We know it’s cold as ice in Chicago this weekend, but don’t let that stop you from attending some of the hottest events that the city has to offer. From works of art to tasty treats, Chicago never stops putting on a great show, no matter the weather!
Meet the Family Orchidaceae
With more than 25,000 species in this floral family, orchids are found in almost every habitat on Earth except glaciers! This year’s orchid show at the Botanic Garden will take you under the big top for The Orchid Show of Wonders featuring 10,000 fresh flowers. Marvel at your favorite carnival and circus attractions blooming to life in creative, unexpected ways.
Date: Through March 24
Time: Daily 10:00AM to 4:00PM
Cost: $21 for Nonmembers; $10 for Members
Location: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe
More Info: chicagobotanic.org
Good Eats & Sweet Treats
February is North Shore Restaurant Month, with dozens of participating restaurants in Evanston, Skokie, Wilmette, Glencoe and beyond. From casual breakfast spots to fine dining venues, Restaurant Month specials include free desserts, limited-time savings and special prix fixe menus.
Date: Through February 29
Time: Varies by venue
Cost: Varies by venue
Location: 85 participating restaurants in the North Shore
More Info: visitchicagonorthshore.com
Cambridge Concert: A Cappella
For nearly 30 years, Chicago a cappella has been wowing audiences with their concert experiences. Inspired by a trip to Cambridge University, their latest program features rich English choral masterworks and a new work by a 2023 HerVoice Composer Competition winner.
Date: February 18
Time: 4:00PM
Cost: From $38
Location: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 939 Hinman Ave, Evanston
More Info: chicagoacappella.org
Back to the 80’s with Sixteen Candles
Chicago’s favorite 80’s cover band returns to the House of Blues this weekend. From local music venues to summertime street festivals, the 5-member Sixteen Candles band has been entertaining their fans, old and new, with their fun, nostalgia-infused music.
Date: Feb 17
Time: Doors open at 7:30PM; Performance at 9:00PM
Cost: From $48
Location: House of Blues, 329 N Dearborn St, Chicago
More Info: houseofblues.com
Get Ready to Dink
Whether you’re an expert banger or a novice dinker, just remember to stay out of the kitchen! If you have no idea what this means, then check out Chicago’s newest pickleball facility and discover America’s fastest growing sport. Experienced players will appreciate their online court reservation system and instant replay technology.
Date: Now Open Daily
Time: 6:00AM to 11:00PM
Cost: Open Play from $20 for two hours; Classes & Clinics from $30
Location: SPF, 2121 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago
More Info: playspf.com
Welcome the Year of the Dragon
Head up to Uptown as the businesses and cultural organizations on Argyle Street celebrate the Lunar New Year. Local organizations are planning family-friendly activities from 10:00AM to 4:00PM, with community groups, dancers and performers coming together for the lively New Year Parade along Argyle, Broadway, Winona and Sheridan.
Date: February 17
Time: Parade Kick-Off at 1:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Parade Kick-Off at Argyle & Winthrop, Chicago
More Info: exploreuptown.org
Final Curtain Call: Chicago Theater Week
Don’t miss out! Chicago Theater Week ends on Sunday, so this is your last chance to take advantage of special value-priced tickets. Choose from dozens of performances at theaters all across Chicago, from musicals and drama to comedy and children’s theater.
Date: Through February 18
Time: Varies by Show
Cost: Special Theater Week Pricing: $15 or $30
Location: Varies by Theater
More Info: choosechicago.com
Dine Out During Chicago Black Restaurant Week
From Hyde Park to Lincoln Park, dozens of Black-owned restaurants and food & beverage businesses across Chicagoland will have special offerings as part of CBRW 2024. From the tasty treats at Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream to the Michelin-recommended bistro fare at 1308 Chicago, there’s something for every mood and palate.
Date: Through February 25
Time: Varies by venue
Cost: Varies by venue
Location: 48+ participating restaurants and businesses across Chicagoland
More Info: chiblackrestaurantweek.com
