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chicago event

Lulus Besties That Brunch Chicago

June 7, 2024

Lulus Besties That Brunch Chicago

Kicking off the summer with Lulus Besties That Brunch! LuLus.com, a popular online fashion store, recently announced its “Friends for Life” out-of-home campaign in four major cities. The campaign celebrates women’s friendships and focuses on women supporting other women through the milestones in their lives. As someone who has bought many dresses from Lulus for past sorority and blogger events, I was excited to attend the Besties That Brunch out-of-home event held at Venteux Cafe & Oyster Bar inside Pendry Chicago, a boutique hotel downtown. It is sure to be the first of many Chicago events I attend this summer season.

Sips & Bites

Despite the event name, there was no sit-down brunch meal. Instead, waiters scarcely passed out light bites on small trays holding only 6-8 pieces at a time. We were so hungry and kept missing out when the bites were quickly snagged! Finally, we tried two: melted gruyere cheese and quail egg on mini toast, and egg salad with caviar on a potato chip. Both were delicious! There was also an included bar serving mimosas and different pre-decided cocktails.

The Swag

Lulus is known for their fashionable clothing and accessories. Attendees of Besties That Brunch Chicago were offered gift bags containing sunglasses and one of three different clutch bags: gold, white, and mauve pink. I chose the gold! Each clutch was embellished with beads or rhinestones.

Snap a Pic

Dresses from Lulus and a photo backdrop were set up in a room off of the cafe. The outfits were styled with accessories and shoes, and a professional photographer took both digital and Polaroid pictures with fun bestie props. Pictured above is our Polaroid! I loved that we got to take it home as a souvenir.

Flowers From Semillas Chicago

My favorite part about the event was the flower bouquet station in the cafe. Semillas, a plant studio located in the Chicago Pilson neighborhood, provided a wonderful variety of flowers arranged in small bouquets for event guests. I loved how mine turned out!

Lulus Besties That Brunch Chicago was a fun, fresh way to kick off summer events. It was well organized and had just enough things to do to keep you stimulated and engaged. Before leaving we got our flower bouquets, complimentary cafe coffee, and more pics. I’d love to see Lulus do more events in Chicago in the future!

Which Chicago events are you planning to attend this summer? Let me know in the comments!

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Featured, Lifestyle Tagged With: Besties That Brunch, chicago, chicago event, chicago events, Lulus, Semillas

LeakyCon: A Magical World Fandom Convention

August 14, 2023

The Perfect Convention for Harry Potter Fans

This year was my first time attending LeakyCon, a fandom convention celebrating magical worlds such as the Wizarding World and Lord of the Rings. Sticking to my love for all things Harry Potter, I wore my best Slytherin wear and enjoyed the fun cosplay from others at the event. The convention featured sessions, a marketplace, and – the best part – photo and autograph opportunities with magical world celebrities. WE MET TOM FELTON. Keep reading for more information about this annual event!

The LeakyCon Convention

I attended LeakyCon under a media pass, but single general admission tickets were around $90 after tax. While the convention provides an impressive lineup of sessions and speakers at LeakyCon, the add-ons are truly once-in-a-lifetime moments. As a long-life Harry Potter fan (even my 9th birthday party was Harry Potter themed!), I was beyond ecstatic to meet and get a picture with none other than Draco Malfoy himself, Tom Felton. He was so nice! Other magical celebrities in attendance included Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, and Miranda Otto.

Experience Add-On Costs

Add-ons included autographs, selfie photos, professional photos in front of the LeakyCon backdrop, and content creation opportunities with Harry Potter-themed content creators. Prices ranged a bit, but we paid $147.50 for one professional photo with Tom Felton and were able to have both of us in the picture (you can have 2 people/per photo ticket). Photo extras were exact cash or Venmo only. Extra printed photos were $15 each, a digital version was $10 each, and protective slipcases were $5 each. Worth it!

Fan Corner Creations
Laserbrain

LeakyCon Marketplace

The marketplace selection at LeakyCon Chicago was awesome. There were so many great shops showcasing unique items to buy and take home. While most were Harry Potter themed, there were a few that had selective Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Stranger Things, and Disney-inspired items. I was excited to finally find and buy a Sirius Black wand. Many shops took both cards and cash for payment. Pictured are some of the (linked) shops I enjoyed!

Oddment & Tweak
Whimsic Alley

My Slytherin Outfit

(These are affiliate links and help make the blog what it is! Thank you!)

Slytherin Nightgown (Longer in person. I had it hemmed.) | Deathly Hollows Necklace | White Sneakers

Upcoming Events

LeakyCon events are held in a variety of cities each year! Make sure to follow their social media and website for location announcements. Have you attended a LeakyCon? What’s your favorite magical world?

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Lifestyle Tagged With: chicago event, chicago events, harry potter, leakycon

Fleurs de Villes VOYAGE at The 900 Shops

May 7, 2023

Fleurs de Villes at the 900 Shops

Each year the 900 Shops on Michigan Avenue hosts a Fleurs de Villes event in anticipation for spring. This year’s theme, VOYAGE, featured floral displays of iconic destinations around the world. I was able to attend opening night to enjoy six floors containing displays, light drinks from Inspirio Tequila, and a night of dressing up! Keep reading below to view my favorite floral creations.

My Favorite Fleurs de Villes VOYAGE Displays

Peru
Marrakesh
Scotland
Egypt
900 Shop Traveler
Mexico
Honduras
Palm Springs
India

Upcoming Summer Events in Chicago

The Fleurs de Villes VOYAGE event was fleeting, but luckily there are many upcoming summer events in Chicago to look forward to. From festivals to pop-ups to concerts, you certainly won’t be bored. Out of all the events, I’m most looking forward to Millennium Park summer workouts, the new Malibu Barbie Cafe pop-up, Pride in the Park, Stan’s Donut 5k, and Chef BBQ presented by Green City Market. I’ve already checked out Harry Potter Magic at Play and The Exhibit House – highly recommend both. Which events are you planning to do this summer?

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Lifestyle Tagged With: 900 shops, chicago, chicago event, chicago events, fleurs de villes

Things to Do in Chicago: Summer 2023

April 16, 2023

Summer in Chicago is the best time of year. Whether you’re a local or just visiting for a weekend, there’s always something to do to enjoy the city (and nice weather). Plenty to keep your calendar full! Read below for things to do in Chicago this summer, May through September! This post will be updated as events are announced.

May 2023 Events

photo: greencitymarket.org

Green City Market

  • Date: May – November 2023
  • Location: Lincoln Park, West Loop, Avondale
  • Cost: Free admission, vendors selling items for a cost
photo: myself

Pixar Putt

  • Date: May – September 2023
  • Location: Polk Bros Park outside Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Ave.)
  • Cost: $22-$33 per ticket
  • View my 2022 Pixar Putt Chicago recap post
photo: myself

Harry Potter Magic at Play

  • Date: May – September 4, 2023
  • Location: Water Tower Place (835 Michigan Ave.)
  • Cost: $42.50 per ticket, treats & souvenirs available for purchase
  • View my Harry Potter Magic at Play recap post
photo: facebook.com/suenosmusicfestival

Sueños Music Festival

  • Date: May 27-28, 2023
  • Location: Grant Park
  • Cost: $179+ per ticket, view lineup
photo: chicago.gov

Millennium Park Summer Workouts

  • Date: May 27 – September 2, 2023
    • 8–8:45am Pilates (no classes 7/1)
    • 9–9:45am Yoga (no classes 7/1)
    • 10–10:45am Cardio Kickboxing (no classes on 6/10, 7/1, 9/2)
    • 11–11:45am Zumba® (no classes on 6/10, 7/1, 9/2)
  • Location: Great Lawn in Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.)
  • Cost: Free admission
photo: myself

The Exhibit House

  • Date: Indefinitely
  • Location: Water Tower Place (835 Michigan Ave.)
  • Cost: $30 per ticket
  • View my The Exhibit House recap post

June 2023 Events

photo: bucketlisters.com

Malibu Barbie Cafe Chicago

  • Date: June 7 – September 15, 2023
  • Location: TBA, Downtown Chicago
  • Cost: $35 for kids, $49 for adults (each ticket includes reserved seating, entree & side item)
photo: facebook.com/heatwavechicago

Heatwave Music Festival

  • Date: June 10-11, 2023
  • Location: Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
  • Cost: $99+ per ticket, food & drink available for purchase
photo: grantparkmusicfestival.com

Grant Park Music Festival

  • Date: June 14 – August 19, 2023
  • Location: Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.)
  • Cost: Free seating, first come first serve
photo: choosechicago.com

Millennium Park Summer Music Series

  • Date: Mondays & Thursdays, June 22 – August 21, 2023 – 6:30-9pm (Gates open at 5pm)
  • Location: Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.)
  • Cost: Free admission
photo: myself

Pride in the Park Chicago

  • Date: June 23-24, 2023
  • Location: Grant Park
  • Cost: $75+ per ticket, food & drink available for purchase
  • View my 2022 Pride in the Park Chicago recap post
photo: joffrey.org

Joffrey Ballet’s “Joffrey for All Celebration”

  • Date: June 25, 2023 – 5:30pm
  • Location: Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.)
  • Cost: Free public performance
photo: cso.org

Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s “Concert for Chicago”

  • Date: June 27, 2023 – 6:30pm
  • Location: Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.)
  • Cost: Free public performance

July 2023 Events

photo: facebook.com/NASCARChicago

NASCAR Chicago Street Race Weekend

  • Date: July 1-2, 2023
  • Location: Grant Park (337 E Randolph St.)
  • Cost: $269+ per ticket
photo: timeout.com

Millennium Park Summer Film Series

  • Date: Tuesdays, July 11 – August 29, 2023 – 6:30pm (Gates open at 5pm)
  • Location: Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.)
  • Cost: Free admission
photo: windycitysmokeout.com

Windy City Smokeout

  • Date: July 13-16, 2023
  • Location: United Center parking lot
  • Cost: $55+ per ticket, food & drink available for purchase
  • View my 2022 Windy City Smokeout recap post
photo: chicago.gov

Chicago SummerDance

  • Date: July 15 – September 10, 2023
  • Location: Grant Park & Millennium Park
  • Cost: Free admission
photo: facebook.com/sadsummerfest

Sad Summer Festival

  • Date: July 21, 2023
  • Location: Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
  • Cost: $49.50+ per ticket, food & drink available for purchase
photo: facebook.com/PitchforkMusicFestival

Pitchfork Music Festival

  • Date: July 21-23, 2023
  • Location: Union Park (1501 W Randolph St.)
  • Cost: $109+ per ticket, food & drink available for purchase

August 2023 Events

photo: facebook.com/lollapalooza

Lollapalooza

  • Date: August 3-6, 2023
  • Location: Grant Park
  • Cost: $125+ per ticket, food & drink available for purchase
photo: myself

Stan’s Donut 5k

  • Date: August 19, 2023
  • Location: Solider Field
  • Cost: $40 per registration
  • View my 2022 Stan’s Donut 5k recap post
photo: choosechicago.com

Chicago Air and Water Show

  • Date: August 19-20, 2023
  • Location: North Ave Beach & along the Lakefront
  • Cost: Free admission, reserved viewing at certain businesses for a cost

September 2023 Events

photo: myself

Chef BBQ at Green City Market

  • Date: September 7, 2023
  • Location: Lincoln Park (1817 N Clark St)
  • Cost: TBD, tickets required
  • View my 2022 Chef BBQ recap post
photo: nbcchicago.com

Taste of Chicago

  • Date: September 8-10, 2023
  • Location: Polk Brothers Park (600 E Grand Ave)
  • Cost: Free admission, food available for purchase
photo: facebook.com/ChicagoGourmet

Chicago Gourmet

  • Date: September 21-24, 2023
    • Sep 21: Tacos & Tequilas
    • Sep 22: Hamburger Hop
    • Sep 23: Grand Cru
    • Sep 24: Prost! In the Park
  • Location: Harris Theater Rooftop (205 E. Randolph St.)
  • Cost: TBD, tickets required
  • View my 2019 Chicago Gourmet recap post

Things to Do All Summer

Chicago Attractions

  • Navy Pier
  • 360 Chicago
  • Skydeck Chicago
  • Lincoln Park Zoo
  • Chicago Riverwalk
  • The Chicago Theatre
  • The Bean (Cloud Gate)
  • Wrigley Field
  • United Center
  • The Second City
  • Garfield Park Conservatory
  • Chicago River Architecture Tours

Chicago Museums

  • Adler Planetarium
  • Shedd Aquarium
  • The Art Institute of Chicago
  • The Field Museum
  • Chicago History Museum
  • Museum of Science and Industry
  • Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
  • Chicago Cultural Center
  • WNDR Museum
  • Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
  • Chicago Sports Museum
  • Museum of Illusions Chicago
  • American Writers Museum
  • Museum of Contemporary Photography

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Chicago Food & Drink, Chicago Guides, Lifestyle Tagged With: chicago, chicago event, chicago events, things to do

The Exhibit House Chicago

April 12, 2023

The Exhibit House in Downtown Chicago

Chicago’s latest experience, The Exhibit House, is located at the Water Tower Place in the Gold Coast neighborhood. The location consists of three large, themed exhibits (shown below) to take photos in; Secret Garden, The Mood Room, and Disco Dreamland. It is now open to the public and will feature different exhibits in the future. There are a lot of fun spots to create content! Keep reading below to see my favorite pictures and to learn things to know before you go.

Secret Garden

My favorite exhibit out of the experience’s three featured rooms was the Secret Garden room. In addition to the beautiful floral displays, the mini rooms within the Secret Garden were very aesthetically pleasing. My favorite mini rooms were Rose Room and a little nook when you walk in that had a “Let’s Share Secrets” neon sign. Other mini rooms included Desert Daze, Butterfly Forest, Mushy Madness, and Living Luminescence.

The Mood Room

The Mood Room was all about interaction. Each mini section featured a different emotion, color, and way to get you involved. My favorites in The Mood Room was Peaceful (light blue), Fear (green) where you can throw away a written fear, Passion (hot pink) where you can put a bead in the passion tube that resonates with you, and Sensitive (coral pink) where you can take an affirmation card to keep. Other sections included Trust (dark blue), Mysterious (purple), Sadness (cobalt blue), Cautious (yellow), Playful (orange), and Anger (red).

Disco Dreamland

The Disco Dreamland exhibit was a lot of fun. It’s the first room you walk into in the experience and is decked out floor to ceiling with disco decor. You can take pictures in front of The Exhibit House sign, the sparkly walls, and even use a 360 rotator to take a fun video. Lots of opportunities for content!

Thing to Know Before You Go

  • Tickets cost $30 each for all ages
  • Admission is for a one hour (60 minute) session
  • Coat & bag check is available for $3 cash or credit
  • The Exhibit House is located on the 4th floor of the Water Tower Place
  • There are no bathrooms in The Exhibit Place (public located on 3rd floor)
  • There are no refunds on tickets, but you can exchange for a different time
  • No outside food or beverage is allowed. Kites Ice popsicles are available for purchase on site.
  • $1 from every ticket will be donated to Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
  • You can reach out to info@exhibit-house.com for more information and private events

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Featured, Lifestyle Tagged With: chicago, chicago event, chicago events, the exhibit house

Alamo Drafthouse Chicago: Cocaine Bear Movie Party

February 27, 2023

Movie Premiere Party at Alamo Drafthouse Chicago

This past weekend I was invited to a movie party at Alamo Drafthouse, a cinematic theater located in Wrigleyville, to view the new movie Cocaine Bear. Their movie party was unique and nothing like any other movie outings I’ve been to! The experience included foam bear claw props, short clips from old bear-related films, a real-time obstacle course that two guests volunteered to participate in, a dine-in menu, and great laughs. If you like gory comedies set in the 80s, Cocaine Bear is the movie for you. The staff was on-top of things, the seats were comfortable and spacious, and ordering food and drink was very easy. Keep reading for more details about my experience!

Alamo Drafthouse Chicago Food & Drink

Ordering from Alamo Drafthouse’s food and drink menu was super easy. You don’t even have to get up! Each seat comes with a menu and a fill-out card to write down your order. Once written, you place the card in its designated slot and push a button to let the staff know that you are ready to order. They will then come over and confirm that the items on your card are available. Ready food is brought to your seat tray shortly after. I ordered the pepperoni pizza and a Mexican vanilla shake – it was delicious! Something to note: their pizza sauce is a little spicy.

What They Serve

The food and drink menu at Alamo Drafthouse Chicago is not like your regular movie theater options. The selections are pretty extensive, including appetizers and full-meal selections. Their food menu includes items like churro popcorn, pickle fries, buffalo cauliflower, avocado toast, pizza, wings, sandwiches, burgers, and more. Offered drinks include beer, margaritas, wine, and signature cocktails.

More About Alamo Drafthouse Chicago

For tickets and upcoming shows, go here. Aside from their fun movie parties and awesome dine-in menus, Alamo Drafthouse Chicago also has:

  • Regular movie showings in their 6 theaters
  • A cocktail bar area called the “Video Vortex”
  • 11,000 DVDs and Blu-rays available to rent
  • Tickets ranging from $11.99 to $14.99
  • Assigned seating that can be reserved in-person or online
  • Building parking validated at $10 with a current ticket stub or Video Vortex receipt
Photo taken by Moorcroft Photography

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Lifestyle Tagged With: alamo drafthouse, chicago, chicago event, chicago events, cocaine bear

Luft Balloon Valentine’s Day Pop-Up

February 4, 2023

Chicago Valentine’s Day Pop-Up

Whether you’re in a relationship or single, you can still get some fun pictures in at Luft Balloon’s Valentine’s Day pop-up! The Hearts & Kisses Experience is open now through February 14 at Luft Balloon’s new Wicker Park location. The one room holds over 3,000+ balloons set up in a few festive displays – a balloon wall, pink velvet sitting couch, and a “You are my person” wall. The pop-up is $25 for a group ticket (up to four people) for a 2-3 hour time slot. Most sessions only take 20-30 minutes to snap some photos. Mention my Instagram handle (@sweatingchampagne_) while attending for a free 11″ latex balloon!

Valentine’s Day Pop-Up Preview Night

I had the pleasure of attending a preview night for Luft Balloon’s Hearts & Kisses experience and loved how my content turned out. The photo ops were perfect for using during the month of February and I loved the elaborate balloon displays. In addition to being able to check out the room full of 3,000+ balloons, the preview night included drinks from Crafthouse Cocktails, delicious cookies from Beatrix, and beautiful bouquets from Flowers for Dreams. What a fun night!

Related Posts

Looking for inspiration on how to throw a cute Galentine’s Day party? Check out this post. Staying home and want to create a love spell jar? View my post here. Happy Valentine’s Day!

My Valentine’s Day Outfit

My entire outfit, makeup products, and skin care routine is linked in my LiketoKnow.it profile! Individual items are listed below. Commission made from my links go towards making Sweating Champagne possible and are greatly appreciated!

Outfit

  • Black Bodysuit – Pink Lily
  • Low Black Heels – Amazon
  • Satin Asymmetrical Skirt – Amazon
  • Black Bomber Jacket (similar to the one worn) – Amazon
  • Lightweight Chunky Open Hoops: 30 MM, White Gold – Amazon

Makeup

  • Maybelline Fit Me Foundation: Dewy & Smooth, Shade ‘Buff Beige’
  • NYX Studio Photogenic Concealer Wand: Green
  • Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray
  • Better Than Sex Waterproof Mascara
  • BUXOM Full-On Plumping Lip Cream: Blushing Margarita or White Russian

Skin Care

  • CeraVe SA Cleanser 
  • Paulas Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
  • Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bronzing Face Drops
  • CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion for Dry Skin
  • True Botanicals Natural Chebula Active Serum

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Lifestyle Tagged With: chicago, chicago event, chicago events, luft balloon, valentine's day

Jack Frost Winterfest Pop-Up 2022

December 21, 2022

Chicago Winter Pop-Up

We Love Pop Ups’ winter experience, Jack Frost Winterfest, is my favorite winter pop-up that occurs in the city each year. Full of festive backdrops and holiday inspiration, it’s the perfect outing if you’re looking for something different to do in the winter time. The experience includes 2 acres of great photo ops, bars, axe throwing, ice skating, and a Christmas tree field. This is similar to their Fall experience in the same location, Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up. Make sure to get a hot chocolate while you’re there!

Jack Frost Pop-Up Photo Ops

The best part about Jack Frost Winterfest are all the great photo ops! They really can’t be beat if you’re looking for unique backdrops to get content in front of. Each year has a candy cane house, a sleigh, and a variety of holiday aesthetics. My favorites this year included a “Walking in a Winter Wonderland” wall, a poinsettia wall, and a “Candycane Wishes & Mistletoe Kisses” wall.

Jack Frost Pop-Up Food & Drink

This Goose Island event offers multiple drinks for purchase. The bars offer both alcohol and nonalcoholic options. We tried the hot chocolate and loved it! Jack Frost Winterfest is credit card only and does not accept cash. Beers, ciders, and classic cocktails range between $9-$12, with specialty cocktails priced at $14.

Specialty Cocktails

  • Snow-Much-Fun – Eggnog with whiskey
  • Rudolph’s Red Nose Punch – Vodka & peppermint punch
  • The Grinch – Sweet mint vodka with cinnamon

Jack Frost Pop-Up Tickets

Jack Frost Winterfest Pop-Up is open to the public all December. General admission starts at $22. Add-ons include drink tickets, axe throwing, and ice skating. Tickets are offered for time slots throughout the day and evening. Make sure to buy online ahead of time!

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Lifestyle, Seasonal Tagged With: chicago, chicago event, chicago events, holiday, jack frost

Harry Potter Magic at Play Chicago

November 24, 2022

Harry Potter Magic at Play Chicago
Harry Potter Magic at Play Chicago

Harry Potter Magic at Play

Calling all witches, wizards, and muggles! Harry Potter Magic at Play, a Wizarding World pop-up, will be in downtown Chicago November 2022 through September 4, 2023. Located at the Water Tower Place on Michigan Ave, the pop-up itself is on the second floor with an associated store on the first floor. The experience includes photo ops, interactive activities, merchandise, a Butterbeer Bar, and more. Read below for my favorite moments and things to know before you go!

Harry Potter Magic at Play Chicago Platform 9 3/4
Harry Potter Magic at Play Chicago Hogwarts boatride

The Photo Ops

The flow of the Magic at Play experience coincides with the flow of the Harry Potter movies. Your first stop; the Dursley’s house filled with Hogwarts acceptance letters. This is followed by Platform 9 3/4 and the first year’s boat ride to the castle. Next? The Great Hall where you can read about each of the four Hogwarts houses. Each room in the pop-up was detailed and matched the series we know and love. Scattered spots have a Magic at Play staff member taking professional photos that you can latter view and buy in the pop-up’s gift shop. Don’t worry, you can take pictures and videos with your phone anywhere!

Harry Potter Magic at Play Chicago
Harry Potter Magic at Play Chicago LEGO

Interactive Experiences

Aside from many photo ops, Harry Potter Magic at Play offers a variety of interactive experiences. My favorites were a Wingdardium Leviosa station and a LEGO avatar station. Here you’re able to choose your avatar’s Hogwarts house, skin and hair choice, and a Hogwarts-themed backdrop to then view on a large screen. It was a fun, quick activity that I enjoyed very much! In Snape’s potions class you’ll find items that you can both see and touch. In the Quidditch room you’ll test your throwing and quick response skills. Lastly, the Triwizard Tournament maze awaits you at the end of the experience.

Harry Potter Magic at Play Chicago Butterbeer Bar
Harry Potter Magic at Play Chicago Butterbeer Bar menu

The Butterbeer Bar

One of the best things about the Harry Potter Magic at Play pop-up is the Butterbeer Bar, located in the first floor store. It offered not only Butterbeer, but also popular Harry Potter treats such as a Chocolate Frog and Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans. I got a 4-pack of Butterbeer and the Niffler’s Bounty Cupcake to-go. The space is a very small pick-up setup and does not have any seating. I’ve included the menu and pricing for reference.

Thing to Know Before You Go

  • Located at Water Tower Place, 2nd floor (835 N Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611)
  • General admission is $42.50 for Adults and $32 for Children (ages 3-9)
  • Allow yourself time to wait in line to get in (we had tickets and had to wait 20 minutes)
  • Coat and stroller check is available for $3 per item
  • Cash is not accepted, only credit or debit cards
  • Pets: only service animals are allowed
  • The experience is ADA accessible
  • Packages are available for private parties and events
  • The Magic at Play gift shop offers clothing and items for each House, pins, wands, and more

Which Hogwarts House Are You?

Slytherin: Ambitious, adaptable, clever. Many are misunderstood, hence the need for self-preservation, and can be fiercely loyal to a select few. Notable characters: Severus Snape, Leta LeStrange, Draco & Narcissa Malfoy. Mascot: serpent. Colors: green and silver.

Ravenclaw: Intelligent, curious, creative. They have a strong sense of identity, a desire to explore, like being seen as smart, and can enjoy isolation. Notable characters: Luna Lovegood, Cho Chang, Moaning Myrtle. Mascot: eagle. Colors: blue and bronze.

Gryffindor: Brave, daring, charismatic. They have a strong moral compass and their passion can sometimes cause recklessness. Notable characters: Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Neville Longbottom. Mascot: lion. Colors: scarlet red and gold.

Hufflepuff: Empathetic, trustworthy, humble. They are dependable, known to put others first, and can be overly optimistic. Notable characters: Cedric Diggory, Newt Scamander, Nymphadora Tonks. Mascot: badger. Colors: canary yellow and black.

Don’t know which house you’re in and want to find out? Take the official Wizarding World sorting hat quiz here. If you don’t want to make an account and do that, this house percentage quiz and this Wizardmore sorting quiz are some good ones!

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Lifestyle Tagged With: chicago, chicago event, chicago events, harry potter, magic at play

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up 2022

September 24, 2022

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up

My favorite pop-up is back this fall! Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up is 2 acres of festive photo ops, carnival games, a large corn maze, bars, axe throwing, gemstone mining, and pumpkins for sale. Open now through October 31, the pop-up’s Insta-worthy backdrops are a can’t-miss experience! I’ve enjoyed the annual event very much. View my favorites from this year below!

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up Photo Ops

The best part about Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up are all the great photo ops! They really can’t be beat if you’re looking for unique fall and Halloween backdrops. There’s so many different options! Each year has an ode to Jack Skeleton, a pumpkin house, and a variety of spooky aesthetic. My favorites this year included a Jack’s Pumpkin barn house, Hocus Pocus with Winafred’s spell book, “Happy Fall Y’all” with a colorful leaf umbrella, an annual height meter, and a sugar skull display found in the middle of the pop-up’s corn maze.

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up Food & Drink

This Goose Island event offers multiple bars and a food truck for purchase. When we went it was a taco truck. The bars offer both alcohol and nonalcoholic drink options. We tried the apple cider (cold) and loved it! Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up is credit card only and does not accept cash. Beers and ciders range between $9-$11 with specialty cocktails priced at $14.

Specialty Cocktails

  • Fall in Love – Spellbinding potion of Whipped Vodka, Cardamon & Cranberry
  • Jack’s Midnight Moonshine – Batched in-house with a hint of Cranberry & Peach
  • Hocus Pocus – Magical concoction of Vodka infused with Fireball, Fig & Peach

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up Tickets

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up will be open to the public now through October 31, 2022. General admission starts at $22, and $20 for kids 5-11 years old. Add-ons include drink tickets, orange pumpkins, apple cider donuts, carnival games, axe throwing, and gemstone mining. Tickets are offered for time slots throughout the day and evening.

Filed Under: Chicago, Chicago Events, Lifestyle, Seasonal Tagged With: chicago, chicago event, chicago events, jacks' pumpkin pop up

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About Alyssa

Alyssa is a lifestyle writer living in downtown Chicago. Her blog, Sweating Champagne, focuses on local events & festivals, mental health awareness, travel guides, and style. She loves urban living, personality quizzes (ISTP!), reading fantasy novels, listening to music, and hanging out her two cats.

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