Chicago Neighborhoods News: Garfield Park, The Loop, Virtual, Lincoln Park

Garfield Park: Not so steady on a bicycle? Don’t worry if you need a little (or a lot) of help handling a bike with the I Want to Learn How to Ride a Bike 2021 series brought to you by the Chicago Department of Transportation. Taking place at various Divvy stations on the city’s west side, this free educational program taught by bike and safety experts will teach you not only how to ride but how to navigate your way through the traffic of busy Chicago streets. Classes kick off on Tuesday, June 1, from 6 pm to 8 pm at Divvy Station at 300 N Central Park Ave at Garfield Park Conservatory. Various dates and times will be available throughout the summer. Find more info here.

The Loop: The Chicago Cultural Center’s Garland Gallery opens its doors to a vast art shop and event space called Buddy on Wednesday, June 2. This collaboration between the Public Media Institute and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events features over 200 artists and small manufacturers from Chicago showcasing their creations for purchase. Initially, Buddy was set to open in April 2020, but the pandemic put that on hold. Now Chicagoans can visit the art shop located at the Chicago Cultural Center at 78 East Washington Street and pick up that next perfect piece or gift that supports the city’s vast array of vibrant artists. Find more info here.

Virtual: This week, you can check out some of the best in independent Japanese cinema from the comfort of home with the Chicago Japan Film Collective. Taking place now until Monday, May 31, this virtual film fest presents viewers in the Midwest with nine films focused on women, the LGBTQ community, and minority filmmakers. Highlights include screenings of The Manga MasterHouse of SeasonsPrison Circle, and Alone Again in Fukushima. You can purchase a single pass for $10 or buy a pass to view all nine films for only $15. Find more info here

Lincoln Park: Head over to Jonquil Park, located at 1001 West Wrightwood Avenue, on Friday, June 4 through Sunday, June 6 for the Lincoln Park Wine Fest 2021! Over 50 worldwide varietals will be on hand to deliver tastings of wine, sangria, and much more. The fest kicks off at 6 pm until 10 pm on Friday, 11 am to 4 pm for the first session and 6 pm to 10 pm for the second on Saturday, and 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon and night in beautiful Jonquil Park with live jazz, rock, and house music as you sip on delicious wines and check out the open-air flower market. Online ticket sales have ended, but you can still purchase a ticket at the entrance of the fest on Wrightwood Avenue. Find more info here.

ERIC KAPLAN AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO