1. See Chicago’s most adventurous comedy
The Neo-Futurists’ Too Much Light Makes The Baby Go Blind has been running continuously since 1988 for a reason: the talented group is constantly able to surprise its audience. (Neo-Futurarium, 5153 N Ashland Ave, Fri-Sat 11:30pm, Sun 7pm. Advance $20, at the door $10-$15 or $9 plus the roll of a six-sided die)
2. Make the pilgrimage to the Butter Cow
So it's technically not Chicago, but if you’re feeling like a weekend away, trek down to Springfield for the Illinois State Fair. Come for the festival fare, stay for the Butter Cow. (Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave, Springfield, 7am-Midnight. $10, seniors $3, children free)
Head to Revel Fulton Market and you’ll find a warehouse full of video games for the annual Bit Bash, the interactive arts festival. Guests will be able to try virtual reality and video games while enjoying food truck dishes and live music. (Revel Fulton Market, 1215 W Fulton Market, Sat 2pm-10pm. $30, advance $25.
Some of reggae’s biggest stars will be gathering in Addams/Medill park this weekend for the annual Reggae Fest Chicago. Spend the day jammin’ with acts including Toots & The Maytals and Lee “Scratch” Perry. (Addams/Medill Park, 1301 W 14th St, Sat 12pm-10pm. $45, VIP $75)
Enjoy live martial arts, cultural songs, classical dances and authentic Japanese food at the Ginza Holiday Festival. (Midwest Buddhist Temple, 435 W Menomonee St, Fri 5:30pm-9pm, Sat 11:30am-9pm, Sun 11:30-5pm. $7, students and seniors $6, kids under 12 free)