Introducing our newest edition of the Classic Chicago DateBook for 2024.
For event submissions, email aedelfosse1@gmail.com or judycbross@aol.com with the following details:
-Calendar date, day of week & time of event
-Sponsoring organization
-Name of event
-Event details / schedule of event components
-Location of event
-Contact telephone, email and/or website
September 2024
September 06th – 08th, 2024, Friday – Sunday
Greektown Chicago
Chicago’s Taste of Greektown
Greektown Chicago’s popular Taste of Greektown festival returns for its 34th year with the city’s largest celebration of Hellenic cuisine and culture. The neighborhood’s acclaimed Greek restaurants are the stars of the show, along with live music and entertainment, Greek dancing, unique shopping and retail, family friendly activities and more. Opa!
Along Halsted Street from Adams to Van Buren, Chicago
September 07th & 08th, 2024, Saturday & Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m.
Near South Planning Board
39th Annual Printers Row Lit Fest
Printers Row Lit Fest, the largest gathering of book lovers between the coasts, is dedicated to providing a wide array of free literary programs for readers of all ages and backgrounds. The beloved two-day festival stretches across five city blocks, along South Dearborn Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Polk Street and on Polk Street from State to Clark. The Lit Fest attracts more than 100,000 people to Printers Row, the charming and historic South Loop neighborhood that was once the printing hub of the Midwest. The event features more than 200 presenters, 75 programs (including programming for children), and 100 booksellers and exhibitors. Tracy K. Smith, the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, U.S. Poet Laureate, memoirist, editor, translator, librettist, and this year’s winner of the prestigious Harold Washington Literary Award winner, will headline the Printers Row Lit Fest this year.
More details to come
Printers Row Neighborhood, Chicago
September 14th, 2024, Saturday, 07:30 p.m
Lyric Opera of Chicago
Opening Night: Rigoletto
Music Director Enrique Mazzola kicks off Lyric’s 70th season with this production. The much-acclaimed Verdian conducts the legendary score with instantly recognizable highlights like the Duke’s “La donna è mobile” and Gilda’s ecstatic “Caro nome.” Rigoletto’s timeless tale of passion, revenge, and obsession is on spectacular display in director Mary Birnbaum’s Lyric debut. The trio at the center of Rigoletto is pillared by three captivating voices: Javier Camarena and Mané Galoyan, who each make their highly anticipated Lyric debuts, and returning star Igor Golovatenko. The production also stars Lyric favorites Soloman Howard and Zoie Reams.
Lyric Opera of Chicago, 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago
More information at www.lyricopera.org
September 18th, 2024, Wednesday, 09:30 a.m – 1:30 p.m
Auxiliary of the Women’s Board of Rush University Medical Center
53rd Annual Cook’s Tour
The North Shore’s premier home tour since 1971. Proceeds from the Annual Cooks’ Tour support RUSH University Medical Center and its focus on outstanding patient care, research, and community outreach initiatives in the diverse communities RUSH serves.
Tickets here
September 18th, 2024, Wednesday, 06:30 p.m
Alliance Française de Chicago
Film Series: Au Menu; La Passion de Dodin Bouffant (The Taste of Things).
Introducing our new film series, Au Menu! We hope you’ll join us on this fantastic culinary journey around the Francophone world, starting with La Passion de Dodin Bouffant starring Juliette Binoche. Free for members & students • $15 for non-members
54 West Chicago Avenue
Register here
September 19th, 2024, Thursday
Anti-Cruelty Society
Puppy & Kitten Party
For a small donation, you can take a “cuteness break” and stop by the Anti-Cruelty Society shelter for some kitten and puppy affection!
Anti-Cruelty Society, 510 North LaSalle Drive, Chicago
Tickets: www.anticruelty.org/events
September 19th, 2024, Thursday, 05:30 p.m.
Brightstar Community Outreach
15th Anniversary Gala
Brightstar Community Outreach has grown to more than 140 employees and has served over 50,000 Chicagoans with trauma counseling, workforce development, and financial and health education. Join the celebration and learn more about what’s to come.
300 South Riverside Plaza, Chicago
More information here
September 20th, 2024, Friday, 06:15 p.m
Friends of Prentice
Celebrate with Friends
Engage with grant recipients, indulge in interactive food & cocktail stations, and dance the night away with music from DJ Megan Taylor. Cocktail party attire is strongly encouraged. Our annual fundraiser presents the unique opportunity to engage with our mission to fund the future of women’s healthcare in our “Doctor’s Lounge,” where guests will meet grant recipients.
Morgan Manufacturing, 401 North Morgan Street Suite #100, Chicago
Tickets here
September 21st, 2024, Saturday, 06:00 p.m.
Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures
ISAC Gala
Please join us for a gala celebration to commemorate the Centennial of the Epigraphic Survey and Chicago House. Cocktail reception and guided ISAC gallery tours followed by dinner, a program, and dancing. RSVP by September 03rd.
Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures, 1155 East 58th Street, Chicago
Contact Brad Lenz at 773.834.3817 or blenz@uchicago.edu for additional information
September 22nd, 2024, Sunday, 05:00 – 09:00 p.m
Old Town School of Folk Music
Global Carnival
Old Town School of Folk Music is delighted to present as part of the City’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) Millennium Park Residency ProgramGlobal Carnival, an immersive performance experience free of admission that will feature Afro-Brazilian carnival block Ilê Aiyê and New Orleans Black Masking Indian artists Flagboy Giz & The Wild Tchoupitoulas. Also included will be performances by local ensembles such as the Windy City Ramblers, Muntu Dance Theatre, Azania Drum, Team Jukeboxx Mas Band, the Epic Steel Orchestra and DJ Shon Dervis.
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, 201 East Randolph Street, Chicago
More information here
September 24th, 2024, Tuesday, 05:30 – 7:30 p.m
The Village Chicago
“Light Up the Night!”
A very special fundraiser for the Village Chicago – a community network of friendship and support for people over 50. A lively reception with appetizers, drinks, games, prizes, and an exciting raffle will be followed by a live auction with amazing getaways and other extravagant treats, and unforgettable entertainment by performers from Lyric’s world-renowned Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center.
The Chicago History Museum, 1601 North Clark Street, Chicago
For more information: 773-248-8700; info@thevillagechicago.org; www.thevillagechicago.org
September 24th, 2024, Thursday, 07:00 p.m.
Chicago Literary Hall of Fame
Fuller Award Ceremony Honoring Alex Kotlowitz for Lifetime Achievement
Alex Kotlowitz will become the 17th recipient of the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame’s Fuller Award for his lifetime achievements. Eddie Bocanegra, Stuart Dybek, Julie Justicz, Meribah Knight, and Mary Rowland will be on hand at the Chopin Theatre to speak about Kotlowitz’s lasting importance as one of our greatest storytellers. At the end of the program, Dawn Turner will lead a conversation with Alex. Admission is free and open to the public.
Chopin Theatre, 1543 West Division Street, Chicago
For details and registration information, please click here.
September 26th, 2024, Thursday, 06:00 – 10:00 p.m
Anti-Cruelty Society
Pour Your Heart Out Annual Fundraiser
Pour Your Heart Out is our signature wine, beer, and cocktail tasting fundraiser! This spirited event attracts hundreds of diverse guests from across the metropolitan area with one goal: to support Anti-Cruelty! Pour Your Heart Out includes alcoholic and mocktail tastings from local wineries, breweries, and distilleries as well as hors d’oeuvres, entertainment, silent auction, and puppy playtime!
Sarabande Chicago, 2726 West Roscoe Street, Chicago
Tickets here
September 28, 2024, 6:00PM
The Woman’s Board of Rush University Medical Center
2024 Fall Benefit: A Night in the White City
The 2024 Fall Benefit will foster community spirit, drive a sense of nostalgia and unity, and celebrate the long history of Chicago, RUSH, and The Woman’s Board itself. A Night in the White City, themed after the 1893’s Chicago World’s Fair, will inspire and innovate us to dream big and achieve the seemingly impossible. This seated dinner will feature World’s Fair-inspired decor, a silent auction, and live music, among other delights.
Palmer House Hilton, 17 East Monroe, Chicago
312-942-6513 | thewomansboard.org
September 30th, 2024, Monday, 08:00 p.m
Auditorium Theatre
Luis Fonsi – 25 AÑOS TOUR
We’re thrilled to welcome award-winning global artist Luis Fonsi to The Auditorium! Regarded as one of the leading Latin Music figures of his generation, Fonsi has continuously broken sales records while leading the charts. From his debut album “Comenzaré” (1998) and chart-topping hit “Despacito” (2017), to his latest studio album “Ley de Gravedad” (2022), join us in celebrating over 25 years of his successful artistic career.
Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
October 2024
October 01st, 2024, Tuesday, 06:00 p.m
D-Composed
ROBESON
Chicago’s revered Black chamber music collective D-Composed makes its Harris Theater debut in collaboration with acclaimed bass-baritone, Davóne Tines and his band THE TRUTH for a one-night-only Chicago Premiere of ROBESOИ. Created by Tines and director Zack Winokur, ROBESOИ is a daring music theater work that tells the story of influential singer, actor, and activist Paul Robeson via his vast musical repertoire across gospel, classical, Broadway, and folk music. The Chicago-exclusive version of ROBESOИ will feature D-Composed performing alongside Tines and THE TRUTH in new arrangements by Chicago composer Ahmed Al Abaca.
Harris Theater, 205 East Randolph Street, Chicago
Tickets here
October 07th, 2024, Monday, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Conservation Leadership Awards Dinner
Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Conservation Leadership Awards Dinner is hosted by its Board of Trustees and Women’s Board. Created in 2005, the fundraising event recognizes individuals and organizations for their collective impact on conservation efforts that are transforming the Society’s vision of how it inspires conservation action, engages communities, and restores wildlife populations and people’s connection to nature. proceeds benefiting the Society’s conservation, education, and animal programs at Brookfield Zoo. Ticket price: Individual tickets are $500 each, with table sponsorships available starting at $5,000
Four Seasons Chicago, 120 East Delaware Place, Chicago
(708) 688-8393 | www.brookfieldzoo.org/events
October 13th, 2024, Sunday, 07:00 p.m.
Auditorium Theatre
Hillary Clinton Live
Join Hillary Rodham Clinton this Fall as she travels the United States connecting with audiences live, in person, discussing her newest book, Something Lost, Something Gained: Reflections on Life, Love, & Liberty. At each event, Secretary Clinton and a moderator will take the audience on a journey of unvarnished exchanges on politics, democracy, the threats we face, as well as friendship, aging, marriage, and how we can all work together to shape a future to be proud of.
50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
October 17th, 2024, Thursday, 10:30 am.
Openlands
Openlands 2024 Annual Luncheon
Join Openlands for the 2024 Annual Luncheon, where we unite under the banner of “Conserving Nature for Life.” This premier event is consistently recognized as the number one gathering of the conservation community in the region. Last year, we welcomed nearly 1,000 influential individuals, including elected officials, civic and environmental leaders, and community partners. The 2024 event lineup assures another unforgettable occasion. This year, we honor Arnold L. Randall with the esteemed Gerald W. Adelmann Conservation Leadership Award, celebrating his unwavering dedication to preserving our natural landscapes. We are also thrilled to welcome Dr. J. Drew Lanham as our keynote speaker. At the heart of the Openlands Annual Luncheon is a collective commitment to “Conserving Nature for Life.” As we come together, we acknowledge that the preservation of our natural heritage is not just a responsibility but a shared privilege. Join us as we honor our environmental champions, inspire action, and reaffirm our pledge to protect and nurture the precious ecosystems upon which all life depends.
The Hilton Chicago, 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago
More information here
October 18th, 2024, Friday
Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum
Golden Jubilee: Celebrating 50 Years of Chicago Fashion
The Costume Council of the Chicago History Museum invites you to be a part of a historic evening as we enjoy a first look at the brand-new exhibition, Dressed in History: A Costume Collection Retrospective. What does a red sequin burlesque costume, a pair of original Air Jordan 1s, a baby’s wool bathing suit, and an enormous white tulle Christian Dior gown have in common? All these wearable artifacts are preserved in the Chicago History Museum’s vast costume collection, which strives to represent the many different people and stories that make up our city. Featuring 70 rarely seen objects, from glamorous gowns and sharp suits to house dresses and sneakers, Dressed in History: A Costume Collection Retrospective explores how clothing captures the material, social, and changing cultural values throughout history. The exhibition celebrates 100 years of an incredible collection and the donors, curators,
and staff who have shaped it.
Stay tuned for more details
October 19th, 2024, Saturday, 06:00 p.m.
LUMA8
10th Annual Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade
LUMA8 proudly celebrates the 10th Annual Arts in the Dark Halloween parade, a family-friendly event featuring unique floats, spectacle puppets and all forms of creative performance. This magical evening procession will celebrate ten years of honoring Halloween as the “artists’ holiday” and the parade as an art form largely lost in American culture. Where parades often feature political and commercial messages, the purpose of the Arts in the Dark parade is solely to uphold and uplift Chicago’s creative communities. This parade draws together participants from major cultural organizations, inspiring youth programs, and aspiring artists in every field and from every ward of Chicago.
State Street moving south from Lake Street to Van Buren Street
More information here
October 19th, 2024, Saturday, 06:30 p.m.
The Breakthrough Board
The Breakthrough Ball
The Breakthrough Board’s (TBB) Annual Gala is the social event of the season. The evening includes cocktails, dinner, dancing and a fabulous live and silent auction. All proceeds benefit cancer research at the University of Chicago. TBB has been funding cancer research at UChicago for over half a century, by supporting the work of high-potential investigation in the hope of leading to groundbreaking discoveries across a spectrum of innovation in cancer prevention, diagnostics, and treatment. Tickets are $750 per person; sponsorships are also available.
Four Seasons Chicago, 120 East Delaware Place, Chicago
773-798-3285
October 19th, 2024, Saturday, 07:30 p.m
Auditorium Theatre
Step Afrika!: The Migration
The Auditorium proudly opens its 2024-25 season with the return of Washington, DC-based Step Afrika!, in the Chicago Premiere of its signature, full-evening length production, The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence, for one performance only. Notably, the final movement of The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence is entitled “Chicago,” showcasing its role as one of the key industrial cities providing a haven for the hundreds of thousands of African Americans migrating north in the early 1900s. Currently celebrating its 30th Anniversary Season, Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities; traditional African dances; and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience.
Auditorium Theatre, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago
Tickets: https://auditoriumtheatre.org/ | 312-341-2300
October 20th, 2024, Sunday, 08:00 a.m.
The Chicago Lighthouse
Rise to Shine 10K/5K/1M Run & Walk
Join The Chicago Lighthouse for our annual Rise to Shine 10K/5K/1M Run & Walk on Sunday, October 20 in the Illinois Medical District! This accessible, certified and chip-timed event that promotes accessibility for people with disabilities. Proceeds will support The Lighthouse’s programs helping people who are blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veterans build confidence and independence. Get $5 off registration with promo code CALENDAR5 at www.risetoshinerace.com.
Illinois Medical District, 1310 South Wood Street, Chicago
Contact Angela D’Antonio at RiseToShine@chicagolighthouse.org or (312) 447-3246
October 21st, 2024, Monday, 05:30 p.m.
3Arts
3Arts Awards Celebration
A festive evening of dynamic performances by Chicago artists and the announcement of the recipients of more than half a million dollars in unrestricted grants to 26 artists working in the performing, teaching, and visual arts. This year’s program features boundary-breaking performances by three past 3Arts awardees, including Rika Lin (2023 Awardee) presenting Feedback, an experimental dance work that bends conceptions of gender and genre with collaborator Takashi Shallow; Donnetta “LilBit” Jackson (2023 Awardee) performing an excerpt from A M.A.D.D. Mixtape, a piece choreographed by Jackson that explores the African diasporic roots of tap and footwork with dancers from M.A.D.D Rhythms; and singer-songwriter Nashon Holloway (2022 Awardee) performing the world premiere of Go Awf, an original new song from her forthcoming album. The awards are hosted by Co-Chairs Michelle T. Boone, Candace Hunter, and Whitney Hill and an event committee of arts and civic leaders.
Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 East Randolph Drive, Chicago
More information here
October 23rd, 2024, Wednesday, 05:30 – 09:00 p.m
The Joffrey Ballet Women’s Board
JoffreyNEXT: Supporting the artists of tomorrow
Experience an unforgettable evening with the Joffrey Women’s Board while championing the future of dance. Featuring inspiring performances, refreshing cocktails, and delectable bites, anticipate the extraordinary as we celebrate the Joffrey’s education programs. Individual Ticket $350; Sponsorships start at $5,000.
Lyric Opera House, 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
October 24th, 2024, Thursday, 06:00 – 09:30 p.m
Third Coast Percussion
Fall Benefit with Special Guest Twyla Tharp
An intimate evening celebrating the ensemble’s landmark twentieth anniversary with the genre-bending choreographer. Featuring a rare interview with Tharp and an exclusive preview performance of their major collaboration.
Walden Chicago, 2145 West Walnut Street, Chicago
Tickets here
October 26th, 2024 – February 16th, 2025, Tuesdays – Saturdays, 12 – 6 p.m
Cleve Carney Museum & Chicago Gamespace
INSERT COIN: Inside Midway’s Arcade Revolution
This exhibition features 15 playable arcade games that chronicle the story of legendary Chicago coin-operated manufacturer, Midway, in the 1990s, allowing visitors to learn about this iconic company while enjoying some of its most celebrated creations.
Cleve Carney Museum at the College of DuPage at 425 Fawell Blvd, Glen Ellyn
More information here
November 2024
November 02nd, 2024, Saturday, 06:00 p.m.
National Kidney Foundation of Illinois
Annual Gift of Life Gala
The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois (NKFI) will celebrate 75 years of impact at its 39th Annual Gift of Life Gala, benefitting the NKFI mission to improve the health of those at risk or affected by kidney disease. The diamond-inspired soiree will rally support for the work and mission of the NKFI, raising funds for free screening programs and community health initiatives across Illinois. NKFI will present the Illinois Public Health Association (IPHA) with the “Gift of Life Award” in recognition of their contributions that have truly made a difference in the world of kidney disease, prevention, transplantation and organ donation and therefore, have advanced the success of the NKFI. Holly Kramer, M.D., MPH and Professor, Public Health Sciences, Loyola University Chicago will be honored through the “Harold & Molly Schwartz Founders Award” for her outstanding commitment to increasing national funding for kidney disease research and heightening awareness about chronic kidney disease. Regina Waldroup, reporter at NBC5, Chicago-native and longtime public supporter of organ donation, will serve as mistress of ceremonies and host the evening’s events.
Hilton Chicago, 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago
Tickets here
November 03rd, 2024, Sunday, 03:00 p.m
Art Institute of Chicago
Fall Fundraiser Concert
The Music Institute of Chicago presents a joyful afternoon of performances by faculty and students, culminating in a community sing. This concert supports the nearly $500,000 in scholarships and financial aid the Music Institute provides each year.The program features performances by members of the Music Institute’s world-class faculty, as well as selected students and ensembles from its Community Music School and Academy for gifted pre-college musicians.
Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston
847-448-8323
November 09th, 2024, Saturday 06:00 – 09:30 p.m.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Wines in the Wild
Enjoy the opportunity to sample an array of wines and liquors from around the world at the Chicago Zoological Society’s Wines in the Wild, hosted by its Women’s Board. Accompanying the selection, provided by the evening’s purveyor, Prestige Countryside Liquors, will be delicious hors d’oeuvres prepared by SSA Group, Brookfield Zoo’s catering team. The evening fundraiser also features a silent auction and up-close experiences with some of the Zoo’s animal ambassadors. Proceeds from Wines in the Wild support the education, conservation, and scholarship programming needs that are funded by the Women’s Board of the Chicago Zoological Society. Ticket price: $300+
Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield IL 60513
(708) 688-8393 | www.brookfieldzoo.org
November 14th, 2024, Thursday, 05:00 – 08:30 p.m.
Chicago Innovation
23rd Annual Chicago Innovation Awards
The Chicago Innovation Awards is the largest annual celebration of innovation in the Chicago region, cutting across all industries, large corporations and startups, for-profits, non-profits, high tech, low tech and no tech. Save the date, and stay tuned for more details!
UIC Forum, 1213 South Halsted Street, Chicago
https://chicagoinnovation.com/
November 15th, 2024, Friday, 05:30 p.m
Hyde Park Art Center
85th Annual Gala
Hyde Park Art Center hosts its annual Gala that activates its entire building , with an afterparty that goes till 11:30 p.m.. Co-chaired by Jim Dempsey, Sandhya Mullangi, and Cheryl and Thomas Rudbeck III, the lively event is packed with hands-on art activities, performances, open studios, art auctions, and DJs from Lumpen Radio, offering a unique and interactive experience while benefiting the art center’s various programs supporting Chicago art and artists. The Gala after-party is hosted in partnership with Lumpen Radio. With a “creative cocktail” dress code, the evening will feature a cocktail party running from 5:30-7:00 p.m., followed by a seated dinner with remarks by Art Center leadership and artists. With a reputation as one of the city’s most “hands-on” art parties, the Gala will feature an after-party in collaboration with Lumpen Radio from 8:30 p.m. to 11:30pm that includes the popular Interactive Artist Interventions, resident artist open studios, performances, DJs, late-night bites, and more.
Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 South Cornell Avenue, Chicago
Tickets here
November 21st, 2024, Thursday, 06:00 p.m
Driehaus Museum
The Gilded Gala
The Driehaus Museum’s annual event – The Gilded Gala – will be hosted in the museum’s home, the historic Nickerson Mansion and newly reopened Murphy Auditorium. Marking the ongoing celebration of the Driehaus Museum’s expanded campus and benefitting the museum’s public engagement and outreach programs, The Gilded Gala will honor Barbi and Tom Donnelley for their dedication to the arts and significant work in leading historic preservation and feature special performances throughout the evening.
The Richard H. Driehaus Museum, 50 East Erie Street, Chicago
312-482-8933 OR https://driehausmuseum.org/
November 21st, 2024, Thursday, 07:30 p.m.
Auditorium Theatre
An Evening Conversation with Ina Garten
We’re excited to welcome beloved Food Network personality, Instagram sensation and cultural icon Ina Garten to the Auditorium Theatre this Fall! In Fall 2024 Ina Garten will publish her long-awaited memoir Be Ready When the Luck Happens (Crown / Penguin Random House, OCT 2024). For the first time Ina Garten will present an intimate, entertaining, and inspiring account of her remarkable journey, sharing her personal story with readers hungry for a seat at her table.
50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
December 2024
TBA
