CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS – Gold Coast, Loop, Naperville, Lincoln Park, Portage Park

GOLD COAST

‘Tis the season for all things spooky, giving the International Museum of Surgical Science (1524 N. Lake Shore Dr.) a chance to shine by candlelight for a Night at 1524 walking tours and reception tomorrow, 10/14, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Rumors of hauntings have surrounded this mansion that was build in 1917 and became the home of the International Museum of Surgical Science and open to the public since 1954. Tomorrow’s event is an opportunity to learn about the architecture and former occupants of this historical site. Tickets are $20 – $25 with one tour beginning at 7:00 p.m. and the second at 7:30 p.m. Follow the link above to purchase tickets before they sell out!

LOOP

Free events are always good news in my book. The McCormick Bridgehouse Museum (99 Chicago Riverwalk) is offering free admission from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursdays of this month – 10/13, 10/20, and 10/27 – with their Brews-n-Views BYOB event with free guided tours starting at 6:00 p.m. each night. Come for a unique happy hour experience for the best views of the Chicago River and a chance to see the inner workings of Chicago’s world-famous movable bridges.

NAPERVILLE

The Islamic Center of Naperville (ICN) has been part of the landscape of this diverse neighborhood for 25 years. With these current times of unrest and miscommunication, the ICN is graciously hosting an Open Mosque Day on Sunday, 10/16, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. As ICN President Shoaib Khadri says, “…to open the doors of our mosque to our neighbors, families, friends and colleagues of different faiths to give them an opportunity to visit a mosque, something they may never have had a chance to do.” There will be booths for learning more about the Islamic faith where discussion and questions will be welcomed. Cultural customs can be explored such as the ancient body art of henna, Arabic calligraphy, the traditional hijab (head scarf) as well as the opportunity to observe afternoon prayer, tours of the mosque and refreshments. This free event is open to all faiths and all people in inclusivity and respect  for the multitude of cultures, religions and beliefs that make our country great.

LINCOLN PARK

Here’s an election we can all get behind! You have until Monday 10/17 to weigh in on Lincoln Park’s Top 10 Awards. Five finalists have been named for each category of Best Place to Dine, Best Place to Brunch, Best Place for Coffee/Sweets, Best Place to Drink, Best Place to Get Fit, Best Neighborhood Service Provider, Best Place for Arts & Culture, and Best Place to Shop. Vote here!  And get ready for the Awards event on Monday 10/24 from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Steppenwolf Theatre (1650 N. Halsted) to announce this year’s winners. Advanced tickets can be purchased for $45 through October 23rd.

PORTAGE PARK

There’s plenty of Halloween activities to plan for across our featured neighborhoods. We’ll be sure to report on fun, family friendly events for planning during this busy time. Roberts Square Park (5200 W. Argyle St.) is holding its 5th Annual Halloween Fest on Saturday 10/22 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. All are invited, family, friends and pets, to come in costume and take part in the parade that begins at 2:00 p.m. Kids’ activities and treats for both humans and pets will be available.

CATHY MALLERS & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO