THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Winter Hanging On, But Spring on the Horizon!
There is hope on the horizon – namely March 20, the official first day of spring! But until then, here’s what this last weekend of February has planned for us to get us through the remaining days of winter as we anxiously await the dawn of spring and those two special words “Play Ball!”
This event usually is held around Valentine’s Day weekend, however, the annual tradition of Cupid’s Undie Run is taking place this Saturday (12 p.m.-4 p.m.) at Sluggers Sports Bar (3540 N. Clark St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood. Your day begins with some drinking and dancing then it’s off for your mile, or so, run dressed in your best under garments while raising money for neurofibromatosis research. Then it’s back to Sluggers for some scantily clad drinking and dancing. In addition, for those who do not participate in the run, you can still donate to this great cause and enjoy the epic dance party as well. You know though, there is nothing more exhilarating than getting half naked for a great cause on a cold Chicago winter day!
Word has it there will be an irresistible aroma of sizzling bacon filling the air this Saturday around 12 p.m. as the Old Crow Smokehouse (3506 N. Clark St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood is hosting a Chicago Bacon Fest. That’s right, it’s a day of bacon, bacon, and bacon for a full-on Bacon Bash. A General ticket gets you admission, a bacon whiskey shot; a bacon cocktail; live music from Krista Lynn Meadow; access to additional special bacon cocktails or mocktails; a variety of bacon focused food; bacon photo ops; giveaways and other fun sizzling stuff while a VIP ticket includes everything above as well as a free exclusive Bacon Fest commemorative T-shirt. Not a lover of bacon? Well, it just so happens that the Old Crow Smokehouse is also hosting its Country Day Party on Saturday (12 p.m.-5 p.m.) for an afternoon of country day drinking and plenty of other delicious foods off their menu that doesn’t include bacon. A ticket for this event gets you admission, a complimentary welcome drink, a shot of whiskey, live music, giveaways, and more!
The Benchmark (1510 N. Wells St.) in the Old Town neighborhood is offering an Adult Snow Day this Saturday (2 p.m.-5 p.m.) by throwing the ultimate Après-Ski Party. You won’t need a lift ticket for this party, but you are highly encouraged to be decked out in ski or snowboard attire such as puffy jackets, goggles, beanies, and booties. A ticket includes your first drink as well as entry to the party which offers a retractable roof for winter vibes. Plus, DJs will be cranking up the tunes for plenty of snow-day energy and lodge-party fun including specialty cocktails such as a shot luge, shot-skis, and foam party moments!
Saturday evening offers you a hop-tastic time at the 2026 Chicago Beer Fest held at the Field Museum (1400 S. Lake Shore Dr.) in the South Loop. Over 65 breweries will feature samplings of their seasonal beers that showcase the variety and creativity of craft brewing. Attendees will receive 40-taster vouchers and food will be sold separately as well. Plus, attendees will have access to a select number of museum exhibits throughout the evening to create their own memorable night at the museum! Please note that tickets will not be sold at the door.
Wrap-up your winter weekend at the Lunar New Year Parade this Sunday at the intersection of 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue in Chinatown where the parade begins at 1:00 p.m. then travels north on Wentworth to Cermak Road. Enjoy a family-friendly day out celebrating the Year of the Horse (4724) at this vibrant, colorful parade featuring traditional dragon and lion dancers, marching bands, and plenty of beautiful floats celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese community. Afterwards, treat your family to dinner at one of Chinatown’s restaurants!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
