Funky Festivals And Holiday Galas Galore: Chicago This Weekend

CHICAGO, IL – Whether you’re ready to dance at a local concert or are more interested in experiencing a winter wonderland with tree lighting and caroling, there are plenty of opportunities for a good time in Chicago this weekend.

Wicker Park will be full of music with the Chillfest and the Red Bull Music Festival, while up north you can experience holiday extravaganzas in Lincoln Park and Rosemont. Looking for a little culture? Check out the Dia de Muertes exhibit in Pilsen or the wndr museum in West Loop.

Take a look at what else is going on around the city this weekend:

Red Bull Music Festival

Neighborhoods: Wicker Park and Pilsen

As a part of its “30 Days of November” series, Red Bull Music presents “Futurehood & Friends,” a concert featuring a packed lineup of LGBTQI performers from across the city. You can grab your tickets for $10.

On Sunday, “Last Night a DJ Saved My Soul,” brings together Chicago house icon Farley Jackmaster Funk and acid house creator DJ Pierre, as they merge house music and gospel for a one-of-a-kind dance party. Tickets are $12.

Where: Subterranean, 2011 W. North Ave. and Thalia Hall, 1807 S Allport St.

When: Friday, Nov. 23, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 25, at 4 p.m.

Chillfest

Neighborhood: Wicker Park/Bucktown

Back for the sixth year in a row, this free festival includes more than 60 musicians who will perform in storefronts throughout the area. Local stores and restaurants will also be offering deals on clothes, food, drinks and more.

Where: 1414 N. Ashland Ave.

When: Saturday, Nov. 24, at 2 p.m.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Musical

Neighborhood: The Loop

Don’t miss out on your last chance to see the musical adaptation of this classic holiday story. Catch the all-star cast, including Tony-nominated Broadway performer Gavin Lee, at the Chicago Theater.

Where: The Chicago Theater, 175 N. State St., Chicago

When: Friday, Nov. 23 at 1 p.m., 4 p.m. or 7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 24, at 1 p.m., 4 p.m. or 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 25, at 12 p.m., 3 p.m. or 6 p.m.

Caroling at Cloud Gate

Neighborhood: The Loop

Spread a little cheer with some caroling fun at Millennium Park. The Old Town School Community Choir will take the lead with the songs, as hundreds of participants gather to join in.

Where: Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St.

When: Friday, Nov. 23, at 6 p.m.

Dia de Muertes Exhibit

Neighborhood: Pilsen

While most of the city is ramping up for holiday season, it’s not too late to learn about El Dia De Los Muertos. The “Dia de Muertes” exhibit at the National Museum of Mexican Art examines the cultural importance and history of the holiday with unique works of art celebrating the lives of the departed. Admission to the museum is free.

Where: 1852 W. 19th St.

When: Friday, Nov. 23 through Sunday, Nov. 25 10:00 a.m.

Light Up the Park

Neighborhood: Rosemont

Ice skating, and caroling, and sleigh rides, oh my! It’s a holiday paradise at the Parkway Bank Park in Rosemont. Enjoy all of the festivities now through January.

Where: Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Pl.

When: Friday, Nov. 23, 11 a.m.

House of Burlesque

Neighborhood: The Loop

Burlesque phenom Hot Tawdry hosts a variety show like no other at the House of Blues, featuring some local favorite performers, along with guest artists from around the world. Experience a sultry night of fun, with tickets starting at $10.

Where: The House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn St

When: Saturday, Nov. 24 at 9 p.m.

Zoolights

Neighborhood: Lincoln Park

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Lincoln Park Zoolights. Whether it’s date night, or you want to bring the whole family along, there’s something for everyone to enjoy with 3D displays, holiday food, festive libations and colorful lights everywhere. Tickets for the event start at $3.

Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St.

When: Friday, Nov. 23 through Sunday, Nov. 25 at 4:30 p.m.

wndr museum

Neighborhood: West Loop

Step into a world of wonder at this experiential museum. Featuring an infinity mirror, a “zero gravity ball pit” and more, there are 19 “experiences” in total, created by different artists. Snap some Instagram-worthy shots in these unique exhibits.

Where: 1130 W. Monroe St.

When: Friday, Nov. 23 through Sunday, Nov. 25 at 11 a.m.

Goodbar: A Charity Driven Popup Bar

Neighborhood: Logan Square

Enjoy a few drinks for a good cause. In partnership with the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Toys for Tots and Warmest Winter (an initiative of Chance the Rapper’s Social Works program), Emporium Arcade Bar has opened up its pop-up space for charity. It’s free of charge, and visitors are encouraged to bring donations for those in need.

Where: Emporium Arcade Bar, 2363 N. Milwaukee Ave.

When: Saturday, Nov. 24 at 5 p.m.

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