1. Carpe diem
Hey, early birds! Start off your weekend with Daybreaker Chicago, an early morning dance party with breakfast treats and music from Win & Woo and The Noise FM. The dance party begins at 7am, but if you're up for a little morning Zen, a yoga power hour begins at 6am. Half of ticket proceeds go to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. (Macy's, 111 N State St, 6am for yoga and dance, 7am for dance party. $20–$30.)
The family from The Sound of Music was based on a real family, the von Trapps, and they're coming to Chicago to perform. They're joined by the Midwest Young Artists children's choral ensemble and Chicago Symphony Orchestra for two days this weekend. If you can't make these shows, they have three more performances early next week as well. (Symphony Center, Orchestra Hall, 220 S Michigan Ave, 7pm Friday & 3pm Saturday. $38–$108)
Yes, yes, it seems the holiday markets never end this time of year. Well, Africa International House's pre-Kwanzaa holiday sale offers something more than the average market. In addition to the holiday vendors, you'll also find loads of great food, plus live storytelling and music. (Harris Park, 6200 S Drexel Blvd, 5pm Friday & 10am Saturday. Free)
4. See some very good Bad Jews
The long-running abrasive comedy Bad Jews was so successful that the Royal George Theatre picked up the play after its original run ended at Theater Wit. The show abounds with moments of nervous laughter, all the while questions of the importance of cultural heritage are examined. (Royal George Theatre, 1641 N Halsted St, 8pm Friday & Saturday, 2pm Saturday & Sunday. $24–$58)
Roots Handmade Pizza is opening a new Lincoln Square location, and delivery and carryout aren't options quite yet—so you'll have to make the trip. Roots serves Quad Cities-style pizza. No, it's not a joke. Quad Cities pizza has a sweet malt in the crust and a super thick layer of white cheese on top. Oh, and it's cut with scissors. (Roots Handmade Pizza, 2200 W Lawrence Ave, 11am. Prices vary)