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!
The History. The House. The Fashion.
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Crawley family at Downton Abbey: The Exhibition. Explore meticulously recreated sets, exquisite costumes, and behind-the-scenes insights. This enchanting experience brings the beloved TV series to life, inviting fans to relive the world of Downton Abbey.
Date: Through March 31
Time: 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Cost: $39
Location: 4963 Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie
More Info: downtonexhibition.com
Catch a New Musical at Theo’s Winterfest
Closing out the cabaret theater’s new works festival, “Things We Don’t Say” is a brand new song cycle focusing on queer characters and relationships featuring the music and lyrics of Richard Rogers Award winners EllaRose Chary and Brandon James Gwinn. A must-see for theatergoers interested in new musicals.
Date: January 26 – 27
Time: 7:30PM on Fri; 3:00PM and 7:30PM on Sat
Cost: $25
Location: Theo Ubique Cabaret Theater, 721 Howard St, Evanston
More Info: theo-u.com
High Heels. High Spirits!
With a book by Harvey Fierstein and music & lyrics by Cyndi Lauper, Kinky Boots The Musical won 6 Tony Awards including “Best Musical.” From The Dolphin Show at Northwestern University, this high-spirited student production is a dazzling spectacle of resilience, acceptance and fabulous footwear.
Date: January 26 – 27
Time: 7:30PM
Cost: From $25
Location: Cahn Auditorium, 600 Emerson St, Evanston
More Info: nudolphinshow.org
Celebrate Chicago’s Culinary Scene
The 17th annual Chicago Restaurant Week is in full swing this weekend with over 400 restaurants in the city and suburbs offering special prix-fixe menus for brunch, lunch and dinner. From iconic Michelin-rated landmarks to hidden neighborhood gems, this is a terrific time to finally get to that restaurant you’ve been wanting to try.
Date: Through February 4
Time: Varies by restaurant
Cost: $25 for lunch or brunch and $42 or $59 for dinner
Location: 420+ participating restaurants across Chicagoland
More Info: choosechicago.com
Take the Plunge… The Polar Bear Plunge!
A local tradition since 2002, this Chicago Polar Bear Club annual event challenges participants to leap into the icy waters of Lake Michigan – costumes encouraged! In addition to the frigid fun, this fundraising event has raised over $600,000 to support local families in need.
Date: January 27
Time: 12:00PM
Cost: $30 With Pre-Registration. $40 Walk-Up.
Location: Oak Street Beach, 1000 N. DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago
More Info: chicagopolarbearclub.com
Do You Like Pina Coladas?
Then escape to the Teeny, Tiny, Tropical Bar at Cindy’s Rooftop. Enjoy specially crafted tropical beverages and food at this limited-time pop-up experience perched on the 13th floor of the Chicago Athletic Association. No reservations, walk-ins only. The Teeny, Tiny, Tropical Bar can be booked for private parties.
Date: Open daily through March 31
Time: 5:00 to 10:00PM
Cost: No charge for entry. Food & drink per menu.
Location: Cindy’s Rooftop, 12 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago
More Info: cindysrooftop.com
See 30 Plays in 60 Minutes!
Hailed by critics and loved by audiences, the Neo-Futurist Ensemble encompasses writers, directors and performers who create theater that is “a fusion of sport, poetry and living newspaper.” The Infinite Wrench is an ongoing series of thirty original plays presented in one hour: it’s been described as “a surprising, occasionally powerful, often hilarious and always entertaining evening.”
Date: January 26 – 28
Time: 10:30PM on Fri & Sat; 7:00PM on Sun
Cost: $20
Location: 5153 N Ashland Ave, Chicago
More Info: neofuturists.org
Randy Rainbow – LIVE!
New York-based comedian Randy Rainbow found his calling when he released a series of original, Broadway-esque music videos spoofing the theatrical ins and outs of the 2016 presidential election, going viral and garnering nearly a million social media followers. Sassy, fearless and possessed of a biting wit, Rainbow has emerged as one of the leading LGBTQ advocates for our time.
Date: January 27
Time: 7:30PM
Cost: From $40
Location: The Chicago Theater, 175 N State St, Chicago
More Info: chicago-theater.com
