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 The best creations by local artists |
5700 South Kimbark Avenue (Hyde Park) Chicago, IL 60615 United States +1 773 493 3247 http://www.57thstreetartfair.org/ |
View the city through its artists' eyes. In Hyde Park during the sunny, mild days of early June you can experience the city's largest collection of original works by local artists. Free to all, this exhibit has become a "must see" for students and lovers of art. It is the Midwest's oldest art fair, dating back to 1948, and also one of its most popular. Easy access by car via Lake Shore Drive, with many free parking locations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tammy Green  |
 Photo: Tammy Green |
 Photo: Cem&Andrea |
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Art and culture on the street |
5200-5400 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60640-2102 United States +1 773 665 4682 (Organizers) http://www.starevents.com/mid_... info@starevents.com |
This popular suburb of Chicago takes to the streets once a year. No, it's not a protest of any sort, but a free celebration of the spirit of the city and its art and culture. Join 50,000 other revelers and explore the city's Swedish heritage through art and food stalls, to the accompaniment of lively music. A festive Swedish dance around the Maypole is the highlight of the event. Face-painting, family games and other activities provide the interactive aspect. Stage shows, such as the Nordic dance thrill those who cherish their roots. Proceeds from the fest go to the organizers, who are committed to promoting and building the community. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fireworks for charity |
400, North Michigan Avenue Wendella Boats (Sponsors) Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 337 1446 http://www.windycityluau.org/ windycityluau@gmsil.com |
The Annual Windy City Luau is a fund raising event for the Foundation Fighting Blindness. This one day event is held on a cruise ship that sails along the River Chicago, moving to Lake Michigan. The annual fireworks display before the dawn of 4th of July at the lake is a big attraction for people from home and abroad. While on board, you can treat yourself to drinks and snacks. Tickets are available on first come first serve basis so be quick and do some charity while having fun. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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More like a picnic |
1300 South Lynn White Drive Chicago, IL 60605 United States +1 312 540 2667 / +1 312 559 1212 charteronepavilion@livenation.com |
Ideally positioned between the pretty city skyline and Lake Michigan, this 7,500-seater venue plays host to a range of concerts throughout summer and fall. Temporary stages are created for each event. Charter One Pavilion's shows go on irrespective of the weather, so make sure you are well equipped with the necessary gear. Carry your own food or let the on-site food stalls take care of your hunger pangs. Ample parking space is available. Shuttle service is available at Gate 14 at Soldier Field and on McFetridge Drive, which is at the north end of Soldier Field. Private shows are also hosted. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lisa Curtin |
 Photo: Shana |
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Thrilling Airborne Acrobatics |
North Avenue Beach (Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street) Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 312 744 3370 |
Millions of Chicagoans flock to the Lake Michigan shoreline to watch as the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights begin their terrifying daredevil displays. The show, held in August, can be viewed from just about anywhere along the lakefront, as long as no buildings or trees obstruct the view. If you insist on watching from North Avenue Beach, be sure to arrive by 9a to stake out a spot and bring plenty of water and sun tan lotion with you, because you'll be jockeying for position all day long. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jay Robinson |
 Photo: Renee Driza |
 Photo: Renee Driza |
 Photo: Jay Robinson |
 Photo: Jeff Cagle |
 Photo: benjie.urbina.org |
 Photo: Freddy Castillo |
 Photo: James Beickert |
 Photo: vcap54 |
 Photo: Valerie Miller |
 Dust off your cowboy hat |
500 South Columbus Drive (Grant Park) Chicago, IL 60605 United States +1 312 744 3370 |
Get ready to swing your partner round and round at this annual weekend music festival. Whether you are a fan of the old-school twang of Roy Rogers, the Appalachian melodies of Dolly Parton, the alternative styling of Lyle Lovett or the pop country of Shania Twain, you will find something good to listen to at this festival. The Chicago Country Music festival is actually a festival within a festival; it shares its crowds and its atmosphere with the Taste of Chicago. Line dancing is available both days. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Steve Rish |
 Photo: Kevin S |
 Photo: Joji Doi |
 Photo: Becky Bynard |
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The Festival of Ideas |
500 North Dearborn Street Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 661 1028 http://www.chfestival.org/ |
A truly inspiring event happens each fall as the world's most exciting artists and thinkers gather in Chicago to celebrate the human spirit. Novelists, scholars, musicians, artists, poets and policy-makers offer presentations around universal themes. More than 100 programs - including lectures, concerts, panel discussions, dramatic performances, readings, exhibitions and film screenings - take place at educational, civic and cultural institutions in and around the downtown area. Timings vary with event. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: pigolincolorado |
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Exclusively kid stuff |
1517 West Fullerton Avenue Facets Multi-Media (Organizers) Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 281 9075 (Organizers) http://www.cicff.org/ kidsfest@facets.org |
Film-makers from more than 40 countries show off their animated films and live action movies to the 25,000 children attending this grand event. Let your little ones have a say in the winners—get them to enter their favorite films in advance. Parents, teachers and filmmakers are also invited to watch the award ceremony. They can also participate in interactive workshops specially tailored for the youngsters. If you manage to get one of the coveted invites, make sure to attend the opening and closing night parties as well. Log on to the Web site to keep yourself updated. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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World's best cinema premiers in October |
32 West Randolph Street, Suite 600 Chicago, IL 60601 United States +1 312 332 3456 (Tickets) http://www.chicagofilmfestival... info@chicagofilmfestival.com |
Tomorrow's stars can be seen in October at North America's oldest competitive film festival. Audiences feast on the creme de la creme of cinema as more than 100 of the world's best feature, short, animation and documentary films are unveiled. In addition, attendees might mingle with directors, actors, and other celebrities at the screenings. Past appearances have included "unknowns" Geoffrey Rush, Liv Ullmann and Spike Lee, and renowned "Tribute" recipients Francis Truffaut, Sophia Loren, Martin Scorsese and Al Pacino. Tickets. Film showings take place at The Chicago Theater, The Music Box and Century Centre Cinema. Various admission packages are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: strzelecki1 |
 Photo: strzelecki1 |
 Photo: Danielle Dai |
 Photo: Rachel Riester |
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World Cinema Made Accessible |
1104 S Wabash (8th floor) Chicago, IL 60605 United States +1 312 344 8829 http://www.projectchicago.com info@projectchicago.com |
Individuals in the entertainment and film industry created the Chicago International REEL Shorts Film Festival in 2003 so filmmakers from all over the world could display their work. Exhibiting or watching a movie doesn't have to mean ridiculous entrance fees; it only costs viewers $5 for every two-hour film block. This festival encourages world cinema, gives filmmakers an opportunity to inexpensively show their hard work in a public setting, and allows the average person to watch these films for low prices. There are 75 international short films, and the genres range from action to romance. This festival gives filmmakers a chance to display their talents and gives audiences a chance to appreciate them. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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End of Summer Hot Licks |
500 South Columbus Drive (Grant Park) Chicago, IL 60605 United States +1 312 744 3315 http://www.chicagojazzfestival... |
Grant Park comes alive with swing, jive, fusion and bebop when Jazz Fest opens the Labor Day weekend at the Petrillo Music Shell. Certainly, this is one of the biggest summer music festivals and one of the most popular in the nation. This long standing Labor Day weekend tradition is not to be missed and it's a great way to say adieu to Summer. Past performers have included Herbie Hancock, Tatsu Aoki, Liquid Soul, Phil Woods and Chick Corea. The Thursday concert is ticketed, but admission to the outdoor Friday, Saturday and Sunday concerts is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lisa hill |
 Photo: Joey Chen |
 Photo: David Zobott |
 Photo: Laura Sturm |
 Photo: Stephen 'Pup' Ellis |
 Photo: gavin robinson |
 Photo: Joe Sterbenc |
 Cure Your Summertime Blues! |
Lake Shore Drive & Monroe Street Grant Park Chicago, IL 60604 United States +1 312 744 3315 http://metromix.chicagotribune... |
This is a popular film fest that shows classic films in Grant Park each Tuesday throughout the summer. City dwellers congregate under the stars with picnic baskets and blankets to enjoy sunset showings of films on a 50-foot by 34-foot screen. Admission is free, and food and non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased in the park. Past films have included, 'A Streetcar Named Desire', 'The Maltese Falcon', 'West Side Story' and 'Dr. Strangelove'. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joseph Voves |
 The Outdoors is Great at the Chicago Park District |
Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 747 7529 http://www.chicagoparkdistrict... |
The Chicago Park District is an oasis of nature in the midst of the city, where you can stroll through gardens and conservatories like Garfield Park and Lincoln Park or stop and smell the flowers as you go on one of their guided bird walks or shop at one of their farmers' markets. They host open-air concerts, art exhibitions, theater performances, neighborhood tours, and sports tournaments. They've got senior fitness classes and lots of kids' sporting events. There's golfing and fishing, a skatepark, and bike tours. For beaches, wildlife, art, sports, and entertainment, the Park District meets your every recreational need. This is where you'll find popular tourist destinations like the Art Institute, the Lincoln Park Zoo, Lake Michigan, and Buckingham Fountain, as well as local community events and neighborhood festivals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Viqi French |
 Photo: F. J. Sochacki, Jr. |
 Photo: Matt White |
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Free lessons and dancing under the stars |
Lange Gasthuisstraat 45 Chicago, IL 2000 United States +1 312 742 4007 http://www.cityofchicago.org/c... |
Whether you are graceful as a swan or have two left feet, you cannot help but dance the summer nights away by the shore of Lake Michigan during this fun music festival. Music styles include mambo, swing, ballroom, Celtic, big band, two-step, zydeco and other fun ways to move your feet and body. There are lots of lessons, so there is no excuse not to get up and boogie. It is all for fun, and it is all free from June through August. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mei-Tzu Lin |
 Photo: Monica Maeta |
 Photo: Amanda B. Rostkowski |
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Getting to know China better |
2200, South Wentworth Avenue Chicago, IL 60616 United States +1 312 225 6198 (Organizers) |
During Chinatown Summer Fair the entire locality looks forward to the colorful processions, cultural events and entertainment. Chinese dance performances and demonstrations of martial art are major highlights of the event. Local vendors and restaurateurs participate in the event to present delicious fares. Chinese art and craft is on display during this one day event. There are contests and events for children as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Latino roots |
1400 West Cermak Road between Throop Street and Morgan Street Chicago, IL 60623 United States +1 312 666 2663 (Organizers) http://www.fiestadelsol.org/ arts@fiestadelsol.org |
Art, carnivals, talent shows and games constitute the entertainment at this Latin fest. Enjoy mariachi dances, petting zoos, and acts like the "Grupo Cariñoso Musical" and the "Chema y su Banda" as you get into the spirit of the celebration. The family shows and rides promise a load of fun with your kids, who can also take a spot dance lesson or two at the venue itself. Organized by the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council, and having started off as a mere block party, the event has now mushroomed into a huge community gala. Certain pavilions require a ticket; check the Web site for more information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Chuck Sudo |
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First-Class Movie Theater |
164 N. State Street Chicago, IL 60601 United States +1 312 846 2600 http://www.siskelfilmcenter.org/ |
For decades, the Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago has been a mecca for cinemaphiles around the world. Today, renamed for Gene Siskel, the beloved Chicago film critic, the place is as bustling as ever. On offer are everything from first-run Hollywood hits to the most obscure foreign films, revered and forgotten classics, low-budget independents, and a continuing stream of special programs and festivals. A cafe and gallery keeps crowds lingering long after the end credits roll. See website for showtimes, event calendar and more. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bill Doughty |
 Photo: The Big Bad Swim |
 Photo: Isaac Downing |
 Photo: Justin/Blake Miller |
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Revival of pre-depression grandeur |
221 North Genesee Street Chicago, IL 60085 United States +1 847 782 2366 http://www.geneseetheatre.com/ |
The Genesee Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Waukegan. Designed by the famous architect Edward P. Steinberg, the building originally housed this theater, 11 retail spaces and 44 apartments. 'Man About Town' debuted here on June 25, 1939. Jack Benny, a native of Waukegan and Dorothy Lamour starred in this play. Restoration work on this vaudeville theater began in 2001 and it was reopened to the public on 3rd December, 2004 with a much-applauded curtain raiser by Bill Cosby. Performances by Ringo Starr, Jewel, Led Zeppelin etc are slated for this years calendar. For further information, visit the website or call the box office. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: spark_rain_fire |
 Fun and games for Christmas |
2301, South Lake Shore Drive McCormick Place (Venue) Chicago, IL 60616 United States +1 312 791 7000 http://egov.cityofchicago.org/... |
The Holiday Sports Festival is the highlight of Christmas holidays in Chicago held by the Mayor's Office of Special Events. It is full of fun and games for all ages. Entry is free to the various sports events. Volleyball, tennis, soccer, floor hockey, badminton and table tennis tournaments held during this event pull great crowds. Golf, climbing walls, football, skills area, obstacle course, tot's zone, bowling, martial arts are some of the popular games as well. The venue also provides a Fitness Area where you can work out under professional guidance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Rare collectibles on display |
60, West Walton Street Newberry Library Chicago, IL 60610 United States +1 312 255 3510 http://www.newberry.org/ malech@newberry.org |
The Newberry Library Book fair displays a collection of precious books donated by the Newberry Friends. The event is preceded by a Preview Night meant for the friends only. It is an event looked forward to by collectors since it offers the rarest of books for extremely low prices. For bookworms this is a great place to enhance personal collections. There are books on a wide range of subjects spread over two levels in the library. The funds generated from the exhibition is utilized for the maintenance of Newberry library. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Boys Town street party |
3346 North Halsted Street Halsted Street (from Belmont Avenue to Addison Street) Chicago, IL 60657 United States +1 773 883 0500 http://www.northalsted.com/ |
Like many other neighborhood festivals in Chicago, this fest, held the second weekend in August, gets its moxie not from the standard array of arts and crafts booths, but from those in attendance. Held in the center of the Boystown neighborhood, a commercial and residential center of Chicago's gay community, this street party draws from its surroundings. The event is probably as well-attended and enjoyed as the annual Gay Pride Parade. The crafts booths, three musical stages and food and beer booths help fest-goers party all day and into the night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joseph Palmer |
 Photo: TheCountdown! |
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Matchmaking heaven |
700 West Adams Street (Old St. Patrick's Church) Chicago, IL 60661 United States +1 312 648 1021 http://www.worldslargestblockp... info@oldstpats.org, annetteb@oldstpats.org |
This Chicago institution is as famous a place to meet your mate as it is for the live music and good times. In fact, the festival was once featured on the Oprah Winfrey show for its coupling prowess; some 65 couples have met here and later married. Whether for the matchmaking potential or the entertainment, this block party sells out almost every year, so buy your tickets in advance to watch two stages of nationally recognized musical acts up close and under the stars. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 One Of The Oldest Juried Outdoor Art Fairs |
1763 North Park Avenue Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 312 337 1938 http://www.oldtowntriangle.com/ info@oldtowntriangle.com |
This festival of art fair was established more than 50 years ago and ranks among the top ten national fairs. At least 250 artists display and sell their wares, including paintings, sculpture, prints, photographs, jewelry, fiberglass, pottery and multi-media works. The fair also includes a garden walk, food and drinks by local restaurants, activities for the kids and an auction. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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An evening with the stars |
201 Southwest Jefferson Avenue Chicago, IL 61602-1448 United States +1 309 673 8900 / +1 309 673 3200 (Box Office) http://www.peoriaciviccenter.com |
Peoria Civic Center has been hosting concerts, music festivals, theatre shows and sports events since its opening in 1979. Kelly Rogers jazzed up the center with his dazzling performance in 1982. The WWF has had 33 tournaments in this venue since 1985! And now the crowds croon to the tunes of Aerosmith, Shania Twain and many other dazzlers! The Elton John concert has been rated as the best concert of this venue with an attendance of 11776! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lily Dale |
 Photo: Lily Dale |
 Bookish delights |
57 West Polk Street Chicago, IL 60606 United States +1 312 222 3986 (Voice mail) http://www.printersrowbookfair... bookfair@tribune.com |
Now a trendy neighborhood with converted condos and young professionals who enjoy the proximity to the Loop, Printers Row was so named in the 1890s when it served as a publishing headquarters that rivaled New York. While the presses have long since moved, the annual book fair is a reminder of that era, and is a highlight for Chicago's literary community. More than 170 venders sell new, used and antique books in this outdoor street fair. In addition, the fair sponsors several poetry readings, panel discussions and workshops. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: stephan!e lee |
 Photo: Rebecca Silliman |
 Photo: wvallen |
 Photo: ChiliMac |
 Photo: Gina Krosoczka |
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The Stars Are Out |
P. O. Box 896 Ravinia Festival Box Office Chicago, IL 60035 United States +1 847 266 5100 http://www.ravinia.org tickets@ravinia.org |
Every summer, the Ravinia Festival offers the finest in the performing arts at suburban Ravinia. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra makes its home here from June to September during the festival. Popular artists of all kinds appear, including Yo-Yo Ma, Los Lobos, Tony Bennett, the Joffrey Ballet and Lyle Lovett. Sit on the spacious grounds and enjoy a picnic (pack your own or buy one at the many excellent establishments on premises). Be forewarned though, lawn seating does not provide a view of the performance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fernando Cuenca |
 Photo: Saxton |
 Photo: regan76 |
 Photo: Tama |
 Photo: Amy Cesich |
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Gay Pride |
Organizers: 5243 North Clark Street, 2nd Floor Chicago Filmmakers Chicago, IL 60640 United States +1 773 293 1447 http://www.reelingfilmfestival... reeling@chicagofilmmakers.org |
The Reeling Chicago Lesbian & Gay International Film Festival has been a popular annual event since April 1981. They celebrated their 24th proud year in 2005. The event, organized by the Chicago Filmmakers, tries to represent gay and lesbian identity through meaningful cinema and tries to get rid of the stereotypes. Education and sensitization of the public towards these communities has been the mission. There are film screenings held at various venues and there is a jury that hands out prizes and awards. You can show your support by catching a film or two. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Festival of Food |
500 South Columbus Drive (Grant Park) Chicago, IL 60605 United States +1 312 744 3370 |
Every year, more than 65 of the most popular Chicago restaurants open up food booths all over Grant Park so visitors can sample a broad array of goodies from this most diverse restaurant city. The food, though a touch overpriced, is eminently affordable, and the other attractions of the Taste are all free: four entertainment stages feature live music, many stalls offer cooking demonstrations and others sell arts and crafts. Past festivals have featured a stunt high-diving show, various rides and a nightly dance (with free lessons.) Over three million people crowd in, so be prepared to fight your way to pizza, pork sandwiches, stuffed peppers, ribs, egg rolls, bratwurst. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Diwata Bose |
 Photo: Erika Buentello |
 Photo: Pierre Metivier |
 Photo: Arthur S Lee |
 Photo: mont2 |
 Photo: Peter Fuchs |
 Photo: Kirsten T. Wyatt |
 Photo: ted.dy_lu |
 Photo: Brandon Pope |
 Photo: Rebecca |
 Photo: Luis Cantu |
 Photo: Windy Planeta |
 Photo: ramon82 |
 Photo: Lisa Trifone |
 Photo: Maggie Ziegler |
 Photo: Surendra D |
 Photo: Francesco Raiola |
 Photo: Reamika P |
 Photo: Mr.Rebelde |
 Photo: Brandon D. Crain |
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Playtime |
72 E Randolph Street Chicago, IL 60601 United States +1 877 244 2246 http://www.artofplaychicago.com/ |
If you are one of those people who think that adults don't get enough "playtime", then takes a trip to "The Art of Play". This free summer festival includes a number of performances, tours, and demonstrations throughout the entire city at various locations. Whether you want to catch a fish on Lake Michigan or check out the world world famous Blue Man Group you will certainly be doing your fair-share of playing this summer. And you thought only kids could have fun. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Enchanted night of twinkling sailboats |
Monroe Harbor Chicago, IL United States |
For a magical evening on Lake Michigan, be sure not to miss this simple, yet haunting event. More than 35 boats sail out onto Lake Michigan in a formal parade of twinkling lights and music. The free parade can be viewed along the lakefront from the Shedd Aquarium at Roosevelt Road up to the Chicago Yacht Club at Monroe Street. Listen for the gorgeous sounds of the Grant Park Symphony before the parade, and watch for the fireworks at the evening's conclusion. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: milopeng |
 Photo: milopeng |
 Photo: Asten Rathbun |
 Photo: Asten Rathbun |
 Photo: Seth Anderson |
 Photo: Jane Doe |
 Photo: Harold Hall |
 Photo: Gonzalo Guinand |
 Photo: sophiawachtmeister |
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A world of music in the Windy City |
78 E Washington St (Chicago Cultural Center and several citywide locations) Chicago, IL 60605 United States +1 312 742 1938 http://egov.cityofchicago.org |
Experience music like never before as the world's cultures converge to celebrate a common bond. Sample the gamut of contemporary, traditional and fusion styles as performers from Australia to Zimbabwe entertain at more than a dozen venues in September, with Grant Park as the central site. Tickets for each concert range from free to USD10. Several museums and teaching institutes conduct a wide variety of hands-on seminars and exhibits surrounding unusual instruments, music in history and cultural diversity in music. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Yu |
 Photo: Alex Gaylon |
 Photo: www.artsimagined.com |
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Wild Holiday Adventure |
220 North Cannon Drive (Lincoln Park Zoo) Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 312 742 2000 http://www.lpzoo.com/events/zo... webmaster@lpzoo.org |
It is Christmas at the Lincoln Park Zoo all weekend evenings from late November through New Year's. Children of all ages experience wide-eyed delight as they view dazzling displays of colorful lights, ice-sculptured holiday scenes and festively decorated homes. Activities include puppet shows, ice carving, gingerbread houses, holiday crafts and rides on the kiddie train. Costumed guides and musical entertainers complete this event that delivers more smiles and giggles than Toyland! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Larry Lu |
 Photo: Azusa Nakamura |
 Photo: Stuckinthe80s |
 Photo: Rachel Campbell |
 Photo: Etienne |
 Photo: Greg Inda |