THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Celebrating Fall Favorites Continues!
Welcome to October as we continue to celebrate fall favorites as well as preparing for the arrival of our first holiday at the end of the month, Halloween! Until then, here’s a sample of what’s happening this first weekend.
Nothing says fall like another one of Chicago’s premier Oktoberfest street festivals. That’s right, Oktoberfest on Division Street will transform Division Street from State and Dearborn Streets into a lively Bavarian block party this Saturday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.). So, get your lederhosen and dirndls back on for some authentic Oktoberfest beer selections; delicious food offerings; a main stage with live music performances; DJs spinning Oktoberfest favorites as well as party hits; partake in classic German-inspired games and contests that include stein holding competitions, German musical chairs, and German word pronunciation challenges (good luck with this one), and more. This festive celebration certainly brings the spirit of Germany to the heart of the Gold Coast neighborhood!
Embrace the fall season at the 9th annual Lincoln Park Wine Fest this Saturday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-7 p.m.) at Jonquil Park (1001 W. Wrightwood Ave.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. This beloved event transforms the park into a vibrant open-air market of wine and food pavilions offering wines from around the world and food from Pies of London, Taqueria Teotihuacan, and Kurtos R. Plus, sommeliers and brand ambassadors will be on hand to assist you. In addition, fest goers can enjoy tunes spun by a DJ and/or browse wine related craft and merchant vendors. And don’t forget to bring your commemorative tasting glass home with you!
Join in on a celebration of the full moon and family reunion at this year’s Chinatown Moon Festival this Saturday (3 p.m.-9 p.m.) at the Chinatown Square Plaza located at 2130 South Archer Avenue. This mid-autumn festival features colorful lantern displays lighting up the Square; live performances of music, dance, and martial arts; indulge in delicious mooncakes while learning about their symbolism; raise a glass of fragrant chrysanthemum flower wine which is a beverage steeped in tradition and culture; and enjoy the thrilling K-Pop Competition. Bring your family and friends to enjoy a vibrant evening of tradition and joy. It’s an experience not to be missed!
One of our many family-friendly Halloween events will take place daily during regular hours from October 4 to November 2 at the WNDR Museum (1130 W. Monroe St.) in the West Loop with their annual Pumpkin Lights & Playful Frights. Come celebrate fall fun as the museum transforms into a bright and colorful wonderland featuring over 150 illuminated glowing pumpkins; themed trails such as the Pumpkin Path where costumed visitors can collect treats; a Pumpkin Patch workshop to decorate your own pumpkin tote; and more. But beware, there are no scares here only treats! In addition, this event also offers immersive art with a spooky twist, interactive experiences, and photo opportunities as well. Plus, a special, after-hours experience happens on select evenings every weekend with the WNDR Mystery at the Museum: Masquerade Heist. I’ve been informed that only the sharpest minds will solve the crime before the night is over! Really?
Don’t miss the frightful fun at Boo! At the Zoo from October 4 through October 31 (10 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays & 10 a.m.-6 p.m. weekends) at Brookfield Zoo (3300 Golf Rd.) in Brookfield. Once again, this event is packed with not-so-scary thrills, festive decorations, and plenty of fun for all ages. Enjoy Halloween-themed food and drink, trick-or-treating in select retail locations, and visit your favorite animals. Get ready to have a fang-tastic time!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
