What's on Dec: November 12, 2015
Follow me on facebook.com/BillyDec and twitter.com/BillyDec as I also share more EVENT INFO and FREE TICKETS as they come to me during the week. Enjoy!
Black Cat Ball, Sat November 21, 7pm, Redmoon Spectacle Hall, $150
Details: Come out to the Black Cat Ball where you can have a ball while raising money for a great cause! This ball is hosted by Tree House which helps with animal rescues and adoptions. This event will include tasty cocktails, a silent auction, and of course some amazing food and entertainment that will get you dancing! Don't miss out! Help the kitties by having a great time at this one of a kind event!
https://bcb2015.auction-bid.org/micro2.php
CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN TICKETS TO BLACK CAT BALL!
Unity Award Dinner, Tue December 1, 5pm, Chicago Hilton (720 South Michigan Avenue), $150-$1500
Details: It's the thirteenth year of the Unity Award Dinner, and it's sure to be entertaining. The dinner includes an awards presentation which will recognize the tireless efforts of those who make significant contributions to the legal community! This rewarding dinner will also award scholarships to law students who have represented dedication to the legal profession as well! It is sure to be an event worth seeing, especially honoring those who deserve it!
http://diversitychicago.org/dc/events/2015-unity-award-dinner/
CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN TICKETS TO UNITY AWARD DINNER!
PNC Bank Winter WonderFest, Sat December 5-Sun January 10, 10am, Navy Pier, $9-$75
Details: Get ready to walk in a Winter WonderFest! Enjoy the winter weather in all of its glory at Navy Pier! There will be dozens of rides, slides, fun photo ops, and much more winter themed fun held indoors! A Chicago Blackhawks ice skating rink, Polar Extreme challenge course, and Ice Peaks Climbing Walls will provide you and your family with all of the thrills and chills you're looking for this winter.
http://www.achicagothing.com/winter-wonderfest-at-navy-pier/
CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN TICKETS TO WINTER WONDERFEST!
BrewLights, Wed December 2, 5:30pm, Lincoln Park Zoo, $40-$60
Details: Beer and holiday lovers, unite! This beer-tasting event puts a spin on one of Chicago's most loved holiday traditions, ZooLights! Guests can enjoy a dozen different draft beers, from your favorite pale ales to new stouts. Regular activities that go along with ZooLights will be included in the event. Spend the evening tasting your favorites and new beers while being surrounded by the brilliant beauty of 2 million twinkling lights!
http://www.lpzoo.org/events/calendar/brewlights
CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN TICKETS TO BREW LIGHTS!
FLIGHT 2015, Fri November 13, 7pm, Four Seasons Hotel, $275
Details: Travel to Argentina for the night in order to benefit Children's Oncology Services, INC at FLIGHT! This charitable event will offer yummy food, some wine to sip on, cocktails to take down, and some entertainment that will truly make you feel like you are in Argentina! The event will have a cocktail reception and a seated dinner which is sure to be a great time! So take a trip to help benefit cancer research!
http://www.achicagothing.com/team-one-step-takes-flight-to-benefit-childrens-oncology-services /
CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN TICKETS TO FLIGHT 2015!
Marinarathon, Sun November 15, 1pm, Morgan Manufacturing, $30-60
Details: Ask any Italian chef whose sauce is best, and of course they'll all say the same thing; "Mine!" Well this is your chance to make these chefs put their money (marinara) where their mouth is! Enjoy all the Italian food you can handle and YOU be the judge as to who's gravy is the best. Participating restaurants include Formento's, Rosebud, La Scarola, Three Aces, Prosecco and more of your local favorites!
CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN TICKETS TO MARINARATHON!
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light, Thu November 19-Sun January 3, Times Vary, Museum of Science and Industry, $18
Details: See for yourself what Christmas looks like around the world at the Museum of Science and Industry. The museum will feature a 45-foot Grand Tree that will be the center of all the trees which is sure to be stunning! Surrounding the tree will be 50 smaller trees that will represent various cultures and holiday traditions from all over the world. Ethnic songs and dances will also be featured while you stroll through the global winter wonderland, so it's sure to be a treat!
http://www.msichicago.org/whats-here/exhibits/christmas-around-the-world/
A Red Orchid Theatre's 2015 Gala, Sat November 14, 5:30pm, Sunda and The Underground, $300
Details: Be sure to check out the gala celebration to kick off A Red Orchid Theatre's 23rd season held at trendy Asian restaurant Sunda! It will be hosted by Ensemble member Michael Shannon and Billy Dec with live and silent auctions that are sure to be exciting! After you enjoy the amazing cuisine and gala at Sunda, the party will move over to The Underground for the after party where there will be a live performance from ProbCause! Spots are limited, so make sure you don't miss out!
http://www.aredorchidtheatre.org/special_programs/coming-soon/
A Christmas Carol, Sat November 14- Sun December 27, Times Vary, The Goodman Theatre, $26+
Details: Don't be a Scrooge! Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year by seeing one of the most beloved Christmas shows out there! There's no better way to get into the holiday spirit than to watch the Christmas magic that will be sure to be radiating off the stage! The show is celebrating its 38th year and is basically a Chicago holiday tradition, so be sure to check see this holiday treat to get ready for Christmas!
https://www.goodmantheatre.org/joy/
Pour Out your Heart for Commons, Fri November 13, 7pm, Galleria Marchetti (825 W. Erie St.), $175
Details: It's time to get some wine bottles pourin'! Pour Out your Heart for Commons is a great event that has you sipping, dining, and bidding all for a great cause! All proceeds go to benefit programs that provide support for child development, youth services, adult education and senior services! So come out to drink some good wine and eat some tasty food all while helping out charity!
http://chicagocommons.org/event/pouroutyourheart
Polish Film Festival, Fri November 6-Sun November 22, Times Vary, Venues Vary, $10-$75
Details: There might be a lot of film festivals out there, but you've never been to one like the Polish Film Festival! Enjoy the unique films that come straight from Poland and Polish filmmakers which include documentary, drama, and animated films that you can't quite catch in the US! This is the festival every film guru needs to attend for these films are sure to be awesome! Check it out and also vote for your favorite to give these filmmakers the praise they deserve!
Mamma Mia!, Tues November 10- Sun November 15, Times Vary, Cadillac Palace Theatre, $25+
Details: "Mama Mia! Here I go again!" Come out and see one of the catchiest musicals to date! The ultimate feel-good show is back in Chicago that will have you sure to be singing along! ABBA's greatest hits will definitely be featured in the show, which will be sure to bring fun and laughter to all who attend! Grab your girlfriends and be sure to catch this Broadway musical that is the 9th longest running show in Broadway history! Come on out "Dancing Queens," you know you don't wanna miss it!
http://broadwayinchicago.com/show/mamma-mia-2015/
America's Baking and Sweets Show, Fri November 13- Sun November 15, Renaissance Hotel Schaumburg, (1551 Thoreau Dr.), $13+
Details: That sweet tooth of yours is sure to be satisfied once you come out to the Baking and Sweets Show! With the theme of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" it's sure to be a magical time where you can see celebrity demos, take hands-on classes, and compete in some amazing competitions. It gets even better because Duff Goldman, the "Ace of Cakes," will be there to give his secret tips to the perfect cakes along with Brian Emmett, Heather Saffer, and more! There's nothing sweeter than this event, see you there!
http://americasbakingandsweetsshow.com/
JASC's Annual Holiday Delight, Sat November 14th, 10am, JASC (4427 N. Clark St.), FREE
Details: Come out and support the Japanese American Service Committee by beginning the holiday season celebration! Holiday Delight is a children's festival that has a market full of Japanese, Japanese American, and Asian handcrafted goods that will be sure to help you get a head start on some holiday shopping! Your hunger will be satisfied by sushi, teriyaki kabobs and burgers as well as other homemade goods that are sure to be nothing less than delicious! There will be games, crafts, dancing, and a surprise visit from none other than Santa himself! It's sure to get you into the holiday spirit!
http://www.jasc-chicago.org/holiday-delight/
Passport to France, Thur November 19, 6pm, Union League Club of Chicago, $110
Details: Always wanted to travel to France but just never had the chance? Well here is your closest opportunity to fulfill that dream! Passport to France is a night-long tribute to Chicago's finest French chefs, products, wines, spirits, and entertainment! The event will feature tastings of amazing food from classic bistros, bakeries, and cafes while also offering French wine and spirit pairings to compliment them! No flights necessary! Bonjour! You don't wanna miss this!
http://www.facc-chicago.com/events/passport-to-france-2015/
PlayCHIC, Thur November 19, 7pm, Alhambra Place (1240 W. Randolph St.), $45
Details: Calling all fashionistas! This is the event for you. PlayCHIC wants you to make a fashion statement that will make history! This fashion show pairs today's hottest designers with world-famous brands to create an evening full of fame, fashion, and fun! Release your inner super-model and grab your New York Fashion Week best, and be ready to witness a one-of-a-kind show all while munching on great snacks and sipping trendy cocktails!
http://playchicfashion.com/attend/
Mythbusters Live, Thur November 19, 7:30pm, Rosemont Theatre, $25+
Details: Enjoy some live-action myth busting at "Mythbusters Jamie and Adam Unleashed!" This show promises to be full of some jaw dropping discoveries with on-stage experiments, audience participation, rocking video and behind-the-scenes stories. Think about science like you never have before while helping the duo crack the mysteries of different myths you might believe in! It's Jamie's Farewell Tour so you don't want to miss out on this last chance!
http://www.rosemont.com/theatre/events/-mythbusters-jamie-and-adam-unleashed/
Beaujolais Nouveau Wine Tasting, Thu November 19, 5pm, Venues Vary in LaGrange, $45
Details: What are you doing just sitting there? You've got wines that need to be tasted! The annual Wine Fest in Downtown LaGrange is calling your name, and it's sure to not disappoint! Crawl to different locations in LaGrange such as Bella Bacino's, Santiago's, and La Buona Vita that will be more than happy to pour you samples of many different wines you absolutely have to try!
http://childlnk.org/events/beaujolais-nouveau-wine-celebration-2/
Women in Jazz Festival, Thur November 19-Sat November 21, 7:30pm, Nicholas Concert Hall, $30
Details: It's time to get jazzy with some of the most talented women in the world of jazz! Don't miss unforgettable performances by Anat Cohen Quartet, Tammy McCann, and Dee Dee Bridgewater! This festival won't disappoint if you're a huge fan of jazz music, for these ladies will blow you away with their amazing voices and musical skill. Don't miss out on a festival that is sure to get you dancin' to some great music!
http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1996214
Autumn Festival, Thu November 19-Sun November 22, Times Vary, The Odeum (1033 N. Villa Ave.), $9
Details: Celebrate the great things fall has to offer at the Autumn Festival in Villa Park! This fest will feature top quality arts and crafts from over 500 of the nation's finest exhibitors from 30 states selling unique crafts. Styles of crafts will range from country, contemporary, traditional, and southwestern which will ensure you find the perfect ones for you! There will also be local entertainers performing different acts such as music acts of folk, country, and bluegrass as well as cloggers and jugglers. It's sure to be a good time!
http://hpifestivals.com/autumn-festivals
Festival of Barrel Aged Beer, Fri November 20-Sat November 21, Times Vary, UIC Forum
Details: 'Tis the season for barrel-aged beers! It's time to celebrate some amazing beers at the country's largest celebration of wood and barrel-aged beers. There will be brewers from all over the state and country with craft beers with some even being rare! You don't want to miss out on trying some of these one of a kind brews! Did we mention there will be over 300 beers to try? That's right! Raise a glass and come out to try some awesome beers!
http://www.illinoisbeer.com/events/fobab/
Days of the Dead, Fri November 20-Sun November 22, Times Vary, Schaumburg Marriott (50 N. Martingale Rd.), $30+
Details: For those of you who love horror and terror, boy is this the convention for you! Rumor has it this is where horror comes to party, and luckily you're invited! Celebrities who are the kings and queens of all things scary will also be there, such as Elvira herself, Tony Moran (Michael Myers), Bret Hart, and many many more! Check out exclusive merch featured at the convention as well as special effects that go into some of your horror favorites! It is sure to be terrifyingly awesome!
http://www.daysofthedead.net/chicago/
Christkindlmarket, Fri November 20-Thu December 24, 11am, Daley Plaza, FREE
Details: It's the event that Christmas lovers are sure to be looking forward towards every single year! The Christkindlmarket is finally almost here! This traditional German market is Chicago's largest Christmas festival yet, and is sure to still deliver the Christmas feel you love again this year! Enjoy a night of food, music, beer in a boot, and warm wine that is sure to bring the Christmas spirit! Don't forget to shop through the vendor booths that will have the best Christmas goodies you can find!
http://www.christkindlmarket.com/
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, Sat November 21, 11am, Michigan Ave, FREE
Details: Who says you can only catch Mickey and Minnie Mouse in Disney World? Don't worry, they will be making an appearance at the BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival! Gather around Michigan Ave. to enjoy rockin' concerts by top musical artist and a tree-lighting parade! There will also be some great family activities as well as a fireworks spectacular show over the Chicago River! Get in the Christmas spirit and don't miss out on one of the best Chicago Christmas events there is!
http://www.themagnificentmile.com/events/lights-festival/
Chicago Book Expo, Sat November 21, 11am, Columbia College Chicago, FREE
Details: Do you love a great book every now and then? Well this is the expo for you! Chicago Book Expo hosted by Columbia College Chicago will be featuring an expo floor where you can buy books from local presses and authors, over 15 programs, readings, and workshops! For lovers of having a physical book to read, this is definitely something you're not going to want to miss out on!
Chicago Toy and Game Fair, Sat November 21-Sun November 22, 10am, Navy Pier, $10
Details: It doesn't really get much better than this crazy fun fair for kids of all ages! This toy and game fair has you able to preview games and toys from all around the world! From life-size Tonka Trucks, to giant Jenga, to laser tag, puzzles, ride-on vehicles, and an electronic petting zoo, there really isn't much you won't find at this great fair for the family! There will also be the world's biggest unboxing event that you definitely want to be a part of!
Muscle Car Convention, Sat November 21-Sun November 22, 9am, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, $20
Details: For all of you who just can't get enough of some hot rods, then you should check out the Muscle Car Convention! You're sure to be in awe for there will be plenty of old school cars that are sure to bring some back to some old memories and leaving some a little envious! Mustangs, Corvettes, convertibles, oh my! There will be celebrity appearances including Dennis Pittsenbarger, competitions, premiere unveilings, kids activities, and more!
http://www.mcacn.com/features.htm
Randolph Street's Holiday Market, Dates Vary starting Sat November 21, 10am, 1340 W. Washington St, $8
Details: With Chicago Magazine recommending Randolph Street's Holiday Market as the "top holiday shopping," what else is there you need to hear? Get your holiday shopping started right with thrifty and extravagant gifts that you are sure to love! The market will feature a unique mix of antique, vintage, and modern goods that you won't find anywhere else! What are you waiting for?! Get shopping!
http://www.randolphstreetmarket.com/holidaymarket/index.html
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Tues November 24, 5:30pm, Millennium Park, FREE
Details: The Christmas Tree lighting is definitely a Chicago tradition that you must be present for! But listen up because things have changed! Chicago's beloved Christmas tree will now be found in Millennium Park, and it's sure to be extravagant! You won't want to miss the excitement of finally brightening up the city with the big amazing Christmas tree finally being lit! "O Christmas tree" it is sure to be awesome!
http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/tree0.html
Charity Concert For The John G Breault Scholarship Fund, Sat November 14, 6pm, Durty Nellies (180 N. Smith St.), $25
Details: There is nothing better than having awesome music to enjoy, people you want to be around to have a good time with, and enjoying all of this for charity! This is a concert series that is going to benefit the John G. Breault Scholarship fund featuring headliner Wild Adriatic with a special guest Marty Casey! So come out and listen to some good music and help out a fantastic cause!
Remix Chicago Holiday Craft Fair, Sat November 28, 10am, Broadway Armory Park, $50
Details: Remix, Rethink, Recycle! ...Or at least that's what we hope you think after attending this creative holiday craft fair! Artists are changing the way communities think about the value of recyclables by creating original, handmade art, clothing, jewelry, and many other awesome things that you can purchase at this fair! There will be a variety of amazing artists along with food from forward-thinking restaurants, beverages, and music to get you into the holiday spirit! So come out and check out these Earth-friendly crafts you'll be dying to buy at this one-of-a-kind craft fair!
Cookies and Cheer, Thu December 3, 5:30pm, Fairmont Chicago (Rouge Room), $50
Details: The Fairmont bakes, you take. Skip out on baking and let this event take care of that for you! With the modern spin on the cookie exchange, you'll get to spend the evening sipping on cocktails and enjoying baked goods without having to lift a finger in the kitchen! Not only do you get to taste as many cookies as you can handle while at the event, you also get to choose three dozen that they'll wrap up and send home with you!
http://www.themillenniumparkhotel.com/dining/upcoming-events/cookie-exchange
The Last Speakeasy on the Eve of Repeal, Thu December 3, 6:30pm, The Chicago History Museum (North Ave. & Clark St.), $75-$150
Details: Spend the evening with your favorite guys and dolls celebrating the 82nd anniversary of the repeal of the prohibition! There will be prohibition inspired rye cocktails, free novelty gambling tables for you to test your luck at, and a dance floor to spend all night on! Put on your best era inspired get up and head over to the juice joint for a long night of fun...or until the feds find you!
Beer Fest Beat Down, Sat December 12, 2pm, Sears Centre Arena (5333 Prairie Stone Parkway), $10-$65
Details: Enjoy beers, bites, and beatdowns to start your holiday season as the Beer Fest Beat Down rattles the Sears Centre! The Fest offers craft beers from over 30 breweries that will be featuring over 100 craft beers, ciders, and limited edition seasonal pours! Partner your brews with some bites from El Santa Diabla Cantina food trucks! Lucha Libre wrestling brings the high-energy excitement of the beat down!
http://www.achicagothing.com/beer-bites-beat-down
One of a Kind Show + Sale, Thu December 3-Sun December 6, 11am Thu-Fri & 10am Sat-Sun, $9-$12
Details: Are you looking for one of a kind holiday gifts? Then the One of a Kind Show + Sale is perfect for you! The show is a great alternative to traditional retail shopping you get stuck with every holiday season. There will be unique, creative handmade gifts from over 600 artists! Any gifts that you choose will be something that you can't get anywhere else and will set your gifts apart! There is even a gift wrapping station to stop at on your way out! Spend your time at this Onederful show and you'll be all set for your holiday shopping!
http://www.oneofakindshowchicago.com/showinformation/
Lyce French Market, Fri December 4-Sun December 6, 7pm Fri, 11am Sat, 10am Sun, (1929 W. Wilson Ave.), $7-$30
Details: Oh l l! Immerse yourself in French culture while wining and dining in all things the market has to offer! The campus turns into a bustling Parisian market where many local and French artisans will be showcased. Decorative arts, fine wares, wood works, home decor, jewelry, apparel, accessories, gourmet food, and much more will be available for purchase! Make sure you don't miss your chance to escape to France while still in Chicago!
http://www.lyceechicago.org/get-involved/lycee-french-market
Winterfest, Sat December 5, 11am, Marion St. & South Lake St. (Oak Park), $20
Details: Make your way out to Downtown Oak Park for their annual cookie walk! Each participant will receive a souvenir cookie tin and a map of the over 45 venues that are a part of the walk! Make a stop at each of the shops and restaurants to receive a cookie or piece of delicious candy! After you've had your fill of candy and cookies, spend the rest of the day enjoying the family-friendly entertainment while sipping on free hot chocolate and coffee!
http://www.downtownoakpark.net/signature-event/winterfest/
Holiday Cheers! Seasonal Tasting at Wonderland Express, Wed December 9, 6pm, Chicago Botanic Garden (Burnstein Hall), $25-$33
Details: Cheers to the holiday season! Spend the evening at the Chicago Botanic Garden drinking the best of the season. Enjoy tastings of local spirits, wine, and winter brews! The tasting will be surrounded by the Wonderland Express exhibition of trains and more than 80 Chicago landmarks! Don't miss the chance to spend time in the beautiful garden while enjoying a delicious tasting!
http://www.chicagobotanic.org/cheers
Polar Adventure Days, Sat December 12, 12pm, Northerly Island, FREE
Details: Don't let the winter weather ruin your sense of adventure! You can learn about animals that are native to Illinois, the science behind snow formations, and come face-to-face with birds of prey, huskies, and wolves! Winter themed art and music from a local band where be there for your entertainment! If there's enough snow, which of course there will be because we live in Chicago, you can even try snowshoeing! Head out to Northerly Island for a day filled with all of the outdoor fun that winter has to offer!
Ugly Sweater Run/Walk, Sat December 12, 11am, Soldier Field, $25-$50
Details: Pick out your best ugly sweater and get ready to run! Join thousands of runners, walkers, and prancers in the merriest 5K in the country! The 3.1 mile course will take you through beautiful sections of the city and its parks! You can ditch the water and get refreshed at each mile marker with a delicious cup of hot chocolate. Sing along to the holiday music and spend your day spreading cheer mile after merry mile!
http://theuglysweaterrun.com/locations/chicago-illinois/
Chicago Christmas Crawl, Sat December 12, 10am, Old Town, $35
Details: In the air there's the feeling of Christmas... Chicago Christmas Crawl, that is! The event will showcase 15 different venues and their food tasting and cocktail specials that you're sure to love! The spirit of the season is celebrated with food, friends, and fun! Each venue will offer a tasting portion so participants can go on a "food crawl" through the neighborhood. Get in the holiday spirit with fun, food, and drinks!
http://chicagochristmascrawl.com
TBOX 2015: Festa's 12 Bars of Xmas Crawl, Sat December 12, 8am, Wrigleyville, $50.24-$226.10
Details: The most popular bar crawl in Wrigleyville is back again for it's 20th Annual 12 Bars of Christmas Crawl! Grab the ugliest sweater you can find in your grandma's closet and be ready to get into the holiday spirit by crawling to the lively bars by Wrigley Field! To make it better, the crawl also benefits charities promising to donate at least $50,000! It's the most wonderful day of the year! Think you can make it to all 12?!
https://festa.hastickets.com/TBOX-Twelve-Bars-Of-Xmas-Chicago-Pub-Crawl-Tickets
Randolph Street Holiday Market, Sat December 12-Sun December 13, 10am, Plumbers Hall (1340 W. Washington), $3-$30
Details: Get your holiday shopping off to a great start at the Randolph Street Holiday Market! The Market is your one-stop shop for every unique, memorable, and custom-made gift you want to buy for the special people in your life! There are awesome gifts for all ages and in all price ranges! Wrap up your holiday shopping with a trip to the Holiday Market!
http://www.randolphstreetmarket.com/holidaymarket/index.html
Holiday Treasure Hunt and Tea Party, Sun December 13, 10:45am, Art Institute Chicago (Modern Wing), $15-$35
Details: The Art Institute is full of treasures and they're waiting to be found! The day will be filled with an amazing journey through the museum that will need your imagination! There are four stops on the Treasure Hunt and each stop will help complete an activity book filled with stamps and stickers. Join Artie the Lion after the Treasure Hunt for a tea party that kids are sure to love!
http://www.artic.edu/event/34th-annual-holiday-treasure-hunt-and-tea-party
