If a trip to Ikea makes your heart go aflutter then this is about to become your favorite Chicago event. Sculptures, Objects and Functional Art (get it, SOFA?) showcases three-dimensional designs spanning the fine arts and functional decor in ceramics, wood, glass, fiber and metal at the large-scale Navy Pier expo. (Navy Pier, Festival Hall, 600 E Grand Ave, Fri & Sat 11am–7pm, Sun noon-6pm. $20, three-day pass $30)
Have an indie comedy movie marathon at the Chicago Comedy Film Festival, the fifth annual fest in Douglas Park. Get laughing with the kind of independent, student-made and international full-lengths and shorts you rarely get to see anywhere else. (The New 400 Theater, 6746 N Sheridan Rd, Fri & Sat. $17 Friday pass, $27 Sunday pass)
3. Walk through a window wonderland
Celebrate the holiday tradition of oohing at sparkling lights, oversized decorations and spending weekends near the holidays in department stores this Saturday at Macy’s on State Street. They will unveil "Santa's Journey to the Stars,” the 2015 holiday window display, plug in their lavish tree and welcome special guest, Jordin Sparks. (Macy’s, 111 N State St, Sat 10am window unveiling, noon tree lighting. Free)
Gear up for a super sweet trek at the annual Hot Chocolate 5K/15K. Take on the whole 15K or opt for the gentler 5K, then treat yourself to the post-race sweet treats. Runners even get a medal in the shape of a chocolate bar. (Grant Park, 337 E Randolph St, Sun 7am. 5K: $54; 15K: $79)
Celebrate another engaging Chicago Humanities Festival with a festive closing party. Eat, drink, mix and mingle at CHF’s grand finale with a Thalia Hall fiesta, featuring lively entertainment and live music from Sones de Mexico Ensemble and Dos Santos. (Thalia Hall, 1807 S Allport St, Sun 7pm. $12, members $9, students and teachers $5)