Chicago culture
December 20th, 2007 by jamie a
Through December 29
Be sure to catch by David Sedaris, chronicling his time working as a Macy’s Christmas elf. This hilarious show has become a Chicago tradition, so be sure and reserve your tickets early!
December 8, 2007 - February 4, 2008
at the Art Institute of Chicago offers glimpses into female adolescence through the eyes of contemporary artists.
November 29, 2007 - January 20, 2008
Redmoon Theater presents , an adaptation of Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame. This production uses over 3 styles of puppetry to tell the story, complete with acrobatic feats to delight their audiences.
November 23 - December 30
Spice up your holidays with , a retelling of the classic story through beat poetry, spoken word, and storytelling. If you’re a fan of the original, treat yourself to a modern take on your favorite story.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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December 13th, 2007 by jamie a
Friday, December 14 (6 pm)
Oculus Gallery will host the opening of Jonathan Michael Johnson’s large format photography entitled focusing on the urban constructs that are unseen to the human eye.
Friday, December 14 (8 pm)
The Irish American Heritage Center presents concert this Friday. Part I will be a performace of O’Henry’s Gift of the Magi in radio theatre style and Part II will be comprised of seasonal Irish carols perfect for a sing-a-long.
Friday, December 14- Sunday, December 16
The Chicago Tap Theatre presents celebrating winter and the holiday season. Get in the holiday spirit at the showings this weekend which are held at the U.I.C. Theater.
Friday, December 14 - Sunday, December 16
Red Dog House, Chicago’s favorite dog boutique, will be hosting this weekend. A portion of every purchase made will be donated to support charities that Red Dog House has given to in the past.
If you’ve still got some last-minute Christmas shopping to do, check out this all around the city of Chicago!
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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December 5th, 2007 by jamie a
Wednesday, December 5 (6-9 pm)
Have caramel corn and peppermint truffles or some Ruth & Phil’s gourmet ice cream at . There will also be gingerbread houses, champagne, and award-winning coffee to taste whole you pick up gifts for family, friends, or co-workers!
Saturday, December 8 - Sunday, December 9 (12- 8 pm)
The is back in Chicago with over 100 craft vendors, food, and DJs to fulfill all your independent crafter shopping needs. Find all your special someones unique and wonderful gifts this holiday season with the help of the fair.
Sunday, December 9 (1 - 3:30 pm)
Bring your furry friend to the return of the at the Anti-Cruelty Society. See a special blessing for all of the animals in the shelter and have a great time at the holiday bazaar with your pet.
Sunday, December 9 (7 pm)
starts its opening night on Sunday with the film California Dreamin’ (Endless) by Cristian Mungiu, a Cannes Film Festival winner. The festival continues until December 12 with more feature films and short films by many acclaimed Romanian directors.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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Go Chicago Card.
November 29th, 2007 by jamie a
November 22 - December 24
In its 12th year, the brings the traditional German Christmas market to families in Chicago. A favorite of locals, it’s become a Chicago institution to take part in the unique holiday shopping, German food and drinks, and all the holiday entertainment.
November 30 - December 24
Lend a hand to the this season by participating in their leading up to the holidays. The foundation raises awareness and grants wishes for terminally ill adults, much like the Make a Wish Foundation does for children.
Friday, November 30 (7 pm)
For one night only, join the Chicago Art Department for the first ever showing of featuring photography from the 1970s San Francisco Bay Area Scene by Larry Schorr.
Saturday, December 1 (7 pm)
Join the as they celebrate 50 years in Chi-town. At the historic Auditorium Theater, this event features acts like Jeff Tweedy and Bela Fleck and will benefit the school’s education, scholarship, performance, and outreach programs.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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Go Chicago Card.
November 15th, 2007 by jamie a
Saturday, November 17 (11 am -10 pm)
Sunday, November 18 (all day)
, a 40 year old Chicago tradition, will be illuminated this weekend to kick off the holiday season! There will be live music, an attempt to break the world’s record for largest holiday carol, mini cheesecake decorating, and a grand fireworks show emceed by Mickey Mouse at 6:55 pm. This event will also be broadcast live on ABC 7 Chicago.
Saturday, November 17 (10 am - 6 pm)
Show your support for independent crafters at the . Get your holiday shopping done by picking up unique gifts for all your friends and family with everything from jewelry to kitchen gadgets and zines.
Saturday, November 17 - Sunday, November 18 (10 am - 6 pm)
Bring out your inner child at the . Meet inventors, test out new and upcoming toys, and participate in game tournaments with some of the world’s best players!
Sunday, November 18 (11 am - 4 pm)
At the , you can enjoy some great shopping and delicious treats all while supporting the Red Door Animal Shelter. This no-kill facility provides cats, dogs, and rabbits a cage-less life, offering them the closest experience to living in a home as they can. With 10 artisans selling their creations, you’re sure to find something to take home and cherish.
Sunday, November 18 (3 pm)
Come and be amazed by , two of Chicago’s exceptionally talented young orchestras, at their Fall Showcase. Don’t miss this grand show of up-and-coming musical talent!
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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November 14th, 2007 by jamie a
Experience the amazing collision between rock and roll music and contemporary art as depicted in
The Museum of Contemporary Art examines the intersection of rock and roll and visual art through music videos, album art, and works of art themselves. See the impact of music on the fine arts, especially prevalent with Andy Warhol’s involvement in producing the album The Velvet Underground and Nico in 1967. Explore recent album covers by Slater Bradley, Raymond Pettibon, and Mike Kelley created for modern bands, and discuss how musicians like John Lennon, Peter Townsend, and Bryan Ferry came from art school backgrounds.
For special events related to this exhibit, join the museum for the last session of on November 14 and then the on December 8 where children can explore their own connections between art and music for free!
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
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Go Chicago Card.
November 8th, 2007 by jamie a
Saturday, November 10
Join the Museum of Science for where children learn how to operate 60 ft. high parade balloons. Lend a hand in preparing for the upcoming parade at this free event.
Friday, November 9 - Sunday, November 11
The hits the Windy City this weekend. Check out the which includes everything from animation to musicals.
November 8 - 18
The second oldest in the nation, the is also playing in Chicago. It’s full of , including the opening on Thursday, November 8th, along with spotlights and panel discussions.
Saturday, November 10
provides an incredible event to celebrate the independent crafter! Find unique gifts for friends, upcoming holidays, or treat yourself to some beautiful finds.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.
November 6th, 2007 by jamie a

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Known for its thriving comedy scene, Chicago is a great spot for those who love to laugh. Whether you’d like something appropriate for the kids, or something for a night on the town with friends, we’ve got the best spots for humor right here.
Chicago’s best-known comedy club, boasts alums like Bill Murray, Amy Sedaris, and Steve Carell. Check out the , as well as their smaller venue, the . While most shows are comprised of mature topics (like current events and politics), this venue is open to teens and adults.
At , anyone 21+ can enjoy the laughs and drinks with the regulars. Check out their to find your favorite stars from the Late Show, TBS’s My Boys, and Curb Your Enthusiasm.
For sports fans of all ages, , offers hilarious improv comedy shows. With two teams battling to win the laughs of the crowd, you’ll have a fabulous time.
Since 1981, has been providing Chicago with incredible improv. With alums like Tina Fey, Mike Myers, and Vince Vaughn, join in the tradition of fun with one of their !
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.
November 5th, 2007 by susan j
Chicago’s Field Museum
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Last week Chicago’s Field Museum opened a new exhibit called “Maps: Finding Our Place in the World,” which is part of Chicago’s citywide Festival of Maps (click for the full calendar of events).
As the Festival’s points out, maps offer insight into the historical period in which they were created. Chicago’s rapid development in the nineteenth century appears in a series of maps from that period. Other maps portray Chicago’s politically charged history of segregation. More contemporary maps reveal the proposed plans for the 2016 Olympic Games in Chicago. offers more details on this fascinating new exhibit.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.
November 1st, 2007 by jamie a
Friday, November 2 - Sunday, November 4
Get inspired at the . There’s glass, fiber art, ceramics, and metal art from over 100 galleries in 18 countries.
Friday, November 2 - Sunday, November 4
For a sampling of all kinds of creative dance, check out opening weekend of ! Styles include everything from Irish and hip hop to jazz and ballet.
Saturday, November 3 (8-11 pm)
Lend a hand to the Greater Chicago Food Depository by attending the ! There’s music, dancing, drinks (of course), raffles, and giveaways all to support a great cause.
Saturday, November 3 (9 am)
The Field Museum is hosting a symposium on . From the history of biology to to the evolution of the HIV virus, this is a wonderful way to learn about Darwin and all that surrounds his studies.
Planning a trip to
Chicago?
Read about attractions, tours, discounts, and more with the
Go Chicago Card.