Introducing our newest edition of the Classic Chicago DateBook for 2025.

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

May

May 01st, 2025, Thursday, 10:00 a.m

Wrightwood 659

The First Homosexuals: The Birth of a New Identity, 1869-1939

Please join us for a media preview of The First Homosexuals: The Birth of a New Identity, 1869-1939, a major new international exhibition, featuring some 300 works by more than 125 artists from 40 countries, on loan from over 100 museums and private collections across the world. The First Homosexuals explores a sea change in how society regarded homosexuality in the wake of the coining of the term “homosexual” in 1869. A number of works are national treasures which have never before been allowed to travel outside their countries.

Wrightwood 659, 659 West Wrightwood Avenue, Chicago

RSVP to beth@silvermangroupchicago.com by Tuesday, April 29th.

May 01st, 2025, Thursday, 06:00 – 09:00 p.m

Family Focus

Dream Builders Annual Dinner

The Dream Builders Dinner helps fund critical programs at all 11 of our centers. With federal support in question, the services that keep families stable are at risk. Your support can change that. Reserve your seat today and be a part of a night that fuels real impact.

Four Seasons Chicago, 120 East Delaware Place, Chicago

Tickets here

May 03rd, 2025, Saturday, 07:30 p.m

The Auditorium

South Chicago Dance Theatre

Be moved by an electric fusion of classical and contemporary dance showcasing the talents of the local dance company making waves through stunning collaborations by master choreographers and works that fearlessly embrace innovation and provide fresh perspective with “note-by-note precision” (Dance Magazine).

The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago

Tickets here

May 03rd, 2025, Saturday, 08:00 p.m

Chicago a capella

Cabaret Night 2025

Chicago’s premier unaccompanied vocal ensemble, finishes off its 2024/25 Season with Cabaret Night. This fun-filled fundraiser tradition features CAC singers performing solos from Broadway, pop, jazz, cabaret, and more, accompanied by Paul Langford. Proceeds from the event support CAC’s artistic and educational programing.

Fremont at iO Theater, 1501 North Kingsbury Street in Chicago.

More information and tickets here

May 04th, 2025, Sunday, 12:00 – 04:00 p.m

The Jewel-Osco Foundation

THE HOP: Dance Marathon & Family- Friendly Spring Fundraising Event

Jewel-Osco invites the public to enter and join the fun at The Hop, a free, family-friendly afternoon of springtime treats and activities, PLUS a 1950s-inspired dance marathon. Dancers will compete to benefit their favorite local charities recognized by the Jewel-Osco Foundation. Guests can step back in time and enjoy an afternoon of fun and dancing including: 1950s-inspired diner fare, old-fashioned candy bar, and soda fountain creations, family-friendly games and competitions, live DJ entertainment, dance marathon contestants (18 and older) compete to earn up to $7,500 for their choice of community charities supported by the Jewel-Osco Foundation plus individual rewards, with a total of $15,000 being donated. Professional dancers onsite, demonstrating old-school dance moves for competitors and those dancing for fun, 1950s costume contests for kids and adults, games, prizes and giveaways galore, face painting and balloon artists.

Chicago Athletic Association, Stagg Court, 12 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago

More information and tickets here

May 04th, 2025, Sunday, 04:30 p.m

Bishop Anderson House

Annual Spring Benefit

We are pleased to announce that Rush University System for Health will be the 2025 Community of Caring award recipient.

Halim Time & Glass Museum, 1560 Oak Avenue, Evanston

Tickets here

May 04th, 2025, Sunday, 07:00 p.m

Avalanche Theatre

WORLD PREMIERE: Time is a Color and the Color is Blue

Chicago’s Avalanche Theatre makes its production debut with the world premiere of Time is a Color and the Color is Blue, a survival drama exploring climate change, grief, forgiveness and letting go—all within a theater transformed into an ice cave. Time is a Color and the Color is Blue was originally developed in Avalanche’s new play incubator the Next Draft Series. Performances run May 1–24, 2025, and tickets are now on sale starting at $15.

Bramble Arts Loft, 5545 North Clark Street, Chicago

Tickets here

May 06th, 2025, Tuesday, 11:30 a.m – 01:30 p.m

Start Early

Our 23rd annual luncheon theme, “Nurture the Early Years & Empower Families to Thrive” will address the critical issues and impacts of prenatal stress and maternal mental health on early childhood development. We will also showcase Start Early programs that help children thrive, support families through challenges, and set the stage for a child’s healthy start in life. Featuring keynote speaker, clinical psychologist Dr. Catherine Monk.

Hyatt Regency Chicago – Crystal Ballroom, 151 East Wacker Drive, Chicago

May 07th, 2025, Wednesday

Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation

19th Annual Medical Briefing Luncheon: “Making a Difference”

Co-Chairs: Melissa Haley and Florence Ann Romano; Panelists: John Walkup, MD and Janet Wozniak, MD

Private Club, Gold Coast

More information to come

May 09th, 2025, Friday, 06:30 p.m

Planned Parenthood Illinois

Planned Parenthood Annual Celebration

Please join us on Friday, May 9 for a celebratory evening in support of Planned Parenthood of Illinois’ critical mission of providing compassionate, comprehensive reproductive health care, education, and advocacy – no matter what!

The Geraghty, 2520 South Hoyne Avenue, Chicago

More information here

May 10th, 2025, Saturday, 06:30 p.m

Alzheimer’s Association

Rita Hayworth Gala

The Rita Hayworth Gala honors the legendary Rita Hayworth and her courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. This special evening celebrates the progress made by the Alzheimer’s Association, while looking toward a future of hope and advancement. The event will be hosted by Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, Rita’s daughter and Honorary Vice Chair of the Alzheimer’s Association, alongside Gala Chairs Rozmin & Ebrahim Valliani, bringing together supporters to raise awareness and funds for continued research and care.

The Old Post Office, 433 West Van Buren Street, Chicago

Tickets here

May 10th, 2025, Saturday, 07:30 p.m

The Pritzker Military Foundation

Peace Triumphant: 1945

The Pritzker Military Foundation presents the Michael Teolis Singers performance of “Peace Triumphant: 1945.” This concert celebrates the end of WWII and honors the veterans who served in that effort.

First United Methodist Church of Oak Park, 324 North Lake Street, Oak Park

Tickets and more information here

May 10th, 2025, Saturday, 07:30 p.m

Michael Teolis Singers

Spring Performance- Peace Triumphant: 1945

For the spring, we are resurrecting a concept we planned for May, 2020: “Peace Triumphant: 1945.” At that time, it was to be a commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II. Sadly, we had to cancel the concert due to Covid. In May 2025, we will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of the War. The programming will include a mix of patriotic tunes, arrangements of popular songs of the era, and a recognition of those who were lost in the Holocaust.

First United Methodist Church of Oak Park, 324 North Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park

Tickets here

May 15th, 2025, Thursday, 05:30 p.m

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago

Spotlight Ball 47

Join us as we celebrate the legendary artistry and dynamism of our dancers and choreographers. Guests will enjoy a special, one-night-only performance showcasing work by Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon and Hubbard Street Resident Artist Aszure Barton, followed by a joyous rooftop dance party and dinner. You won’t want to miss it! Proceeds from the Spotlight Ball will help Hubbard Street continue our innovative work onstage and in Chicago classrooms—a perfect chance to give back and have fun.

The Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 East Randolph Street, Chicago

Tickets and more information here

May 15th, 2025, Thursday, 06:00 p.m

friends in deed

Annual Fundraising Dinner

Every day, families in our community face significant challenges—housing instability, transportation barriers, and financial hardship. Together, we can help them overcome these obstacles and achieve new heights. Join us for an inspiring evening featuring: Heartfelt stories from those impacted by our programs, a delicious dinner shared with fellow supporters, and the opportunity to contribute to our mission of helping families overcome challenges.

WCC’s Morris Lawrence Building Atrium, 4800 East Huron River Drive, Ann Arbor MI

More information here

May 15th, 2025, Thursday, 06:00 p.m

American Writers Museum

Dave Barry: Class Clown

Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Dave Barry, the son of a Presbyterian minister, discusses his new book Class Clown: The Memoirs of a Professional Wiseass. Barry will be interviewed by Mark Bazer and books will be sold at the event, with a signing following the program. General admission is $15 and $35 tickets include a copy of Class Clown.

Chicago Hope Academy, 2156 West Ogden Avenue, Chicago

Tickets and more information here

May 15th, 2025, Thursday, 06:00 – 09:00 p.m

Designs for Dignity

Spirit of Design – 25th Anniversary Gala

Spirit of Design is Designs for Dignity’s signature annual fundraiser. We look forward to seeing you this May to celebrate another amazing year of empowering lives through design! Enjoy delectable food & drink, a silent auction and raffle – all to benefit Designs for Dignity.

The Geraghty, 2520 South Hoyne Avenue, Chicago

More information here

May 16th & 17th, 2025, Friday & Saturday

Ragdale

More than a Novel Affair

Two nights with cocktails, entertainment and thoughtful conversation. Five featured authors join guests for a conversation about making space for art and finding your voice on Friday at the Newberry Library. Additional artists and authors will join the cocktail party and dinner on Saturday at Ragdale.

Friday: Newberry Library, 60 West Walton Street, Chicago

Saturday: Ragdale, 1230 North Green Bay Road, Lake Forest

Tickets and more information here

May 17th, 2025, Saturday

Paws and Claws Cat Rescue

Inaugural Catalyst Ball & Five Year Anniversary

A celebration of the shelter’s journey! Support for rescues makes a significant difference, serving as a lifesaving catalyst for not only countless cats at risk of euthanasia, but also in the lives of people, to help break down barriers to companionship and build community. Animal lovers and community members 21+ are invited to attend.

The Crystal Ballroom & Lounge, 529 Davis Street, Evanston

Tickets and more information here

May 17th, 2025, Saturday

The Morton Arboretum

Vivid Creatures Debut

This spring, visitors to The Morton Arboretum will be greeted by a collection of massive, colorful, whimsical sculptures. The new exhibition, Vivid Creatures: Colorful Sculptures as Tall as Trees, opens Saturday, May 17, 2025, featuring five larger-than-life sculptures of animals essential to the Illinois ecosystem nestled among the Arboretum’s lush landscape. Created by Portland, Oregon-based artists Heather BeGaetz and Fez BeGaetz, the exhibit continues the Arboretum’s tradition of showcasing innovative outdoor art. This vibrant collection, making its debut at a public garden, includes sculptures of a white-tailed deer, dragonfly, sandhill crane, fox squirrel and brittle button snail, ranging from 8 to 23 feet tall.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL-53, Lisle

More information here

May 17th, 2025, Saturday, 07:30 p.m

The Auditorium

Hiplet Ballerinas

The Auditorium proudly presents Chicago’s own Hiplet Ballerinas in the company’s first solo performance at the venue in a mixed repertory program titled Dipped in Versatility. Invented by former Dance Theater of Harlem principal dancer Homer Bryant, Hiplet (pronounced hip-lay) is a technique that combines classical pointe, hip-hop, and other styles of dance and makes ballet more accessible to general audiences. The program, which showcases the Hiplet Ballerina’s mastery of multiple genres, also includes the world premiere of Gardenchoregraphed by Hiplet Associate Artistic Director and Company Member Taylor Edwards and Tre Daniels.

The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago

Tickets here

May 20th, 2025, Tuesday, 05:00 – 08:00 p.m

Chicago Innovation

The Taste of Innovation

Join us as we spotlight innovation in the ever-changing world of food and drinks. This year’s event features: food industry innovators discussing 2025 emerging trends that excite them, tasting stations curated by Sanctuary & Let’s Talk Womxn women-owned restaurants, and libations from Chicago craft brewers, distillers, wine-makers and more.

The iO Theater, 1501 North Kingsbury Street, Chicago

May 30th, 2025, Friday, 06:00 – 08:00 p.m

Elmhurst Art Museum

Exhibition Reception: Legacies: Selections from the Elmhurst Art Museum Permanent Collection and CROSSINGS

Elmhurst Art Museum celebrates the openings of its summer exhibitions Legacies: Selections from the Elmhurst Art Museum Permanent Collection and CROSSINGS with exhibition viewing and light fare with members, artists, and community members. RSVP required.

Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Avenue, Elmhurst

Tickets here

May 30th, 2025, Friday, 07:00 p.m

American Writers Museum

Paul Elie on Postsecularism in partnership with the Chicago Humanities Festival

National Book Critics Circle Award finalist Paul Elie discusses his new book The Last Supper: Art, Faith, Sex, and Controversy in the 1980s in an event in partnership with the Chicago Humanities Festival (CHF). In this book, Elie explores the origins of our postsecular present and the moment when popular culture became the site of religious conflict in the 1980s—from Andy Warhol’s adaptation of The Last Supper to the boycott sparked by Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” music video. Event tickets are $34, with books available for purchase.

American Writers Museum, 180 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago

Tickets here

May 31st, 2025, Saturday, 01:00 – 04:00 p.m

The Schweikher House

2nd Annual Peony Party Fundraiser

Join the Schweikher House Preservation Trust for a summer afternoon fundraiser at the Schweikher House in support of the organization. Enjoy the 35+ varieties of blooming peonies, drinks, delicious food from Unforgettable Edibles and music by Midtown Strings while mingling throughout the house and grounds. This year’s party will feature Martyl paintings from private collections, many never seen before in public. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind treat to experience Martyl’s art in the very same house and studio where it was created!

Schweikher House, 645 Meacham Road, Schaumburg

Tickets here

May 31st, 2025, Saturday, 08:00 p.m

Mandala South Asian Performing Arts

Ananta (Endless)

Mandala South Asian Performing Arts continues its 10th anniversary season with Ananta (Endless), a performance combining original choreography by artist-in-residence Amber Mehta and classical Bharatanatyam works.

Visceral Dance Center, 3121 North Rockwell Street, Chicago

Tickets here

June

June 03rd – 08th, 2025

Chicago Opera Theater

She Who Dared

Three performances only! Chicago Opera Theater (COT), Chicago’s foremost producer of new and reimagined opera, proudly presents She Who Dared, by composer Jasmine Arielle Barnes and librettist Deborah D.E.E.P. Mouton. Featuring an All-Black female cast, and an all-Black creative team, the compelling, richly melodic, new opera shines a spotlight on the women who challenged segregation before and alongside Rosa Parks. COT’s production of She Who Dared is Tuesday, June 3 at 7:30 PM; Friday, June 6 at 7:30 PM; and Sunday, June 8 at 3:00 PM.

Studebaker Theater in the Fine Arts Building, 410 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago

Tickets here

June 04th, 2025, Wednesday, 06:00 – 09:00 p.m

Chicago History Museum

Making History Awards

The Board of Trustees of the Chicago Historical Society proudly hosts the Making History Awards in honor of the extraordinary contributions of this year’s awardees to our city and its history.

More details to come.

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, 120 East Delaware Place, Chicago

For questions contact Livia Kenney lkenney@pjhchicago.com or Eric Miller miller@chicagohistory.org

June 06th, 2025, Friday, 07:30 p.m

The Auditorium

Bea Hive Bash

Join The Auditorium for the event of the season: The Bea Hive Bash. The Bea Hive Bash is a 1967-themed celebration of a crowdsourced competition held on The Auditorium’s iconic and historic stage featuring creative cocktails, delicious food, an exclusive silent auction, and a live performance by the acclaimed Beatles cover band, Britain’s Finest.

The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago

Tickets here

June 14th & 15th, 2025, Saturday & Sunday

Old Town Art Fair

The 75th Old Town Art Fair Celebration will take many forms in the coming months. We hope you enjoy all of the exciting new features to be announced. The first change you’ll notice: the Art Fair logo has been redesigned.

More details to come

June 21st, 2025, Saturday, 07:00 – 09:00 p.m

Elmhurst Art Museum

Soundbites: An Evening of Music

Elmhurst Art Museum presents an evening of art and music. Groups of local musicians will perform in a variety of styles and genres throughout the Museum’s campus. Inspired by the concept of a progressive dinner, guests will move freely through the museum’s galleries and art studios to listen to “collections” of live music at their own pace.

Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Avenue, Elmhurst

Tickets and more information here

June 23rd, 2025, Monday, 06:00 p.m

American Writers Museum

Faith is Funny with Peter Sagal, Hari Kondabolu, Negin Farsad and Kate Sidley

In “Faith is Funny: Comedy Writers on God and Religion,”, leading comedians Negin Farsad, Hari Kondabolu and Kate Sidley talk with “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” host Peter Sagal about why religion is so hilarious and how their faiths—Jewish, Hindu, Catholic and Muslim—inform their jokes. From Sister Act to The Book of Mormon, The Righteous Gemstones to Groundhog Day, religion has been a fertile ground for funny writers, getting serious ideas about American culture across with a laugh. Event tickets are $26.

Studebaker Theater, 410 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago

Tickets here

July

July 24th, 2025, Thursday, 07:00 – 09:00 p.m

Elmhurst Art Museum

Film Screening: A Collection of Short Films from the Chicago Film Archives Media Mixer Series

Elmhurst Art Museum in partnership with the Chicago Film Archives (CFA) presents an evening screening of selected short films from the Chicago Film Archives Media Mixers series. This project pairs visual and sound artists who collaborate to make new video work using archival footage from the CFA collection. The evening includes light bites, beverages, and an opportunity to view the summer exhibitions.

Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Avenue, Elmhurst

Tickets here

July 25th – 27th, 2025, Friday – Sunday

The Seldoms and the Chicago Botanic Garden

Superbloom

The Seldoms, which presents multidisciplinary performances exploring complex issues, collaborates with the Chicago Botanic Garden to present the Chicago North Shore premiere of Superbloom, an evening-length work combining dance, live music, animation, and costume and lighting design. Performances take place Friday and Saturday, July 25 and 26 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, July 27 at 2 p.m. The Seldoms Founding Artistic Director and choreographer Carrie Hanson describes Superbloom, a work for five dancers, as “a multimedia performance about radical beauty, wildness and wildflowers, and the resilience and fragility of the natural world. The work aims for splendor as a mirror of the sublime beauty of the natural world and an antidote to grief felt in the Anthropocene epoch (our current geological age, in which human activity has been the dominant influence on the environment).

Nichols Hall, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe

Tickets here