April fools day, Dumb Happy Cartoon Joker Face vector illustration

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Beware the Fools!

April fools day, Dumb Happy Cartoon Joker Face vector illustration

Welcome to the month of April.  Who would have thought we’d kick-off our weekend on April Fool’s Day!  So, beware the fools and keep yourself entertained at one or all the following events!

The Midwest’s largest pop culture event Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2) returns to its annual stomping grounds at McCormick Place (2301 S. Lake Shore Dr.) in the South Loop this Saturday (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.).  Fans can immerse themselves in their favorite fandoms by interacting with award-winning comic artists, anime creators, and their favorite TV and film stars on the Show Floor as well as search for one-of-a-kind merch in Artist Alley, and attend live panels hosted by creators, celebs, and fans!  This year’s guest lineup includes Tom Welling, Matt Lanter, Chris Evans and more!!  And don’t forget to show off your most creative and exquisite cosplay outfit.

After its debut in Chicago last year, Golden-Con is back for another go with this year’s Golden Con:  Thank You for Being a Fan Convention this weekend at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk (301 E. North Water St.) in the River North neighborhood.  This event celebrates the critically acclaimed sitcom The Golden Girls that ran from 1985 to 1992 and will feature special guest appearances, expert panel discussions, live performances, a costume parade, a vendor market, a trivia tournament, and much more!  Celebrate laughter, joy, and friendship with your fellow fans!!

You know it’s time to celebrate Spring and welcome in outdoor drinking when the Half Acre Brewery (2050 W. Balmoral Ave.) in the Lincoln Square neighborhood hosts their Strong Beer Time this Saturday (1 p.m.-7 p.m.).  It’s a celebration of strong lagers including Spring Bock and Doppelbock, some limited barrel aged stouts, and additional lagers from guest breweries.  The afternoon will also be filled with grilled brats, music, and games.  There’s even a Hammerschlagen competition (a game where participants compete to drive nails into a wooden beam) to win prizes!

With Easter right around the corner, the following egg hunts will take place this Saturday:

The NEWCITY and The Chocolate Factory Egg Hunt will take place 2 p.m.-5 p.m. at NEWCITY (1457 N. Halsted St.) in the River North neighborhood featuring over 20,000 eggs pre-stuffed with toys and candy; however, you must register to participate.  Plus, find the magical, coveted Golden Eggs to win prizes as well!  Other activities include music, face painting, balloon artists, an interactive photo station, a candy bar, and more!

The Dog Egg Hunt will take place 1 p.m.-3 p.m. at Horner Park (2741 W. Montrose Ave.) in the Albany Park neighborhood.  Your four-legged family members can search for treat-filled eggs hidden across the lawn.  Other activities include a decorated photo area, local businesses offering freebies and giveaways, a costume contest, and more!

Baseball Season is Back!  Come cheer on your new winning Chicago Cubs as they take on the Milwaukee Brewers this Saturday and Sunday (1:20 p.m.) at Wrigley Field (1060 W. Addison St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood.  And no, this is not an April Fool’s Joke!  Let the games begin!!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago