THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO- President’s Day Fun!

There’s nothing better than a three day weekend! With an extra day, you’ve got extra time to explore all the fantastic things Chicago has to offer!

Are you a car buff? Check out the Chicago Auto Show! This the nation’s largest and longest running auto exposition. It showcases over 1,000 domestic and imported vehicles, auto related exhibits, competition vehicles, as well as project, antique, and collector cars. Kiddos will also enjoy interactive displays throughout the show! Hours on Friday February 16, Saturday February 17, and Sunday February 18 are from 10 am to 10 pm. On Monday, February 19 hours are 10 am to 8 pm. The event will be held at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive. Adult tickets are $13, seniors and children tickets are $7. Buy your tickets here, now!

Wanna get out of the city for the day? Pack up the kiddos and head out to Rockford for the Presidents & Patriots Festival! This exciting event will be at the Midway Village Museum on Monday, February 19 from 10 am to 3 pm. This fun-filled day will feature patriotic games and crafts showcasing presidents and patriots from our country’s history. Make a Revolutionary soldier tricorn hat, take a picture at the presidential facial hair photo booth, participate in a Sacajawea treasure hunt, practice your “John Hancock” with feather quills, race the Paul Revere obstacle course, fire a “cannon” on an enemy fort, make Frederick Douglas freedom flags, and much more! The event itself is free, but you do have to pay museum admission. Find prices and more here!

Take your kiddos on a cooking adventure! Taste Buds Kitchen is hosting “Presidents Day Camp: Future Celebrity Chef” this Monday, February 19 from 9 am to 5 pm. Inspired by your favorite cooking TV shows, your kids will head to the kitchen for a unique cooking experience that includes new techniques and tastes. They’ll whip up both savory and sweet recipes, including Veggie Sushi Rolls, Matcha Turtle Bread, and Pocky Sticks. The camp is $60 and the day will be split by ages. From 9 am to noon, chefs ages 4-8 will be in the kitchen and from 1-4 pm, ages 9-13. Find more information here!

Just because we’re not in New Orleans doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate Mardi Gras! Spend your Mardi Gras weekend at Bourbon on Division! You’ll get the feel of Bourbon Street right here in Chicago with all the beads, masks, gumbo, and whiskey you need to celebrate Mardi Gras right! From Friday February 16 to Sunday February 18, there will be brass band pop-ups, $10 gumbo, and more!

Finally, if you’re looking for a little culture, get yourself to one of Chicago’s fantastic museums for Free Days! The Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium and The Field Museum are all free on President’s Day! Check out the full calendar of free days here!

Are you ready for some President’s Day fun?!