Chicago Neighborhood News: River North, West Loop, Museum Campus, The Loop, Virtual

River North: The fifth annual SeptemberFest presented by Eataly returns, albeit virtually, this year to the joy of foodies throughout the city. Every Saturday throughout the month, pick up a meal kit from the featured guest chefs and connect with them on Instagram Live to learn more about their delicious culinary creations and ask questions. The take-home festivities conclude on September 26th with a Grand Finale featuring Paulie Gee’s Detroit Pizza, Aya Pastry’s Tomato Goat Cheese Danishes, Firecakes Donuts, and much more. Tickets range from $85 to $165. Find more info here.

West Loop: The Hoxton, located at 200 North Green Street in the West Loop, presents Sunday Cinema throughout September. Catch a viewing of Spike Lee’s classic film Do The Right Thing on the 13th and 2002’s Crossroads on the 20th. The best part? Admission is free as long as you RSVP, and a concession box with popcorn, candy, and two cans of wine will be available to purchase. The 7 pm screenings will occur on the second-floor terrace of The Hoxton. Social distancing guidelines will be adhered to, and masks are required. Find more info here.

Museum Campus: Live entertainment has taken a hit during the pandemic with virtual performances trying to fill the gap. Fortunately, live comedy returns to Chicago with two performances featuring hometown funnyman Hannibal Buress on Sunday, September 27th at 4 pm and 7:30 pm. The two comedy sets of laughs will take place at the Lakeshore Drive-In located at the Adler Planetarium parking lot at 1300 South Lake Shore Drive. The Let’s See How This Goes Drive-In Theater Tour features the hysterical and irreverent stand-up of Buress and special guests. Tickets range from $125 to $300 per car. Find more info here.

The Loop: Whether you’re new to town or a lifelong Chicagoan, there is definitely something for everyone at the Best of Chicago Downtown Walking Tour presented by Chicago Urban Adventures. Taking place every single day throughout September, this 2.5-hour walking tour explores the city’s one of a kind architecture and second to none food as a local guide leads you through the ins and outs of the Loop. The tour kicks off at the Chicago Theater located at 175 North State Street at 10 am and ends near Millennium Park. Tickets are $49 for adults and $44 for kids 6-12 years of age. Masks are required. Find more info here.

Virtual: On Friday, September 11th, take a virtual history lesson of all things beer-related when it comes to the Windy City. Chicago Detours presents Da Beers: A Chicago Drinking History kicking off at 6 pm. This 50-minute Zoom experience covers turn of the century saloon culture, the highs and lows of Prohibition, virtually visits some of the city’s historic bars, and offers a competitive game based on Chicago drinking traditions, myths, and legends. Tickets are $15. Find more info here.  

ERIC KAPLAN AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO