her new holiday CD, Yuletide Groove. The full food and beverage menu will be available including newly-added dishes such as Rabbit Rilette with Shallot Marmalade, Red Grapes and Vanilla ($9); Opah Terrine with Lemon Confit, Orchid Pudding and Black Garlic ($12); and Venison with Pumpkin Puree, Braised Pecans and Huckleberries ($16); along with a wide assortment of domestic and international cheeses.

Cover for the Holiday Candlelight Concert is $12 for each show and reservations are not required.   


 

The Odyssey will deck the halls and swab the deck, gearing up for the holiday season with Santa Brunch Cruises on Sundays, December 7, 14 and 21.

Oh what fun it is to ride along the gorgeous Chicago skyline aboard the Odyssey’s climate controlled enclosed decks, offering the best views of the winter season.  Guests will enjoy all the trimmings, including a bountiful brunch buffet, live jazz entertainment and a visit with Santa Claus himself!  Children can sit on Santa’s lap and have their photo taken. Each family will receive one complimentary photo – additional photos are available for purchase.

Pricing and cruise time for the Santa Brunch Cruises are as follows:
Board at noon; Cruise 1 p.m. – 3  p.m.
$54.90 adults, $15 kids ages 12 and under. (Excludes taxes, fees, prepaid service charges and fuel surcharges.)

Reservations can be made by calling 888-957-2322 or by visiting www.odyssey.com.

The Odyssey cruises year-round.  In the event a cruise is unable to depart Navy Pier due to weather, the event will be held dockside

Explore the grandeur and complexity of one of the world’s great societies, and find out how this civilization that began in the middle of a lake went on to rapidly become one of the most powerful empires of all time. Through hundreds of spectacular artifacts and works of art, assembled together for the first time in Chicago, trace the remarkable rise and fall of the Aztec wold.

View the Edward Curtis 1914 film In the Land of the Headhunters and hear from film historians and Kwakwaka’wakw nation members. The vent includes a public lecture and screening as well as cultural demonstrations.

Dec. 20 – 21: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus want to invite kids of all ages up to the new Espressions by Lavazza Cafe. Space is  limited, Adults $25, Children (4-11) $15.

In We Share the Sky Day Camp, explore how different cultures have used the stars throughout history. Make a star finder and learn how these navigation instruments have helped people find their way home; create a sundial to tell time using the sky; or build a "planetarium in a box" to discover how people pass down important cultural stories using the stars. Also, watch the Adler sky show Night Sky Live, explore the exhibition Bringing the Heavens to Earth and participate in other hands-on activities. Cost for the camp is $75 for non-Adler-members and $65 for members. To register call 312-294-0361. This even is recommended for kids age 9-12.

This exhibition includes more than 50 trees and displays decorated by volunteers from Chicago's ethnic communities to reflect holiday traditions from around the globe. Holidays of Light, a multicultural display of holiday traditions that celebrate light or enlightenment, such as Diwali and Hanukkah, also illuminates the Museum's halls during this time.

Executive Chef Phillip Foss treats guests to an extravagant Christmas buffet featuring upscale, contemporary American cuisine with sumptuous favorites for every member of the family.  After dinner, stick around to enjoy afternoon tea in the festive holiday splendor of the Palmer House.

Cost: Adults: $65; Seniors (older than 65): $50; Children (Under 12): $25.00 (exclusive of beverages other than Champagne, sparkling cider and coffee/tea, as well as tax and gratuity)

The power-lunch prix-fixe menu is an $18.50, two-course meal or a $22.50, three-course meal. A sampling from the prix-fixe offering includes:
 
Butternut Squash Veloute | roasted chestnuts, sage, tomato
Amish Chicken Sandwich | Amish chicken breast, wilted spinach-parmesan fondue, blackened tomato, cucumber hay

Gourmet four-course set menu. $150 per person.

Premium bar open until 1:30 a.m.

Champagne toast at midnight.

Valet parking at Senenca Hotel at $12 for six hours. 

Hawks fans can start the Wrigleyville party early at Harry Caray's Tavern New Years Eve On Ice the night before the Blackhawks take on the Red Wings in the NHL Winter Classic at Wrigley Field.

The $90 all-inclusive ticket will include a four-hour open call bar, signiture cocktails, abundant appetizer buffet, DJ, dancing, video lounge, party favors, champagne toast at midnight and prize giveaways through out the evening.

Otom has released a list of new, progressive cocktails for the holiday season. Highlights include:

10 Cane Mutiny   
10 Cane rum, Clement creole shrubb, lemon, house-made orange marmalade & ginger bitters, egg white, orange peel.

Pisco Float
Cesar Pisco, Ramazzotti Amaro, sarsaparilla syrup, house-made sarsaparilla bitters, egg, lemon, sarsaparilla dust.

Peanut Butter and Jelly 
Peanut-infused Bulleit bourbon, concord grape syrup, lemon.

This interactive musical follows the journey of Paper Girl from her birth as a string of paper cut-outs, to the bottom of the sea of ink, to a colorful jungle island.  

Appropriate for ages 2-6. Performances are on Tuesday, Thursday (no performance 11/27) at 11 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 12 noon and 2 p.m. (noon only Sunday 11/30). 

Tickets are $28: $18 for children. (Tickets do not include admission to the Museum; service charges may apply.)

For tickets or more information, visit www.chicagochildrenstheatre.org.  

This exhibition in the Lenhardt Library features three exhibit cases of more than 60 miniature felt figurines that depict characters from fairy tales, nursery rhymes and classic children's stories. Figurines were a gift of Morrison Waud whose mother, Mrs. Ernest P. (Olive B.) Waud, created them.

Stories with multiple figurines include: Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, Through the Looking Glass by Lewis Carroll, The Story of Babar and the Little Elephant by Jean de Brunhoff, Elmer and the Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett, The Tale of Pigling Bland by Beatrix Potter and The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame.

Explore cool things about how plants connect to science, art, history and culture with your family on Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. or from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Classes include a variety of hands-on activities and projects for children ages 4-10, accompanied by an adult. Sign up for "Joyful Gingerbread" on Dec. 6, Dec. 13 or Dec. 20 and learn about . Each class is $20 per child. Chicago Botanic Garden members pay $17. Accompanying adults are free.

Registration is required at least one week in advance. Visit www.chicagobotanic.org/familyprograms or call (847) 835-8363 for more information.

Samuel del Real, in his latest collaboration performs holiday favorites for jazz quartet. Celebrate the season with a vibrant new take on songs from "White Christmas" and "Silent Night" to "Cantares de Navidad" and "Año Viejo."

A group whose performances have been praised by critics as "a little slice of nobility" and "simply fun to hear," Chicago's Fifth House Ensemble performs Bach's Sonata in C major for solo violin, Kodaly's Duo for Violin and Cello, Beethoven's Serioso quartet, Webern's melodic Langsamer Satz and Zhang's new Rhythm Cadence II.

"The Screwtape Letters," the hit drama based on C.S. Lewis’ classic novel, now playing at The Mercury Theater will host a birthday celebration in honor of C.S. Lewis’ 110th birthday. Following the 8 p.m. performance of "The Screwtape Letters," a panel of leading C.S. Lewis experts will discuss his influence as one of the most provocative theologians of all time. Audience members will also be invited to enjoy birthday cake and coffee provided by Cullen’s Bar and Grill.  

Chef Edie Jiminez and Cuatro restaurant will offer Christmas Eve dinner service. The full, daily dinner menu will be offered, as well as traditional holiday specials with a Latin-fusion twist. $5 Capirhinas will also be available.

 

Its official - the United States is moving forward. We have a new President taking office, sweeping international economic crisis, and the effects of global warming all around us. It's time to fire up the Rahminator and transplant a little Midwestern charm to Washington making "America: All Better!"

Live music by Alex and the All Stars.

Dancing all evening with DJ Ryan.

$60 includes complimentary bar and hors d'ouevers.

Dinner served until midnight. Limited VIP, gold and platinum packages available.

The magic of Macy's will unfold this holiday season as children throughout the Chicagoland area and across the country are invited to write and drop off their letters to Santa - stamped and addressed to Santa at the North Pole - at any Macy's store in the designated Santa Mail letterbox.

Each Macy’s store will have a Believe Station that features a Believe Meter, letter-writing station with postcards and an official R.H. Macy Santa Mail letterbox. For each letter received, Macy's will donate $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation up to $1 million to grant the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.

This year’s Great Tree, inspired by Tommy Hilfiger’s new book, "Iconic America," is a two-story holiday vision featuring a traditional red color scheme.

Traditional tree décor such as red bows and tinsel along with ball-shaped ornaments in red and silver also adorn the 45-foot glimmering tree. In addition, numerous toys from FAO Schwarz, such as bears, dolls, and fire trucks, among others, give the famed tree a traditional “Santa’s workshop” feel. The sheer number of trimmings is spectacular: nearly 15,000 lights and 4,000 ornaments in total.

Visit the accessories department at Macy's on State Street or Macy’s Water Tower Place to purchase the ultimate in warmth, comfort and functionality for the winter. Try on a pair of men's or women's 180s Behind the Head Ear Warmers or Tec Touch Gloves and receive a music card good for two free song downloads.*

*One per customer, while supplies last.

This year's seven windows celebrate the complex-yet-magical process behind the creation of Macy's Great Tree, located in the legendary Walnut Room. The decorations featured in the windows are exact replicas of the actual trimmings on this year's Great Tree.

Children are invited to get their pictures taken with Santa Claus through December 24 in the fifth-floor children's department during store hours.

See the new Candy Cane Rockette Doll by Madame Alexander.  Meet the Rockettes and get your exclusive, new doll signed. 

Macy’s is presents the newest collection of one-of-a kind woven baskets by the women of Rwanda.  Join Macy's for a special reception to honor Rwandan Path to Peace project coordinator Janet Nkubana, the 2008 Laureate for the Africa Prize for Leadership for the Sustainable End of Hunger for her work with the Rwandan Peace Basket weavers. Janet will speak about her work in Rwanda and shop with customers. 

With any basket purchased during the event, customers will receive a special gift, while supplies last. The Rwanda Path to Peace basket project is in its fourth year of growth at Macy’s. Each year, new designs are added to the remarkable line of products.  The purchase of one basket through Macy’s can feed a Rwandan family for a week, and the purchase of four baskets can send a child to school for a semester.

This holiday season, spend Saturday afternoons at Lawry's the Prime Rib, enjoying Chocolate in The Mansion - a festive shopper's oasis, feauring elegant holiday décor, unlimited access to a chocolate sweets table, cocoa and cider.

Strolling, costumed carolers will serenade guests.

Saturdays, December 6, 13 and 20
Cost: $16 per adult ($8 per child, 12 and under), inclusive

This show will feature fashions from My Sister's and Me Boutique, Frank Lyman, Kluger Furs and Joseph Ribkoff. Valuable door prizes will be given away, such as a trip to Las Vegas and a fur jacket. Lunch will also be served. RSVP by calling 219-473-7000 and mentioning "fashion."

50% off food all night long
VIP Cocktail Reception & Passed Hors D'Oeuvres 9 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Premium Open Bar, Passed Hors D'Oeuvres and Dinner Buffet

$5 martinis

$2.50 Miller Light and Coors Light drafts

Nibble on roast chicken and Fuji apple salad sandwiches. Indulge in silky chocolate puff pastries and homemade scones with passion fruit curd. And, hold that teacup pinkie just so. You’ll feel like royalty for the day as you take Afternoon Tea in the stately setting of The Greenhouse, overlooking the hotel’s gorgeous lobby fountain. Priced from $27.

Those who procrastinate are rewarded this Christmas Eve. DOC Wine Bar, located at the Shops on Butterfield (adjacent to Yorktown Center) in Lombard is offering two terrific specials for shoppers.

Lunch Special
11 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Sandwich, side salad and a glass of wine, $10
 
Holiday Stress Relief Special
11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Entire martini list, $6

From exploring the windows at Macy's to ice skating in Millennium Park, there are countless things for Trump Kids to explore this holiday season. Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago's Trump Kids program also provides a wide range of kid-friendly amenities and services, including kid-sized robes and slippers; children's books and movies; Trump coloring books; PlayStation and Xbox video consoles and games; a special bath time amenity and complimentary use of the swimming pool. Mini-moguls will especially enjoy their very own Trump Kids business cards printed with their name. Trump Kids will also enjoy their own menu, which includes kid-favorites such as PB&J, pizza bagels, grilled cheese triangles with tomato soup, and the Trump Jr. Sundae. There is even a kiddie cocktail menu, featuring fun "mocktails" such as the Kit Cloudkicker (coke, vanilla ice cream, maraschino cherries, Haribo gummy garnish) and The Panther (pink grapefruit, ginger ale, pomegranate juice, peach nectar, sugared rim, lime wedge).  For the tiniest tycoons, Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago provides a crib with plush linens, baby monitor, 'no tears' bath amenity and bed rails, as well as baby sitting and nanny services. Families on a Trump Kids Holiday will enjoy one night in a Deluxe King guest room, breakfast for four, late check-out and a gourmet holiday family amenity. Rates start at $475.

Guests will have the opportunity to make good on their New Year’s resolutions to eat better and reduce spending with cutting-edge French-Vietnamese cuisine at a special price of $20.09. The menu will include a choice of three entrees and two desserts from Executive Chef Chad Starling’s updated menu.  

On December 4, 1956, an auspicious twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together. The place was Sun Records’ storefront studio in Memphis.  The man who made it happen was Sam Phillips, the “Father of Rock ’n’ Roll,” who discovered them all. The four legends-to-be united for the only time in their careers for an impromptu recording that has come to be known as one of the greatest rock jam sessions of all time.

Featuring a treasure trove of the greatest rock ’n’ roll, gospel, R&B and country hits from these music legends, "Million Dollar Quarte"t captures the infectious spirit, freewheeling excitement and thrilling sounds of a singular moment when four of the music industry’s most extraordinary talents, all in their creative prime, came together for one of the most memorable nights in music history.   

This special performance and reception will benefit the Grammy Foundation's Greater Chicago programs and will include a one-night-only extended encore. The pre-show reception and silent auction will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the 7:30 performance. The evening will close with a 9:30 post-show reception.

Tickets to the event range from sponsorships at four levels with varying benefits — Title Sponsor ($25,000), Presenting Sponsor ($10,000), Associate Sponsor ($5,000) and benefactor ($2,500) — to individual tickets priced at $100. For tickets and information, contact La Shon Malone at 800.423.2017 ext. 8691 or foundationevents@grammy.com.

 

Steppenwolf Theatre Company presents the 2008-2009  MaTEENée Series: an affordable way for high school students to see Steppenwolf productions, meet Chicago’s most celebrated artists and connect with other teens who are passionate about theatre.

MaTEENée tickets cost $15 and include a Steppenwolf performance, lunch and a post-show discussion with actors featured in the production – hosted by Steppenwolf’s Young Adults Council.  The 2008-2009 MaTEENée performance schedule is as follows:

"The Seafarer" – Saturday, January 24 at 3 p.m.
"Art" – Saturday, February 28 at 3 p.m.
"Of Mice and Men" – Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m.
"The Tempest" – Saturday, May 16 at 3 p.m.
"Up" – Saturday, June 20 (time TBD)
"First Look Repertory of New Work" – Saturday, July 25 (time TBD)

MaTEENée tickets cost $15 and are available at Audience Services, 1650 N. Halsted St., the day off the performance or by calling at (312) 335-1650.  Students should mention “MaTEENée” to receive the ticket discount. For additional information, visit www.steppenwolf.org/education. 

The fun-filled event will feature Valentine’s activities for kids, and a special concert by award-winning children’s musician Justin Roberts. Win fabulous prizes from the silent auction and raffle.

Tickets are $70 for adults and $40 for children and benefit Lynn Sage Cancer Research. Tickets are available in advance by calling 312-926-7133. For more information visit www.lynnsage.org.

The Chicago Human Rhythm Project, the world’s only year-round presenter of American tap dance and contemporary percussive arts, opens its 19th season with its annual Winter Tap JAMboree at the Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St. in Chicago. Directed by CHRP Associate Director Martin “Tre” Dumas, the weekend features a winter workshop of master classes, Leo Harris Tap Scholarship audition and the Chicago premiere of the award-winning documentary "The Wonder Kids."

"The Wonder Kids" is the inspiring story of a tiny dance studio that set out to save the art form of tap dancing, which not only produced many of the world’s greatest dancers, but saved the lives of thousands of inner-city kids in the process.

For information about Chicago Human Rhythm Project’s Winter Tap JAMboree or tickets to the Chicago premiere of The Wonder Kids, call 773-281-1825. For information visit chicagotap.org.

Patrons can indulge in the award-winning Custom House Burger for only $5 (excluding tax and gratuity). The robust, mixed media burger (made of ground skirt steak, sirloin, pork chop, short rib and flatiron steak) is topped with caramelized onions, house-cured bacon, and house-made steak sauce served a top a poppy seed and fennel bun.

 

Custom House is offering a three-course, prix fixe menu that will be ongoing throughout the year. Guests can choose a starter, main and dessert courses for just $24.95 (excluding tax and gratuity). The restaurant’s offerings change weekly, reflecting Chef de Cuisine Richard Camarota’s commitment to sourcing local, fresh product. Offerings may include:

First Course
Beet Salad with sunchokes and walnuts or Parsnip Soup with rye croutons

Second Course
Slagel Farms Pork Spare Ribs with roasted peppers and polenta or Cioppino with scallops, smoked salmon, octopus and spicy aioli

Third Course
Banana Pave with peanut dacquoise, peanut butter mousse and honey

Join the Step-Up Dance troupe as they perform excerpts from the company's repertoire. The Exelon Strobel Step-Up Dance troupe was founded in 2006 to showcase the talents of the most advanced students of The Joffrey's Education and Community Engagement Programs. The Step-Up Program provides a unique, pre-professional opportunity for aspiring high school dancers who would otherwise be unable to afford private dance lessons.

Macy’s on State Street, February 27, 1st floor, 5:30 p.m.

 

Chicago Bike Tours

Discover the local spot where he lived as a community organizer in the 1980's and the place he enjoyed his first date with Michelle Robinson, before she became Michelle Obama. This casual - easy paced, 7 mile ride travels down the south shore of the lake path and through the Hyde Park neighborhood. It concludes with a late brunch at Hyde Park's Valois Cafeteria, rumored to be Barack's favorite breakfast spot.

A Force for Change: African American Art and the Julius Rosenwald Fund presents the works of art created by the African American artist, writers, and scholars who benefitted from the fund from 1928 to 1948. It also presents a documentary about those artists, scholars, and writers.

For more information, check out the Spertus Museum website.

April 18 Trials
April 25 Trials
May 2 SemiFinals
May 9 Finals
(Saturdays at 11 p.m.)
 
Nacional 27 will be filled with the sounds and energy of salsa music, when they host their 2009 Bacardi-Bud Select Salsa Competition.  Dancing couples will compete over the course of one month to win the grand prize, a vacation to Puerto Rico.

Sixteen total top salsa dancing couples will be chosen and seperated into two groups. Eight couples will compete at the trials on April 18 while the other eight couples will compete at the trials on April 25. Four couples will be selected from each trial night to compete in the semifinals. Interested parties may pick up an entry form at Nacional 27 or download an application online at Nacional27.net. There is no fee to compete.

Farmerie 58 presents a special Valentine’s Day prix-fixe menu that will appeal to those looking for an elegant and substantial yet affordable meal. The contemporary American restaurant is offering its savory Valentine’s Day menu for a set price of $39 per person, as well as providing diners with the option to purchase courses a la carte. The menu will run from Thursday, February 12 through Sunday, February 15, 2009. Farmerie 58 will offer its regular menu throughout the weekend for diners to enjoy the restaurant’s traditional menu items, as well.
 
Always serving a seasonal and farm-centric, sustainable menu, Executive Chef Nathan Kosakowski has prepared succulent bites that incorporate traditional Valentine’s Day staples. Special items such as an oyster amuse-bouche, lobster ravioli and chocolate strawberries are included in the complete prix-fixe menu or can be purchased individually. 

Explore Chicago as it was during the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. The White City, as it was known, featured many great sights and sounds. Although the landscape of the city has changed since then, see the places that housed the world's first ferris wheel, the Japanese pavillion, and much more. Also, see a slide show of the historic event that changed the city and proved that Chicago could rise above any obstacle.

The cost is $50 for adults and $45 for seniors, students, and children 8-18. Lunch is included in the price.

Explore Chicago as it was during the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. The White City, as it was known, featured many great sights and sounds. Although the landscape of the city has changed since then, see the places that housed the world's first ferris wheel, the Japanese pavillion, and much more. Also, see a slide show of the historic event that changed the city and proved that Chicago could rise above any obstacle.

The cost is $50 for adults and $45 for seniors, students, and children 8-18. Lunch is included in the price.

Romantic Dining Chicago

A historically rich Chicago landmark restaurant, The PumpRoom was a top-notch haunt of the rich and famous. You may or may not be able to snag Booth One, Sinatra's HQ for years and years, but this Valentine's Day you can enjoy the same surroundings and nicely executed contemporary American cuisine.

For the Valentine's Day menu, click here.

Price: $55 per person.

Cost: FREE and open to the public

When: Next weekend - Friday, Feb. 20 (12 p.m. - 6 p.m.), Saturday, Feb. 21 (12 p.m. - 6 p.m.) and Sunday, Feb 22 (11:30 p.m. - 3 p.m.)

One of music's most influential supergroups for over forty years, Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Fleetwood Mac have scored countless hits and released the iconographic album, "Rumours," which sold over nineteen million copies and won the Grammy's "Album of the Year." Set to embark on the "Unleashed Tour" in 2009, the legendary Fleetwood Mac will play an unforgettable "Greatest Hits" show featuring pop/rock classics like "Don't Stop" and "Landslide."

Tickets go on sale Feb. 14 at 10 a.m.

Tin Fish's annual "Just for the Halibut" dining event kicks-off the Alaskan Halibut season. Executive Chef Colin Turner has created a special menu highlighting fresh, Alaskan Halibut prepared in a variety of ways.

Steppenwolf, Up: What?

Concluding its 2008-2009 season, Up by Bridget Carpenter explores the imagination. On the best day of his life, Walter built a flying machine that reached the clouds. Ever since, he's tried to invent new ways to fly while his wife keeps the family afloast. Up is a quirky, bittersweet tale about escaping the boundaries of the everday and how we dream ourselves into a future. 

Steppenwolf, Up: Who?

Bridget Carpenter is an award-winning playwright whose works have been produced at theaters across the country. Anna D. Shapiro, director and ensemble member, won a 2008 Tony Award for her direction of Steppenwolf's critically-acclaimed play August: Osage County.

Steppenwolf, Up: When?

Opening night is Saturday, June 27, 2009 at 3:00 p.m.

Regular run is June 30, 2009 - August 23, 2009

Tuesdays - Sundays at 7:30 p.m.

(Sunday evening performance only through July 26)

Saturday and Sunday matinees at 3:00 pm. 

Wednesday matinees on July 29, August 5, 12 & 19 at 2:00 p.m. 

Tickets are $20 - $45 for the previews (June 18- June 27)

Tickets are $20 - $75 for the regular run and can be purchased at www.steppenwolf.org or by calling 312-335-1650. Located at 1650 N. Halsted. 

Deals: 

Half-price rush tickets are available one hour before each show. Student discounts available and $20 tickets are available at Audience Services beginning at 11:00 a.m. on the day of each performance and 1:00 p.m. for Sunday performances.

Mark's Gospel

From the producers of the current smash hit "The Screwtape Letters," Fellowship for the Performing Arts presents the Chicago Premiere of Mark’s Gospel at The Mercury Theater.

Fresh from his tour de force performance as Screwtape, the high level demon in hell, Max McLean brings a magnificent voice, compelling interpretation and exuberant theatricality to a more heavenly venture - the story of Jesus.

Mark’s Gospel is the believed to be the first eye-witness story of Jesus. 

The performance schedule for Mark’s Gospel is Thursday thru Saturday at 8PM with matinees on Saturday at 4PM and Sunday at 3PM.  Tickets range in price from $29.00 - $48.50.  Tickets are available by calling The Mercury Theater Box Office at 773.325.1700, TicketMaster at 312.902.1500, or visiting www.ticketmaster.com.  Discounted tickets for students and groups of 10 or more are also available by calling 773.477.7666.

Best of Spring is an interactive culinary experience popular with both beginners and experienced cooks, a cooking party that's the perfect opportunity for singles, couples and small groups to meet fellow foodies, learn to create a fabulous meal, and enjoy a lively communal dinner in our loft-like private dining room.

Cost: $80 per person (or two for $120), includes cheese appetizer, professional cooking experience, gourmet meal, recipe packet and cleanup; not including tax or tip.

Drinks: BYOB for beer/wine, soft drinks provided

Reservations: Advance reservation required - please contact 312-455-8400 or info@bespokecuisine.com.

 

Grab the fam and join us on the 5th floor in the Children's Department for some spring fun!

Don't miss the Traveling Bug Bridage brought to you by the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners staff and learn about insects. Kids will be able to touch and even hold live bugs, including millipedes, Madagascar hissing cockroaches and a tarantula.

The fun continues with a special appearance from Smurf and Smurfette, who will be on-hand for photo opportunities. Plus, enjoy face painting, balloon artistry and craft stations creating colored paper mosaics and tissue flowers.

MSI Farmers Market

A new exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry in 2009, "Smart Home Farmers' Markets" will host actual farmers markets the first and third Friday of each month, kicking off June 5.

The markets will feature locally grown produce, flowers and organic foods right on museum grounds.

Admission to the museum is not required to attend. Read: It's free!

Check out our full guide to all things Museum of Science & Industry.

The Chicago Cultural Center presents Afro-European jazz sensation Carmen Souza performing Cape Verde- inspired favorites. The concert is free and open to the public.

For more information, check out the Chicago Cultural Center website.

Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruises

More than 100 Chicago Architecture Foundation-certified volunteer docents guide 1,600 architecture foundation river cruises each season aboard the Chicago’s First Lady, Chicago’s Little Lady and Chicago’s Fair Lady, beautiful, 1920s-style cruising yachts featuring open-air upper deck viewing as well as air-conditioned main deck salons with comfortable seating. Receiving hundreds of hours of training, the docents provide lively and passionate, fact-filled and anecdotal commentary giving passengers insight into Chicago’s architecture history.

The tour highlights more than 53 historic and architecturally significant sites, including 333 W. Wacker, the Wrigley Building, the Tribune Tower, Willis Tower, River City, Marina City and Trump Tower. This river cruise is one of the only architecture cruises to include significant buildings, sites and developments along the North Branch of the Chicago River, including Goose Island, Kinzie Park development and the clustered glass River Cottages by architect Harry Weese.

2009 TOUR SCHEDULE

Spring: (May 2 - May 31) Mon – Fri: 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm; Sat, Sun, Holidays: 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 5pm

Summer: (June 1 - September 27) Mon – Fri:10am, 11am, 11:30am, 12pm, 1pm, 1:30pm, 2pm, 3pm, 3:30pm; 5:30pm (Thursday only)

Sat, Sun, Holidays: 9:00am, 9:30am, 10am, 11am, 11:30am, 12pm, 1pm, 1:30pm, 2pm, 3pm, 3:30pm, 5pm,

Early Fall: (September 28 - October 30) Mon – Fri:11am, 12pm, 1pm, 1:30pm, 2pm, 3pm, 3:30pm; Sat, Sun, Holidays: 10am, 11am, 11:30am, 12pm, 1pm, 1:30pm, 2pm, 3pm. 3:30pm, 5pm

Late Fall: (October 31 - November 22) Mon – Sun: 10am, 12pm, 2pm

Tickets: Mon-Fri: $28.00 per person; Sat/Sun/Holidays: $32.00 per person.

When a meteorite from outer space hits a young California girl named Susan Murphy and turns her into a giant monster, she is taken to a secret government compound where she meets a ragtag group of monsters also rounded up over the years. As a last resort, under the guidance of General W.R. Monger, on a desperate order from The President, the motley crew of Monsters is called into action to combat the aliens and save the world from imminent destruction.

Get your Easter celebration hoppin' with a tin of your favorite Garrett popcorn.

Spirit of Chicago Full Moon Dinner Cruises

Come aboard the Spirit of Chicago’s gleaming, four-story ship that has been creating high-energy fun from beginning to end as it cruises along Chicago’s lakefront. The 192-ft. luxury ship sails year-round and is spaciously designed to accommodate guests from parties of two to 600.  The ship features a vibrant interior of three climate controlled dining decks with three indoor bars, two dance floors and stage areas, spacious bathrooms and panoramic windows.   

Guests will enjoy a plentiful dinner buffet, DJ for dancing, performances from talented staff and city skyline views under the full moon.  
 
The schedule and pricing (per person; excludes taxes, service charges, and other fees) is as follows:

    * Saturday, May 9
    * Sunday, June 7
    * Tuesday, July 7
    * Thursday, August 6
    * Friday, September 4
    * Sunday, October 4

* Cruise times vary.  See online cruise schedule.  Prices start at $69.90 (excluding taxes, fees, prepaid service charges and fuel surcharges). Children age three to 11 are half-price. Children under 3 are free.

For more information on Chicago's boat tours, check out Concierge Preferred's boat tours guide.

Parking with shuttle service to Navy Pier is available just off Illinois St. and Grand Ave.

For reservations or for more information call (866) 211-3804 or visit www.spiritofchicago.com.  

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Package for Mother-Daughter Mother's Day Weekend

Makeovers, martinis and shopping on the Magnificent Mile – Make it a mother-daughter weekend to remember with the Girls Just Wanna Have Fun package. Enjoy an in-room visit from the Martini Man, shopping on the Mag Mile, complimentary makeovers at Bloomingdales and desserts in Seasons Lounge. Rates begin at $510 per night. For room reservations, call 312-280-8800.

Power Business Lunches at Park Grill

$15 lunch combinations and expedited service Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information on Chicago's Millenium Park, check out Chicago's Millenium Park Guide.

The Chicago Tribune Magnificent Mile Art Festival, produced by Howard Alan Events is ranked one of the top outdoor art festivals in the country presenting 300 artists. Come mingle among other art enthusiasts and the artists themselves.

Booths will be set up boasting a variety of artwork including paintings, sculptures, photos, glass, wood, jewelry, collage and ceramics. Meet and greet with the local and national talent behind the artwork and experience Michigan Avenue transformed into an outdoor art gallery!

Everyone can take away a piece of artwork from the fest with a price range as little as $25 to $20,000 attracting families and friends to serious art collectors.

Local artist Cathee (Cat) Clausen will be one of the exhibiting artists. Using oils, her most recent works include portraits of Presidents Obama and Lincoln.

Admission is free and open to the public!

July 10

10 a.m.-6 p.m.

July 11

10 a.m.- 6 p.m.

July 12

10 a.m.-5 p.m.

For more information click here

koRn and The Used at the Horseshoe Hammond Casino

Nu-metal pioneers form California, KoRn, have been topping the metal charts for over 15 years.  Having released eight studio albums in that time, KoRn has Multiple Grammy Award nominations, receiving two Grammy’s for Best Metal Performace and Best Music Video.  KoRn is hitting the road this spring and prepping to enter the studio to record their ninth studio album.  KoRn will be sharing The Venue stage with Utah rockers, The Used.

Price: $48, $38

To learn more about the Horseshoe Hammond Casino, check out Concierge Preferred's Indiana Casino Guide.

Tracy Morgan at the Horseshoe Casino

Tracy Morgan plays wild and unpredictable movie star Tracy Jordan in Emmy Award-winning "30 Rock." A standup comic who headlines across the country, TV audiences first met Tracy Morgan in his role as "Hustleman" on the hit comedy series "Martin". Morgan next joined "Saturday Night Live" in 1996 where he appeared for seven seasons and created such memorable characters as "Astronaut Jones" and "Brian Fellows".  After leaving "Saturday Night Live", Morgan went on to star in his own comedy series "The Tracy Morgan Show" for NBC and as the voice of "Spoonie Luv" on "Crank Yankers." Film credits include: "The Longest Yard," "Little Man," "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" and "Head of State."

Price: $45, $35, $29.50

To learn more about the Horseshoe Hammond Casino, check out Concierge Preferred's Indiana Casino Guide.

The Sustainable Feast at The Chopping Block

Cooking with seasonal ingredients is a great way to support local farmers who nurture our natural environment. The Chopping Block will feature a CSA basket with the week’s peak local produce (CSA=community supported agriculture), and the school's chef will show you how to cook those ingredients to create a dazzling meal. Ideal for those who subscribe to a CSA program, shop at farmers markets, grow their own vegetables or just want to learn more about cooking with fresh produce. Menu to be determined by what’s in the basket.

$40.

Hot Dog Month at Brasserie JO

Every day during the month of July 2009, Brasserie JO will offer French-style hot dogs (served on a baguette with mustard) for only $1 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the bar area.

July is National Hot Dog Month, and according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans will be consuming the famous "dogs" in record numbers this summer.  The Council estimates that over seven billion hot dogs will be eaten by Americans between Memorial Day and Labor Day. During the July 4 weekend alone (the biggest hot dog holiday of the year), 155 million will be enjoyed.

Seven days a week in July, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Cavalia is held in the West Loop between Racine Ave. and W. Jackson St.

This event features multimedia and performing art stunts held under a big-top tent. Cavalia features 13 breeds of horses, astounding acrobats, beautiful aerialists, dancers, and musicians.

For ticket information click here.

Showtimes:

July 23, 2009 8pm

July 24, 2009 8pm

July 25, 2009 3pm

July 25, 2009 8pm

July 26, 2009 2pm

The North Dearborn Association presents the 51st annual Dearborn Garden Walk. This historic event takes you on an exclusive narrarated tour of the beautiful private gardens of Dearborn. Architecture and garden vignettes will be featured as well.

While on the walk enjoy live classical and jazz music that will transform the already breathtaking setting into something even more spectacular.

To being the tour enter at the corner of Goethe and Dearborn. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door.

For more information, click here.

Enjoy the festivities of "National 40oz Week" in Chicago

The Fifty/50 will celebrate a patriotic beverage with "National 40oz
Week" running Monday, June 29 through Sunday, July 5 that's chock full of
drink and food specials, parties, and special events.
 
Known for its rotating 40oz of the week served in a brown paper bag and its
scratch-made comfort food, The Fifty/50 will feature a different 40oz-er
each day/night during "National 40oz Week" for just $5 (normally $8) and a
different entertaining event like the Colt 45 launch party, team trivia night, a
sit-down tasting dinner where each of the four courses are paired with
different sommelier selected 40oz pours, Cubs game specials, and a 4th of
July blowout party.
 
Malt liquor was created by Midwesterners in the late '30s shortly after the
Prohibition repeal that finally gave Americans access to a stronger brew for
less money. Malt liquor jumped into the America's consciousness in 70s
thanks to Redd Foxx as pitchman and appearances in blaxploitation films. In
the '80s, Billy Dee Williams made the 40oz an icon. The 40 was the rapper
beverage of choice in the early 90s. Present day, the malt liquor 40oz-er is
mainstay for college students and young professionals.
 
You can also check it all out at at The Fifty/50's website.

Sunday July 5

10 a.m. - 2 a.m.
Schlitz Hangover Day
$5 Schlitz 40oz-ers
$8 Schlitz infused "Wobble Stopper" Bloody Mary's, half off biscuits & gravy
and thick cut maple glazed bacon.

Lookingglass adds distinguished speakers to Burnham Centennial Celebration

In celebration of the Burnham Centennial, a limited run of 'Our Future Metropolis: Mr.D.H. Burnham Presents a Plain Talk for the Development of Chicago' will play at Lookingglass Theatre Company.

Chicago author, historian and Burnham scholar Carl Smith will lead a post-show discussion following 'Our Future Metropolis' on Monday, July 13. Bill Savage, senior lecturer at Northwestern University, will host the post-discussion on July 20 and 21 - Adele Smith Simmons, Vice Chair of the Burnham Centennial Committee will also participate on June 21.

For more information, click here.

The Second City Launches Hilarious Historic Tours of Old Town 

The world-famous Second City Theatre presents "The Second City's Neighborhood Tour" - a humorous and historic walking tour of Chicago's Old Town neighborhood. The Second City has been a cornerstone of the Old Town neighborhood and now it's time to show off their home turf.

Written by Chicago guide and writer Margaret Hicks, the tour both entertains and highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town. The tour also gives insider-info on Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. 

The walking tour begins outside The Second City theatre (located on North Wells St.) and will wind its way through Old Town, ending inside The Second City theatre and giving patrons a chance to see the photo display, documenting 50 years of comedy.

The Giddy Details:

Tickets are $15 per person and may be purchased directly from The Second City box office at 1616 N. Wells St. To order by phone, call 312-337-3992

The tours are every Sunday and Wednesday at 4 p.m. and last from an hour and a half to two hours. Walking pace is suitable for all ages. Additional days and times are available for groups - call Jenna Altobelli at 312-664-4032 to request a special reservation.

This dynamic tour is in true Second City style - full of wit, intelligence, and fun. A must do.

New Series Launch

The Affinia Chicago Hotel (166 East Superior), in partnership with The City of Chicago and Navy Pier, announces the exciting launch of the all new Affinia Chicago "In the Know" Lecture Series, kicking off with "A Guide to Chicago Summer."

The City of Chicago's Tourism Director Dorothy Coyle and Navy Pier's Tourism Marketing Manager Katie McCarthy share their expert guidance, offering budget-friendly ways to make the most of the city's best season. All guests have the chance to win an array of exclusive prizes, including an overnight stay at the Affinia Chicago.

The event will take place in the Affinia Chicago's Superior Room on the second floor. Tickets are $20 per guest (including lecture, one complimentary cocktail and passed hors d'oeuvres) with portions of proceeds benefiting Children's Memorial Hospital. Reservations requires through intheknowchicago@affinia.com

Come Celebrate Buddy Guy's 73rd Birthday!

Buddy Guy's Legends is going all-out for Chicago blues legend Buddy Guy's 73rd birthday. With a free acoustic set featuring Matt Hendricks at 6:00 p.m. and a live Jam hosted by Brother John at 9:30 p.m., the bash promises a night of amazing performances.

$10 cover charge at the door

More about Buddy Guy

The always popular Park Grill restaurant, located in Millennium Park, is celebrating all things burger for an entire week.

Aug. 17-23, choose selection from the wide-ranging burger menu like the "Mia Cuppa Burger," a black angus patty with Neal's Yard cheddar, truffle aioli, marinated tomatoes, topped with a crisp organic egg on a seeded bun.

Or, try the "Grilled Turkey Burger" with guava BBQ sauce, pickled onion and pepper jack cheese on a brioche bun.

September's your chance to catch comedy at Dukes Alehouse and Kitchen, as they partner with The Edge Comedy Clubon the month's Saturdays. Look below for the list of comics.

Duke's patrons have free admission on Saturday Comedy Nights, with a two-drink minimum to keep the good times rollin'. $3 wells and $5 Red Bull & Vodka's can easily help cover the drink minimum. The kitchen is also offering a free soup or salad with any entree order, until the kitchen closes at 11 p.m.

The laughs start at 9:30.

September 5:   Dave Odd (NBC, BBC, XM Radio, Bob and Tom) with Jeff Hansen and Ethan Peldo
September 12:  Kevin Williams (Last Comic Standing, BET) with Matt Drufke and Adam Burke
September 19:  Robert Hines (Comedy Central, BET) with Dave Odd and Danny Kallas
 

As summer winds down, Hugo's Frog Bar and Fish House is livening up Naperville with free admission to live music every day during September.

Worthy of special note, on Saturday, September 12, Hugo’s in Naperville will present a special performance by Desiree Irwin – an experienced keyboardist, singer and songwriter who has shared the stage with Buddy Guy and worked as the musical director for the hit Chicago musical, Tony and Tina’s Wedding.

September Music Schedule at Hugo's in Naperville

Hugo’s Frog Bar and Fish House, Naperville:
Mondays: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM, Professor John
Tuesdays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Anderson "Sonny" Edwards
Tuesdays: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM, KC McDonough
Wednesdays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Sami Scott
Wednesdays: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Professor John
Thursdays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, KC McDonough
Thursdays: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Brother John or Duotone
Fridays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Lynn Hilton
Fridays: 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM, Jen Porter
Saturdays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, TBA
Saturdays: 8:00 PM – 12:00 AM
September 5: Steve Kouba
September 12: Desiree Irwin
September 19: Professor John
September 26: Steve Kouba
Sundays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM, KC McDonough

Chrissa’s Friendship Bookmark Craft at American Girl Place

Oct. 9        4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Nov. 12      2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Girls will enjoy making a unique handmade bookmark, just as the 2009 Girl of the Year does in her stories. Ages 8 and up. Free and open to the public. 

To learn more about American Girl Place, check out Concierge Preferred's American Girl Place Guide.

Blend your own wine at Bin 36's Harvest Festival

Bin 36 will hold the seventh annual Harvest Festival, providing wine lovers both new and experienced with an opportunity to blend their own wine under nationally-lauded Wine Director Brian Duncan.

Expertly guided by Duncan and his team, guests will sniff, swirl and drink their way to the right combination for their custom-blended wine. Throughout the afternoon, they will also enjoy BIN 36’s own signature blends paired with delicious, seasonal harvest snacks prepared by Chef John Caputo.

The cost for Harvest Festival is $36 per person. Advance tickets are required and can be purchased at www.bin36.com.

To learn more about Chicago's wine bars, check out Concierge Preferred's Wine Bars Guide.

Grandparent's Day Discount at Park 52

Grandparents and Great-Grandparents will receive a 15 percent discount on brunch tabs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Menu selections include breakfast dishes such as Raisin Challah French Toast, Crab Cake Benedict, Big Breakfast Burrito and custom Omelets, as well as lunch entrees, from Grilled Skirt Steak Salad to House Smoked Baby Back Ribs and Southern Style Blackened Catfish. Appetizers, Soups, Sides and Brunch Cocktails are also offered. A children's menu is available for family-friendly dining.

Diners must mention the Grandparent's Day discount to the server.
 

Enjoy music, brats and beer at the ninth annual St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest.

$5 suggested donation

September 25 : 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
September 26 : 12 p.m. - 10 p.m.
September 27 : 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Music:

Friday
8 p.m.: Mike and Joe

Saturday
8 p.m.: Wedding Banned

Sunday
8 p.m.: Maggie Speaks

First Ever Fashion Show in the Grand Lobby of the Historic Palmer House Hilton

The Women's Board of the Joffrey ballet hosts the 4th annual Couture and Cocktails at the Palmer House, featuring a fashion show of Pamella Rolands Spring and Resort collection 2010 straight from Fashion Week in New York!

The night will feature cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, a silent and live auction, dancing and celebrity DJ Donna D'Cruz.

Rub elbows with Chicago VIP's including Bill and Giuliana Rancic.

VIP Arrivals - 6:15pm

Fashion Show - 8:00pm

Live Auction - 8:30pm

Dancing - 9:00pm

VIP Tickets - $500 (includes runway seating, goody bag, butler service and admission to the pre-party in Lockwood.

General Admission - $250

Call - 312-386-8921

Friday nights at this ultra hip nightclub just got hotter with specials on cover and drinks.

Friday nights get in before 11 p.m. and there is no cover charge, after that cover will be just $5.

Drink are just $2 all night.

2016 Announcement Viewing Party at the Nick's Fishmarket

Can't wait to hear the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic decision? Share the experience, fellow Chicagoans and visitors alike, at a Chicago 2016 announcement viewing party right in the Loop! At Nick's Fishmarket & Grill, you'll be able to order all of your Nick's Grill favorites in one of their private dining rooms, set up just for this thrilling event and opening up for lunchtime service through the evening. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. and the announcement starts at 11:30 a.m.

Watch coverage from Copenhagen on their large projection screens and share in the excitement as the IOC makes its final decision. As a special bonus, by heading over to Nick's for lunch, you'll take home a 10% off coupon toward your next visit! Also be sure to take advantage of their $10 Twenty Sixteenis and Gold Medal Martinis, in addition to a light bites and $7 drink specials between 4:00-8:00 p.m.

Given the growing excitement for this event - it's best to call ahead and secure your spot for this viewing party, (312) 621-0200.

"Swig and Pig" Dinner at Osteria Via Stato

Osteria Via Stato and Two Brothers Brewery bring you the "Swig and Pig" Dinner, a special event featuring pork dishes paired with local beers. The evening begins with a reception at 6:30 p.m., where you can mingle and sample a variety of tray-passed appetizers, followd by 7:00 p.m. dinner, served family style:

Antipasti

La Quercia Prosciutto Americano, burrata, crostini
Bitter Greens, local pears and walnuts, guanciale vinaigrette

Primi

Paccheri with Housemade Sausage and pan seared cauliflower
Wild Mushroom and Pulled Pork Ravioli with crispy bacon and herb brown butter

Secondi

Crisp Duroc Pork Belly with cavalo nero and local apples
Slagel Farms Suckling Pig with roasted grapes and polenta

The evening ends with a caramelized poached pear with cinnamon gelato, individually plated. This special event is $60 per guest, not including tax and gratuity. This is sure to be a popular event, so it's best to call ahead and make reservation, (312) 642-8450.

Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise on Spirit of Chicago

What better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than on a modern-day Mayflower? Enjoy spectacular views of the city as you give thanks with friends, family, and delicious Thanksgiving fare, just like Mom makes it. Guests will enjoy a special menu of traditional favorites, or, take a break from the stuffing with live entertainment! 

Guests will board the Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise at 6:30 p.m., followed by a 7:00-10:00 p.m. cruise. Admission is $65.90 for adults; half-price for kids age 3-11 (excludes taxes, fees and prepaid service charges). In the event a cruise is unable to depart Navy Pier due to weather, the event will be held dockside.

Ready to book your stress-free Thanksgiving cruise? Call (866) 211-3804 or visit their website for scheduling.

10th Anniversary Celebration at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is celebrating their 10th anniversary with 10 days of programs, free of admission! Come see how they've grown over the years with their free events and activities, and several special events at a small charge:

Friday, October 23

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. The LOVE-FM Road Crew will be at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum celebrating 10 fantastic years with music, interactive games, and prizes! 

1:00 p.m. Adopt and release a butterfly! Head to the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven to learn more about its inhabitants, and receive a certificate marking this special event. ($15/member, $20/non-member, register here). 

Sunday, October 24

9:00 a.m. 2nd Annual Go Go Green 5K Run/Walk, sponsored by Segall Bryant & Hamill. All proceeds benefit the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum; register here. 

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Drop by Owl Hour to learn more about unique owl adaptations in this interactive workshop, perfect for the whole family. ($12, register here).

11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Not for the faint of heart... Learn about the difference between venomous and poisonous at this informative event; check out some of the Nature Museum's deadliest creatures! 

Sunday, October 25: Bug-a-Palooza!

First annual Bug-a-Palooza: get to know more about all of the bugs you could ever want to meet, and talk with the scientists who study them! Check out insect pinning, bug films, or head to one of these informative sessions: 

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Use your clues and your noggin to discover which bug has escaped! ($12, register here). 

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Meet author Natalie Rompella and get your copy of Don't Squash That Bug signed! 

11:30 a.m. Discovery Time! Guided play program for tots-who-love-bugs and their caregivers!

11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Bug Cooking Demonstration: where else can you grab a sample of this creepy, crawly cuisine?

11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Not for the faint of heart... Learn about the difference between venomous and poisonous at this informative event; check out some of the Nature Museum's deadliest creatures! 

12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Adopt and release a butterfly! Head to the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven to learn more about its inhabitants, and receive a certificate marking this special event. ($15/member, $20/non-member, register here).  

1:00 p.m. Chance to watch their Death's Head Cockroaches enjoy a meal!

2:30, 3:30, & 4:30 p.m. Connect with all your favorite insects, from walking sticks to tarantulas, and every creepy crawly in between!

1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. For the crafty bug-lovers: transform river rocks into adorable bug buddies! ($3/person).

4:00 p.m. A Chicago Marathon... for roaches! Cheer the roaches to victory in a race to the finish line! ($1/person). 

Monday, October 26

9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Recycle your unwanted bicycles! Bikes for all ages are accepted and passed on to Working Bikes, a non-profit organization that repairs and sells bikes to fund shipments of bicycles and parts to developing countries.

9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Join this Scavenger Hunt and learn more about recycling in the city of Chicago! 

Wednesday, October 28

3:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Educator Open House: Private viewing of National Geographic Crittercam: The World Through Animal Eyes. Event includes hands-on workshops, presentation by the author, and take-home curriculum materials. $8 in advance, $10 at the door.

Thursday, October 29

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Use your clues and your noggin to discover which bug has escaped! ($12, register here).

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Join the author and photographer of Nico and Lola for a reading and signing of this lovely children's book about the journey of a boy and his dog. 

Friday, October 30

5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Put on your Halloween costume and come out for supper with the snakes! Learn about all these wiggly reptiles ($15/member, $20/non-member, register here).

Saturday, October 31

10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Costume Contest: Come in your best Halloween costume to win a free one-year family membership! 

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Drop by Owl Hour to learn more about unique owl adaptations in this interactive workshop, perfect for the whole family. ($12, register here). 

11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Not for the faint of heart... Learn about the difference between venomous and poisonous at this informative event; check out some of the Nature Museum's deadliest creatures!  

Sunday, November 1

9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Member breakfast at the Nature Museum: explore the museum before it opens! Face painting, live animals from the Chicago Herpetological Society, and more! Click here to register. 

12:30 p.m. Adopt and release a butterfly! Head to the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven to learn more about its inhabitants, and receive a certificate marking this special event. ($15/member, $20/non-member, register here).  

Macy's "Come Together" at The Drawing Room

Join Macy’s Come Together and The Drawing Room in their efforts to feed thousands of hungry Chicagoans this winter.

Donate $10 to Feeding America in exchange for a complimentary dessert flight, valued at $12.

Flight includes: ancho-chocolate cupcake, peanut crème brulee, watermelon salad, and Black Dog gelato.

Goth and Glam Gala at Nacional 27



Nacional 27's "Goth and Glam Gala" Halloween costume party welcomes glamorous and goulish guests for passed tapas and open premium bar from 8 p.m. to midnight featuring Adam Seger's award-winning, signature libations.



Entertainment for the evening will include live music by La Tremenda Rumba
 (9 p.m. - 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. - 12 a.m.), DJ Cairo (8 p.m. - 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. - 11 p.m.) and DJ George Perez (midnight - 3 a.m.).

Celebrity judges, such as the legendary "Chili Pepper" will award prizes for the best costume creations: Grand Prize $1,000 cash, First Prize N27 Cocktail Party for 27 people, Second Prize VIP Club Table and 2 Bottles of Bacardi.



Tickets to the event may be purchased through the website N27Chicago.com. There will be a $20 cover for guests arriving after Midnight. Optional reserved booths with bottle service ($400 includes two premium liquor bottles, chips and guacamole) will also be available after midnight. Nacional 27 will be open until 3 a.m.

$75 advance
, $85 door

To learn more about night spots for nosh, check out Concierge Preferred's Best Bar Food Guide.

NPR’s Joe Frank in "Is There Something Wrong?" at Steppenwolf Downstairs

NPR radio personality, author and performance artist Joe Frank appears at Steppenwolf for a one-night-only performance of "Is There Something Wrong?" Tickets go on sale Oct. 2 at 11 a.m.

Joe Frank takes the Steppenwolf’s stage for an evening of spoken word and music in one of his most provocative pieces yet. The depth of his work – essentially a philosophical inquiry – is what gives it its real significance. Beneath every surreal flourish is a search for something to believe in: a yearning for love, a quest for self-acceptance. While one critic has called Frank “the most brilliant comic in America,” another has described Frank’s stories as “inspired weirdness that feeds on pathos and irony.” Others have used the words “hypnotic,” “psychotic,” “disturbing” and “terrifying.” All agree that Frank unfailingly manages to confound his audience’s expectations. Cited as a source of inspiration by artists as diverse as Ira Glass, Charlie Kaufman and Beck, Frank’s shows are invariably laced with surreal comedy.

Ticket prices: $29 ($15 student tickets available via phone and box office only)

9th Annual Black i Ball Party at ROOF

ROOF is celebrating their first Halloween in style - cohosting with the 9th Annual Black i Ball Party for a night of Hollywood icons, featuring a red carpet, step and repeat, and paparazzi!

Don't forget to don your very best Halloween costume for their contest, judged by ROOF's nightlife celebrity panel, where you can win their $1,000 Grand Prize! Even if you don't take home the big bucks, it's worth heading over to spend a few hours at this lively club, enjoying the sights off this roof-top club and the sounds of DJ Matty Harris. Added bonus: there's no cover!

The White House at The Museum of Science and Industry

Check out the latest exhibit to arrive at the Museum of Science and Industry, "The White House: A Look Inside." This is a unique opportunity to see this famous, incredibly detailed replica of one of the nation's most beloved landmarks.

This expansive exhibit begins with a walk through some White House history, inhabitants, and artifacts, followed by the 60-by-13 foot replica. The White House exhibit will be open through President’s Day, February 15, 2010.

Tickets are $5 for adults and seniors, $2 for children (ages 3-11), and special member pricing of $4 for adults and $2 for children.

The Chicago Sinfonietta will present "A Dream Unfolds: A Tribute to Dr. Marin Luther King, Jr." January 18 at the Symphony Center (220 S. Michigan Ave.), home to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Led by Maestro Paul Freeman, the annual tribute will open with a nod to the legendary leader with Faure's serene and elegant Pavane Opus 50.  The Sinfonetta will also present Beethoven's majestic 9th Symphony and it's celebratory Ode to Joy under the baton of rising conductor Kazem Abdullah. 

The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $26-$96 and are available online and by calling 312-236-3681, ext. 2. Discounted pricing is available for children and students. 

South Pacific-inspired lounge, with nightly DJs.

Link to Website

Akai Hana, which means "red flower," has been serving sushi and Japanese fare on the North Shore since 1992.

CLOSED

Shop for authentic Western wear, including more than 5,000 hats and 10,000 boots. 

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This location is a spin-off of the Lake View original, which has been serving up traditional Swedish fare since 1945.

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This location is a spin-off of the Lake View original, which has been serving up traditional Swedish fare since 1945.

Antico Posto (translation: The Old Spot) is a wine bar and Italian cafe with mostly comfort foods.

Link to Website

A newcomer to the Mile, the Apple Store is the most interactive shopping experience along the strip. With daily workshops for navigating your Mac, a Genius Bar for technical support, and two-floors of everything Apple, it’s easy to lose track of time in this Macintosh-made world.

Exclusive European goods for your bed, bath and table.

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Beauty and tranquility are number one at this Aveda Lifestyle Salon Spa.  With an intensive training program, as well as outside education, the Asha team offers the best in the industry from cutting-edge hair color and design techniques and the most effective facial and body treatments.

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Family-owned, this gallery features everything from Renoir prints to contemporary originals.

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A James Beard Award-winning design mixes with flavorful food and a well-conceived wine list is the deal at Avec.

This local favorite carries a wide variety without a megastore feel.

With a full bar, the California Pizza Kitchen has one-of-a-kind toppings that’ll satisfy the most curious eaters. BBQ chicken, carne asada, pear and gorgonzola are just a few example of the flavors CPK is known for. Pasta, salads, soups and sandwiches are also available.

This seafood-focused eatery is a popular business lunch destination, and also is a good pre-theater spot with its proximity to the Oriental and Goodman Theaters.

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One of the finest restaurants in the world located right in Chicago.

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Best known for its selection of 70 different beers, Charlie's expands its seating to over 150 guests during spring and summer months with its outdoor café.
Contact: (312) 595- 1440

This American eatery is located in a landmark-designated early 1900s firehouse, and serves specialties such as mango and chili barbecued pork chop, a blue-cheese crusted rib-eye and slow-cooked pot roast.

The Corner Bakery chain offers a fresh alternative to fast food.

This contemporary American restaurant headed by executive chef Suzy Crofton, a long-time and much-acclaimed Chicago chef. Expert a nicely balanced menu pulling on French and other influences in style and with an emphasis on organic ingredients.

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Carson Pirie Scott is a department store has been offering quality buys for the whole family since the chain was founded in Chicago in 1854.

Games, food, drinks and fun all for an adult audience.

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Consignment and new clothing and accessories from high-end names.

Consignment and new clothing and accessories from high-end names.

A 1950s themed diner, this standby has its place in the Chicago family friendly world and for those who live for the 1950s. The shakes are otherworldly.

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Get a tour and a taste of Chicago's favorite dessert, and stop by their Cheesecake Café and shop! Ticket prices vary.

Alums of this improv theatre include Mike Meyers and Chris Farley. Cover varies. One of the city's best known comedy venues.

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Giant antique store specializing in French imports.

Tucked away in the lower level of Macy's, Infield's is a sports bar serving classic pub fare and featuring martini specials and 25-ounce draft beers.

One of Chicago's oldest and most venerated restaurants, Italian Village has been doing it right for more than 80 years.

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Three huge floors of 18th- and 19th-century antiques.

Inside the Wrigley Building, this gallery features art depicting natural history.

Lawry's is housed in the 1890s McCormick Mansion that would later become the Kungsholm light opera theatre.

Navy Pier, one of the top tourist attractions in Chicago and the country, is visited by almost nine million visitors per year. From dining to shopping, boat tours to countless entertainment options, Navy Pier in Chicago is a must-stop for a wide range of visitors--Chicago residents already know and love it!

Watch our latest video offering and take a quick, two-minute narrated tour through the highlights at Navy Pier, stern to bow.

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The Newberry Library is home to millions of books, maps, and manuscripts, including letters by such figureheads as Thomas Jefferson.

A top Chicago steakhouse right off Michigan Avenue, expect a classic steakhouse when you stop in here. It's not all about the steaks, though; plenty of lighter choices are available, as well.

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Stunning 360-degree views of Chicago. Open daily, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. May-Sept., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Oct.-April. Must arrive 30 minutes prior to closing. Tickets $8.50-11.95; free for children under 3 free.

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This authorized Segway Tour begins with training with certified Segway Tour Captains and includes visits to Millennium Park, Museum Campus, Buckingham Fountain, Rose Gardens and more. Tours six times daily, open all year long.

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Shoreline Sightseeing offers a range of boat tours showcasing Chicago's spectacular skyline and colorful history.

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Discover 5,000 years of artistic expression at one of the world's great art museums. Journey through Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas as you enjoy paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, photographs, videos, textiles, and architectural works. Admission $7-$12.

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Chicago was the original home to Milton Hershey’s discovery of the machinery he would later use to build his chocolate empire.

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All your chocolate needs satisified at this one-stop chocolate shop and soda fountain.

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Inn of Chicago is a 357-room independently-owned boutique hotel located near the Magnificent Mile and Millenium Park. 

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Chicago's famed Field Museum, housed in the Fine Arts Building of the 1893 Columbian Exposition, is dedicated to the study of the naturial sciences.

This indoor/outdoor urban antique market attracts bargain hunters of all kinds.

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Three-hour guided tours include visits to Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain and Solider Field.

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Lincoln Park Zoo, located in Chicago, is among the oldest zoological gardens in the country (established in 1868) and is also among the most modern. Generations of Chicago kids and visitors to the city alike take the time to stand face to face with apes and even go palm-to-palm with them through the glass. Human-to-animal interaction is mixed with the heavily scientific- and research-based initiatives here.

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One of the nation's premier conservatories — six multi-faceted greenhouses and two grand exhibition halls. Or for that special occasion — weddings, reunions, business meetings — rent one or all of our rooms.

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The Chicago Architecture Foundation (CAF) offers a 88 different tours in total. You can explore the city by bus, boat, bike on foot or even via a segway.

Get a glimpse of what's going on at the CAF in this great video!

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Located in the heart of Greektown, this ethnic museum features memories and artifacts from the Greek community in Chicago (and America at large), telling their immigrant and cultural stories. Open Tue. through Sat. and the first Sun. of the month; admission is $5.

Housed inside a historic Gold Coast mansion, the museums floors offer a look at surgeries through the centuries and throughout the world. Open daily, $6 suggested donation.

Has been designated a:
Concierge favorite

Housed in the 19th century mansion occupied by Jane Addams and Ellen Gates Starr, the museum commemorates Addams and Starr's Hull house, the first reform settlement of its kind.

Open Sat. noon to 5 p.m. and Sun. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission $5, parking free. 

Located in Chicago's historic Water Tower, the Lookingglass Theatre presents progressive, dynamic, and intelligent productions often with an intense physicality.

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One of the greatest opera companies located right in the heart of Chicago.

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This Italian steakhouse has a club-like atmosphere with large windows, oil paintings, and an elegant yet casual ambiance.

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See Chicago from the top of the John Hancock Center in the heart of downtown. The John Hancock Observatory offers Chicago views at their finest and their new Cafe Espression by Lavazza is one of the most high altitude coffee purveyors in the world.

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A treasure of the Chicago Botanic Gardens, Lenhardt Library is open to the public.

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Naval air museum located in Glenview.

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Creating the "Good Old Days" of the 1900s, this club is located in the O'Hare Hilton Hotel.

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Museum and library celebrating Irish American heritage.

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Temple designed by the master of modern architecture Frank Lloyd Wright.

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The home and studio of the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

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The Hideout is the ideal place to experience Chicago's thriving music scene, with its dozens of independent labels.

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Opened in Arlington Heights 30 years ago, Le Titi de Paris has a long history of serving elegant French fare in a romantic setting

Frango cafe serves soups, salads, sandwiches and classic sweet treats - featuring Macy's famous Frango chocolates,

The Harold Washington Cultural Center is an entertainment and educational center located in Chicago's historic Bronzeville neighborhood.

The Route 66 Theatre Company presents theatrical production that bridge the cultural divide between Chicago and Los Angeles.

The National Vietnam Veterans Art Museum holds a collection of heart-wrenching, complex pieces that were made to help the general public better understand the complete impact of the Vietnam War and help veterans physically and emotionally cope with the horrors of war. All art at the musuem was made by veterans of the war or was influenced by the years of treturous combat. 

Discover the secrets of the Chicago River inside the bridge tower on the end of the Michigan Avenue Bridge. The five floors reveal the many uses of the Chicgo River, how the bridge is lifted and how the museum was started by a grassroots organization. 

Lottie's Pub has been pushing boundries since it opened in 1934. Lottie was a tough woman who single-handedly ran the most popular underground gambling and strip club in Chicago until the 1960s. Today, Lottie's Pub is an ideal place to grab a drink, munch on some cheap bar food, and have a good time on the weekends.

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Chicago's Luna Negra Dance Theater creates, performs and teaches contemporary dancy by Latino choreographers.

Focusing on American Indians from the Great Lakes, Plains, and Southwest areas, this museum has over 3,000 artifacts from tribes all across America. The various galleries have interactive exhibits and there is even a library with over 5,000 periodicals.

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The Josef Glimer Gallery, Ltd. features masterpieces of the 19th and 20th centuries by Picasso and Renoir. The gallery also attributes to contemporary artists.

This Oak Street art gallery purveys a strong collection of antique posters and art-accompanying furniture.

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A hub of transportation for Metra and Amtrack in downtown Chicago, this historic landmark has been featured in several movies.

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Rockstar Dogs turns the volume to the max on Chicago hotdogs with its two locations: West Town and Lincoln Park.  

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Located right in Linconl Park, Chicago's Green City Market is the city's only sustainable, green farmer's market. Even better: it's open year-round!

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Segway tours are quickly becoming the ‘it’ way to experience Chicago. Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours stands out as one of the best.

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A theater that shows plays dealing with political and social issues.

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Step back into the Gilded Age at the historic Driehaus Museum. Once the home of a 19th century banker, the grand mansion-turned-museum now houses art and artwork.

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Looking for a truly unique way to see Chicago? Try one of several kayak tours offered by Kayak Chicago, and paddle your way to dynamic views on this adventurous tour. 

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Bucktown jeweler specializing in unique, handmade pieces from both international and local artists.

The Hyde Park Art Center is a top attraction in this bustling neighborhood.

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