THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – WINTER ARRIVES IN CHICAGO!

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – WINTER ARRIVES IN CHICAGO!

It appears that winter has arrived here in Chicago albeit late whether we like it or not. Remember at some point good things do come to an end but that doesn’t mean we have to give in to them either! So here’s what’s going on this wintery weekend –

Start planning for your 2012 summer at the Chicago Boat Sports and RV Show at McCormick Place (2301 S. Lake Shore Drive North Building) in the Near South Side neighborhood this Saturday and Sunday. Get the latest on boats fishing gear marine accessories RVs camping equipment and travel destinations at this 82^nd annual extravaganza. Also featured is an indoor wakeboarding competition camp cooking seminars DIY boating instruction and much more!

Perhaps you need a good laugh right about now –

The Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival at Stage 773 (1225 W. Belmont Avenue) in the Lakeview neighborhood features four stages of 138 groups from Chicago and beyond performing 163 shows during this 11^th annual funny festival this Saturday and Sunday! Or —

The Laugh Out Loud Tour at The Second City (1616 N. Wells Street) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood features humorous performances by The Second City Touring Company with highlights from The Second City’s most popular revues Saturdays at 4:00 p.m.! Or —

Keep this winter in perspective by attending the dark comedy production of Blizzard ’67 at Chicago Dramatists (1105 W. Chicago Avenue) in the River West neighborhood Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Four confident carpooling businessmen devolve into their worst selves during this infamous Chicago snowstorm!

Calling all literature enthusiasts –

The Chicago Writers Association will honor local authors Christine Sneed Krista August James Finn Garner Pamela Ferdinand Carey Goldberg and Beth Jones at this year’s Book of the Year Awards in the Lincoln Square neighborhood this Saturday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.! Or –

Come Home Chicago to the Near North Side neighborhood this Sunday from 6:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. as Chicago’s literary traditions are celebrated with readings and performances by authors Christine Sneed Stuart Dybek columnist and radio personality Rick Kogan First Ward alderman Joe Moreno and others!

For your shopping pleasure head on over to the Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western Avenue) in the East Village/Ukrainian Village neighborhood for the Handmade Market this Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. More than 30 local crafters will be displaying for sale their handmade clothing handbags jewelry scarves greeting cards journals and more!

And finally if one of your New Year’s resolutions involves a tattoo well you’re in luck as The Chicago Tattooing and Piercing Company (1017 W. Belmont Avenue) in the Lakeview neighborhood will be hosting the Sailor Jerry free tattoo party Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Come celebrate the 1930s tattoo artist Norman "Sailor Jerry" Collins – the rum brand’s namesake – in what would have been his 101^st birthday. The first 101 attendees will receive a complimentary tattoo and can choose from several of Collins’ original designs. Stick around for the after-party at a nearby establishment – location revealed at the tattoo shop – serving up none other than Sailor Jerry rum drinks!

Enjoy Your Wintery Weekend Or Are You Going To Give In To Chicago’s Winter?

SUE MOSS & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO