CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS: Bucktown and Wicker Park, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Chicago Loop, Andersonville, Evanston

Bucktown and Wicker Park: Pork & Mindy’s and Easel Art Studio are teaming up for a children’s art class! Bring your kiddos for an afternoon of painting and get creative, all while munching on complimentary treats. Participants will be painting a “Candy BLT” masterpiece. Guests are welcome to order from Pork & Mindy’s full family-friendly menu, too. Kids from ages 3-7 are welcome. Tickets are $25 per child and the event starts at 1 pm on March 30. Find more information here.

Lakeview: Lakeview’s own Michelin starred restaurant Ceres Table hosts a 5-course dinner from chef and Italian food authority Elizabeth Minchilli on Monday, April 22 at 5:30 pm. Minchilli will also be signing copies of her book “The Italian Kitchen”. The event is co-presented by The Book Cellar. Tickets are $82 per person and include the meal, book, taxes, and service. Reservations are required and can be made here.

Lincoln Park: It’s time again for Lincoln Park Night Out- this time at Victory Gardens Theater! On April 18 at 7:30 pm, you’ll see a performance of Cambodian Rock Band. This epic play/rock concert thrusts us into the life of a young woman trying to piece together her family history thirty years after her father fled Cambodia. Featuring actor/musicians who perform a mix of contemporary Dengue Fever hits and classic Cambodian oldies live, playwright Lauren Yee brings to vivid life the Cambodian rock scene of the ‘60s and ‘70s, a movement cut short by the Khmer Rouge’s brutal attempt to erase the music (and musicians) once and for all. This story is about survivors, the resilient bond of family and the enduring power of music. Use the code LPCC to receive 20% off tickets PLUS one free drink per ticket from the bar. Buy your tickets here now!

Chicago Loop: Put your walking shoes on and lace up for the Chicago Loop Pedway Underground Tour! On Tuesday, April 2 at 2 pm, you’ll discover the fascinating “city below the city”. You’ll explore gorgeous building lobbies and tour the underground walkways of our beautiful city. The Chicago Pedway connects more than 50 buildings and 40 city blocks in The Loop. Starting from the State of Illinois Building to the Cultural Center, this walking tour introduces guests to the history and surprises of the Pedway. The tour is free, but you can reserve your spot in advance here.

Andersonville: Andersonville in Bloom returns on Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28! The weather will finally be warm and the district will be full of spring merchandise. This spring event will feature pop-up flower shops, workshops, and more. Participating businesses include: Andersonville Antiques, City Olive, Foursided, Milk Handmade, Women & Children First, and many more. Find more information here.

Evanston: Join Mudlark Theatre at Midnight Pig Tap Room to show off your trivia skills while raising money for Mudlark! On Tuesday, April 2 from 6 to 9 pm, it’s a battle of the brains! There will also be free beer and appetizers. Not usually a trivia buff? Take a look at this list of categories- we think you’ll change your mind! Heavenston: featuring Evanston specific questions- how well do YOU know your city? MoviEmojis: Can you tell what these movies are based on the emojis? Siri Sings the Classics: Will you recognize these tunes when Siri steps up to the mic? Single tickets are $45 and couples tickets are $85. You can purchase yours here now.

RACHEL HOOVLER & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO