1. Examine portraits from a bygone era
The Van Dyck, Rembrandt, and the Portrait Print exhibition marks the first public display of these prints since the Art Institute purchased them in 1927. Visitors will see paintings and prints of more than 100 portraits of famous figures from the 17th century. (Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, 10:30am. $14–$25)
See Ike Holter’s play, Sender, about ditching responsibility, or maybe how to take it on. In this tale, a man who was believed to be dead shows up in the apartment of his former girlfriend to end his off-the-grid journey. (A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N Wells St, 8pm. $30–$35)
3. Celebrate Oktoberfest in summer
Throw on some Lederhosen and grab a mug of beer at this year’s Maifest. The German neighborhood of Lincoln Square will host all the beer, pretzels and cheers of “Prost!” you can dream of and more. (Lincoln Square, 4700 N Lincoln Ave, 5–9:30pm. Free)