THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Chicago is Beginning to Slowly Reopen!

As we head into the last weekend of January 2021 with chilly temperatures and more snow on the way, there’s still plenty to look forward to. Plus, Chicago is beginning to slowly reopen indoor events!

Chicago is now in Phase Four of its reopening plan! The goal of this phase is to continue cautiously reopening while ensuring the safety of its residents and visitors. Therefore, social distancing and face coverings are still required whenever possible. Here are a few of the new guidelines that are allowed, with some additional mitigations (click the link for more details):

  • Social gatherings are temporarily limited to 25 people or 25% room capacity.
  • Indoor dining in restaurants is allowed for the first time since November.
  • Gyms are allowed to hold fitness classes and resume operations.
  • Indoor museums, cultural institutions, and performance arts centers are currently open as well.

However, advanced ticketing/reservations are encouraged whenever possible due to capacity limits.

Here’s something to get you out of the house! The MLK Roller Skating & Bowling Public Sessions are now open at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Park and Family Entertainment Center (1219 W. 76th St.). You will need to purchase tickets in advance to guarantee your spot due to limited capacity (click link for full schedule). Admission is $10 per person (kids & adults); however, if you need to rent skates/shoes, the admission is $14 per person. Also, non-skating adults must pay the admission price to enter, and all tickets are non-refundable. Again, all guests must wear masks at all times, even while roller skating or bowling.

Catch a movie from the comfort of your own car at ChiTown Movies Presents: Drive-In Theatre (2343 S. Throop St.) in the Pilsen neighborhood. Outside food and drink are not permitted, but you will have the option to purchase popcorn, tacos, wings, frozen mangos, and more delivered right to your car as you enjoy the movie! This weekend’s movies include — Saturday (Incredibles 2, 5 p.m.; Caddyshack, 7:30 p.m.; Scream, 9:30 p.m.) and Sunday (Finding Dory, 5 p.m.; Jurassic Park, 7:30 p.m.)!!

If you still prefer staying indoors at home, tune in to a virtual improvised set broadcast from one of Chicago’s Best Jazz Clubs, or you may like to attend a virtual Gin Tasting Session organized by local distillery KOVAL this Saturday (6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.).

Here’s a reminder for those who participated in the Plunge Where You Are! I wrote about in my January 8th blog. Don’t forget to join their virtual event this Saturday, which includes recognition of all those who helped fundraise to support this year’s Chicago families, an update on the families supported, virtual high fives, and raffle prizes! Hope your plunge was a success!!

With Valentine’s Day approaching, why not make the most thoughtful gift for your Valentine this year at the virtual Valentine’s Chocolate Strawberries – Free Workshop this Sunday (1 p.m.-1:30 p.m.). It may sound like a daunting task, but your host picked out a few simple treats that are fun and easy to make. Get your free ticket to receive the recipe before the workshop since it will not be possible to request the recipe once the registration is closed. Click the link for steps to join the Live on Facebook, or you can join by Instagram. Make a few extras for yourself while you’re at it!!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago