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
September
September 13th – 28th, 2025
Access Contemporary Music
Grand Opening Festival: The CheckOut
Officially opening with a Grand Opening Festival September 13-28, The CheckOut will be an important addition to Chicago’s cultural scene, hosting exciting performances by local and touring acts along with ACM’s array of innovative original programming. With touches inspired by the building’s former life as a 7-eleven including adult slushies and a commitment to affordability, The CheckOut will serve as a fun community -oriented artistic hub.
More information here
September 30th, 2025, Tuesday, 05:00 – 07:30 p.m
The Village Chicago
“Many Voices, One Song”
A live reception with appetizers, drinks and games with great prizes; live auction and entertainment: a musical celebration of our community featuring four inspiring vocalists performing Broadway favorites.
The Arbory, 2219 West Grand Avenue, Chicago
The Village Chicago: 773-248-8700; info@thevillagechicago.org; thevillagechicago.org
October
October 01st, 2025, Wednesday, 06:00 – 08:00 p.m
Field Museum
Special Screening: A Life Among Elephants
Join us for a special screening and discussion of A Life Among Elephants! In the 1960s, the world knew little about wild African elephants — until Scottish biologist and Save the Elephants founder, Iain Douglas-Hamilton, arrived in Tanzania. His groundbreaking research in Manyara was the first in-depth study of wild African elephant behavior. Alongside his wife, Oria, and daughters, Saba and Dudu, Iain immersed himself in the lives of elephants, discovering their personalities and intricate family bonds. The documentary features never-before-seen archival footage and intimate interviews with Douglas-Hamilton’s family and renowned figures like Jane Goodall. After the screening, join us for a Q & A with Frank Pope, CEO of Save the Elephants and Saba Douglas-Hamilton, Conservationist and daughter of Save the Elephants Founder Dr. Iain Douglas-Hamilton.
Field Museum, 1400 South DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
October 03rd, 2025, Friday, 07:30 p.m
The Auditorium
“The Witcher in Concert”
The Witcher in Concert is a live music experience featuring a timeless soundtrack from “The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt” by CD PROJEKT RED. The concert series was created to coincide with the tenth anniversary of the critically acclaimed video game, which follows the story of Geralt of Rivia as he embarks on a quest to find his adopted daughter, Ciri. Each performance is brought to life by an ensemble of 14 musicians handpicked by the score’s co-composer, including select members of Polish folk metal band Percival Schuttenbach.
The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago
Tickets here or at 312.341.2300
October 04th, 2025, Saturday, 06:00 – 9:00 p.m
Chicago Repertory Ballet
Ballet Bash: The Capulets Ball
Chicago Repertory Ballet presents a special edition of its annual gala in celebration of the world premiere of its original ballet, The Capulets. Attendees will enjoy live performances by Chicago Repertory Ballet company dancers and youth ensemble, plus games, prizes, and a cocktail reception inspired by the world premiere.
Center on Halsted, 2656 North Halsted Street, Chicago
Tickets here
October 09th, 2025, Thursday, 12:00 p.m
Joffrey Ballet Women’s Board
JoffreyNEXT Luncheon
The Joffrey Ballet Women’s Board celebrates the artistry and vision of acclaimed choreographer Chanel DaSilva, whose captivating works Wabash & You and Broken Wings will be premiered by The Joffrey Ballet this fall at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance. Enjoy an inspiring conversation with these trailblazing women as they share their creative journeys and perspectives on the evolving role of women in dance. Co-Chairs: Anne Forman and Johanna Ferguson.
Venue TBD!
Tickets and more information at events@joffrey.org
October 09th, 2025, Thursday, 05:30 p.m
The Auditorium
ANA GASTEYER HEADLINES 2025 BENEFIT FOR THE AUDITORIUM
The Auditorium proudly announces that Broadway, film & TV star and former Saturday Night Live cast member Ana Gasteyer will headline its 2025 Annual Gala. In addition to a performance by Gasteyer showcasing her impressive musical career, a pair of Chicago cultural dynamos will receive The Auditorium’s top annual honors: Judie Green will be presented with the 2025 Adler & Sullivan Award for her lasting contributions to the arts and exceptional commitment to The Auditorium, a National Historic Landmark and the crowning achievement of famed architects Dankmar Adler and Louis Sullivan, while Jorge Pérez is the recipient of the 2025 Beatrice Spachner Award for substantially enhancing the landscape of Chicago as a performer, leader, ambassador, and advocate for arts and culture. The Gala begins at 5:30pm with a festive cocktail reception, followed by a sit-down dinner, the awards presentation, and concluding the evening, an exclusive concert performance by Ana Gasteyer. Paul Lisnek, award-winning WGN TV/Radio political analyst, host, and anchor, will serve as Gala Master of Ceremonies.
Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel, 17 East Monroe Street, Chicago
Tickets: rsnedekermeier@auditoriumtheatre.org or 312-341-2382
October 10th, 2025, Friday, 04:00 p.m & 07:00 p.m
Mandala South Asian Performing Arts
Homeward: Movement, Memory, and Moments that Shape History
Mandala South Asian Performing Arts continues its 10th anniversary season with the premiere of Homeward: Movement, Memory, and Moments that Shape History, a movement journey through migration, identity, and belonging.
Wentz Hall, North Central College, 171 East Chicago Avenue, Naperville
Admission is free; reservations are recommended at eventcombo.com/e/homeward-a-movement-journey-through-migration-identity–belo-76341
October 11th, 2025, 12:00 – 04:00 p.m
Landmarks Illinois’ Skyline Council
Blue Island Walking Tour & Pub Crawl
Kevin Brown, Executive Director of the Blue Island Historical Society, will lead guests through historic commercial corridors and across the Calumet-Saganashkee Channel, sharing stories of the region’s industrial heritage, community resilience and unique environmental history. Drink stops include Blue Island Eagles, Blue Island Beer Company and Rock Island Public House. Space is limited!
Tour begins at Blue Island Historical Society at the Albee House, 13018 Maple Avenue, Blue Island
Register here
October 16th, 2025, Thursday, 06:00 – 08:30 p.m
Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation
An Evening to Celebrate 40 Years of Impact
Join the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation as we celebrate two remarkable milestones – 40 years of impact in the fight against breast cancer and what would have been Lynn Sage’s 80th birthday. Honoring Lynn Sage Founders.
Theater on the Lake, 2401 North Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
October 23rd, 2025, Thursday, 06:30 p.m
St. Leonard’s Ministries
The Heart of St. Leonard’s: A Night of Fellowship
Tonight we come together in community to thank our supporters and celebrate the achievements of our alumni.
Wildman BT, 3022 West Carroll Avenue, Chicago
More information here
October 25th, 2025, Saturday, 06:00 p.m
Women’s Auxiliary of Misericordia
2025 Heart of Mercy Ball
Please join the Women’s Board at the 2025 Heart of Mercy Ball to benefit Misericordia and celebrate our distinguished honorees.
Hilton Chicago, 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago
Tickets here
October 25th, 2025, Saturday, 07:00 – 11:00 p.m
Elmhurst Art Museum
Aces & Art: A Night of Luck and Giving at Elmhurst Art Museum
Elmhurst Art Museum presents Aces & Art: A Night of Luck and Giving at Elmhurst Art Museum, an evening filled with style, and a touch of casino-night fun — all in support of the museum’s exhibitions and education programs. The evening includes gaming tables featuring roulette, blackjack, craps, and more; complimentary cocktails & delicious bites; a DJ and dancing; and raffles and artful prizes. Whether you’re feeling lucky or just love a night out surrounded by creativity, this is the can’t-miss event of the season.
Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Avenue, Elmhurst
Tickets here
October 28th, 29th, & 31st, 2025
The Auditorium
Evening With David Byrne – Who Is The Sky Tour
We can’t wait to welcome David Byrne back to The Auditorium for the Who Is The Sky tour! Byrne’s upcoming release, Who Is The Sky, will be his first new album since 2018’s triumphant American Utopia. Join Byrne as he continues his lifelong exploration of human connection and the potential for societal unity against the chaotic backdrop of the world.
The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
October 30th – November 02nd, 2025, Thursday – Sunday
Saatchi Art
The Other Art Fair
The Other Art Fair returns for its 8th Chicago edition. Known as the city’s leading artist-exhibited fair, The Other Art Fair offers art lovers the opportunity to discover and buy works directly from independent artists. The fall event will feature original works from over 110 emerging creators and kicks off with a high-energy Opening Night on Thursday, October 30. With interactive installations, live performances, and engaging artist-led projects, the fair is designed to inspire and delight.
Artifact Events, 4325 North Ravenswood Avenue, Chicago
More information here
November
November 02nd, 2025, Sunday, 03:00 p.m
Music Institute of Chicago
Fall Fundraiser Concert: supporting scholarships and financial aid
The Music Institute of Chicago presents a joyful afternoon of performances by members of its world-class faculty, as well as selected students and alumni from its Community Music School and Academy, culminating with a community sing. A photo booth, meet and greet, and sweet treats for every guest follow the performances in the lobby. FREE; donations encouraged
Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston
Tickets and more information here
November 05th, 2025, Wednesday, 07:00 p.m
The Auditorium
Boz Scaggs – Rhythm Review 2025
We can’t wait to welcome American singer, songwriter and guitarist Boz Scaggs to The Auditorium! An early bandmate of Steve Miller in The Ardells and the Steve Miller Band, he kicked off his solo career in 1969 and has since produced several hit singles and platinum-certified albums. Don’t miss out on this electrifying performance!
The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago
Pre-sale tickets here
November 06th – 09th, 2025, Thursday – Sunday
Joffrey Ballet
Joffrey at the Harris: Matters of the Heart
Inspired by a true story, Chanel DaSilva’s Wabash & You takes us on a journey from a spontaneous chance encounter between two strangers to an unforgettable romance. Set in downtown Chicago, this modern twist on the classic girl-meets-boy story reminds us that love can find us anywhere at any time. But does that mean that love will last forever? Performed live with the dynamic and soulful music of The Main Squeeze, Wabash & You is a love letter both to the city of Chicago and to the hopeless romantics that live within us all.
Harris Theater, 205 East Randolph Street, Chicago
Tickets here
November 07th, 2025, Friday, 06:00 p.m
Landmarks Illinois | Richard H. Driehaus Foundation
2025 Preservation Awards
Join us November 7 for our annual awards ceremony recognizing exceptional efforts in preserving, restoring and revitalizing historic places in Illinois! The event, which is open to the public, will feature a sit-down awards ceremony and cocktail reception.
Theater on the Lake, 2401 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
November 07th, 2025, Friday, 06:30 p.m
Pilot Light
Feed Your Mind Gala
More details to come!
Rockwell on the River, 3057 North Rockwell Street, Chicago
November 08th, 2025, Saturday, 07:30 p.m
Music Institute of Chicago
Jesters and Gargoyles: Humor, Imagination, and Virtuosity in the Piano Repertoire
What happens when a great composer’s imagination takes a strange turn? Each of the works on this program has a streak of humor, oddity, or capriciousness in its makeup, turning the structure and discipline of traditional classical forms and styles on its head. The wily and surprising humor of Beethoven’s Sonata No. 16 in G Major leads to a more chaotic picture in Bartok’s Suite Op. 14 and Alkan’s Le Festin d’Esope, finishing with Chopin’s intense and exciting Scherzi. $35 general admission.
Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston
Tickets and more information here
November 14th, 2025, Friday
PAWS Chicago
Fur Ball
The PAWS Chicago Fur Ball is Chicago’s premier pet-friendly black tie event! Set at the legendary Drake Hotel, this unique gala invites guests to dress their pets in four-legged formal wear and walk the red carpet for an exciting celebration to benefit PAWS Chicago. Guests will delight in the silent and live auctions with one-of-a-kind items, raffle, dancing, and dinner buffets. Lucky dogs in attendance will also be treated to an evening of indulgences – including a divine dinner served in crystal goblets at the special dog buffet.
The Drake Hotel, 140 East Walton Place, Chicago
More information: furball@pawschicago.org
Tickets here
November 15th, 2025, Saturday
The Breakthrough Board of the Cancer Research Foundation
Breakthrough Ball
Ball Chair Laura Werner and her stellar Benefit Committee are planning a wondrous evening celebrating advances in cancer treatment at UChicago Medicine. The brilliant black tie event will include dinner, an auction and outstanding wine raffle, and dancing to “Maggie Speaks.”
The Breakthrough Board supports cutting edge discoveries in cancer research at UChicago Medicine.
The Four Seasons Chicago, 120 East Delaware Place, Chicago
For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Margaret Hermaneck at 773-798-3285 or rsvp@thebreakthroughboard.org
November 15th, 2025, Saturday, 05:30 – 11:30 p.m
Hyde Park Art Center
Hyde Park Art Center Gala 2025
Honorees: Amanda Williams and Esther Grimm. Co-chairs: Christy MacLear and Mirja Spooner Haffner.
Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 South Cornell, Chicago
Tickets here
November 20th, 2025, Thursday, 07:00 p.m
The Auditorium | WBEZ Chicago
The Moth Mainstage
The Mainstage is the quintessential Moth experience, a two-act show where five tellers and a notable host share true personal stories, without notes. Join WBEZ at the Auditorium for stories of provenance, nagging truths, startling discoveries, and hard-fought wisdom, as they are recorded live for The Moth Podcast and Moth Radio Hour.
The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
December
December 03rd, 2025, Wednesday, 05:30 p.m
Driehaus Museum
The Gilded Gala
The Gilded Gala is the Driehaus Museum’s annual celebration of artistic excellence and Chicago’s cultural legacy, benefitting the Museum’s transformative public programming and mission of expanding access to extraordinary art, architecture, and design. This year’s event will honor John Vinci, Philip Hamp, and Vinci | Hamp Architects in recognition of their pioneering restoration work, historic preservation advocacy, and contributions to Chicago’s cultural landscape and built environment.
Driehaus Museum, 50 East Erie Street, Chicago
For tickets and sponsorships contact gala@driehausmuseum.org or call (312) 874-5912
December 04th, 2025, Thursday, 06:00 – 09:00 p.m
Women’s Auxiliary of Misericordia
Merry Mingle
Festive attire. Help us support more than 650 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who call Misericordia home. No act of generosity is too small to make a difference.
Michigan Shores Club, 911 Michigan Avenue, Wilmette
More information here
December 6th, 2025, Saturday, 10:00 a.m & 1:00 p.m
Music Institute of Chicago
Duke It Out! Nutcracker
The Music Institute’s Ensemble in Residence Quintet Attacca and members of Braeburn Brass team up with Dance Chicago in a family-friendly, one-hour version of The Nutcracker that alternates between Tchaikovsky’s original score and the jazz version by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. Between the two performances, an instrument petting zoo takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Nichols Concert Hall lobby. This interactive event features hands-on exploration of various instruments, including violin, viola, cello, guitar, and piano with guidance from Music Institute faculty members. $20 general admission.
Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston
Tickets and more information here
December 17th, 2025, Wednesday, 07:00 p.m
The Auditorium
Pink Martini’s All-Stars Present: A Season Of Stars
Thomas Lauderdale’s globe-trotting “little orchestra” Pink Martini is back with an all-new holiday show that brings triple the joy! Led on stage by NPR’s dashing Ari Shapiro, the soulful Edna Vazquez, and the sensational America’s Got Talent finalist Jimmie Herrod, these three vibrant voices will deck the halls with a spirited global holiday journey, destined to bring three times the sparkle into this festive season.
The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago
Tickets here
