THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Welcome November and An Extra Hour!
Now that October and Halloween are behind us, it’s time to welcome November and the upcoming Thanksgiving Day holiday. Not to mention, we get an extra hour on Sunday as we turn back the clocks! So, let’s take some time this weekend to unwind a bit with some exciting events!
Enjoy an evening out this Saturday at the immensely popular Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show held at the Courtyard by Marriott Chicago (165 E. Ontario St.) on the Magnificent Mile in downtown Chicago. Not only is this show set in the present day, but it also takes place all around you. Also, you can choose whether to participate or not in the show. The performers are dressed just like everyone else and are seated all around the room, possibly at your table, leaving all the guests to figure out who is a part of the show and who is not! Tickets include a 4-course meal, cash bar, and prizes. Everyone is a suspect, even you!
Need to shed a few pounds after eating all the leftover Halloween candy? This Sunday offers three physical events to assist you with that:
It’s back for another live season! The Hot Chocolate 5K/15K is headed to Grant Park (301 S. Columbus Dr.) in The Loop where you can race and celebrate amongst Chicago’s biggest chocolate aficionados. This annual race lets participants indulge in all types of sweet treats at the post-race party where a chocolate lover’s oasis awaits you along with exciting vendors and some great tunes! Plus, participants will receive a fleece-lined jacket and a medal that looks like a cup of hot cocoa!
The Polish Independence 10K/5K Run/Walk returns to Montrose Harbor, Grove 16 (600 W. Montrose Ave.) in the Uptown neighborhood. Join in person on Chicago’s lakefront or sign up for the virtual run. This race commemorates Poland’s resurgence as an independent state on November 11, 1918, which traditionally is held in major Polish cities but was introduced here in the United States in 2018. All participants (in person and virtual) will receive a runner’s bib, a custom finisher’s medal, and an event T-shirt! Plus, all ages are welcome!
If you prefer something indoors, then the SkyRise Chicago event is for you! Over 3,000 people will be taking part in this 8th annual event climbing the 103 floors of Willis Tower (233 S. Wacker Dr.) in The Loop to benefit the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago. Their goal this year is to raise $1,000,000! You can help either in person at the event or virtually to Advance Human Ability!
The 38th annual Chicago International Children’s Film Festival takes place this weekend through Sunday, November 14th. This event is one of only two Oscar-qualifying international children’s film festivals in the world and is proud to present a diverse selection of high-quality films for children and teens. It’s also the oldest and largest children’s film festival in North America featuring over 250 carefully curated films from around the world! CICFF is offered virtually or with limited in-person screenings at Facets Cinema (1517 W. Fullerton Ave.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. The full schedule is available online.
The largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit in North America is back, bigger and better than ever! Jurassic Quest returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center (5555 N. River Rd.) in Rosemont this Saturday and Sunday. This exhibition features over 100 prehistoric animatronic dinosaurs, dinosaur themed rides atop a Carnotaurus or a T. Rex, and live dino shows. Plus, there will be opportunities to visit with the one-of-a-kind baby dinosaurs and the Jurassic Quest team of dino trainers! There’s also face painting, science activities, crafts, and plenty of photo ops too!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
