CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS: Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Bucktown and Wicker Park, Chicago Loop, Edgewater, Oak Park

Lincoln Park: Lincoln Park Zoo presents Murder Mystery Dinner: Totally 80s, Totally Murder. This fabulous, interactive 80s theme party has the audience participate in a live-action Clue-style game! With a three-course dinner and drinks, guests can play either a murder suspect or a detective. The event is from 7 to 10 pm on Friday, February 16 and Saturday, February 17 for ages 21 and up. Tickets are $60 for Lincoln Park Zoo members and $65 for non members. Find out more here!

Lakeview: Do you need plans for Valentine’s Day weekend? Get your tickets now for the “My Bloody Valentine” murder mystery dinner at the Skyline Club. Vlad & Peni Dreadfull’s Ma Cabaret and Cavalcade of Curiosities present their first charity mystery dinner and fundraiser in partnership with USO of Illinois. Cocktails and clues begin at 6:30 pm on Friday, February 16. You can buy your own character, participate in a fabulous raffle, and a silent auction. Dinner includes a carving station, buffet appetizers, side dishes, and a cash bar. Get your tickets for this fabulous event now, here!

Bucktown and Wicker Park: On a chilly weekend, now’s the perfect time to explore museum exhibits in the city! The Ukranian National Museum (2249 W. Superior) presents Warming Art Exhibit. Les Panshyshn is a 26 year old artist and photographer from Ukraine. This exhibit explores global warming through vibrant colors, golden planets, flamingos, and penguins. The exhibit opened on Friday, January 12 and will continue through Sunday, January 28. Hours are Thursday through Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children.

Chicago Loop: Chicago Symphony Orchestra presents “Singin’ in the Rain”. The CSO will perform the gorgeous music by Nacio Herb Brown live! Performances are Friday January 19 at 8 pm and Sunday January 21 at 3 pm. If you plan on attending the Friday performance, join conductor Richard Kaufman and drummer Brian Miller for a pre-concert lecture in Grainger Ballroom. These performances are part of “CSO at the Movies”. Buy your tickets here!

Edgewater: Need a little theatre in your life? Check out “Nice Girl”, opening at the Raven Theatre this Wednesday, January 24. Written by Melissa Ross, “Nice Girl” tells the story of Josephine, a 37-year old woman feeling stuck in her job, her single life, and living in her mom’s house. A new friendship and a budding romance open a world of possibilities to her. Raven Theatre “proudly presents the Chicago premiere of Melissa Ross’ play about the tragedy and joy of figuring out who you are and letting go of who you were supposed to be.” The show plays Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 3 pm. It runs until March 11. Get your tickets now here!

Oak Park: Even with the super cold temperatures, there are still ways to have fun! Come to the Winter Park Fest in Oak Park on Saturday, January 27! Located in Austin Gardens, this winter event starts at 11 am. Snow or no snow, this will be a fun-packed event; complete with outdoor ice skating, music, and food. Admission is free and skate rental is just $1 (limited availability). No registration required, just show up ready to have a good time!

RACHEL HOOVLER & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO