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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 |
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 Photo: Tammy Green  |
 Photo: Tammy Green |
 Photo: Cem&Andrea |
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Prime Site is right! |
4000 Parnell Avenue Chicago, IN 46805 United States +1 260 482 9502/ +1 260 483 1111 (Ticket Office) http://www.memorialcoliseum.com/ nbutler@memorialcoliseum.com |
Restoration work in 2003 equipped this 13,000 seat arena with state-of-the art facilities. Cushioned seats, a fantastic stage, a well designed lighting and sound system are a few of the added features. Come and watch international figure skating champions display their talent - the coliseum has a permanent ice floor. Other popular sell-out events include concerts, circuses and other sporting events. No wonder Memorial Coliseum has been awarded with the Prime Site and Top Stop award! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Staggering versatility! |
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way Chicago, WI 53713 United States +1 608 267 3976 http://www.alliantenergycenter... aec@co.dane.wi.us |
Concerts, conventions, exhibitions, sports, rodeos, circuses - the Veterans Memorial Coliseum at the Alliant Energy Center hosts them all! The structure itself looks like a concrete imitation of a circus tent, and can accomodate up to 9000 people at a time. If you happen to be in Madison, look it up - the ongoing events may interest you. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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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 Plays some worth-watching shows |
2540 North Lincoln Avenue Chicago, IL 60614 United States +1 773 935 6100 (Box Office) / +1 773 935 9336 http://www.apollochicago.com/h... info@apollochicago.com |
Located in the north side of the city, this venue has a lot to offer in the field of entertainment. Fantastic theatre performances, stand-up comedy shows, musicals, and more are played regularly. Internationally acclaimed shows like Menopause the Musical recently had its 1000th Chicago performance here. Other featured shows are the Coachology and The Dolphins of Damnation Experience. The recent addition—The Apollo Theatre Studio is situated at the basement and plays stage to smaller shows. Valet parking is available and for food before the show, head to one of the many restaurants that lie in the vicinity. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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 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 |
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The oldest and largest auto show in the nation |
Lake Shore Drive at 23rd Street McCormick Place Chicago, IL 60616 United States +1 630 495 2282 / +1 630 424 6030 http://chicagoautoshow.com |
The love affair between man and car is renewed each February at the nation's oldest and largest automobile show. Collectors and admirers will marvel at the more than 1,000 vehicles on display, which include domestic and imported passenger cars and trucks, sport utility vehicles, experimental and concept vehicles and antique and collector cars. A highlight of the exhibit is the announcement of the winners of Motor Week's "Annual Drivers' Choice Awards". Admission: USD10 (adults), USD5 (ages 62 and older and ages 7-12). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: kishore-k |
 Photo: J Choate |
 Photo: J Choate |
 Photo: Xin G. Zhu |
 Photo: Nathan Knott |
 Photo: kishore-k |
 Photo: Derek Kaczmarczyk |
 Photo: Randy Stern |
 Photo: Zhefei Li |
 Photo: David Harned |
 Photo: Derek Kaczmarczyk |
 Photo: Andy Sauder |
 Photo: Soumit Nandi |
 Photo: Marco Lara |
 Photo: Kyle Jones |
 Photo: bradjb |
 Photo: Rob |
 Photo: Daniel Hartwig |
 Photo: andboo |
 Photo: Robert Olajos |
 Photo: Garrison |
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The largest consumer show of its kind in North America! |
2301 South Lake Shore Drive (McCormick Place) Chicago, IL 60616 United States +1 312 808 2000 http://www.chicagoboatshow.com/ |
Warm up in January at the hottest outdoor leisure show on the continent. Water sports enthusiasts will marvel at more than 1,000 boats, water skis, jet skis, fishing gear and other nautical necessities. There is plenty for landlubbers as well: hundreds of RVs, tents, camping and hiking equipment. Contests, giveaways, 'how-to' seminars and hundreds of exhibits offering the latest of everything for the great outdoors. Admission: USD10 adults, USD4 youth (13-15). Children 12 yrs and under are admitted free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Jakob van Santen |
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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 |
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 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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Official start to the holiday season |
Washington St and Dearborn St (Daley Plaza) Chicago, IL 60602 United States +1 312 744 3370 http://www.cityofchicago.org/ |
Get your holiday season off to the right start with this festive annual event. Each November, just after Thanksgiving, crowds brave the windy cold and gather downtown in anticipation of the spectacular lighting of the city's holiday tree. The mayor and other area celebrities and dignitaries are on hand to officially kick off the holiday season. An array of musical entertainment and special surprises for all ages round out this free, festive, good-will-to-all event. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Tammy Green |
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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 |
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 Photo: Chuck Sudo |
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Massive Stage |
19100 South Ridgeland Avenue Tinley Park Chicago, IL United States +1 708 614 1616 http://www.livenation.com/venu... |
This really is a truly massive venue. Boasting itself as the largest amphitheater in the Chicagoland area, this 400,000-seat arena can accommodate any and all sporting, music, or organizational events. Throughout the venue, there are different types of seating from floor, front row, stadium, and the ever-popular lawn area. Check out the events that are happening so you can experience this enormous venue for yourself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Everything chocolate! |
7059 South Shore Drive South Shore Cultural Center Chicago, IL 60649 United States +1 219 921 0088 http://www.fortheloveofchocola... info@fortheloveofchocolate.org |
Who doesn't love chocolate? People at 'For the love of Chocolate', who make mouth watering chocolates, are Chicago's top pastry chefs and chocolatiers. This organization was brought about for the benefit of children with kidney diseases at the Children's Memorial Hospital. All proceeds from the events go to the aid of such patients. Every year around February, the event's guests can literally feast on the mounds of chocolates and even participate in the choco-fest by bringing in some of their own creations. Watch artists take chocolate to another level by daring guests to chocolate body-art. Models show off their delicate and intricate chocolate dresses and accessories while you can be party to a silent auction. Taste, feel, smell and see chocolate like never before; and besides, it's for a cause! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lighting Strikes |
At the Magnificent Mile Chicago, IL 60611 United States +1 312 642 3570 http://www.themagnificentmile.... info@themagnificentmile.com |
The highly-awaited Spectacular Lights and Decorations Show lights up the city every year. Here's your opportunity to watch Chicago's world-renowned Magnificent Mile all lit up. Superb fireworks accompanied by popular music light up the Chicago skyline. One of the city's greatest traditions, the festival gears both residents and tourists for the holiday season. The festival is held sometime in November. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Rebecca |
 Photo: Rebecca Strang |
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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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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 |
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 Photo: Lily Dale |
 Photo: Lily Dale |
 Ice it is! |
1202 East 38th Street Indiana State Fairgrounds Chicago, IN 47205 United States +1 317 927 7622 http://www.in.gov/statefair/ mleavell@indianastatefair.com |
Pepsi Coliseum is a part of the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Everything from trade shows to concerts, ice skating events, and ice-hockey competitions are held at this venue. The facilities are all modern, with an efficient management at work. Even ice-skating lessons are held on a regular basis. Children's birthday parties can be organized with prior arrangements. Visit the well-stocked pro-shop, which houses all kinds of ice skating gear such as blades, skates, and repair and sharpening equipment. 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 |
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 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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Venue available for rental |
1150 West Harrison Street Chicago, IL 60607-3407 United States +1 773 275 5871 http://www.vcsa.uic.edu/MainSi... |
The UIC Pavilion hosts concerts, UIC sports, meetings, festivals, and corporate, civic, and cultural events. Available for rental throughout the year, the Pavilion's varied programs target the greater metropolitan Chicago community. The UIC Pavilion is one of the Midwest's finest arenas. Located on the campus of the University of Illinois at Chicago. Home to the UIC Flames Men's and Women's Basketball program and UIC Flames Women's Volleyball. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Scott |
 Photo: Trung Phan |
 Photo: Tim Messer |
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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 |
hotel availability |
 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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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 |
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 Photo: Larry Lu |
 Photo: Azusa Nakamura |
 Photo: Stuckinthe80s |
 Photo: Rachel Campbell |
 Photo: Etienne |
 Photo: Greg Inda |