CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS – Bucktown and Wicker Park, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, River North, Lincoln Square, Oak Park

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Bucktown and Wicker Park: There’s nothing like a good old-fashioned speakeasy, is there? The Violet Hour in Wicker Park would agree with you on that one! Whether you’re a regular or checking it out for the first time, the Violet Hour is here to please. They just released their Winter 2017 drink menu and it looks delicious. The menu includes items like The Violet Hour Toddy, a hot rye cocktail, and Goodbye Now, Ta-Ta Then: a multi-faceted drink with hints of pie spicing and coffee bitters. The Violet Hour is located at 1520 N Damen, open Sunday to Friday from 6 pm to 2 am, and Saturday from 6 pm to 3 am.

Lakeview: Ever feel like you’re the only nerd in Chicago? Never fear, the Chicago Nerd Social Club is here! The group says of themselves, “The Chicago Nerd Social Club hosts nerdy-friendly events in Chicago. We are nerds and we enjoy hanging out with other nerds.” Members are from a variety of Chicago neighborhoods and pay only $15 annually for discounts at nerd-accessible venues and group-hosted events. The group also hosts a monthly fantasy/sci-fi book club in Wicker Park at Filter Café. To find out more, go to their website, https://www.chicagonerds.com/.

Lincoln Park: Steppenwolf Theatre is joining the nationwide Ghostlight Project, this evening (Thursday, January 19) at 5:30 pm. The name speaks to the theatrical tradition of leaving on a ghost-light at all times. First and foremost, this is for safety, but many posture that it will banish unwanted spirits or placate theatre ghosts. The lighting ceremony will begin at 5:15 pm in the parking lot next to the theatre, located at 1650 N. Halsted St. The event is to encourage and celebrate inclusion and diversity. Theatre companies across the nation will be participating in the event as a show of solidarity and support.

River North:  The Women’s March on Chicago will be held this Saturday in downtown Chicago. Jessica Scheller, co-chairwoman of the march, estimates that over 50,000 women will be in attendance. Following the election of Donald Trump, a Women’s March on Washington was formulated and the Chicago march is its counterpart. The event will begin at 10 am, at Jackson Boulevard on Lake Shore Drive. There will be speakers and performers before the walk itself begins at 11:30 am.

Lincoln Square: Ever wondered who makes the best baguette in Chicago? Wonder no more. The Baguette Battle will take place on February 16, from 6-8 pm at the Sofitel Hotel. La Boulangerie, a Lincoln Square bakery, will be competing, in addition to Floriole, La Farine, and others. You can purchase tickets for $20 in advance, $40  after early bird registration closes. The ticket price includes bread tastings, meat and cheese selections, and one glass of wine. Get your tickets here!

Oak Park: There’s still time to catch the Stars of the Pharoahs event at Cernan Earth and Space Center. This featured event explores the tombs and temples of Egypt, 5,000 years ago. The Egyptians had a deep connection with the stars that guided their daily lives. The event has been running since December 3 and will continue until January 29. For just $4 for children and seniors and $8 dollars for adults, this event is a steal. Check it out Saturdays at 7 pm and Sundays at 2 pm.