According to weather reports, rain clouds will be ominously hovering above our entire weekend. No need to be gloomy, though! Two of the best things to do in Chicago this weekend are indoors, including one festival. The third event? Well, it’s a pyro-fest. So, no. Rain would not be a good thing. Here’s to hoping the meteorologist got it wrong.
Nora Fiffer, Jerod Haynes, Jeff Blim, Eric Lynch
Native Son
When: Wednesdays-Sundays until October 19th
Where: Court Theatre, 5535 S Ellis Ave (Hyde Park)
Why you may want to attend: The Richard Wright novel was part of my required reading in high school, as it was for many students. The book’s combating themes of human worth and self-perception, while thought provoking, were a bit beyond my grasp at 14 years old. Today, however, we all have the context necessary to fully digest this storyline. The play is being called one of the writing’s best adaptations. Set in Chicago, Native Son follows the story of Bigger, an accidental murderer with a displaced feeling toward his own humanity.
More info: Court Theatre
Mac & Chesese Fest
When: Saturday October 4th, Noon – 3 p.m.
Where: UIC Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Rd
Why you may want to attend: Hear that? It’s the sound of your heart standing in protest. For sure, Mac & Cheese Fest isn’t about your health, it’s about nostalgia and coma inducing intakes of calories and carbs. For the price of admission ($50!), taste as much you’d like from the offerings of 50 gourmet chefs who each put their own spin on this staple dish, plus 5 alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks.
More info: Mac and Cheese Fest
Chicago Fire Festival
When: Saturday October 4th, 8 p.m.
Where: At the Chicago River, between State and Columbus
Why you may want to attend: It’s not quite clear if this is a festival to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, or if it’s actually a festival celebrating fire in Chicago. According to event creators, The Chicago Fire Festival is a “a free event to unite Chicago’s neighborhoods and celebrate Chicago’s grit, greatness and renewal following the fire of 1871.” Off the record, though, it’s an excuse to safely set a bunch of stuff on fire. There’s a Brian Howard reference in there somewhere but I’m too smart and lazy to find it.
More info: Chicago Fire Festival