1. Sample some good gravy (and cheese curds)
Is there really anything better than crispy french fries smothered in gravy and topped with cheese curds? How about more than 10 different restaurants serving up their own versions and battling it out at Poutine Fest for the "King of Poutine" title. Head over to the Chop Shop this weekend and wash down all the poutine goodness with a cold beer (or two). (Chop Shop, 2033 W North Ave, noon-4pm on Sunday. $50-$60)
See some mesmerizing performances at the Joffrey Ballet's Bold Moves program. This contemporary ballet program includes the stirring "Forgotten Land" by Jiří Kylián, the spellbinding "RAkU" by Yuri Possokhov and the stunning world premiere of British choreographer Ashley Page. (Auditorium Theater, 50 E Congress Pkwy, 7:30pm Friday, 2pm and 7:30pm Saturday, and 2pm Sunday. $32-$155)
3. Watch larger-than-life movies
See movies the way they were meant to be seen: In 70mm on a 41-foot screen with a 7.1 channel sound system. Thousands of pounds of film, including movies such as Vertigo and Ghostbusters, were shipped across the country for the Music Box's 70mm Film Festival. It kicks off on Friday with more than 15 movies playing until early March. (Music Box Theater, 3733 N Southport Ave. $13 general, $10 members)
Just because there's a slight chill in the air doesn't mean you have to stay inside. Bring the family to a Polar Adventure Day and explore nature's winter wonder with the chance to play with Siberian huskies, encounter birds of prey and sip hot cocoa at Northerly Island. (Northerly Island, 1400 S Linn White Dr, noon to 4pm on Saturday. Free)
5. Dance to someone else's beats
Meet at the Mid in the West Loop for a night of dancing during electronic artist Tycho's DJ set at this multi-level live music venue and night club. Producer and artist Scott Hansen's set usually draws upon his own dreamy digital compositions, mixed with house and trance selections. (The Mid, 306 N Halsted St, 10pm on Friday. $20-25)