1. Art crawl your way through Pilsen
The second Friday of the month is finally here, which means Pilsen’s Chicago Arts District is the place to be. This thriving hotbed of art galleries and artists-in-residence opens its doors to the public for the 2nd Fridays Gallery Night. You can take a six-block, self-guided tour through more than 30 galleries and studios, then keep the excitement going at one of Pilsen’s many tantalizing bars or eateries. You can also find everything you need to know about Pilsen with our mandatory guide. (Chicago Arts District, 1945 S Halsted St, Fri 6pm. Free)
2. Indulge in a classic pairing
No question about it, bacon and beer go together like, well is there a better combo? All-inclusive tickets to this Soldier Field event get you three hours of sinful tastings, complete with grisly bacon dishes from local favorites like Flo & Santos, Crazy Bird Chicken and Pierogi Street, plust craft beer from Founders, Urban Chestnut and Brooklyn Brewery. (Soldier Field, 1410 S Museum Campus Dr, Sat brunch session 1–3pm, dinner session 7–10pm. $59, VIP $99)
The author, actor and playwright Lewis Black is known worldwide for his stand-up, where his beyond frustrated, off-the-rails ranting is not only hilarious, but socially and politically charged. You’ve seen him go batshit on The Daily Show and in his acclaimed TV specials, but the Chicago Theatre is the place to see him lose it IRL Saturday. (Chicago Theatre, Sat 8pm. $39.50-$75)
4. Take part in our favorite marathon
When it comes to the Chicago Marathon, you might be a hardcore running machine or a spirited spectator, but pretty much everyone puts their athleticism to the test or comes out to cheer on the masses with hilarious signs and plenty of pride. On Sunday, some 45,000 runners will hit the streets on a 26.2-mile tour of the city. Find everything you need to know and see tons of pics from past years to pump you up in our Chicago Marathon guide. (Begins in Grant Park, 337 E Randolph St, Sun, 9am)
5. Don't miss your last chance to see a gem of a performance
August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean, part of the prolific writer’s 10-play cycle, shines brightly under the knowledgeable direction of Ron OJ Parson, and by the strength of the show’s performances. See the metaphysical play set in early 1900 Pittsburgh, where slavery lingers in the memories of the characters, before it closes this weekend. (Court Theatre, 5535 S Ellis Ave, Fri 8pm, Sat 3 & 8pm, Sun 2:30 & 7:30pm. $45–$65)