THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Hang in There – Summer is On Its Way!
I can’t promise you a spring-like weekend, weather-wise; however, I can provide you with a packed weekend of fun events sure to take your mind off the chilly spring weather we’ve been having. Hang in there though, summer is on its way!
Returning in full bloom to the Merchandise Mart (222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza) in the River North neighborhood this Saturday (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) is the beloved One of a Kind Spring Show® Chicago. This show features an impressive selection of original work from over 350 talented artists, designers, and makers from across North America showcasing a vibrant mix of fine art, fashion, jewelry, home décor, gourmet goods, and more perfect for the upcoming spring celebrations like Mother’s Day. In addition, food and beverages will be available with a variety of gourmet offerings from Foodstuffs; courtesy carts will be available as well to make your shopping experience easy and more enjoyable; enjoy live music from local performers; discover new up-and-coming talent exhibiting for the first time in the Emerging Market; and so much more. This truly is one of Chicago’s favorite shopping events for a Springtime Refresh!
Experience all there is to offer at the Salt Shed (1357 N. Elston Ave.) in the West Town neighborhood as they host their first Salt Shed Open House (Arboretum Edition) this Sunday (12 p.m.-5 p.m.). Enjoy an afternoon with family or friends as you check out the Shed’s eclectic arcade the Elston Electric to play games; enjoy specialty cocktails on the rooftop deck with a view at the Three Top Lounge; grab a craft beer on the patio at the Goose Island Salt Shed Pub; and more. Plus, you can pick up your own tree to plant (while supplies last) as the Shed partners with the Morton Arboretum for Arbor Day!
Honoring Chicago’s reputation as one of the premier rum destinations in the Americas, the Chicago Rum Festival will be celebrating its 10th anniversary at the iconic Logan Square Auditorium (2539 N. Kedzie Blvd.) this Saturday (2 p.m.-7 p.m.). This festival offers an immersive tasting experience with over 40 award-winning premium rum brands and an opportunity to sample at least 200 distinct rum expressions either neat or crafted into signature Twisted Daiquiris in your very own souvenir tasting cup. In addition, this festival focuses on education with educational seminars led by distillers, blenders, brand founders, and rum experts as well as offering a lively social atmosphere where guests have a chance to meet fellow rum connoisseurs, bartenders, and professionals that are shaping the modern rum scene!
It’s time again for the annual Jefferson Park Bar Crawl this Saturday (2 p.m.-10 p.m.) starting at The Windsor and Tavern Grill (4530 N. Milwaukee Ave.) where you will sign in, get your wristband, merch, and have a few drinks before continuing on to the other participating bars at Vaughan’s Pub & Grill, Ma O’Briens, Rex Tavern, and ending at The Brig (5748 W. Lawrence Ave.). A $50 ticket gets you admission to the pub crawl bus (stay warm and dry), food, merch, and more fun. However, this event will sell out so be sure to secure your spot as soon as possible!
This weekend’s baseball will be brought to you by the Chicago White Sox who will be hosting the Washington Nationals this Saturday (3:10 p.m.) and Sunday (1:10 p.m.) at Rate Field (333 W. 35th St.) in the Armour Square neighborhood. Hope the Sox sweep the Nationals! One can hope, right?
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
