Category Archives: What’s Up This Month

Get Healthy for Free (Almost!) This Sunday

Get Healthy for Free (Almost!) This Sunday

After all that weekend partying, are you motivated to get healthy on Sunday? Take advantage of these low cost healthy activities on Sunday, February 23:

 

9 a.m. – Basics of Juicing Demo at Sur La Table ($5) – Located in 900 N. Michigan Bloomingdale’s Building. Watch the techniques of a Sur La Table chef creating healthy juices using fast or slow juicers, and learn the benefits of using seasonal vegetables.

11 a.m. – Exhale Power Yoga Flow class at Lululemon (free) – Located in 900 N. Michigan Bloomingdale’s Building. Take part in a free Sunday yoga class led by Jenny Finkel of Exhale Spa.

12 p.m. – Refuel at Freshii with a quinoa bowl (approx. $11) – Located in 900 N. Michigan Bloomingdale’s Building. Add protein such as salmon or chicken to power you through the day.

1 p.m. – Pick up a healthy dinner at Goddess and Grocer (25 E. Delaware). Choose from deli items, salads, sandwiches and more to takeaway for an evening dinner.

 

Now go get some rest and relaxation to wind down your week!

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Dance Your Heart Out – This Month’s Fire Dancers, Salsa Lessons and More

Dance Your Heart Out – This Month’s Fire Dancers, Salsa Lessons and More

“You better move, you better dance…” Despite the cold, there’s still plenty to do in Chicago this month! Spice things up with these dance-worthy events and festivals.

 

Flirt with Flamenco

Kicking off Friday, February 14, the Chicago Flamenco Festival treats you to the talented performances of flamenco dancers until March 22. The opening ceremony on Friday features international flamenco dancers and serves up bites and beers from Taco Joint and Lagunitas. The performances are followed by an after party led by DJ Soulphonetics. Check the website for times and locations of performances happening throughout the next month.

 

 

Meet the Dancers of the Joffrey Ballet

Inspired by the beautiful dancers in the Olympic opening ceremony? Catch Chicago’s local interpretation of contemporary dance in this month’s performances at the Joffrey Ballet (Friday, February 14 through Sunday, February 23). Also this month, Joffrey offers a unique opportunity to meet the artists behind the scenes. In advance of the performances on the 15th, 20th and 22nd, come in early for a discussion with the dancers, visiting choreographers and members of the creative team.

 

 

Groove to Motown Beats

Shhh – this event is top-secret! Featuring live soul and Motown performances, Speakeasy Chicago partners up with RM Champagne Salon to host their first monthly “The Green Street Social Club.” On Monday, February 17 at RM Champagne Salon (116 N. Green St.), enjoy craft cocktails while listening to some of Chicago’s hottest new musicians. Call 312-243-1199 for more details.

 

 

Play with Fire and Ice

Longing for the hot days of Pride Fest, boystown is keeping up the momentum at the Northalsted Winter Fest. Designate Sunday, February 23 (12 – 6 p.m.) a “Sunday Funday” highlighted by ice sculptures, drag queen contests, a 3D light show and even fire dancers! Events are held on the 3300 – 3700 blocks of north Halsted, with surrounding businesses on side streets lending their patios for the festivities. Stay warm with bowls of soup served up by local restaurants.

 

 

Learn to Salsa Dance

To celebrate Brazil’s famous Carnival, Chicago restaurant Nacional 27 (325 W. Huron) hosts events all weekend (February 27 – March 1). Kickoff the festival on Thursday, February 27 with complimentary salsa dance lessons at 7:30 p.m. The weekend’s events also include samba performances and conga lines. Fuel up with beachy cocktails and Hurricane fish bowls. Book reservations online to join in on the fun.

 

 

Reserve Tickets Now for the Hottest Dance Music Artists

Buy your tickets before they sell out to see the award-winning electronic music producer Armin Van Buuren at the United Center on Thursday, April 17. Only landing in eight cities, his tour will showcase his latest album, “Intense,” which includes songs such as “This Is What It Feels Like.”

 

Avicii is selling out concerts world-wide – buy yours now for his performance at Allstate Arena on Thursday, May 15.  Featuring collaborative songs such as “Wake Me Up” and “Hey Brother,” Avicii continues to provide new and innovative music extending beyond the EDM genre, providing a taste for everyone.

 

Photo credit: Edinburgh International Festival

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Fashion-Forward February

Fashion-Forward February

Chicago hosts a number of fashion and beauty events this month. Get your stylish self out there to enjoy!

 

Watch

  • Get a taste of Chicago’s designers on the runway at Chicago Women’s Wear Fashion Runway Show hosted by FashionBar. Benefiting the Inspired Youth Tutoring Program, the runway show will feature items from the designers’ fall/winter 2014 lines. The event takes place at the Drake Hotel’s Palm Court (140 E. Walton) on Thursday, February 13 from 6:30 – 10 p.m. Tickets available for $20 – 50, buy yours to claim your swag bag today!

 

Learn

  • Starting your own fashion business or blog? Get some advice on how to fund your business in the Dabble class “Creative Ways to Finance Your Fashion Business.” Image consultant Nancy Plummer hosts the class, walking you through how to set fees, build sponsorships and make a profit. Held at the Harold Washington Library (400 S. State) from 6 – 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19, tickets $25

 

Do

  • Beautify yourself in Dabble’s Curling Iron Class on Thursday, February 20 from 7 – 8 p.m. For $20, hairstylist Lynnea D. will show you the tricks of the trade and the best ways to curl your hair using products and a curling iron. This hands-on class will be supplemented by a lipstick lesson as well. Held at Goldplaited (2803 N. Sheffield)

 

  • Save the date for March 12 – J. Gordon Designs (2326 N. Clark) in Lincoln Park hosts the next session of their fantastic blow dry boot camps. Having previously attended this course, I can say it’s well worth going to learn how to tame your tresses with a blow dryer for a sleek look. The cost (usually $35) will be earned back in products from the salon. Request stylist Lauren and you will be blessed with blow dry skills for life

 

Buy

  • Shop all things monogrammed at All She Wrote (825 W. Armitage). Style yourself with a python leather clutch available in 8 colors, and of course personalization is an option. Browse their personalized stationery, gifts and more, and you might even be lucky enough to come across their “Monograms and Mimosas” events on an upcoming weekend

 

Out around town? Taking advantage of the events I post about? Share your photos with us on Instagram! Follow us @thechicagolifestyle

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What’s Up This Month: February 2014

What’s Up This Month: February 2014

Chicago Theatre Week

Top picks from Chicago actor Eli Branson:

Sure–you could escape the cold with another night out at the movies, but why not spend an evening with some real, LIVE actors and take advantage of Chicago Theatre Week!  From February 11th-16th tickets are discounted at most participating theatres for as low as $15-$30 (some places less!).

Best bets: These selections are based TOTALLY on what l think are must-sees, but since this is Chicago theatre, I guarantee any show you pick will be worth the (discounted!) price of admission.

  • From White Plains (Broken Nose Theatre @ The Greenhouse Theatre Center)  – coming off an incredible, GLAAD Award-winning off-Broadway run Michael Perlman’s play about bullying makes its Chicago Debut with the tagline “Just because it gets better doesn’t mean it didn’t happen.”  What happens when the nasty, thoughtless words we’ve said as children come back to haunt us in adulthood? Tickets (with discount code) here.
  • Improv All Stars (UP Comedy Club) – Maybe it’s all the “30 Rock” binge-watching I’ve indulged in, but a night of improv (with a “Suggested R” rating) directed by living-legend Mick Napier sounds like the perfect respite from our endless winter. $15 tickets here.
  • Tribes (Steppenwolf) – This story of a deaf man’s quest to find an identity outside his family unit is sparking a vibrant dialog about representations of disability in the theatre (as well as bowling-over critics).  See a show in the birthplace of Gary Sinise for only $30! Tickets (with discount code) here.
  • Hedda Gabler (Writer’s Theatre in Glencoe) – The Practically Perfect Kate Fry leads Broadway-bound director Kimberly Senior’s new production; wallow in the winter-time blues with this haunting domestic drama—maybe you won’t leave humming any tunes, but it’s sure to be a knock-out.  Tickets (with discount code) here.
  • Rough Crossing (First Folio Theatre, Oakbrook, IL) – this rollicking Tom Stoppard comedy is sure to be hilarious in a new treatment by First Folio Theatre.  Performances take place in the historic and gorgeous Mayslake Peabody Estate, so if you’re looking to see something outside the “blackbox” (HA!), take 290 West for a night in one of the most immersive theatre spaces in the area. Tickets (with discount code) here.

For a full listing of participating shows and theatres, go here: http://www.choosechicago.com/things-to-do/arts-culture-and-entertainment/chicago-theatre-week/

 

Culture & Entertainment

  • Listen to the classical works of Stravinsky and Ravel at Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s “after dark” 21+ event, POST, on Friday, February 28 at 8 p.m. Discounted tickets ($35) provide admission to the entire performance and the after-concert lounge. Sip a cocktail while mingling with CSO’s musicians and composers. Also watch for the April POST event featuring Gershwin’s “An American in Paris” set
  • Sing along to Texas-born Pat Green’s performance at Joe’s on Weed, Friday, February 7 at 8:30 p.m. He puts on a great show and has the crowd singing along. Known for collaborations with the likes of Willie Nelson and Brad Paisley, Pat Green has been selling out his latest shows performing his soulful country music. Tickets $28

 

Food & Drinks

  • Learn how to make dumplings with Chef Bill Kim of bellyQ on-site (1400 W. Randolph) at on Saturday, February 1 at 11 a.m. For $37, learn the art of dumplings through various flavors: beef and cheddar, pork and cilantro, and buffalo chicken and blue cheese (just in time to impress your friends at your Super Bowl party!)
  • Make Whoopie Pies at deca restaurant (160 E. Pearson) to sweeten your February. Classes offered at 6 p.m. February 14 and 15, $40 per couple. The hands-on class will be supplemented by hors d’oeuvres and champagne. Call 312-573-5160 for reservations
  • Take part in 2 Sparrows’ monthly beer pairing dinner (533 W. Diversey) on Friday, February 7 at 7 p.m. Chef Gregory Ellis will take you through four courses on his German menu, including cassoulet and German chocolate cake, all paired with Metropolitan Brewing beers. Tickets are $55 for all food and drinks, and they have limited reservations available
  • Brave Navy Pier to attend the 2nd annual Chicago Cider Summit. Cider-lovers rejoice at the thought of samples from over 90 ciders around the world, with food pairings. $25 advance tickets will get you 8 tastings and a souvenir glass, with the option to purchase additional tastings. The event is on Saturday, February 8 with two sessions – 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 4 – 8 p.m.
  • Join wine enthusiasts nationwide for a virtual toast to Silver Oak’s 2009 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.  At City Winery (1200 W. Randolph), you can take part in a 20-year Silver Oak “release day” tradition and be the first to taste the newly released wine at 12 p.m. on Saturday, February 1. For $50, there will be several tastings with complementary appetizers and an etched wine glass to take home

 

Volunteer & Charity

  • Follow your passion and give back to the city by finding the right volunteer opportunities for you at the Chicago Volunteer Expo. On Sunday, February 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (2430 N. Cannon) hosts over 75 non-profit organizations showcasing opportunities for you to get involved. In the past I’ve found it difficult to find  volunteering events in the city, so I’m looking forward to seeing the great work we can take part in all over the city
  • Go all-out fancy for Snowball, the Saturday, February 8 gala benefiting the Pediatric and Adolescent HIV/AIDS Programs at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Complete with live music and a silent auction, Snowball is the annual charity event for Chicago’s young professionals. Tickets, $140+, provide entry to the event with food and drink features from around the city, and proceeds support access to high-quality healthcare for children with HIV/AIDS. Held in Union Station’s Great Hall, expect a night of dancing and mingling with the city’s finest
  • Bring your dogs to the party at PAWS Chicago’s Animal Magnetism gala, Friday, February 28 at Galleria Marchetti (825 W. Erie). Enjoy a night of drinks, dancing and live auction to better the lives of endangered animals throughout Chicago. Advance tickets $125/person and $25/pet
  • Take your charity work to the road by racing in Chiditarod, Chicago’s fourth annual costumed shopping cart relay race fundraiser. Join together with your team to race a shopping cart around the city in one of the largest mobile food drives benefiting the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Trade your ball gown for a crazy costume and expect a day of chaos, fun and laughter. Registration is open now ($55-70 per team) for the Saturday, March 1 event. Over 80,000 pounds have been donated to date, how much can you contribute?

 

Happy February!

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Best Bets: January 2014 (Part 2)

Best Bets: January 2014 (Part 2)

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Take advantage of Chicago’s upcoming events and offerings this month:

Culture:

  • Have a laugh as Chicago’s improv theater ComedySportz (929 W. Belmont) sets up a 1920s speakeasy-themed weekend (January 16 – 18) in honor of Prohibition. Shows are supplemented by live jazz music, prohibition-style cocktails and even a password to enter. Guests wearing costumes will receive $5 off their tickets
  • Only here for 8 weeks, The Phantom of the Opera opens at the Cadillac Palace Theater (151 W. Randolph) on January 9 – buy tickets to the world-renowned production before they sell out
  • Get dressed up and head to Art Institute After Dark for a 21+ museum party featuring a DJ, appetizers and a cash bar. This is your last chance to see the “Art and Appetite” exhibit before it closes. Friday, January 17, 9 p.m. – 12 a.m. Tickets $25. Enter through the Modern Wing at 159 E. Monroe

Entertainment:

  • The 5th annual Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Fest kicks off January 10 and features three weeks of concerts around town at Concord Music Hall, Tonic Room, City Winery and Evanston’s SPACE. Most notable is Rusted Root playing at Concord Music Hall on January 25 with Donna the Buffalo
  • If you can’t get enough drama, follow the trials and tribulations of Bravo’s chosen “Chicago socialite go-getters” on 100 Days of Summer. Tuesday’s premiere (9 p.m.) illustrated that they think we all must die after those 100 days are up. Prove them wrong!

Food:

  • If you’ve ever dreamed of being a chef, check out Le Cordon Bleu’s open house and cooking demo day this Saturday, January 11 at 10:30. Tour their industrial kitchens and pick up chef tips along the way. RSVP in the link above to reserve your spot (free)
  • Indoor foodie festival “The Nosh” sets up each Sunday with the Logan Square Farmer’s Market at 2755 N. Milwaukee from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Taste local artisanal food from multiple vendors sampling bites of Chicago

Fitness:

  • Take advantage of the last few days of Chicago Park District’s Free Fitness Week – sign up for free classes and swim lessons and work out at a number of Chicago-area gyms for free, only until January 12. Low-cost enrollment options are available after the free week is up
  • Drop in on a number of boutique workout classes for free this month, thanks to Nike Training Club Lincoln Park. With the close of their Armitage storefront last month, they’ve opened a window to give fans a chance to take advantage of free workouts around the city. Pick up your NTC Club Card at Nike Chicago or Nike Running Bucktown for access to studios such as Barre Bee Fit, Flywheel and Shred415
  • Fulfill your Bears-fan dream of running through Soldier Field by signing up for May 24′s Soldier Field 10 Mile race. Sign up by January 19 to save $20 off your registration fee
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Best Bets: January 2014

Best Bets: January 2014

Culture:

  • For the hardcore Cubbies fans: the 2014 Cubs Convention runs from January 17 – 19 to kick off the hundred year anniversary of Wrigley Field. Events include coach and player appearances, autograph signings and a preview of the centennial celebrations coming up this season
    • Date: Friday, January 17 – Sunday, January 19
    • Location: 301 East North Water Street
    • Cost: $60 for 3-day pass
  • Explore Chicago’s hidden pedways connecting 5 miles’ worth of buildings downtown. Tour options include history, brunch and pub crawls (times and pricing vary)

Food:

  • Indulge in a new dining experience during Chicago Restaurant Week. Held from January 24 – February 6, nearly 250 Chicago-area restaurants offer $22 lunch menus and $33 or $44 dinner menus. Make your reservations fast as they fill up quickly
    • Best bets (based on available published menus). Note that I am not vegetarian and my tastes swing to the meat-lovers side of the fence. Most of these restaurants offer vegetarian options as well:
      • Bar Pastoral – tempt your taste buds with braised pork belly and finish it off with salted caramel cheesecake
      • Café des Architects – I was sold when I saw braised short ribs. Take note that you can supplement any course with shaved French truffles
      • Howells & Hood – four words: truffle lobster pot pie. You can balance it out with the kale superfood salad
      • Mon Ami Gabi – $33 for all the classics – escargots, beef bourguignon and crème brulee
      • Table 52 – fried green tomatoes to start, then wash down your buttermilk fried chicken with an oatmeal cookie sandwich with buttercream icing

Fitness:

  • HIIT (high intensity interval training) class as part of Lululemon’s “Resolution Wednesdays” series this month
    • Date: Wednesday, January 22 at 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
    • Location: Lululemon – 2104 N. Halsted
    • Cost: Free
  • Ski the slopes at Devil’s Head Ski Resort – an hour and a half drive just across the Wisconsin border is a fun weekend day trip for skiers of all levels. While the “mountain” descriptor might be a bit of a stretch, it’s the best way to enjoy the snow this season

Entertainment:

  • My favorite Showtime escape, Shameless, returns for its fourth season on Sunday, January 12 at 8 p.m. CT. Watch as actors Emmy Rossum and William H. Macy survive Chicago’s south side

 

Go have fun this month – stay warm!

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