Welcome to our highlights of events and entertainment in Chicago for kids and families to enjoy. Bookmark this page and check back for updates on the latest activities.

Yuri “The Human Beatbox” Lane performs for kids at the Chicago Children’s Theatre.Charles Osgood

End of Summer Celebration

When: 10 a.m.-noon Aug. 28

Where: 100 S. Racine

What: Chicago Children’s Theatre hosts a celebration featuring previews of fall classes in puppet making, tumbling and storytelling. Plus, there’s a screening room with CCT’s virtual productions, a green screen photo station, dancing, games and a popsicle station. Live music is provided by Yuri “The Human Beatbox” Lane with Time Brickey leading the dancing.

More information: chicagochildrenstheatre.org

Neighborhood festivals

Taste of GreektownDimitri Kandalepas

Taste of Greektown returns with the city’s largest celebration of Hellenic cuisine and culture. Highlights are food from the neighborhood’s Greek restaurants (gyro eating contest, anyone?), music (traditional Greek songs form Hellas 2000 plus DJs and bands) and dancing. From 4-10 p.m. Aug. 27, noon-10 p.m. Aug. 28-29. On Halsted from Adams to Van Buren. Admission: $5 donation. Visit greektownchicago.org. … Edgewater Arts Festival features 75 artists, a family activities and live music. From 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Aug. 28-29 on 1030-1140 W. Granville. Admission: $5 donation. Visit edgewaterartists.com. … The Tom Petty tribute band Southern Accents, Hairbangers Ball and Mr. Blotto with a tribute to the Allman Brothers Band headline the Palatine Street Fest Aug. 27-29 at Brockway and Slade, Palatine. Visit palatinestreetfest.com. … More than 200 juried artists showcase their work at the Port Clinton Art Festival from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 28-29 in downtown Highland Park. Admission: $5 donation. Visit amdurproductions.com.

Chicago SummerDance in the Parks

Chicago SummerDance in the Parks.DCASE

When: Aug. 18-Sept. 15

Where: Parks throughout the city

What: Dancers of all ages and skill levels are invited to take part in introductory dance lessons by professional instructors followed by live music and dancing. Lessons begin at 4:30 p.m. followed by dancing from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

More information: chicagosummerdance.org.

Loop Mural Walk

“Make It Good” by Shawnimals on the Loop Mural Walk.Chicago Loop Alliance

When: Through Sept. 6

Where: Online

What: As part of an initiative to encourage people to return to downtown Chicago, the Chicago Loop Alliance has created a free self-guided tour of the colorful artwork tucked into alleys and side streets. A mural guide, which features three different routes of artwork by both well-known and emerging artists, can be accessed on smartphones.

More information: loopchicago.com

Chicago Fireboat Tours

Chicago Fireboat Tours offer great views of Chicago’s waterways.Courtesy Chicago Fireboat Tours

When: Ongoing

Where: DuSable Harbors, 111 N. Lake Shore Dr.

What: Built in 1936, the Fred A. Busse was the largest, diesel-powered fireboat in the world at the time and served the Chicago Fire Department from 1937-1981. The current owners renovated the retired fireboat, which is now in its second season cruising Chicago waterways. Tickets: $35-$40, $19.50 ages 4-12.

More information: fireboattours.com

Merit School of Music

Merit School of Music is hosting summer pop-up performances beginning July 24. Courtesy of Merit School of Music

When: To Aug. 28

Where: Various locations

What: In July and August, the music school hosts a family-friendly series of interactive pop-up events throughout Chicago neighborhoods from Pilsen to Lincoln Park. “Pop-ups in the Parks” offers free instrument tunings, demos and performances by students and faculty, “Music at the Markets” features performances and giveaways at outdoor markets and “Musical Storytimes” is filled with stories and activities.

More information: meritmusic.org

Adler Planetarium

“Imagine the Moon”Adler Planetarium

When: Ongoing

Where: 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr.

What: The planetarium has partially reopened with a selection of its award-winning sky shows. On weekends in July and August two shows will play twice daily: “Imagine the Moon” (10:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m.) and “Skywatch Live” (11:30 am., 1:15 p.m.). The full museum won’t reopen until March 2022. Tickets: $15.

More information: adlerplanetarium.org

Tempel Lipizzans’ stallions

A Tempel Lippizan stallion performs “Airs Above the Ground.”Courtesy Tempel Lipizzans

When: Ongoing

Where: Tempel Farms, 17000 Wadsworth, Old Mill Creek.

What: The stallions return for a new season of equestrian dressage along with interactive, educational events. Performances feature synchronized movements set to classical music that show off the strength, beauty and intelligence of the Lipizzan horse. Following each event, there are self-guided tours through the stables to meet and pet the equine stars and ask questions of riders and trainers about how the Lipizzans are raised, trained and taught to “dance.” Tickets: $35, $25 for ages 4-14.

More information: tempelfarms.com

‘Par Excellence Redux’

When: “The Front 9” (to Sept. 16) and “The Back Nine” (Oct. 13-Jan. 2)

Where: Tee off at the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 S. Cottage Hill, Elmhurst

What: A fun new exhibit features a fully playable 18-hole mini-golf course created by more than 20 artists, designers and architects from Chicago and beyond. The family-friendly course pays homage to the School of the Art Institute’s wildly popular 1988 exhibition “Par Excellence.” Course themes range from social justice to the occult and include a fortune-telling hole that has the power to dramatically change scores as well as a hole that challenges players with an optical illusion. Admission is $5-$10 (online timed reservations); children 4 and under free.

More information: elmhurstartmuseum.org

Chicago Children’s Museum

Where: Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand

When: Ongoing

What: Fun and learning are on the agenda at the popular family gathering spot, offering a wide variety of exhibits aimed at improving children’s lives by creating a community where play and learning connect. Babies and toddlers can enjoy “Treehouse Trails” and “Kids Town” while “Tinker Lab” and “Dinosaur Expedition” will enthrall older children. Admission: $19.

More information: chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

‘Becoming Jane’

A new exhibit at the Field Museum, “Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Jane Goodall,” follows her journey from her childhood in England to a career as a passionate scientist studying chimpanzees in Africa. Hugo van Lawick/National Geographic

When: To Sept. 6

Where: Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr.

What: Generations have been inspired by the work of primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall who has not only shown the urgent need to protect chimpanzees but also redefined species conservation to include the needs of local people and the environments. A new exhibit at the Field Museum, “Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Jane Goodall,” follows her journey from a curious young child in England to a passionate scientist studying chimpanzees in Africa. Included in the exhibit are a recreation of her field research tent, a hologram-like projection of Goodall who shares her fieldwork memories, augmented reality activities and a projection of Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park.

Tickets: Admission: $18-$32

More information: fieldmuseum.org

‘Hello Helios: The warming suns of Chicago’s Greektown’

Detail view of James Mesple’s Sun and Moon Image featured in the “Hello Helios” exhibit in GreektownCourtesy Greektown Chicago

When: Through spring 2022

Where: Halsted from Monroe to Van Buren

What: Welcome summer with a new outdoor exhibit celebrating the start of summer with 24 artworks inspired by the sun and related mythologies from Greek, Aztec, Yoruba, Japanese and Native American cultures.

More information: greektownchicago.org

Kayak for Conservation

The Shedd Aquarium’s popular “Kayak for Conservation” program.Shedd Aquarium

When: Ongoing

Where: Kayak Chicago: 1220 W LeMoyne,

What: Get close to nature via the Shedd Aquarium’s popular Kayak for Conservation program, which features a variety of socially distant kayaking experiences on the Chicago River. Participants learn about the river’s environmental history and discover wildlife living in its ecosystem. Sessions are open to all levels of kayakers (including newbies) and are led by Shedd’s wildlife conservation experts. The cost is pay-what-you-can ranging from $20-$100 per participant, with a recommended $40, the base cost of the program.

More information: sheddaquarium.org/kayak

‘Take Flight’

The Boeing 747 at “Take Flight.”Museum of Science and Industry

When: Permanent

Where: Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Dr.

What: The MSI’s Boeing 747 reopens with a reimagined exhibit that explores modern aviation and the science of flight. The plane’s interior has been restored and new interactive elements have been added. Tickets: $12.95, $21.95.

More information: msichicago.org

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Enjoy Justin Fields on TV on Saturday night, Bears fans. Wear your No. 1 jersey and marvel at his athleticism and relish this last piece of quarterbacking excitement for a while.

But don’t lose fact of what matters — Fields walking out of the stadium feeling no pain.

The Bears will play their rookie behind a starting offensive line and pull him at halftime, but the rest of Saturday’s game against the Titans will be a cavalcade of second- and third-stringers fighting for final roster spots.

The Bears will evaluate Fields, but in context. Coach Matt Nagy will call plays that give Fields the best chance of avoiding injury.

As he should.

“To be completely honest with you, there’s some of that in there,” Nagy said before the Bears’ final training camp practice Thursday. “And we’ve got to know who’s in there and who he’s playing with and all that. There’s the evaluation part too. But we feel good about where Justin is and how he’s played the amount of snaps he’s gotten.”

It only makes sense to play the B-team against the Titans. Let the starters worry about Week 1.

The only hiccup, of course, is that the long-term health of the Bears’ franchise hinges on someone who’s not a starter.

“The biggest difference between games and practice is the actual D-line coming to hit you,” Fields said this week. “In practice, the D-line is told not to be around the quarterback, but actually facing that in-game pressure and having to throw with pressure in your face is the biggest difference between a game and practice.”

That’s a scary thought for a quarterback whose helmet flew five yards in the air after a sack against the Bills. And it’s a risk the Bears are taking by not letting Nick Foles take every snap in Nashville.

Nagy vowed to play his starters more this preseason than he did in 2019, when his team was flatter than a day-old soda in its 10-3 primetime season-opening loss to the Packers. The team’s rash of injuries in August changed those plans in the first two exhibitions. Receiver Allen Robinson hasn’t played. Tight end Jimmy Graham and receiver Darnell Mooney have six snaps apiece. David Montgomery has been on the field for one snap.

Instead, the Bears have preached for weeks that their starters merely need to be ready for Week 1.

“I mean that’s when those things count — that’s what matters,” tight end Cole Kmet said. “So we’re gearing up towards that. I know guys are banged up from camp a little bit, from the past couple of weeks.”

When the NFL switched from four preseason games to three this offseason, they altered the formula that some coaching purists hung onto long after others chose rest: a dress rehearsal in Week 3 and a B-team game in Week 4.

“There’s always been a recipe …” Nagy said. “Well now I think you’re probably gonna see half the coaches are probably going to play their starters for a quarter, quarter and a half. The other guys are going to pull their starters and no one is going to play.”

The Chargers decided that quarterback Justin Herbert, the reigning NFL Rookie of the Year, would not play in any preseason games. Patrick Mahomes and Tom Brady, last year’s Super Bowl combatants, have. The Bills’ Josh Allen hasn’t — but will appear in the finale against the Packers.

“What’s going to happen in Week 1 is, when the teams that win, every one of them is going to be geniuses because they sat their guys or because they played their guys — because they looked good,” Nagy said. “That’s just how it goes.”

Nagy chose to be conservative by benching starter Andy Dalton on Saturday — but didn’t do the same with Fields. His genius will be measured by how gingerly Fields walks off the field after his last snap.

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The annual Ebertfest film festival slated for next month in downstate Champaign has been postponed to 2022 due to the surge in COVID-19 across the state.

The announcement was made via YouTube from festival founder/organizer Chaz Ebert, the widow of Sun-Times film critic Roger Ebert, for whom the festival is named.

The new date for the annual festival of films and filmmakers is now April 20-23, 2022.

“It is truly difficult to come to terms with this decision after everyone at Ebertfest has put in so much effort to come back from the shutdown,” Chaz Ebert said in the announcement. “However, we find it easier to make the decision to reschedule knowing that everyone’s health and safety comes first.”

The festival’s 2020 iteration had already been postponed because of COVID, to Sept. 8-11 this year. As Ebert noted in her message, she never thought another postponement would have to be implemented due once gain to the pandemic.

“Perhaps we were destined to keep our springtime slot afterall,” Ebert mused, citing hesitation on the park of filmmakers, sponsors and audience members to attend the festival amid current rising COVID infection rates.

The Virginia Theatre in Champaign, the venue for the festival, is transferring 2021 passes and seat reservations to the 2022 dates. Refunds will be issued if requested by calling the theater box office at (217) 356-9063.

“An April festival will bring back our special guests and keep the dialogue with filmmakers central to the experience of the festival,” Ebert said. “The Champaign Park District will have completed the installation of a new HVAC system at the Virginia Theatre with the very latest ventilation technology to kill pathogens in the auditorium space.”

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So how does a football game between Illinois and Nebraska gain a national audience Saturday on Fox as the only game between Power Five teams?

The game originally was scheduled to be played Saturday in Dublin, but the pandemic scrapped those plans and moved it back to Champaign. Before the teams agreed to play in Ireland, it was an Illinois home game scheduled for Nov. 13.

Illinois kept that week open, but Nebraska filled it with FCS team Southeastern Louisiana. The schools received approval to keep the game in Week 0 – the week before the vast majority of teams begin their seasons – and Fox jumped at the chance to air it. Only four other FBS games are scheduled.

“Knowing the game was on a Week 0, there’s a lot of firsts in this game,” said Derek Crocker, Fox’s vice president of college sports. “The biggest thing for us is that this is the first time fans will be allowed back into Big Ten football stadiums since 2019.

“So together with all of the other firsts – literally the first college football game of the season, and it’s the first game for Bret Bielema back in the Big Ten versus a brand like Scott Frost and Nebraska – we thought it was important to have a really strong start to the season.”

Fox gave the game a fine crew in play-by-play voice Joe Davis, analyst Brock Huard and reporter Bruce Feldman. The broadcast will begin at noon, and kickoff is scheduled for 12:20.

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Two men were killed and another was injured in a shooting at the Kankakee County Courthouse Thursday morning, according to the Kankakee Police Department.

Two people were arrested after the attack at the south side entrance of the courthouse near the detention center, Police Chief Robin Passwater said in an afternoon news conference. He said there was no longer a threat to the community.

Officers responded to a call of gunfire around 9:15 a.m. near the courthouse, Passwater said. As police arrived, an officer arrested one person who was armed with a weapon, he said. A second person was arrested by sheriff’s deputies while leaving the scene.

The two people killed in the shooting were men in their 20s, Passwater said. A third man was undergoing surgery at a hospital.

“Multiple firearms” were recovered from the scene, including one “long gun,” Passwater said.

Several law enforcement agencies were offering support in the investigation, including Illinois State Police, the FBI and U.S. Marshals Service, he said.

Passwater said the shooting happened during a busy time of the day when many people were entering and exiting the courthouse, which will remain closed for the rest of the day. He encouraged witnesses to come forward with information as police investigated the circumstances of the shooting.

Buildings near the shooting were on lockdown as a precaution, the city said, but later reported that the area was secure.

Passwater did not take questions from reporters and said another update would be provided later Thursday.

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The Blackhawks announced the hiring of Colby Cohen as a TV studio analyst on NBC Sports Chicago. Jamal Mayers and Steve Konroyd will not return next season, and other analysts likely will be added.

While discussions continue about potential successors for play-by-play voice Pat Foley, the Hawks brought aboard Cohen, 32, as a content analyst. The former NHL player and ESPN broadcaster will appear on all of the Hawks’ platforms, including social media, podcasts and the team’s website.

Cohen also figures to fill in for game analyst Eddie Olczyk when he’s working for TNT. Cohen filled in for Olczyk on one game last season. He has been an analyst for ESPN since 2016 and provided color for the NCAA men’s Frozen Four this year.

“I am incredibly honored to join the Blackhawks family and can’t wait to connect with the most passionate, knowledgeable and electric fans in hockey on a daily basis,” Cohen said in a statement. “Their enthusiasm and dedication to such a storied franchise is what makes the prospects of this position so exciting. I look forward to working with the many talented individuals at the Blackhawks and NBC Sports Chicago whose job it is to bring the fans the best coverage possible.”

Cohen worked for NBC Sports Philadelphia as a studio analyst for Flyers games from 2017 to 2020. He also has worked for CBS Sports, NESN and the American Sports Network.

“Chicago Blackhawks fans will appreciate Cohen’s deep and comprehensive knowledge,” said John Schippman, vice president of content for NBC Sports Chicago. “He’s quick with insight and a witty analyst. We saw firsthand his talent earlier this year, and we look forward to the experience he brings from on the ice and in the booth.”

A native of Villanova, Pennsylvania, Cohen was a second-round pick by the Avalanche in 2007 and made his NHL debut in November 2010. Cohen also played in the AHL and overseas. He was teammates with Hawks forward Patrick Kane on the USNTDP team during the 2005-06 season.

Cohen played three years at Boston University and scored the winning goal in overtime in the 2009 national championship. He also won the tournament’s MVP award.

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Welcome to our highlights of events and entertainment on stage at Chicago’s theaters. From local productions to Broadway hits, our guide has the latest on shows in the city. Bookmark this page and check back for updates and ticket information.

Dance for Life

Visceral Dance Chicago Michelle Reid Photo

WHAT: Dance for Life, which supports the health and wellness of Chicago’s professional dance community, marks its 30th anniversary with a celebration at Millennium Park. The companies featured at the fundraiser are a who’s who of Chicago dance: DanceWorks Chicago, Giordano Dance Chicago, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, The Joffrey Ballet, Movement Revolution Dance Crew, PARA.MAR Dance Theatre, South Chicago Dance Theatre, Trinity Irish Dance Company and Visceral Dance Chicago. Plus, there’s a film by Winifred Haun & Dancers and Randy Duncan will choreograph a world premiere finale.

WHEN: 6 p.m. Aug. 26

WHERE: Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park (Michigan and Randolph).

TICKETS: Lawn seating is free, bowl seating is a $300 minimum donation. Visit chicagodancersunited.org/events.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater in the Parks

Yin He Dance is part of “Dream: A Community Reimagining of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”Yin He Dance

WHAT: Chicago Shakespeare Theater celebrates the 10th anniversary of Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks with “Dream: A Community Reimagining of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The new staging was created in collaboration with Cruz Gonzalez-Cadel, Cage Sebastian Pierre, GQ and Joriah Kwame with artists and organizations from Englewood, Austin, Hermosa, Little Village, West Pullman and Chinatown including Me’Lo the Generation Hero, DJ Jeremy Heights, Move Me Soul, Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center, Yin He Dance and Fulton Street Collective.

WHEN: From Aug. 24-Sept. 4 at various city parks.

TICKETS: Admission is free. For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies as well as park locations, visit chicagoshakes.com.

Music Theater Works

Alexis Armstrong (top) and Heather Banks rehearse “Mamma Mia!”Music Theater Works

WHAT: Music Theater Works begins its new season with the popular musical “Mamma Mia!,” Catherine Johnson, Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson’s musical featuring the music of ABBA. Heather Banks stars as Shopine Sheridan, a young woman about to be married who is intent on discovering who her father is so he can walk her down the aisle. Justin Brill directs.

WHEN: From Aug. 19-29 at Music Theater Works at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie.

TICKETS: $20.50-$108. For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit musictheaterworks.com.

PrideArts

Elissa Newcorn (from left), Kyra Leigh, Carl Herzog and Nate Hall star in PrideArts’ productoin of “The Things I Never Could Tell Steven.” Marisa KM

WHAT: PrideArts presents Jye Bryant’s “The Things I Never Could Tell Steven,” a four-character musical in which the four most important people in one man’s life struggle to communicate meaningfully with him and really know him. The cast features Carl Herzog, Kyra Leigh, Elissa Newcorn and Nate Hall under the direction of Jay Espano.

WHEN: From Aug. 19-Sept. 19

WHERE: The Broadway, Pride Arts Center, 4139 N. Broadway.

TICKETS: $30. For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit pridearts.org.

‘Mr. Burns, a post-electric play’

Theater Wit rehearses its 2021 restaged production of “Mr. Burns, a post-electric play.” Elizabeth Lovelady

WHAT: Theater Wit returns with a restaging of its hit 2015 production of Anne Washburn’s “Mr. Burns, a post-electric play,” directed by Jeremy Wechsler. The story begins after a global catastrophe where life as we know it has ended (sound familiar?) and a small band of survivors attempt to keep civilization on a path to survival. And, yes, an episode of “The Simpsons” (“Cape Feare” in which Sideshow Bob attempts to murder Bart on a houseboat) plays a role here. From Aug. 27-Sept. 5 at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. Tickets: $36-$54. For updated information regarding the theater’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit theaterwit.org.

‘Off The Map’

WHAT: The storytelling collective 2nd Story kicks off its new virtual season with “Off the Map.” a program featuring three world premiere stories that explore how to move forward in a world that is no longer familiar. Included is Jared Bellot’s “Finding Mr. Bellot,” about his first year teaching English in a public school plus stories from Katie Hauser and Karla Estela Rivera.

WHEN: Aug. 28-Sept. 4

TICKETS: pay-what-you-can.

INFO: For a look at the entire season, go to 2ndstorycom.

‘Faces’

Goose Island Beer Co and Do312 present “Faces,” showcasing a special drag performance featuring Shea Coulee, the winner of season 5 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.”Courtesy Goose Island

WHAT: Goose Island Beer Co and Do312 present “Faces,” showcasing a special drag performance featuring Shea Coulee, the winner of season 5 of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars. Goose Island brewers also have teamed with Coulee to create Shea Coul-Ale: Royal Edition, with a portion of proceeds going to Brave Space Alliance, the first Black-led, trans-led LGBTQIA+ center on the city’s South Side.

WHEN: At 9 p.m. Aug. 27

WHERE: at Hydrate Nightclub, 3458 N. Halste. To enter a drawing for a chance to meet Shea Coulee before the show and for updated information regarding the club’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies visit do312.com/shea-coulale-faces.

‘Kinky Boots’

Michael Wordly makes his Paramount Theatre debut as Lola in “Kinky Boots.”Thomas J. King

What: Live performances return for a new season at the Paramount Theatre with Cyndi Lauper and Harvey Fierstein’s high-kicking “Kinky Boots.” This first regional production of the Broadway musical, directed by Trent Stork, stars Devin DeSantis as Charlie, the shoemaker attempting to save his failing shoe factory, and Michael Wordly as Lola, the fierce drag queen who shows him the way.

When: Aug. 18-Oct. 17

Where: Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena, Aurora

Tickets: $36-$74

For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit paramountaurora.com.

Theatre Y

WHAT: Theatre Y’s ambitious new adventure “You Are Here: The Emerald Camino Project” is a return of its urban pilgrimages, this time through Daniel Burnham’s Emerald Necklace — the boulevard system that links the public parks on Chicago’s West and South sides. The immersive 12-part walking experience was created with artists, community leaders and organizations across a dozen communities. “This is a joyful post-pandemic experience that connects Chicago’s diverse communities through the intersection of conversation and art,” says Theatre Y’s artistic director, Melissa Lorraine. If you are walking through the neighborhood in which you live, admission is free; all other participants are Theatre Y Members or encouraged to become members (for as little as $5/month).

WHEN: Aug. 21-Sept. 26 For updated information regarding the theater’s COVID-19 vaccination and/or mask policies as well as dates and times for each walk, visit theatre-y.com.

Blue Man Group

Blue Man Group Caroline Talbot Photography

What: Those crazy characters in blue return for more goofy fun when Blue Man Group reopens on Aug. 18. The show, which encourages audiences to reconnect with their inner child, is a combination of art, music, comedy and technology.

When: Aug. 18 – ongoing

Where: Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted.

Tickets: $49-$89

For updated information regarding the theater’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit blueman.com.

‘Higher and Higher: A Rock ‘n’ Soul Party

Chester Gregory Amy Boyle Photography

What: The Marriott Theatre concert series presents “Higher and Higher: A Rock ‘n’ Soul Party” featuring musical theater artist Chester Gregory performing the hits of greats like Sam Cooke, Otis Redding, James Brown and more. The star of “Motown: The Musical,” “Hairspray” and “Dreamgirls,” Gregory first won acclaim locally for his outstanding portrayal of Jackie Wilson in The Jackie Wilson Story at Black Ensemble Theater.

When: Performances are at 7 p.m. Aug. 14 and 3 p.m. Aug. 15

Where: Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire

Tickets: $55. For updated information regarding the theater’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies

Visit: marriotttheatre.com.

‘Why Dogs Don’t Talk’

“Why Dogs Don’t Talk” will stream beginning July 27 at First Folio Theatre. D. Rice Photo

When: July 27-Aug. 8

Where: Online

What: First Folio Theatre presents an online production of David Rice’s adaptation of a short story by Dean Monti. Filmed in an Evanston apartment, the comedy ponders the question: Is man a dog’s best friend? The cast includes Landree Fleming as Hubert the dog and August Forman as the bewildered dog owner Mel. Tickets: a sliding scale of pay-what-you-can.

More information: firstfolio.org

‘And Away We Stared’

When: 8 p.m. July 22-24

Where: Online

What: For its latest performance, Trap Door Theatre, the company dedicated to staging challenging yet obscure works, has devised a piece using text from the works of Chuck Mee, Gertrude Stein and Matei Visniec. In the absence of humans, the stage has gained the ability to put on mechanized performances to please only itself. In a series of theatrical dares, the actors of Trap Door attempt to retake the stage, confronting notions of live performance, automation and the cycles we perpetuate. Devised and directed by Skye Fort and Mike Steele. Tickets: $10, $15.

More information: trapdoortheatre.com

The Annoyance Theatre

Susan Messing Provided

What: Live comedy shows have returned to The Annoyance. On the lineup is Annoyance artistic director Mick Napier’s new solo sketch revue, “System of a Clown” (8 p.m. Friday-Saturday through September, $10, $20), plus returning favorites including “Green Show Live,” “Trigger Happy,” “Hitch*Cocktails,” “Cigarette Sandwich” and more.

More information: theannoyance.com

‘The Tempest’

Bernell Lassai (left) as Ariel and Kevin Theis as Prospero in “The Tempest.”Maia Rosenfeld

When: July 15-Aug. 21

Where: Austin Gardens, 167 Forest, Oak Park

What: Oak Park Festival Theatre returns to outdoor performances at Austin Gardens with what is thought to be one of Shakespeare’s final masterpieces, a story of shipwreck, romance and magic. Artistic director Barbara Zahora directs, and the cast includes Kevin Theis as Prospero, Bernell Lassai as Ariel, Matt Gall as Caliban and Deanalis Resto as Miranda.

Tickets: $35. Visit oakparkfestival.com.

‘Cooking With Bubbie’

Jan Slavin (left) and Carla GordonMadKap Productions

When: To Aug. 22

Where: Skokie Theatre, 7924 Lincoln, Skokie

What: MadKap Productions and Orchard Street Productions present Jay Kholos’ new musical set at a fictional TV cooking show where everyone’s favorite Jewish grandmother entertains with an old-fashioned variety revue with dancers, music and comedy. Chicago comedian Jan Slavin and Gold Coast Cabaret Award-winner Carla Gordon alternate in the role of the Bubbie.

Tickets: $45. Visit skokietheatre.org.

Teatro ZinZanni

The artistry and the excitement of Teatro ZinZanni returns to Chicago starting July 8. Pictured: Lea Hinz.Michael Doucet

What: The immersive, whirlwind theater experience that is Teatro ZinZanni has reopened featuring a new show with a cast of comedians, aerialists, acrobats, singers, dancers and a gourmet meal, it brings comedy, music and cirque back after a long pandemic hiatus. Included among the performers are powerhouse vocalists Storm Marrero and Cunio, aerial acts Lea Hinz and Duo 19, veteran comedians Frank Ferrante and Joe DePaul and acrobatic dancers Mickael and Vita.

When: Ongoing

Where: Spiegeltent ZaZou on the 14th floor of the Cambria Hotel, 32 W. Randolph

Tickets: $119-$189; limited show only tickets $69. Visit zinzanni.com/chicago.

The Artistic Home Theatre

What: The Artistic Home presents “Summer on the Patio,” a seasonlong event which invites theatergoers to share in the creative workshop process via free staged readings and open rehearsals of three contemporary plays: Maria Irene Fornes’ “Mud” (To Aug. 27), Martyna Majok’s “Ironbound” (To Aug. 28) and Craig Wright’s “The Pavilion” (To Aug. 22).

Where: It all takes place at the company’s new space at 3054 N. Milwaukee with rehearsals in July and staged readings in August.

Admission: free

Visit theartistichome.org

Steppenwolf Theatre

Donnetta Lavinia Grays in “Where We Stand”Joan Marcus/WP Theater

What: The final entry in the Steppenwolf NOW virtual season is “Where We Stand,” a storytelling tour-de-force about community and accountability written and performed by Donnetta Lavinia Grays. Through poetic verse and music, the drama challenges our ability to forgive and our ideas of mercy and who might deserve it. The filmed play captures a performance originally presented at Baltimore Center Stage co-produced with WP Theater.

When/tickets: A $75 ticket includes all six of the productions in the NOW series available online through Aug. 31

Visit: steppenwolf.org/now

Summer Nights with Northlight

What: Summer Nights with Northlight is a cabaret series held at Evanston restaurants to benefit Northlight Theatre. The performers are Alexis J. Roston and Kelvin Roston Jr. (June 10, Good to Go Jamaican, 711 W. Howard), Linda Solotaire (July 27, Sketchbook Brewing Company, 4901 Main, Skokie) and Heidi Kettenring (Aug. 24, Peckish Pig, 623 W. Howard).

When: Performances times are 6 p.m.

Tickets: $60 includes light dinner and select drinks. Visit northlight.org.

Labyrinth Arts and Performance Collective

What: Labyrinth Arts and Performance Collective presents “Emerge,” a cabaret series featuring music, drag performance, comedy and spoken word.

When: every second Friday of the month

Where: Porkchop, 1132 W. Grand

Tickets: $20. Visit labyrinthartsperformance.com.

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Welcome to our highlights for concerts, festivals and live music in Chicago. From free shows at Millennium Park to large festivals like Ravinia and Lollapalooza, and intimate shows at small local venues, our guide has all the latest music entertainment. Bookmark this page and check back for updates on concerts and events.

Sunday in the Park with Lyric’s Rising Stars

The Stars of Lyric Opera at Millennium Park.Copyright Todd Rosenberg Photography

WHAT: Lyric Opera of Chicago launches its 67th season with the free outdoor performance “Sunday in the Park with Lyric’s Rising Stars.” Appearing with the Lyric Opera Orchestra, the concert features the members of The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center — sopranos Mathilda Edge, Maria Novella Malfatti and Denis Velez; mezzo-sopranos Katherine Beck, Katherine DeYoung and Kathleen Felty; tenors Martin Luther Clark and Lunga Eric Hallam; baritone Leroy Davis; basses Rivers Hawkins and Anthony Reed with conductor/pianist Donald Lee III and pianist Chris Reynolds.

WHEN: 6 p.m. Aug. 29

WHERE: Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park, Michigan and Randolph

VISIT: lyricopera.org.

Wilco and Sleater-Kinney

WilcoAnnabel Mehran Photo

WHAT: Wilco is in the process of working on its next album so expect some new tunes here as well as tunes from its 2019 album, “Ode to Joy,” released in fall 2019 just before the pandemic shut down all tours. Sleater-Kinney is touring behind its new album, “The Path of Wellness,” the first effort since parting ways with longtime drummer Janet Weiss, which shows frontwomen Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker in fine form both lyrically and musically. Chicago multi-instrumentalist NNAMDI opens the show.

WHEN: 6 p.m. Aug. 28.

WHERE: Millennium Park

TICKETS: $45+

VISIT: jamusa.com

Bronzeville Blues Festival

John PrimerMarilyn Stringer Photo

WHAT: The Bronzeville Blues Festival features four stages featuring classic Chicago blues in the neighborhood where it grew up. This is where many of the most famous blues musicians (Muddy Waters, Otis Rush, Sonny Boy Williamson) lived and played (Checkerboard Lounge, Pepper’s Lounge, 708 Club). Among the festival’s performers are John Primer & the Real Deal Blues Band, Kenny “Beedy Eyes” Smith, Melody Angel, Big James & the Chicago Playboys, Mississippi Gabe Carter, Harmonica Hinds and many more. Plus, there are self-guided walking and biking tours of historic sites and food trucks.

WHEN: From noon-7 p.m. Aug. 29 at 43rd and Calumet

ADMISSION: free

VISIT: chicagobluesrevival.org.

World Music Wednesday

Bomba con Buya Amy Young Photo

WHAT: The Old Town School of Folk Music’s weekly showcase of world music and dance, returns beginning Sept. 1 with Jazz a la Mexicana, a concert featuring traditional and folkloric Mexican music mixed with jazz. A celebration of Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center’s 50th anniversary follows on Sept. 8 with performances of Puerto Rican bomba music by Bomba con Buya and Mancha E’ Platano. The current roster of concerts runs through Dec. 1.

WHERE: Old Town School of Folk Music, 4544 N. Lincoln

Admission is free, a $10 suggested donation is appreciated. For updated information regarding the venue’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit oldtownschool.org.

Grace Pettis

Grace PettisNicola Gell Photo

WHAT: Singer-songwriter Grace Pettis showcases her recent album, “Working Woman,” a set of songs in the tradition of Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton’s strong working women. American Songwriter says, “Pettis writes vibrant pictures of the world around us today with fierce accuracy and soulful grace.” Also on the bill: Minnesota indie-folk songwriter Rachael Kilgour.

WHEN: At 7:30 p.m. Aug. 31

WHERE: Hey Nonny, 10 South Vail, Arlington Heights.

TICKETS: $15-$30. For updated information regarding the venue’s Covid 19 vaccination and/or mask policies, visit heynonny.com

House City Series

DJ TraxmanCourtesy Chicago Park District

What: The Departments of Cultural Affairs and Special Event’s tribute to house music continues with House City, a new series of free events popping up throughout the summer in the neighborhoods that helped create the house music genre over 35 years ago.

When/Where: vent dates and communities are July 23 in South Shore, July 31 on the Southeast Side, Aug. 14 in Humboldt Park, Aug. 28 in Englewood, Aug. 29 in Lakeview, Sept. 12 in South Shore and Sept.19 in Bronzeville. DJs playing include Traxman, Lori Branch, Deeon, Elbert Philips, Duane Powell and more.

Info: For locations and times, visit chicagohousemusicfestival.us

Chris Foreman Courtesy Origin Records

Chris Foreman at the Green Mill

What: The Green Mill has reopened and that means the return of Chris Foreman, a Friday night fixture at the popular jazz club. Foreman, a jazz organist blind since birth, is a master on the Hammond B3 and regarded as Chicago’s best. His playing is a blend of blues-gospel and jazz honed in his professional experience, which has included work with Hank Crawford, Albert Collins, Bernard Purdie, The Deep Blue Organ Trio and The Mighty Blue Kings.

When: 5-7:30 p.m. Fridays

Where: The Green Mill, 4802 N. Broadway

Cost: No cover charge

Visit greenmilljazz.com

Ravinia Festival

What: The Ravinia Festival, the oldest outdoor music festival in the country, returns with reduced capacity. As usual, the lineup is a varied slate of music from classical to pop, jazz and rock. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra returns for a six-week run with conductor Marin Alsop leading seven concerts in her first season as Ravinia’s chief conductor. Also on the roster are: Garrick Ohlsson, Cynthia Erivo, Counting Crows, Kurt Elling, Brian McKnight, John Hiatt and the Jerry Douglas Band, The Roots, John Legend, Madeleine Peyroux, Midori, Joshua Bell, Pinchas Zukerman, the Chicago Sinfonietta and the Joffrey Ballet.

When: July 1-Sept. 26

Where: Highland Park

Tickets: prices vary

Visit: ravinia.org.

Grant Park Music Festival

Independence Day concerts will kick off the Grant Park Music Festival season.Patrick Pyszka

What: The Grant Park Music Festival is fully open for capacity audiences in the seated area and the lawn.

When: Through Aug. 21

Where: Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park, Michigan and Randolph.

Admission: free

Visit: gpmf.org

Summer Nights with Northlight

What: Summer Nights with Northlight is a cabaret series held at Evanston restaurants to benefit Northlight Theatre. The performers are Alexis J. Roston and Kelvin Roston Jr. (June 10, Good to Go Jamaican, 711 W. Howard), Linda Solotaire (July 27, Sketchbook Brewing Company, 4901 Main, Skokie) and Heidi Kettenring (Aug. 24, Peckish Pig, 623 W. Howard).

When: Performances times are 6 p.m.

Tickets: $60 includes light dinner and select drinks. Visit northlight.org.

Tuesdays on the Terrace

“Tuesdays on the Terrace” at the MCA in Chicago.Copyright MCA

When: 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays June 1-Aug. 31

Where: Museum of Contemporary Art’s outdoor sculpture garden, 220 E. Chicago

What: Tuesdays on the Terrace returns to the Museum of Contemporary Art’s outdoor sculpture garden. The popular jazz concert series features an array of Chicago jazz musiciansFirst up on June 1 is Alexis Lombre’s Ancestral Awakenings. Free with advance reservations. Visit mcachicago.org.

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The Ukrainian Village in Chicago is a 10×10 block neighborhood next to West Town where you can find it all.  The bars are great, and the people watching is even better, a perfect combination. Grab a beverage at any of these bars or better yet, combine them into a bar crawl. Considering this neighborhood is plenty walkable you can easily hit several on this list in one night!

Their slogan is “hugs, drinks, high five,” could you imagine a more welcoming environment? Open until 2:00 a.m. everyday you can get a little sloppy any day of the week you choose (we won’t judge).  They have a jukebox as well so come ready with some songs in mind.  It has this half dive, half not dive vibe going on that works well for this intimate bar. 

This pub has a history of over 30 years, and is famous among the art community.  This eclectic space complete with interesting knick-knacks and posters, looks small from the outside but has plenty of space on the inside.  Free pool and a classic cork dart board can be played while you sip one of their many brews.  

A pub mixed with Anglo-Indian fare? How can you not visit this gem!?  They have a menu ranging from, what’s described to be, the best burger in Chicago (ok might be a stretch but still good) all the way to chicken tikka fries.  They have a wide variety of beer and cider that you can pair with your butter chicken.  Plus, if you go on a Monday night, you get the famous burger for just $12 – and it comes with a drink!

First off, they have bocce ball leagues.  Bocce ball hardly requires exercise so you can play while you get a little tipsy.  Plus, if you want to watch sports in the Ukrainian Village, this is where to go – especially for soccer (they have the entire schedule on their website). They have great weeknight food specials, brick oven pizza, and an “everyone is welcome here” environment.  As their website states – Breakup? Cleos. Drinks with co-workers? Cleos. Just because you want to drink? Cleo’s.

This bar is your indie music go-to.  Although the space is small, it is filled with charm from the staff, and eclectic ambiance.  The drinks are cheap but the quality is anything but.  They have a fleet of dedicated regulars ready to give you advice on the neighborhood.  They are cash only, but there is an ATM inside in case you forget.  Check their website for upcoming live performances!

Happy hour here is a must, especially if you like oysters!  Their happy hour runs Sundays 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Mondays 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. where oysters are $1 and you can pair them with $6 martinis.  While you can’t make reservations for happy hour, there’s usually a spot!  It’s a cute place to hangout and relax, but just know their food menu is a little limited so check it out before you go! 

Open 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. everyday, Rainbo Club is dark, oddly themed, and local centric, just like a good dive bar should be.  Although, the locals are generally social and will welcome you to their spot!  Of course the drinks are cheap, and Rainbo Club even has a pinball machine to keep you entertained.  Like many dive bars and others on this list, bring cash!

This bar is named after the 1960s bohemian freethinkers, and is incredibly interesting to look at inside.  From the artwork to the lighting, and even the tables themselves, you will feel as though you’ve been transported.  The vibe is best described as a tropical Mediterranean paradise that has an elegant twist.  Whatever you do, get dessert!  They have outstanding creations such as the Honey Whipped Cream, and the Pistachio and Rose White Chocolate Crunch!

Featured Image Credit: UrbanMatter

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