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Andrew Bird Set To Move Fans With Two Exclusive Performances At The Green Mill
For one night only, the internationally acclaimed Grammy-nominated vocalist, whistler, and songwriter is returning to his hometown for back-to-back exclusive concerts at the Green Mill. Andrew Bird has been long appreciated by Chicago fans, recently performing at Chicago’s Fourth Presbyterian Church for a week over the holidays, and now he’s set to play at the treasured jazz spot. A Chicago native, Andrew Bird graduated from Lake Forest High School and Northwestern University with a bachelor’s degree in violin performance. That same year, he self-released his first solo album, Music of Hair. Since then, he has released 16 studio albums and...
Chicago’s Biggest Art Fair EXPO CHICAGO Has Kicked Off In Navy Pier’s Festival Hall
EXPO CHICAGO is taking over Navy Pier’s historic Festival Hall for the event’s 11th edition. Having been acquired by the world’s leading platform for modern and contemporary art, Frieze, last summer it will be the event’s first year under new ownership and is set to welcome 170 leading international galleries representing 29 countries and 75 cities from around the world. Taking place from Thursday, April 11th through Monday, April 15th, 2024’s EXPO CHICAGO will feature a grand total of 170 different artists on display and offer a diverse program of talks, on-site installations, and public art initiatives drawing upon the city’s rich history. The event is split into different sections with The Galleries section featuring “leading international exhibitors”, the PROFILE section presenting “solo booths and focused projects by established international galleries” and the EXPOSURE section featuring solo and two-artist presentations by galleries ten years and younger.
The Thompson Center’s Iconic “Standing Beast” Sculpture To Be Removed At The End Of The Month
Chicago has a stunning range of public art and sculptures across the city in all different shapes, sizes, and styles ranging from Millennium Park’s world-famous “Cloud Gate” by Anish Kapoor (aka the Bean) to Olafur Eliasson’s “Atmospheric wave wall” that was unveiled at the foot of Willis Tower (aka Sears Tower) in 2021. Many of these captivating creations, such as The Picasso and Miró’s Chicago, were first met with controversy, scrutiny, or skepticism of varying degrees but, for the most part, we have come to love and cherish the city’s most peculiar pieces of public art however strange they may be. One such sculpture, that many will not remember a time without, is Jean Dubuffet’s “Monument with Standing Beast” (aka Snoopy in a Blender) which has stood outside the Thompson Center at 100 W. Randolph St. for nearly 40 years. With the Thompson Center now undergoing a $280 million redevelopment after Google bought the Helmut Jahn-designed building, many of its recognizable features will begin giving way for a new look. Unfortunately, that includes the iconic black and white sculpture which will be removed at the end of this month.
Tax Day In Chicago: All You Need To Know
The most tedious day of the year is quickly approaching—Tax Day! In the United States, Tax Day is when individual income tax returns are due to be submitted to the federal government; if you make any income, chances are you owe taxes. Whether this is your first or tenth time submitting taxes, here is a guide and a little refresher on Tax Day in Chicago. Disclaimer: This is not financial advice. We encourage readers to consult government websites like IRS.gov, tax.illinois.gov, etc., while preparing their taxes. Tax day in Chicago is April 15! While taxes were due on April 18th last year in 2023, this year, the due date for filing your 2024 federal individual income tax return is April 15.
Beloved “Stranger Things” Actor Wrote This Viral Chicago Song
“And when I’m back in Chicago, I feel It.” Those lyrics are embedded in nearly every TikTok video that pays homage to Chicago. However, what may be surprising is that the man behind the wistful song is none other than Joe Keery, also known for his iconic role as Steve Harrington from Stranger Things. The viral song is Joe Keery’s love letter to Chicago. As Keery spent his early twenties in Chicago attending Depaul University, “End of Beginning” is an introspection song about his time there. It’s also where he cultivated his music career—as a member of the psych-rock Chicago...
Chicago Children’s Museum To Host An Adults-Only Night Of Hide-And-Seek Next Month
Regardless of where you’re from, your culture, or your background, there is a very good chance that, at some point in your younger years, you experienced the exhilarating thrill of playing hide-and-seek with childhood friends. The rush of adrenaline eagerly investigating the best hiding spots you can find, the anticipation as you wait hidden out of sight, the heart racing as you hear the sound of footsteps—the whole process brings back a wave of nostalgia when life was far more simple and yet still so very exciting. It’s easy as an adult to long for those carefree childhood experiences and now thanks to the Chicago Children’s Museum, anybody 21 and over can bring back that sense of childlike wonder and let their inner child run wild at a one-off adults-only hide-and-seek event next month. Taking place on Saturday, May 4th from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m., “Camp Hide N Seek” at the Chicago Children’s Museum will offer adults the chance to enjoy a special fundraising event inviting guests to eat, drink, and play in the museum grounds after hours.
O’Hare International Airport Launches New Direct Flights To Rome
While there may be a wealth of authentic Italian restaurants in Chicago, none will ever match the experience of dining just steps away from the Trevi Fountain or round the corner from the largest ancient amphitheater ever built. Luckily for keen historians, Italian food fanatics and wine connoisseurs, or anybody in love with Europe and the magic of Italy, O’Hare is now offering direct flights to the country’s captivating capital and straight into the city often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization. The Chicago Department of Aviation along with representatives from ITA Airways and the Consul General of Italy in Chicago recently announced the launch of a new route with ITA that will take passengers directly from O’Hare International Airport to Rome-Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino International Airport in the Italian capital. It means that O’Hare is now serving its largest number of Italian destinations to date. It is also ITA Airways’ 7th connection to North America with flights already connecting Rome to New York, Boston, Washington, Miami, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
Join ‘Titanic: The Exhibition’ As It Honors The 112th Anniversary Of The Historic Tragedy
April 14 is the anniversary of the Titanic’s sinking, and there’s no better way to ensure the stories of those onboard live on than by learning more about the ill-fated vessel at Titanic: The Exhibition. Featuring artifacts from the actual Titanic and other period ships, recreated areas of the vessel’s interior and exterior, and accounts from passengers, Titanic: The Exhibition is the ultimate love letter to the iconic ship. In the early morning of April 14, 1912, the RMS Titanic sailed through the dreaded “Iceberg Alley” in the North Atlantic Sea, off the coasts of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. Three days later, after the RMS Carpathia arrived in New York with Titanic’s survivors, a tragedy was reported around the globe. With countless movies, shows, specials, books, and more media covering all aspects of the Titanic, there are bound to be misconceptions and exaggerations about the liner. For example, many believe that the ship was advertised as “unsinkable,” though it rarely ever was.
Expect Hours Of Traffic Delays Near Chicago For Solar Eclipse
Solar eclipse fever is taking hold of the nation right now. Chicago’s partial solar eclipse will begin around 12:51 p.m. By 2:07 p.m., Chicago will be at its maximum solar eclipse coverage: 93.9%. However, if you’re traveling to one of the cities near Chicago that’s expected to have a total solar eclipse—fuel up because traffic delays are expected. A total eclipse is expected in downstate Carbondale, Illinois, and Indianapolis, Indiana, and thousands of people are traveling there to see the show. The eclipse at Carbondale, Illinois, will begin around 12:43 p.m. In Indianapolis, Indiana, the eclipse will begin around 1:50 p.m. ET. Traffic significantly increased along Interstate 65 and U.S. Highway 41 on Sunday and Monday as people traveled to see the total solar eclipse near Chicago. According to INDOT, traffic started picking up along the path of totality on Indiana highways in the late morning. IDOT said, “Pack a 10-gallon tank of Patience” if traveling to Carbondale.
Goose Island Is Opening A Salt Shed Brewpub Next Month
Having closed its original Clybourn Avenue brewery at the end of 2023, ending a 35-year stay, Goose Island will soon be taking up residence in Chicago’s exciting new Salt Shed entertainment complex. Located at 1357 N. Elston Ave—less than a mile from its original Clybourn Avenue address—the new brewpub will open on Friday, May 3rd, just across the river from the namesake island. According to representatives, it will feature “both indoor and outdoor seating, a revamped menu, and an ever-changing beer list,” adding to the already astounding caliber of brewpubs and taprooms in Chicago. Having opened in 2022 the former Morton Salt complex, The Salt Shed has quickly become one of Chicago’s best live music venues.
Chicago Botanic Garden Is Offering Free Entry Today Through Thursday
Chicago’s cherry blossoms are beginning to bloom, turning several of the city’s beautiful gardens into stunning ethereal escapes as spring kicks into gear. One place where you’re guaranteed to see cherry blossoms, in addition to a whole array of plants, flowers, and tranquil natural spaces, is the 385-acre Chicago Botanic Garden. One of the world’s great living museums and conservation science centers, the garden is home to 28 gardens and four natural areas all set on nine islands and spanning six miles of lake shoreline. To celebrate the arrival of spring, the beloved botanic garden is offering guests free admission today, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
How To Spend The Day In River North, Chicago
River North, Chicago, is known for its lively list of nightclubs and luxe shopping scene. While the vibrant neighborhood is nestled between the Chicago Riverwalk and the decadent Gold Coast, it frankly has everything you need. However, creating an ideal itinerary can be demanding, so we’ve made one for you. Below is the perfect Saturday agenda compiling the best things to do in River North, Chicago, starting with a quaint neighborhood breakfast spot and finishing the night in a vintage photo booth. The most idyllic way to begin your morning is by heading to this charming eatery at the edge...
City Officials Announce 4-Day Celebration In Honor Of House Music’s 40th Anniversary
On the back of the City of Chicago announcing celebrations in honor of Millennium Park’s 20th anniversary this week, now the city has dropped news of another free festival this summer, this time unveiling the line up for The Chicago House Music Festival in celebration of 40 years since the genre was born. Mayor Brandon Johnson and Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) yesterday announced a lineup of free House Music programming kicking off in late May and paying homage to House Music. Four days of free events will culminate in the Chicago House Music Festival taking place in Millennium Park all in celebration of the popular genre that was born in Chicago in 1984. “House Music is a global phenomenon born and raised in Chicago 40 years ago, with roots that go back even further. Like Blues, Jazz, and Gospel that came before, House is our true cultural heritage as a city—it galvanizes Chicagoans, celebrates our diversity, innovation, and joy, and invites the world to join in,” shared Mayor Brandon Johnson.
The Best Solar Eclipse 2024 Events Happening In Chicago
As the upcoming celestial event sweeps the Midwest, ask yourself where the best spot to watch the solar eclipse in Chicago is. Maybe if you’re one of the few lucky people living in the tallest highrises in Chicago, you’ll have unrestricted solar eclipse access—to which we say we’re jealous. However, if you have no rooftop or there are soaring buildings enclosing you, grab your solar eclipse glasses and head to one of these solar eclipse 2024 events in Chicago! One of the best Solar Eclipse 2024 events is happening at the Loews Chicago Hotel in downtown Chicago. The hotel will allow guests and locals to witness the solar eclipse on April 8 from the outdoor rooftop terrace, Streeterville Social, on the third floor. The hotel will preview cocktails and starters from the new Streeterville Social menu at the ETA Lobby Bar. With each purchase of a cocktail or food item, spectators will receive a complimentary pair of Solar Eclipse Glasses and have access to the outdoor terrace to observe the eclipse. Celebrate the sun rising for the season at Streeterville Social as the sun disappears. Address: 455 N Park Dr, Chicago, IL 60611
This Year’s James Beard Award Finalists Have Been Announced
The James Beard Foundation released its list of finalists for the 33rd annual James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards yesterday, Wednesday, April 3 at a live ceremony at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C.. Back in January, 17 different Chicago restaurants and chefs were named in the 2024 semifinalist nominees across 22 categories. This year, four Chicago restaurants and chefs move into the finals, one fewer than last year’s five finalists. Anna Posey, co-owner and head pastry chef of Chicago’s Michelin-starred Elske in West Loop is one of the five finalists in the Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker category. Defining itself as “simplistic fare, seasonal ingredients, and energetic hospitality”, Elske’s Anny Possey was a finalist in the Best Chefs: Great Lakes category in 2019 and 2018 and has been one Michelin star restaurant since 2017.
Chicago Fan-Favorite Miko’s Italian Ice Will Open Locations Starting Tomorrow
While the weather this week might not yet be letting Chicago get carried away with what’s ahead, signs of summer and impending hot weather are popping up around the city. Sundays on State are set to return, patio season in Chicago will soon be upon us, and the riverwalk will be back to its usual bustling vibrancy in no time. Now one of Chicago’s beloved hot-weather hot spots is set to reopen. Miko’s Italian Ice, which has been “Refreshing Chicago Since 1997” will once again offer its flavorful Italian ice from its locations in Logan Square and Irving Park starting noon tomorrow, Friday, April 5th. Providing Chicago with tasty respite from the summer heat, every year Miko’s Italian Ice closes in early October to see out the winter months when the last thing Chicagoans want is more ice.
Celebrate The Anniversary Of Batman With A Live Soundtrack Performed By The Chicago Philharmonic Next Weekend
At the start of the year the Chicago Philharmonic announced its inaugural Auditorium Philms Concert Series bringing iconic films to life like never before with live scores performed in concert by an all-electric 11-piece chamber orchestra. Offering a cinematic experience like no other, the exciting new event series disclosed several dates spread out throughout the year featuring a range of popular movies from Marvel Studios’ Black Panther: In Concert to Love Actually: In Concert. Having kicked off with a showing of the sci-fi classic Blade Runner in February, next weekend marks the next date in the Auditorium Philms Concert Series calendar with a showing of Batman 1989 in its 35th Anniversary year accompanied by Danny Elfman’s explosive score in concert. “Celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Warner Bros. Pictures’ iconic 1989 DC Superhero film, “Batman,” live in concert with Chicago Philharmonic!” reads the official release at chicagophilharmonic.org.
How To Get Free Solar Eclipse Glasses In Chicago Ahead Of April 8
Are you eagerly anticipating the Great American Solar Eclipse in Chicago? The astronomical phenomenon is coming this monday, April 8, and will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044. And while we prep for the bright sky to be obliterated by darkness—for a few hours—it’s crucial to have expert-approved solar eclipse glasses to protect your eyes wherever you watch the celestial event. Chicago will have a “partial solar eclipse,” meaning you must wear glasses throughout the duration because the moon will not completely cover the sun’s disk. However, don’t pay for overpriced glasses that are only practical for a few hours; here’s where to get free solar eclipse glasses in Chicago. The Adler Planetarium plans to host a free outdoor “Eclipse Encounter ’24” event with various free outdoor activities. The event will also feature “free solar viewer giveaways“ while supplies last. Address: 1300 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
The First Organized Chicago River Swim In More Than 100 Years Planned For This Year
As much as Chicagoans love the Chicago River, its vibrant riverwalk, its kayaking experiences, and its annual tradition of being dyed green for St Patrick’s Day, you’ll find few Chicagoans who would ever dip a toe in it let alone take an early morning swim. Some 106 years ago back in 1908, the Illinois Athletic Association hosted a series of open-water swims in the Chicago River attracting the highest-profile swimmers on the planet and drawing over 100,000 spectators. That was the last time an organized open-water swim took place and “the stinking river” has long been considered too polluted to swim in due to excessive sewage and waste. This year, however, things are about to change and history will be made when an organized Chicago River swim taking place in September becomes the first in more than a century.
Chicago Ranked One Of The World’s Healthiest Cities To Live In
While it may come as no surprise to us when a Chicago pizzeria ranks among the best in the world or Chicago’s voted the best city for architecture on the continent, being named one of “the best cities in the world to live for your health” is something that might make one or two of us double take. In a recent ranking by Healthnews.com, however, Condé Nast Traveler’s Best Big City In The United States (yes, we’re still gloating), was named in the top 10 of the world’s healthiest cities. According to Healthnews, 40 of the world’s largest and most famous cities were analyzed using 10 key metrics to rank them with weighted scores and a total score out of 100. Taking all of these into account Chicago was ranked 6th out of the 40 cities evaluated with a total score
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Secret Chicago tracks down the best things to do in the city, from quirky restaurants and hidden bars to the best exhibitions, shows and nightlife in Chicago.
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