Sweating Champagne

Chicago Lifestyle and Mental Health Awareness Blog

chicago

Things to Do in Chicago: Summer 2022

Upcoming Events in Chicago

#SummertimeChi is here! With warm weather making an appearance, the event calendar is filling up fast. I’ve compiled a list of things to do in Chicago this summer including a variety of festivals and events. While it doesn’t include everything, I made sure to include some of my favorites and those on my to-do list!

June 2022 Events

Fireworks at Navy Pier

  • Date: June 1-September 3, 2022
  • Location: Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Avenue)
  • Cost: Free
  • Features: Firework show
  • Photo: navypier.org

Pixar Putt

  • Date: June-August 21, 2022
  • Location: Polk Brothers Park at Navy Pier (600 E Grand Ave.)
  • Cost: $31-$33
  • Features: mini golf
  • Photo: pixarputt.com/chicago

Wings of Mexico

  • Date: June-October 1, 2022
  • Location: Plaza of the Americas (410 N. Michigan Ave.)
  • Cost: Free
  • Features: photo opportunity
  • Photo: by yours truly

Rooftop Cinema Club

  • Date: June-July 4, 2022
  • Location: The Emily Hotel (311 N Morgan St.)
  • Cost: $18.75–$27.75
  • Features: outdoor cinema, personal headphones, classic movie snacks, full bar, city views
  • Photo: facebook.com/rooftopcinemaclub

JoJo’s Retro Summer

  • Date: June-September 5, 2022
  • Location: JoJo’s Shake Bar River North
  • Cost: reservations, dining
  • Features: 90’s themed patio, retro cocktails, shakes, regular & Retro Summer food menu
  • Photo: facebook.com/jojosshakebar

Lincoln Park Greek Fest

  • Date: June 3-5, 2022
  • Location: St. George Greek Orthodox Church (2701 N. Sheffield Ave. Chicago, IL)
  • Cost: $10 suggested donation
  • Features: live music, entertainment, food
  • Photo: lincolnparkgreekfest.com

Jack’s Big City Ranch

  • Date: June 3-August 27, 2022
  • Location: Goose Island (1261 West LeMoyne)
  • Cost: $23-$69
  • Features: photo opps, mini golf, mechanical bull, go karts, axe throwing, gem mining, food & drink
  • Photo: facebook.com/bigcityranchchicago
  • Fun Fact: same company & location as Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up and Jack Frost Winter Village

Do Division Street Fest

  • Date: June 3-5, 2022
  • Location: Division Street between Damen & Leavitt (2000-2200 W Division St. Chicago IL 60622)
  • Cost: $10 optional donation
  • Features: live music, food, local artists, retail vendors, family fun fest, fashion shows
  • Photo: westtownchamber.org

Windy City Hot Dog Fest

  • Date: June 4-5, 2022
  • Location: Portage Park (4000 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago IL)
  • Cost: Unknown
  • Features: hot dogs, live entertainment, arts & crafts vendors, dog parade
  • Photo: chicagoevents.com

Run for the Zoo 5k & 10k

  • Date: June 5, 2022
  • Location: Lincoln Park Zoo
  • Cost: $25-$54
  • Features: 5k, 10k, swag bag, scenic views, post-race celebration
  • Photo: runsignup.com

Chicago Blues Festival

  • Date: June 9-12, 2022
  • Location: Millennium Park (Michigan Ave. & Columbus Ave.)
  • Cost: Free admission
  • Features: live music
  • Photo: wdcb.org

Puerto Rican Festival and People’s Parade

  • Date: June 9-12, 2022 (9th – carnival opens, 10th – festival opens, 11th – parade, 12th – closing day)
  • Location: Humboldt Park (Division Street)
  • Cost: Unknown
  • Features: carnival rides, live music, food, dancing, artisans, parade
  • Photo: secretchicago.com

Andersonville Midsommarfest

  • Date: June 10-12, 2022
  • Location: Andersonville’s Clark Street corridor (5200 N Clark St.)
  • Cost: $10 suggested donation
  • Features: live music, food, dancing, vendors, pet parade
  • Photo: andersonville.org

Old Town Art Fair

  • Date: June 11-12, 2022
  • Location: Old Town triangle
  • Cost: $12 per adult, kids are free
  • Features: live music, artists, garden walk, food
  • Photo: oldtownartfair.org

Grant Park Music Festival

  • Date: Select Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays June 15-August 20, 2022
  • Location: Grant Park
  • Cost: Free seating available, $26-$100 for reserved closer spots
  • Features: live music, bring-your-own food, beer and wine available for purchase
  • Photo: grantparkmusicfestival.com

Summer Smash Festival

  • Date: June 17-19, 2022
  • Location: Douglas Park
  • Cost: 3-Day GA $275 + service fees, 3-Day VIP $450 + service fees
  • Features: live music, food
  • Photo: thesummersmash.com

Chicago Pride Fest

  • Date: June 18-19, 2022
  • Location: Northalsted on Halsted Street from Addison to Grace St.
  • Cost: $15 suggested donation
  • Features: live music, food, art vendors, dancing, drag shows, pride parade, pet parade, giveaways
  • Photo: chicagopride.gopride.com

Gold Coast Art Fair

  • Date: June 18-19, 2022
  • Location: Grant Park’s Butler Field (S Lake Shore Dr & E Monroe St)
  • Cost: $10, free for children 12 and under
  • Features: live music, artists, food
  • Photo: chicagoparent.com

Célébrez en Rosé

  • Date: June 25, 2022
  • Location: Burnham Park (4100 S Lake Shore Dr)
  • Cost: GA $85 + fee, Wine Admission $130 + fee, Rose Garden Lounge $200 + fee, plus more
  • Features: live entertainment, photo installations, food, cashless bars, lawn games
  • Photo: facebook.com/celebrezenrose

Pride in the Park Chicago

  • Date: June 25-26, 2022
  • Location: Grant Park (between Columbus Dr. and Lakeshore Dr. on E Monroe St.)
  • Cost: $45-$300
  • Features: live music, food
  • Photo: facebook.com/prideparkchi

July 2022 Events

Chicago SummerDance

  • Date: July 6-September 17, 2022
  • Location: Varies per event
  • Cost: Free admission
  • Features: live entertainment
  • Photo: chicago.gov/city

Taste of Chicago

  • Date: July 8-10, 2022
  • Location: Grant Park (Jackson & Columbus)
  • Cost: Free admission
  • Features: food trucks, live music
  • Photo: nbcchicago.com

Millennium Art Festival

  • Date: July 15-17, 2022
  • Location: Michigan Avenue & E Lake St.
  • Cost: Free admission
  • Features: artists, food, live music
  • Photo: amdurproductions.com

Museum of Ice Cream

  • Date: July 16-September 1, 2022
  • Location: Tribune Tower (435 North Michigan Ave.)
  • Cost: $36-$44
  • Features: 14 installations, ice cream treats, ice cream history, retail shop
  • Photo: instagram.com/museumoficecream

Pizza City Fest

  • Date: July 23-24, 2022
  • Location: West Loop (1340 W Washington)
  • Cost: $59-$249 + service fees
  • Features: all you can eat from 18 vendors, book signings, drinks available for purchase
  • Photo: starevents.com

Sundays on State

  • Date: Sundays July 24-September 4, 2022
  • Location: State & Lake (190 N State Street)
  • Cost: Free admission
  • Features: food, shopping, arts
  • Photo: starevents.com

Lollapalooza

  • Date: July 28-31, 2022
  • Location: Grant Park
  • Cost: $125 and up
  • Features: live music, food and drink for purchase
  • Photo: lollapalooza.com

August 2022 Events

Windy City Smokeout

  • Date: August 4-7, 2022
  • Location: United Center parking lot
  • Cost: $44.95-$184.95 + service fee
  • Features: live music, food and drinks for purchase, photo opportunities
  • Photo: windycitysmokeout.com

Dancing in the Street

  • Date: August 5-7, 2022
  • Location: Hubbard Street between Paulina and Wood (1700 W. Hubbard Street)
  • Cost: $10 suggested donation
  • Features: live music, dancing, food & retail vendors
  • Photo: westtownchamber.org

LatiNxt Music Festival

  • Date: August 6-7, 2022
  • Location: Polk Bros Park (600 E. Grand Avenue)
  • Cost: Free
  • Features: live music
  • Photo: navypier.org

Stan’s Donut Run

  • Date: August 27, 2022
  • Location: Solider Field
  • Cost: $39.99+ (cost will increase as the event gets closer)
  • Discount: $6 off with promo code SWEATINGCHAMPAGNE
  • Features: 5k, 10k, swag bag, mini donuts on course
  • Photo: donut5k.com

One of a Kind Chicago: Spring Show

One of a Kind Show Chicago

One of a Kind Chicago: Spring 2022

I love a good market. One of a Kind Chicago visited The Merchandise Mart this weekend with their 6th annual Spring Show. Featuring over 300 artists, this shopping event showcased unique items from a variety of categories – food, jewelry, bath and body, art, ceramics, and more. Thanks to Heron Agency, I was able to check out One of a Kind Chicago on opening day! Keep reading below for my favorite artists and more about One of a Kind Chicago.

Raw Edge Chicago
Raw Edge
Janvier
Janvier
Tubby's Taste
Tubby’s Taste
Dip'n Good Dips
Dip’n Good Dips

My Favorite Artists

One of a Kind Chicago offers a lot of quality items to purchase. I wanted it all! Out of the artists I saw, these listed, and the ones shown above, were my favorite.

About the Event

One of a Kind Chicago’s Spring Show was held April 29-May 1 in the River North neighborhood. Tickets were $10 each for adults, with an optional event tote bag for an additional $5 (it was really cute!). Aside from the artists, the event had live music and a cafe to purchase quick food. Merchandise Mart is accessible off of the brown or purple line, and there’s a public garage across the street for paid parking. The event was wheelchair accessible and offered a coat check.

The next One of a Kind Chicago will be in Winter 2022! Mark your calendars for December 1-4, 2022 at The Merchandise Mart.

Interested in more Chicago-focused posts? View a list here!

Santa Hustle 5k Chicago

Santa Hustle Chicago

Ho ho ho! This year I partnered with Santa Hustle 5k‘s Chicago event to recap a fun, festive experience. Held at the iconic Solider Field, my family and I enjoyed 3.1 miles outside at a brisk walking tempo. The course wrapped around the lake for great scenic views! Each Santa Hustle 5k benefits a chosen local charity. This year’s efforts went towards Cal’s Angels, a pediatric cancer foundation based in St. Charles, IL. Their mission is to grant wishes, raise awareness, and fund research.

The Swag

The Santa Hustle 5k had some of the best race swag I’ve ever gotten. Each participant received a red performance zip-up jacket, Santa hat, Santa beard, and a finisher medal that also serves as a souvenir ornament. Additional swag (red tutu, candy cane socks, Santa coat, and more) was available at registration for an additional price.

Future Events

Santa Hustle 5ks are held all over the U.S. Both kids and adults can attend and enjoy the festivities. Registration ranges between $35-$60 depending on how early you purchase. It’s always a good idea to take advantage of early bird pricing! If you’re interested in volunteering instead of running/walking, Santa’s helpers are always needed!

Christkindlmarket Chicago

Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza

This past weekend I kicked off the holiday season with two events: watching the Festival of Lights parade from my window and checking out Christkindlmarket Chicago with my family. This German Christmas market is an annual favorite in the city. Running now through December 24th – downtown and in Wrigleyville – visitors can attend for free while enjoying food, music, and souvenirs for sale. We stayed for about an hour – read below for our experience!

The Traditional Christkindlmarket Mug

Each year a new mug design is featured at Christkindlmarket. These can be bought when purchasing hot cider, spiced wine, beer, chai, or hot chocolate. The mug this year, shown above in forest green, celebrates the event’s 25th anniversary. In my opinion it’s the best design yet!

Experiencing Christkindlmarket Chicago

Aside from having something to drink, we also tried the cherry strudel and traditional pretzels. Make sure to bring plenty of cash – a lot of the booths do not take credit cards! There were also a lot of great ornaments, traditional clocks, and unique gifts for sale. You can find a full list of market vendors here. If you’re looking for something sit-down, you can make a reservation for Stammtisch in the Timber Haus heated tent.

What’s your favorite holiday event in the city? Comment below!

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up 2021

My favorite seasonal pop-up is back! Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up features Insta-worthy photo opps and a corn maze, as well as food & drink, carnival-style games, axe throwing and pumpkins for an additional cost. This year I attended with my sister, and we got to enjoy some of those add-ons. Read below to learn more about our experience!

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up Photo Opps

This 2-arce pop-up is open now through October 31, 2021 in Goose Island. The best part about the event, in my opinion, are the photo opps. They have so many! Some are fall themed, while others deal more with pop culture. My favorite spots were the pumpkin house featured at the entrance of the pop-up (shown above), the fortune teller’s crystal ball, a black and white angel mural, a pink #freebritney cage, and Winafred’s spell book from Hocus Pocus. There were also some odes to Jack Skeleton, autumn, coffins, and more.

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up Food & Drink

Aside from your usual water and soda, food and alcohol are offered at this pop-up. We ordered a cheeseburger and hot dog. My sister was pleasantly surprised to see that the cheeseburger came on a pretzel bun! The hot dog was pretty good, too. Also on the menu were walking tacos, grilled corn on the cob, elote, hot pretzels, nachos & cheese, Cheetos with cheese, and apple cider donuts. The donuts were delicious! Full bars are offered for those 21+ and up.

My Fall-Inspired Outfit

Although I’m not a fan of colder weather, I do love fall clothing. I was extremely excited to have the chance to wear my latest purchase, featured in my pictures taken at Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up. I’ve linked the items here for your viewing!

Tickets to Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up will be open to the public now through October 31, 2021. General admission costs $25, and $23 for kids 5-11 years old. Add-ons include drink tickets, medium pumpkins, apple cider donuts, carnival games, axe throwing, and Smashing Pumpkin alcohol shots. Tickets are offered for timeslots throughout the day and evening.

Chicago’s HideSeek Pop-Up

If you know me you know that I really love a good pop-up. They’re always fun and full of great photo ops! My sister and I attended a preview of Chicago’s HideSeek pop-up in Old Town and had the best time exploring their 15 Instagramable rooms of childhood nostalgia. I’m talking big 90’s baby energy. View my favorite rooms below!

My Favorite HideSeek Rooms

HideSeek offers 15 rooms of photo-worthy backdrops. We had a blast capturing content while feeling like a little kid again. My favorite rooms were Slinky Spring (pictured above), Rad Ride, Bubble Trouble, Daydream Days, Pillow Playhouse, and Fuzzy Fix.

Rad Ride

Bubble Trouble

hideseek chicago bubble room

Daydream Days

Pillow Playhouse

chicago hideseek pop-up

Fuzzy Fix

sisters at HideSeek chicago pop-up

Tickets for Chicago’s HideSeek pop-up are available on their website for designated time-slots now through October 31. Don’t forget to stop by their gift shop on your way out for cute 90s apparel, enamel pins, candy, and toys!

View more Chicago-focused blog posts here.

Things to Do in Chicago This March

chicago skyline

Time to come out of hibernation! Us Chicagoans will (hopefully) get a glimpse of Spring this month and I can’t wait. It’s about time for all the fun, festive events to make a come back. I have rounded up all the worthy things to do in Chicago this March for your viewing below. Which of them will you be trying out?

Charm’d: The Magical Irish Pop-Up Bar

March 1 – 14, 2020

Photo: Charm’d Instagram

True to the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, Charm’d is an Instagram-worthy pop-up bar in Chicago’s Wrigleyville neighborhood. The pop-up will be held inside Deuce’s and The Diamond Club, one of my favorite party spots. Events offered at the Irish themed pop-up include Paint n’ Sip, Bingo n’ Booze, Karaoke Night, Magic Mondays, and Sunday Funday. It is recommended to buy a ticket ahead of time online to make sure the day you want to attend does not sell out (tickets are also more expensive at the door). Themed food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Chicago Flower & Garden Show

March 18 – 22, 2020

Photo: chicagoflower.com/

Who else thinks flowers are absolutely beautiful? How about life-size gardens all in the same place? This year the Chicago Flower & Garden Show is hosting their annual event during a small part of March. Tickets can be bought here. The show will also offer Special Events throughout it’s debut, including a Chicago Reader party and networking event!

St. Patrick’s Day Chicago Green River Dyeing & Parade

March 14, 2020

Photo: bravotv.com

One of the events Chicago is most notorious for is the green dyeing of the Chicago River for St. Patrick’s Day. This usually happens in the morning on the Saturday of St. Patrick’s Day festivities in the city (bar crawls, bar parties, etc.). This year it is occurring March 14, 2020 at either 9 or 10am. I recommend going to Upper Wacker for a good view of the river being dyed green! The Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade will start at Grant Park for the North Side. If you’re looking for a good bar crawl, I’m going to the one in Wrigley!

Macy’s Flower Show

March 22 – April 5, 2020

Photo: macys.com/s/flower-show/

The Macy’s Flower Show is always a Springtime favorite. The event features beautiful flower installations all focused around a hand-picked theme. This year’s theme is Voyage to Oceanum – featuring floral aquatic beauty. I can’t wait to see the spread for the 2020 event at Chicago’s Macy Flagship location on State Street! Free to the public.

Chicago Beer Festival

March 14, 2020

Photo: Eventbrite

Calling all beer lovers! Have a taste of Chicago’s best brews at the Chicago Beer Festival, held at The Field Museum. Those attending will receive 40 beer tasting vouchers to try. VIP also includes specialty beers poured during a special VIP session. The event is 21+ and tickets can be purchased here.

Uncorked: Chicago Wine Festival

March 21, 2020

Photo: Eventbrite

Uncorked, a Chicago wine festival held at the Museum of Science and Industry, highlights over 200 wines and champagnes from around the globe. VIP tickets include an extra hour of tasting (4 hours), compared to general admission tickets for three hours of tasting. Dress or cocktail attire is recommended.

Where to Spend Valentine’s Day in Chicago

Brunch at Barrio in Chicago

Our New Years resolutions have been set, Chicago’s winter has set in, and now it’s time to cuddle up and feel the love of February 14th. There are so many great places to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Chicago! From a champagne fest to an interactive supper club, the options are endless. Read below!

If you’re not looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day and want to share your love for your girlfriends instead, or as well, Galentine’s Day – the day before Valentine’s Day on February 13th – is a great option! Check out the Galentine’s Day party I threw last year in this post here. This year I’ll be celebrating Galentine’s Day with an Italian dinner at Quartino’s (one of my favorite spots to eat!).

Pre Fixe Menu Dinner

We’ll start with the obvious. Going out to dinner at a special location is a great Valentine’s Day tradition. Many restaurants even create special menus and menu items for the occasion. I’ve rounded up my top three recommended below. Make sure to make reservations before they fill up!

Champagne & Sparkling Wine Fest

If you love champagne and sparkling wine just as much as I do, I suggest checking out The IO Godfrey Rooftop Lounge’s Champagne & Sparkling Wine Fest! The event will occur on Valentine’s Day itself, from 7-11pm. Enjoy four hours of tastings, passed appetizers, a sweets table, and more.

AIRE Ancient Baths

If you haven’t been to AIRE Ancient Baths yet, special occasion or not, you’re missing out on such a relaxing experience! I checked it out with a close girlfriend, read about it HERE, and loved it. It’s a great place for a date or for a fun day with girlfriends. Take a dip in multiple different pools together or book a massage this Valentine’s Day for a super romantic, unique date!

Brunch It

Valentine’s Day is on a Friday this year, however there is no rule that says you can’t celebrate on Saturday or Sunday! The weekend is the weekend, am I right? Brunch is a great day-time option for celebration. Some of my favorite brunch spots in Chicago include:

Interactive Supper Club

If you want to try something different while still enjoying some delicious food, an interactive supper club is a great choice. Get in the Kitchen! is offering a Valentine’s Day event that is part cooking class part dining. The evening will include a signature cocktail (besides that it is BYOB) and a three-course meal. Tickets are $79 each.

Netflix & Homemade Za’

Netflix is life. So is pizza. Mix the two together for a cozy night in! Even better, make your own homemade pizza side by side before plopping down to watch The Office, A Cinderella Story, The Witcher, or whatever floats your fancy. I personally think pizza and a Seth Rogan movie sounds like a great time!

Chicago Restaurant Week 2020

IT’S HERE! It’s time to brush up on your Chicago restaurants and book your reservations for Chicago Restaurant Week 2020! This is one of my favorite events in the city, and for good reason. You can try out restaurants that have been on your wish list with special pre-fixe menus.

What is Chicago Restaurant Week?

Chicago Restaurant Week is one of Chicago’s best culinary events. For 17 days within the new year you can choose from hundreds of restaurants in the city to try out. There are special pre-fixe menus that apply to Chicago Restaurant Week (I will be linking the best ones below!). They are always $24 for brunch or lunch, and $36 or $48 for dinner. These prices exclude beverages, tax, and gratuity – so come prepared.

When is Chicago Restaurant Week 2020?

Chicago Restaurant Week 2020 will occur January 24, 2020 – February 9, 2020. You can start making reservations, however, as early as December 11, 2019!

Tips to Know

  • Book a reservation. These restaurants will book up fast during this timeframe due to the event!
  • Try to experience at least three Chicago Restaurant Week pre-fixe menus. Bonus, try someplace you’ve never been to before!

Chicago Restaurant Week 2020 Best Deals

Below are my top picks, in my favorite neighborhoods (alphabetically), for where you should experience Chicago Restaurant Week 2020! Some neighborhoods offer more participating restaurants than others – and I’m biased towards River North being my favorite options – but there are a lot of good ones to choose from this year.

Gold Coast

Blue Door Kitchen & Garden

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Carmine’s

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Chicago Q

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Cooper Hawk’s Winery & Restaurant

$36 Dinner

Fig & Olive

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

La Storia

$48 Dinner

Morton’s the Steakhouse

$48 Dinner

Rosebud Steakhouse

$24 Lunch

Somerset

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Tavern on Rush

$48 Dinner

Lakeview

Barcocina

$36 Dinner

Coda di Volpe

$24 Brunch/$48 Dinner

El Mariachi Tequila Bar & Grill

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Frasca

$24 Brunch/$36 Dinner

Hutch American Bistro

$24 Brunch/$36 Dinner

lowcountry

$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

Mordecai

$36 Dinner

Tuco & Blondie

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Lincoln Park

BOKA Restaurant

$48 Dinner

Cafe-Ba-Ba-Reeba!

$24 Brunch/$36 Dinner

Earl’s Kitchen + Bar

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Geja’s Cafe

$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

Las Tablas Colombian Steak House

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Mon Ami Gabi Lincoln Park

$24 Brunch/$48 Dinner

Sapori Trattoria

$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

Stella Barra Pizzeria

$24 Brunch/$48 Dinner

Summer House Santa Monica

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

The Loop

312 Chicago

$36 Dinner

About Last Knife (ALK)

$48 Dinner

Atwood

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Berghoff Restaurant

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Catch 35

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

Cindy’s

$24 Lunch

Free Reign

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

III Forks

$48 Dinner

McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Morton’s The Steakhouse

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Ocean Prime

$48 Dinner

Petterino’s

$36 Dinner

Prime & Provisions

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

RAISED

$36 Dinner

Remington’s

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Rosebud Prime

$48 Dinner

The Florentine

$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

Trattoria No. 10

$36 Dinner

Magnificent Mile

676 Restaurant & Bar

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

Lawry’s The Prime Rib

$48 Dinner

NoMi Kitchen

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

The Lobby at The Peninsula Chicago

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

The Signature Room at the 95th

$48 Dinner

Old Town

The Kennison

$36 Dinner

Two Lights Seafood & Oyster

$36 Dinner

River North

Bar Ramone

$48 Dinner

Barrio

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Barton G. The Restaurant

$48 Dinner

Beatrix – River North

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Bernie’s Chicago

$36 Dinner

Bub City

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Catina Laredo

$36 Dinner

Ema

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Flora | Fauna

$36 Dinner

Hubbard Inn

$48 Dinner

il Porcellino

$36 Dinner

Parlay at Joy District

$36 Dinner

Katana

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Mastro’s Steakhouse

$48 Dinner

Nacional 27

$36 Dinner

Osteria Via Stato

$36 Dinner

Prosecco

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

Public House

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Quartino Restaurant & Wine Bar

$36 Dinner

Roka Akor Steak & Sushi

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

RPM Italian

$48 Dinner

RPM Steak

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Ruth Chris’s Steak House

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

STK Chicago

$48 Dinner

TAO

$48 Dinner

The Hampton Social

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

The Smith

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Truluck’s

$48 Dinner

Wildfire Chicago

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Streeterville

Carson’s Ribs Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue Chicago

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

Cite Chicago

$48 Dinner

CURRENT at W Lakeshore

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

La Pizza & La Pasta at Eataly Chicago

$24 Lunch

Level Two @ Hyatt Chicago Mag Mile

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Osteria del Mercado at Eataly Chicago

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Southern Cut Barbecue

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

SPACE 519 | The Lunchroom

$24 Lunch

The Palm Restaurant

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

WoodWind

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

West Loop

Aba

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Bar Siena

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

BLVD

$48 Dinner

Cabra

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Cira

$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

City Winery Chicago

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Duck Duck Goat

$24 Brunch/$48 Dinner

Eden

$48 Dinner

El Che Steakhouse & Grill

$48 Dinner

Formento’s

$48 Dinner

Fulton Market Kitchen

$36 Dinner/$48 Dinner

Little Goat Diner

$36 Dinner

MAD Social

$36 Dinner

ROOH Chicago

$48 Dinner

Taste 222

$24 Lunch/$48 Dinner

Wrigleyville

Big Star – Wrigleyville

$36 Dinner

Maddon’s Post

$48 Dinner

Smoke Daddy – Wrigleyville

$24 Brunch/$24 Lunch/$36 Dinner

Things to Do in Chicago This November

things to do in chicago this november
*Updated for November 2019

Things to Do in Chicago This November

The temperatures have dropped and the city is buzzing with seasonal events and specials leading up to the holiday season. Who else is beyond excited to add all of these festive events to their social calendar?? Make sure to take a look and mark down dates for things to do in Chicago this November! 

Christkindlmarket Chicago

One of my favorite seasonal events in Chicago comes back this November. Christkindlmarket is a festive holiday tradition in the city that graces Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville. Featuring vendors from all over the world, German food and drinks, and holiday entertainment, this event offers free general admission with food and drink available for purchase. Christkindlmarket is known for their souvenir boot mugs, which features a new design each year, are perfect for collecting, and perfect to have hot spiced wine in! This event is open to the public November 15 – December 24, 2019.

Meals on Wheels Celebrity Chef Ball

Enjoy an evening of food and philanthropy on November 8, 2019. Meals on Wheels Chicago‘s signature fundraiser, Celebrity Chef Ball, brings Chicagoans and chefs together to nourish homebound neighbors. Guests doing the VIP Chef’s Table option will enjoy a six-course dinner with cocktail pairings, desserts, and a live auction. Those doing the Chef’s Tasting Party will sample dozens of different chef stations, enjoy cocktails, a live auction and dancing.

MSI After Hours: Naughty or Nice 

Time to get naughty. Just kidding. But actually. This 21+ holiday party at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry features spiked hot chocolate, Santa Claus and Krampus to decide what list you’re on, over 50 holiday trees and decorations, and a 45-foot Christmas tree to take selfies with. Tickets are required ($30 each) and includes free parking, coat check, a complimentary drink, and access to MSI’s exhibits. 

Walnut Room Tree Lighting

Located inside of Macy’s on State St., The Walnut Room will have their annual tree lighting ceremony this November. The Walnut Room was the first restaurant to open inside of a department store, making it the perfect historic place to start off the holiday season in Chicago!

Zoolights at Lincoln Park Zoo

Another one of my favorite annual events to look forward to is Lincoln Park Zoo’s Zoolights. I love looking at the different light up displays synced with favorite holiday tunes while drinking a tasty hot chocolate. Admission into the zoo is free, however special events, like the zoo’s Holiday Market and Adults Night Out event, require a ticket.

Vegan Feast at Sunda

This River North (my neighborhood!) feast at Sunda offers guests a taste into Southeast Asia cuisine, on November 12, 2019, in celebration of World Vegan Month. Example dishes to try include Burmese Tea Salad, Shiitake Edamame Dumplings, and Filipino Mushroom Adobo. YUM. Guests will also have the special chance to try Sunda’s new vegan sushi menu, which launches November 1, 2019. Items on this menu includes Sweet Potato Caterpillar Roll and Beets Gunkan Maki. Tickets for Vegan Feast are $45 and can be purchased HERE.

The BMO Harris Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

On Saturday, November 23, 2019 enjoy a night holiday parade lead by Mickey Mouse and friends down North Michigan Ave. to Wacker Drive. Featuring one million lights, gaze upon a procession of decorated floats, marching bands, well-known Chicago mascots, and live entertainment all leading up to a firework show over the Chicago River. Join the celebration early the night before (Friday, November 22, 2019) for live music and sample treats from Chicago favorites including Garett’s Popcorn, The Eli’s Cheesecake Factory and more.

Heated Domes at City Winery Riverwalk

If you are worried about enjoying the Chicago River’s gorgeous views in Chicago winter weather, City Winery Riverwalk’s heated domes are your answer. Now until December 16th, reserve your own private heated dome for your next dining experience. Price is $85/guest: a non-refundable $25 rental fee per guest plus $60 each for food and drink minimum. Heated domes are 21+ only and include 2.5 hours inside the climate-controlled setting. Make your seasonal reservations here!

Writer Wednesdays

About Last Knife (ALK) has partnered with the American Writers Museum this season for Writer Wednesdays. Anyone who donates a book, starting on Wednesday 11/6, to neighboring Hotel Julian‘s library will receive a complimentary drink from ALK’s new literary-inspired menu! View some of the eight “Novel Approach” cocktails below:

  • Hemingway Daiquiri with rum, maraschino, grapefruit, and lime
  • Eventide – the name of Gwendolyn Brooks’ first published poem – with gin, americano, violette, and bitters
  • The Giving Tree – inspired by Shel Silverstein’s infamous children’s book – with sherry, cherry, and demerara
  • Bandit of Hell’s Bend – a Western fiction novel by American writer Edgar Rice Burroughs – with rye, cardamaro, and vermouth

Black Wednesday Turkey Bar Crawl

There’s always a bar crawl going on in Chicago, even right before Thanksgiving! This festive Black Wednesday bar crawl is only $10 and includes admission into Wrigleyville bars, a dinner buffet, gift cards to use during the crawl, drink specials, and more. Bars featured are Moe’s Cantina, Old Crow, Country Club, and Stretch with drink specials including $4 Bud Light, $5 Goose Island 312, and $6 Jameson at most bars.

Frosty’s Christmas Bar

Frosty’s will be back this year, and I’m guessing better than ever! I went to last year’s event and had a blast. This pop-up bar features themed drinks and 3 levels of all the holiday, Christmas decorations you can physically fit in a room. It is down right amazing. There’s even snow confetti canons. Make sure to wear something festive! Check out some inspiration from my visits here and here.

Christmas Around the World

View a floor-to-dome Grand Tree at this annual exhibit at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry. Featuring more than 50 trees, with decorations representing holiday traditions and cultures around the world, attend this event from November 14 – January 5, 2019. 

Seasonal Chicago Food & Treats

Now to the good stuff; FOOD. There are multiple places to put on your check out list this November (and December) for seasonal food and treats. Dine in with The Walnut Rooms’ Great Tree Buffet and enjoy a view of their giant Christmas tree!

things to do in chicago this november