Chicago Neighborhood News: Old Town, Logan Square, Greektown, Virtual

Old Town: Enter a truly out of this world experience with Immersive Van Gogh’s arrival at the Lighthouse ArtSpace beginning Thursday, February 11. Designed by Massimiliano Siccardi, with music by Luca Longobardi, this exhibit features 500,000 cubic feet of projections bringing to life Van Gogh’s beloved works like Starry Night, Sunflowers, and The Bedroom, among many more. Lighthouse ArtSpace is located at 108 West Germania Place. The exhibit runs until September 6, with admission priced from $40 to $50. Book online soon because tickets are going fast. Find more info here.

Logan Square: Video games have become the top entertainment outlet, outgrossing movie and music sales in recent years. Head over to Chicago Gamespace, located at 2418 West Bloomingdale Avenue, for a new exhibition detailing the game that started it all: Pac-Man. The iconic video game character recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Gamespace is raising its video game controller in a toast to the title with Nom Nom: 40 Years of Pac-Man Design and History. Kicking off February 7 and running until May 30, this exhibit explores the video game’s history and development from its origins in Tokyo to become a household name worldwide. And, of course, visitors can play the game in its many iterations. Tickets are $5 and free for kids 12 and under. Find more info here.

Greektown: Looking to get outside this winter? Beginning February 3, head out to Greektown Chicago, located at 300 South Halsted, for a free, self-guided tour of their Fanciful Fish Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit. Celebrate Greek culture and check out the 21 sculptures created by Chicago artists covering mythical gods, seaside vistas, and more along Halsted Street from Monroe to Van Buren Streets. While you’re enjoying the artistic creations adorning the streets, don’t forget to grab a bite or some coffee at the many restaurants in the area. Find more info here.

Virtual: Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, so show some love and knowledge to your sweetheart (or sweet tooth) by taking part in Chicago’s Sweet Candy History presented by the Blue Island Public Library. For instance, did you know the Windy City produced one-third of the countries candy? Learn how Chicago became a sweet spot for candy makers such as Brach’s, Wrigley’s, Mars, Cracker Jack, Tootsie Rolls, and Dove. This free Zoom event takes place today, February 4, from 7 pm to 8 pm. Find more info here.

Virtual: Whether you’re a green thumb or not, the Welcome to Your Midwest Garden: Online presentation by the Chicago Botanic Garden is sure to provide tips and strategies to ensure a great looking garden. As anyone in Chicago knows, varying temps and seasonal changes are par for the course, so knowing how to work with these elements can increase the beauty of your garden year-round. This Zoom class takes place on Sunday, February 7, from 10 am to noon. Topics include temperature and moisture extremes, soil problems, and wind. Tickets are $32 for members of the Chicago Botanic Garden and $40 for non-members. Find more info here.

ERIC KAPLAN AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO