THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Adding Excitement To A Humdrum Winter!
Remember folks, we’re still in the middle of the dog days of winter, despite the mild temps and rain around here. Not that I’m complaining! But adding some excitement to our wintery humdrum lives is what the weekends are for!!
The second Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival showcases public performances across the City with an array of puppet styles from around the world; as well as a symposium, hands-on workshops, panel discussions, family drop-in events and more. One location is the Navy Pier Crystal Gardens (600 E. Grand Ave.) in the Streeterville neighborhood this Saturday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. as Navy Pier Hosts Chicago International Puppet Theater. This family-friendly event will feature three special 45-minute puppet performances with fun activities and workshops between the shows. And, following each performance, guests will be able to speak with the artists! If you’re young at heart or just plain curious to see a contemporary puppet show, you won’t be disappointed. You may not know this but today, puppetry is a living and thriving art form!! Check it out!
There are two events in town this weekend that are not only fundraisers but will also provide the excitement you’re looking for –
Beernival 2017 is a beer-themed carnival raising funds for Autism Speaks to Young Professionals. Their mission is to change the future for all who struggle with the many disorders of autism. So, head on over to Joe’s Bar (940 W. Weed St.) in the Goose Island neighborhood this Saturday from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Beer Pong Tournament, Competitive Flip Cup, Carnival Games with Prizes and unlimited domestic beer is what you’ll find at Beernival! Afterwards, head on over to the Old Town Social (455 W. North Ave.) for some post-party excitement!!
The Johnny Cash Festival is a fundraiser for the Gompers Park Athletic Association and is Chicago’s only such festival. Now in its 12th year, this festival returns to the Irish American Heritage Center (4626 N. Knox Ave.) in the Mayfair neighborhood this Saturday from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Join the following bands for a night of great music as well as raising “Cash for Kids” – Hayden Thompson, Hodie Snitch, Prichard Harter, Iron Horse, The Dark Passengers and The LaMantia Brothers!!
This year in the Chinese culture is the Year of the Rooster which officially kicks-off on January 28th. However, the Garfield Park Conservatory (300 N. Central Park Ave.) in the East Garfield Park neighborhood will host a pre- Chinese New Year Celebration on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to create a festive lantern, attend a traditional Chinese tea ceremony, discover their Chinese Zodiac animal, participate in a kids’ Dragon Dance and much more!
Finally, the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Hall F (5555 N. River Rd.) in Rosemont this Saturday (10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) and Sunday (11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.). Featuring over 1,200 travel experts from the world’s top destinations, tours and suppliers, this show will also feature informative seminars at the Savvy Traveler Stage, popular destinations & what to do at the Destination Theater, live cooking demonstrations and samples at the Taste of Travel Stage, cultural performances at the Global Beats Stage, hands-on adventure activities, exclusive travel deals, prizes and much more! It’s time to plan your next vacation!!
Hope You Have An Exciting Weekend!
