THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Taming Down Our Activities!
After last weekend’s wild shenanigans, this weekend we’ll be taming down our activities starting with the other cherished family member – the feline commonly known as the cat!
There’s a one-of-a-kind convention that’s celebrating its 5th year in the Ravenswood neighborhood. Artifact Events located at 4325 North Ravenswood Avenue is hosting POP Cats™ Chicago this Saturday (11 a.m.-5 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-4 p.m.). This cat-themed environment features artistically designed environments and activities; workshops; local cat-inspired artists and makers offering unique products for your feline family members; a Cat Art Museum; a Punk Cats Cattoo Parlor; and more. In addition, this is the only cat event in the Midwest that allows you to bring your own cat, but guidelines do apply. It’s the ultimate destination for feline fans and a chance to be part of a purr-fect day!
For fans of Broadway, Hamilton has returned to the CIBC Theatre (18 W. Monroe St.) in the Loop now through March 26. This epic saga that follows the rise of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton is a revolutionary story of passion, unstoppable ambition, and the dawn of a new nation. In fact, this production has won 11 Tony Awards, a Grammy®, Olivier Awards, and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Whether you’re attending for the first time, second time, or more, you won’t be disappointed as Hamilton has had a profound impact on culture, politics, and education!
Another Broadway hit (not currently on tour) is offering a different spin with a Wicked-ly Fun Paint Party this Saturday (11 a.m.-1 p.m.) at Indgo MRKTO (2100 S. Morgan St., Suite C-102) in the Pilsen neighborhood. This free entry event (tickets required for painters at roughly $23.18) offers a creative experience for its guests with a sing-along to the music as you watch the Wicked film and paint either Glinda or Elphaba. Plus, food and beverages will be available for purchase. It’s a day of fun for the whole family!
Shop ‘til you drop at the Lakeview Coffee Stroll 2026 this Sunday (10 a.m.-1 p.m.). Check-in is at 1409 West Addison Street from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. where you will receive an event wristband and a digital event guide to help you find all participating locations along Lakeview’s Southport Corridor and Paulina Hub. A ticket includes a souvenir ceramic tasting mug; access to exclusive discounts at participating retailers; free coffee, tea, and pastry samples; and complimentary rides on the bike cab from the Southport Low-Line to Paulina Station. Enjoy a day of shopping and sampling!
One of Chicago’s best running celebrations that kicks off Chicago’s spring running season is the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle 2026 this Sunday (8:30 a.m.-1 p.m.) at Grant Park (337 E. Randolph St.) in the Loop. This Shuffle offers either an 8K Run through the Loop or a 2-Mile Walk along the beautiful lakefront. As you shuffle, be sure you’re decked out in your favorite green wear. Afterwards, join the Post-Race Party held at Buckingham Fountain (Columbus and Ida B. Wells Dr.) from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Hopefully, Mother Nature will cooperate to bring you all a pleasant day as you celebrate a weekend full of races and the arrival of spring!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
