Bounce your way into the weekend
One of New Orleans’ finest exports, Big Freedia, brings her über-fun bounce beats to Chicago this weekend. The Queen Diva has previously led a crowd in an attempt to set the Guinness World Record for twerking, so come ready to dance. (Empty Bottle, 1035 N Western Ave, Fri 9pm. $25)
Fans of Japanese pop culture flock to Anime Central, the Midwest’s largest convention of its kind. Expect gravity-defying hairstyles, talkbacks with anime voice actors and illustrators, and late-night anime screenings. (Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Fri–Sun, 9am–11pm. $30–$70)
It’s Craft Beer Week, Chicago—time to drink up! We recommend hitting up South Side Craft Beer Fest, where you can sample 20 local breweries’ latest beers. And while you’re at it, check out our complete guide to the week. (Baderbräu Tap & Brewery, 2515 S Wabash, Sat 2–6pm. $55, VIP $60)
Have a bougie weekend in Lincoln Park
Spend this lovely spring weekend sipping wine outside at the inaugural Lincoln Park Wine Fest at Jonquil Park. Samples from more than 100 wines while listening to classic music—Sound fancy enough? (Jonquil Park, 1023 W Wrightwood Ave, Sat, Sun noon–5pm. $20–$75)
Lincoln Park Zoo’s summer fundraiser, Zoo-ologie 17: A Midsummer Night’s Roar offers great cocktails, chefs’ creations, live music and DJs. It’ll be the perfect weekend to dance on the lakefront. (Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N Clark St, 8pm. $135 and up)
Take your best friend out on the town
The Anti-Cruelty Society wants you spoil your pup at their Bark in the Park event this weekend. The day includes agility training courses, an open-air marketplace, doggie massages, “pawdicures” and more. (Soldier Field, 1410 S Museum Campus Dr, Sun 9am–1pm. $20–$45)
Mac and Cheese Smackdown presented by Time Out Chicago is back for a second year! Devour the tastiest dishes in Chicago and have a Sunday Funday while you’re at it. (Bridgeport Art Center, 1200 W 35th Street, Sun 11:30am and 2pm sessions. $25)
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