Chicago Neighborhood News: Lincoln Park, Chicago Loop, River North, Edgewater, Lincoln Square, Wicker Park and Bucktown

Lincoln Park: Have you always wanted to give back to your community but weren’t sure where to start? The Chicago Volunteer Expo has you covered. The eighth annual event is free and takes place on Sunday, February 23 from 10 am – 4pm at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Lincoln Park. With 75 non-profit organizations attending, there will be a great volunteer opportunity for everyone. Find more info here.

Chicago Loop: Spread out across the city’s best stages, the eighth annual Chicago Theater Week runs from February 13th- 23rd featuring over 100 productions. With tickets ranging from $30 to $15 (and often even less), there is something for everyone whether you’re in the mood for a comedy, drama, musical, or improv show. Find more info here.

River North: February 22 marks National Margarita Day, so head over to Moe’s Cantina River North to celebrate this tasty beverage in all its glory. The 4-hour fiesta costs $20 and kicks off at 1 pm and goes until 5 pm. Featuring giveaways, $6 shots of tequila, and $3 tacos, this celebration of the margarita is sure to lift your spirits. Find more info here.

Edgewater: Whether you are a chess master or a novice, spruce up your game at Chess on the Edge. Channel your inner Bobby Fischer on Tuesday, February 18, from 5:30 pm to 7:45 pm at the Chicago Public Library in Edgewater, located at 6000 N. Broadway. Enjoy a game, learn how to play, or get tips from an experienced player at this event held on the first and third Tuesday every month. Find more info here.

Lincoln Square: Is there anything better than a cup of hot chocolate to warm us up on a frigid February in Chicago? Sure, we might be able to come up with a few better things, but hot chocolate isn’t far down the list. Come check out the Lincoln Square Hot Chocolate Fest taking place Saturday, February 22, from 10 am to 3pm at Carbon Arc located at 4620 N. Lincoln. Tickets are $20 and include an insulated mug and two hot chocolates (with the choice of adding some booze). Find more info here.

Wicker Park and Bucktown: If your taste buds lean run from the light when it comes to beer, you’ll love DARKSIDE taking place at Emporium Arcade Bar in Wicker Park on Sunday, February 23 from noon to 5 pm. Tickets are $30 and include 8 samples of delicious dark brews and a bag of game tokens. Participating breweries include 4 Hands, Pipeworks, and Brew Dog, among many others. Find more info here.

ERIC KAPLAN AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO