There are still fun things to do in Chicago every weekend, even after Lollapalooza. Here’s a list of the 4 happenings I’m looking forward to most.
Adults Night Out at the Lincoln Park Zoo
When: Friday, August 8th, 6:30 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo
Why you may want to attend: LPZoo tried this concept once in June. It was so successful that they decided to reinstitute an adults only night in August. If you need a break from the kids and you hate crowds, visit the zoo today for an experience just perfect for you. More bars than usual (because apparently being an adult means drinking frequently) and date-night themed activities promise a novel experience in the city’s favorite free zoo. The event, however, is not free. Be prepared to pay at most $15 for entrance at the gate tonight.
More info: http://www.lpzoo.org
Retro on Roscoe
When: Saturday, August 9th and Sunday, August 10th,Noon – 10 p.m.
Where: Roscoe Village (bounded by Addison Street and Belmont Avenue from Ravenswood Avenue on the east to the Chicago River on the west)
Why you may want to attend: Remember the times when music was performed by musicians? Retro on Roscoe wants to take you back with three stages featuring Chicago’s BEST cover bands playing throwback and current pop hits. In tune with the theme, there will also be a retro car show with over 50 antique, classic and muscle cars throughout the festival weekend. The neighborhood’s best restaurants will be serving up the eats and the usual rows of talented artisans will be on hand. This should be a lot of fun! Suggest donation: $10
More info: http://roscoevillage.org/event-calendar/retro-on-roscoe/
The Bud Billiken Parade
When: Saturday, August 9th, 10 a.m.
Where: King Drive at Oakwood Blvd
Why you may want to attend: It’s old, huge, and pretty important to a lot of people. Even the president wishes he could come (here’s him saying so). Founded in 1905, the Bud Billiken Parade is the second largest parade in the nation. Its purpose is to provide underprivileged youth with a chance to be recognized. Pretty awesome, right? The often celebrity decorated event is funded by Chicago Defender Charities and features the amazing talents of local kids.
More info: http://www.budbillikenparade.org
Slow & Low
When: Sunday, August 10th, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Where: Pilsen, 600 W Cermak Road
Why you may want to attend: This is probably the most certifiably cool thing happening this weekend. “Master craftsmen, innovative mechanics, custom pin-stripers and muralists contribute to the overall visual aesthetics of Lowrider culture and community.” Slow&Low is the only lowrider community festival in Chicago. Folks travel for miles to show off their work. Expect a kid family atmosphere and amazing Hispanic foods.
More info: http://www.chicagolowriderfestival.com/