Events in Evanston, IL

Each week brings a fresh set of deals as prices update and the selection rotates, so there is always something new to discover. Choose from premium halal meats, fresh seafood, produce that is farm fresh, plus deli items and international groceries. All offerings are fully halal, fresh each day, and suitable for families. Find these rotating deals at Marketplace On Oakton in Skokie.

Spotlight-worthy fun arrives as Game Night Live pairs its rockin' bingo with Rockstar Trivia. In this music-fueled twist on bingo, you check off songs instead of numbers while tracks jump across classic rock, oldies, hip hop, country, and favorite movie and TV themes. Every card is uniquely built to keep the pace lively and unpredictable. When the music rounds wrap, the trivia kicks in with eight high-energy questions that challenge your knowledge and fire up the room. Bingo, beats, and brainpower come together for a game night that feels like a live show.

An Advanced Format Yu-Gi-Oh! OTS local at Gamers World Old Orchard with a $5 entry fee. Players receive a current OTS pack when they take their seat, and additional OTS packs are awarded as prizes. The current ban and restricted lists are in effect.

40 Fingers, an internationally celebrated Italian guitar quartet, delivers inventive four-guitar interpretations of rock anthems, pop favorites, and memorable movie themes. Known for widely shared performances and collaborations with leading artists, they pair razor-sharp musicianship with vibrant stage energy. This concert offers a dynamic, boundary-crossing experience that reimagines familiar melodies with sparkle and turns them into something fresh and exciting.

One Piece TCG Locals takes place at Gamers World Old Orchard as a constructed format tournament for the One Piece Trading Card Game. Participants bring their own decks and compete in organized play. The entry fee is $10, and registration is completed through the Bandai app.

An evening of hosted trivia brings energetic competition, delicious bites, and chilled beverages, setting the stage for a fun night out with friends.

Settle into a deeply restorative sound journey as layers of gongs, singing bowls, hand pan, chimes, flutes, and other instruments wash over you. This immersive session is designed to quiet the mind, soothe the nervous system, and help you release stress while reconnecting with a sense of balance. Guided by Simon Jay Cervania of Harmonic Waves Healing, the experience weaves energetic cleansing, grounding, and intention setting to support emotional release, deep relaxation, and self-care. For comfort, bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow, eye mask, water, and wear comfortable clothing. Capacity is limited.

World Ballet Company brings Swan Lake to the stage, weaving a story of destiny and enchantment in a timeless struggle between good and evil. Fifty dancers from around the world perform in more than 150 meticulously sewn costumes against handcrafted sets. Highlights include the Dance of the Little Swans and the Black Swan’s sequence of 32 fouettés, set to Tchaikovsky’s score. The performance runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes with a 20 minute intermission and is for ages 5 and over. Based in Los Angeles and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company tours beloved classics across the nation, appealing to both first time attendees and longtime ballet fans. The ensemble features professional artists from over ten countries and has appeared in more than 300 cities for audiences totaling more than 500,000.

Dial M for Murder is presented in a new adaptation by Jeffrey Hatcher from Frederick Knott’s original. The story popularized by Alfred Hitchcock is given a contemporary turn as a botched crime ignites a desperate search for the true culprit before time runs out. What begins as a calculated plan quickly unravels into a taut pursuit filled with surprises and rising stakes. This heart-pounding play builds suspense as each clue surfaces. Will the trail lead to the right suspect, or will an innocent person bear the blame?

MARO, the Lisbon-born multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer, appears at Evanston SPACE as she steps into a fresh phase built around brighter, upbeat sounds and a new full-band show following the announcement of her album SO MUCH HAS CHANGED. A Berklee College of Music graduate, she launched her recording career in 2018 and has since released five albums and an EP, performed as a band member on Jacob Collier’s DJESSE World Tour, and opened for Jessie J, Gipsy Kings, Charlotte Cardin, and The Paper Kites. Her collaborative series ITSAME, MARO! spans 100 episodes with artists from around the world, including Eric Clapton, Lizzy McAlpine, Ivan Lins, Vitor Kley, ANAVITRIA, Mayra Andrade, Rui Veloso, and Lennon Stella. She won Festival da Cano and represented Portugal at Eurovision with saudade, saudade, finishing in the top 10. Her catalog ranges from can you see me?, which blends pop, trap, world, and folk influences, to hortel, an acoustic trio album with Catalan guitarists Daro Barroso and Pau Figueres that earned the Jos Afonso Award for Portuguese Album of the Year, and LIFELINE with NASAYA, which introduced a more electronic sound. In recent years she has toured the globe to sold-out venues with both her acoustic trio and an electronic duo, shared major stages with Jacob Collier, Odesza, and Parcels, and opened arena dates on Shawn Mendes’s summer tour.

The Wilmette French Market takes place every Saturday throughout the summer, offering a weekly stop for anyone looking to enjoy the season.

Enjoy craft activities with Pennies' Kids Club at the farmers market kids tent. Find out about the club's children's service meetups and ways for kids to get involved in community volunteering.

A lively marketplace takes over Westfield Old Orchard with more than 70 vintage, artisan, and food vendors each day, a live DJ, and plenty of extras. Presented by Windy City Market in collaboration with Westfield Old Orchard, this recurring event features a changing mix of sellers, so every visit brings new finds, including apparel, handmade candles, permanent jewelry, art, soaps, baked treats, fresh-made bites, collectibles, jewelry, perfumes, and more. Admission is free and the atmosphere is family friendly and pet friendly, with ample free parking. Early arrivals can pick up complimentary Windy City Market tote bags for the first 25 attendees each day while supplies last, and sponsor activations plus giveaways add to the excitement. Look for the market near the Cheesecake Factory area of the mall.

Kona Ice is featured at Loyola Academy in Wilmette for a Friday Night Lights FUNdraiser benefiting LA Student Activities. A quarter of every sale supports LA Student Activities. Offerings include the Klassic at 12 oz for $5 and the King at 16 oz for $6. The Kolor-Change 16 oz souvenir cup is $7, and refills are $4.

A casual Mahjong party takes place at The Fat Shallot, welcoming both beginners and seasoned players. If you already own a board, consider bringing it along. Food and drinks will be available.

Leonid & Friends is an internationally celebrated 11-piece ensemble led by musician and producer Leonid Vorobyev. The group unites standout vocalists and instrumentalists from Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, and beyond, channeling a shared love of 1970s music into precise recreations of Chicago’s catalog alongside high-energy takes on rock, pop, and jazz-fusion favorites from that decade. Originally a studio project in Moscow, their note-for-note video performances went viral and drew praise from members of Chicago, propelling the band from YouTube success to a world-touring act across North America, Europe, and Asia. With more than 500 million combined video views, several sold-out U.S. tours, and a devoted global audience, their reputation continues to grow. On stage, they deliver an authentic and energetic show with a tight horn section, rich vocal blends, and a rock and roll pulse. Setlists often highlight timeless songs like 25 or 6 to 4, Make Me Smile, Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?, Feelin’ Stronger Every Day, Beginnings, Questions 67 & 68, and Hard to Say I’m Sorry / Get Away, along with selections from an expanding repertoire that includes Earth, Wind & Fire, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Steely Dan, The Carpenters, and other 70s favorites. Each performance serves as a joyful salute to the music of a generation, rekindling its sound and spirit with exceptional musicianship.

Denver Summit FC heads to Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium to face Chicago Stars FC. Chicago aims to dictate possession on home turf, while Denver looks to disrupt play and counter at speed. Individual matchups across the field may decide the outcome.

Explore the real story of Mary Shelley, daughter of social revolutionaries William Godwin and Mary Wollstonecraft, wife of Romantic poet Percy Shelly, and the creator of Frankenstein and his monster. The event moves beyond a sweeping picture of love that defies convention and a life of travel to the hardships she endured... abandonment, disownment and betrayal, the deaths of her husband and children, and pressure from creditors and so called friends. The narrative reaches 1848, when she is finally on stable financial ground, her newest book has been well received, and her only surviving son is close to marriage. This event is free and open to the public. Registration information is available through the library's event calendar.

Celebrate 70 years of Old Orchard Mall with a guided walking tour that explores how malls have influenced American life and how this shopping center connects to local landmarks. Hear about the development of the Edens Expressway, the history of Skokie’s Fun Fair amusement park, and the story of Niles North High School, all woven into the broader tale of the community. The route is about a mile, set at an easy pace with frequent pauses to view building exteriors. Public seating is available at many stops. The group meets outside the west entrance to Macy’s at Old Orchard Mall, and parking is available in the green garage. Recommended for ages 12 and older. Admission is $25 per person, and children younger than 12 attend free with a paid adult. Advance registration is available online, in person through the Skokie Park District, or by phone. Drop-ins are accepted if space allows. The tour goes on in light rain. In the case of severe weather, an indoor alternative at the Skokie Heritage Museum may be offered or the walk may be rescheduled.

A screening of IF4™ comes to The Wilmette Theatre, organized by Elliott Donnelley Trout Unlimited. Same-day, in-person ticket purchases may be possible at the theater, depending on availability. For details about this screening, contact the host at jsbrown822@sbcglobal.net. For questions about IF4™ or the presentation, email info@flyfilmfest.com.

Explore a special fair trade rug showcase at Gather: Consciously Curated in Evanston, featuring an extensive selection of Tribal, Bokhara, and Persian designs. The collection spans traditional to modern styles, with sizes ranging from 2 by 3 feet up to 10 by 14 feet, along with many round and square options and table runners. All pieces are hand knotted by Bunyaad, a fair trade artisan group whose adult makers are paid fairly. The event emphasizes durable craftsmanship and ethical production practices. Bunyaad is a member of the Fair Trade Federation.

Relive the original Ghostbusters with a big-screen presentation as a live orchestra plays the score in sync with the film. This live-to-film experience blends comedy, action, and memorable music to create an engaging evening at the theater. Welcoming fans of every age, it offers a nostalgic way to revisit a timeless favorite with the added excitement of music performed right before you.

This free senior expo at the Levy Senior Center brings together local organizations that support seniors and their families. Explore helpful resources, enter prize drawings, enjoy refreshments, and access health screenings. Pre-registration is available.

Experience the original Ghostbusters on the big screen as a live orchestra plays the signature score in real time, synced to every moment. This concert screening blends comedy, action, and powerful music for an immersive theatre experience. Welcoming fans of all ages, it provides a nostalgic and energizing way to revisit a beloved classic.

Bring that long-postponed book idea out of the shadows with Writing for Legacy, a workshop focused on providing the support and structure needed to get started. If writing a book has felt overwhelming, this experience offers clear guidance to help you take meaningful steps toward telling your story and shaping a lasting legacy on the page.

Two seasoned tribute performers share the same piano on stage to honor the music of Billy Joel and Elton John, recreating the look and sound that fans know. Levittown, NY native Mike Santoro leads the Billy Joel portion with his band The Stranger, moving from brisk piano runs to the microphone for high-energy favorites like Uptown Girl and Only the Good Die Young. In the second half, Ronnie Smith steps into Elton John’s signature sunglasses and sparkly suits, tracing styles from the 1970s to today with songs that range from the reflective Rocket Man to the playful Crocodile Rock and the storytelling of Bennie and the Jets. The show is interactive throughout, and both artists focus on channeling the spirit of the originals. The performance lasts about three hours.

At Seman Violins, the Shauncey Ali Quartet shares vivid melodies and bold arrangements at the crossroads of tradition and new ideas. Their sound interweaves bluegrass, Celtic, and Nordic fiddle roots with pop and rock influences, combining technical prowess with an inviting, listener-friendly approach. The group hopes to have its debut album, The Blue Hour, freshly pressed in time for this show. The quartet features Shauncey Ali on fiddle, Nicholas Vanhaute on mandolin, Hans Holzen on acoustic guitar, and David Havas on upright bass. Ali’s background includes winning the RockyGrass fiddle competition, performing with Peter Gabriel at Summerfest, composing and recording theme music for an Ambie-nominated podcast, and running MadFiddle, his own fiddle school.

Copeland takes the stage at Evanston SPACE with special guest Jenny Dee. The Lakeland, Florida band formed in 2001 and has released six albums, beginning with Beneath Medicine Tree in 2003 and continuing through Ixora in 2016. Initially rooted in rock, their work reaches into electronic and symphonic territory, uniting these influences into a distinctive sound. For this period they set out to push each of those styles to its logical extreme, showcasing the breadth of their creative range.

The Skokie Farmers Market Sing Out brings music to the market and creates a warm community atmosphere.

A monthly gathering at Grind N Gears Cafe where coffee and boba tea meet a passion for bikes, highlighting small-displacement machines in a friendly, low-key setting.

Chicago's Own Piano Man Band brings a lively, high energy performance to the Niles Art Festival, adding an upbeat spark to the festivities.

Third Coast Symphony opens its season at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie with a program of orchestral classics alongside a newly commissioned work by Kareem Roustom. Victor Muenzer conducts, and Jeremy Vigil appears as piano soloist. The program features the world premiere of Roustom’s Fanfare for a Defiant City, Gershwin’s An American in Paris and Rhapsody in Blue, and Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition in Ravel’s orchestration. A post-concert reception will celebrate the opening concert.

This monthly meeting takes place at the Robert Crown Library and is open to anyone who wants to learn more and support the Evanston Public Library.

White Denim brings its exploratory sound to Evanston SPACE, led by singer and guitarist James Petralli. Formed in Austin roughly two decades ago and now based in Los Angeles, the band is known for fusing rock with funk, dub, soul, and gritty blues into a rhythm-forward style. Their thirteenth album, 13, mirrors Petralli's own experiences and the two-sided meaning often tied to the number, balancing themes of independence and creativity with the specter of bad luck and disorder. The record draws on a wide palette of inspirations, from Scritti Politti, The Gap Band, Terry Reid, King Tubby, Caetano Veloso, and John Cale to Stevie Wonder and 80s-era Steve Winwood, yielding shapeshifting cuts like (God Created) Lock And Key, Only A Fool, Thats Rap, and the glam-leaning Chew Nails. Alongside danceable grooves and bold riffs, the music also delves into tougher subjects, including power, cycles of harm, shame, violence, and the resilience needed to move through them.

Caring for someone with dementia can feel overwhelming. This monthly support group, offered in partnership with Adam Apostolovich of Life Stages Therapeutic Services, provides a welcoming space for families and caregivers to connect, share experiences, and receive support. Discussions highlight the ways dementia affects the entire family and emphasize the importance of caregiver well-being alongside caring for a loved one. To register or ask questions, contact Dolly at (224) 261-8352 or northbrookDCR@koelschsenior.com.

Laura Veirs performs at Evanston SPACE with Karl Blau. Her latest project, Temple Songs, is her first album in four years and the first she wrote, recorded, arranged, produced, and performed entirely on her own. Crafted in the fall of 2025 in her backyard Temple of Bloom studio using just two microphones and a laptop, it marks a new chapter of independence for her 14th solo release. She embraced wabi-sabi by leaving vocals uncorrected and keeping the rough edges, while mixer Philip Weinrobe added subtle finishing touches. The room and the neighborhood became part of the recording, with skylight rain, nearby conversations, bird calls, and even the timing pressures of everyday noise shaping the takes. The concise, 11-track, 30-minute album leans on intricate nylon-string fingerstyle, vulnerable vocals, and flashes of electric guitar. Influences stretch from Mac DeMarco’s trust-your-taste ethos to 19th-century anarchist and feminist ideas summed up by the rallying cry “no gods, no masters.” Songs span contemporary fatigue balanced by hope in Arc Still Bends, a tender dedication in Rivers Song, experimental edges in Pulse with a wild duet between electric guitar and saxophone, a sparse punk-spirited call for collective self-determination in No Masters, and a piece that weaves in fragments from Sappho in Sunlight and Doom. The record follows a period when Veirs built a backyard studio, married, blended a family with four teenagers, expanded her music teaching, and deepened her painting practice, a gathering phase that led back to a quick, inspired burst of songwriting.

Kona Ice will be at Loyola Academy, with a portion of every purchase supporting LA Student Activities. Twenty five percent of sales will be donated to LA Student Activities. Menu options include the Klassic 12 ounce cup for $5, the King 16 ounce for $6, and the Kolor Change 16 ounce souvenir cup for $7, with $4 refills.

Indian classical virtuoso Indradeep Ghosh, often known as the Prince of Violin, shares the distinctive sound of the Maihar Gharana with rare, custom-built instruments that include a five-string violin and a viola fitted with eight sympathetic strings. Inspired by the Norwegian Hardanger fiddle, these setups create a fuller, resonant tone. Recognized as an A grade artist by All India Radio, he appears frequently on national radio and television in India and has performed widely around the world. His recordings span both classical and fusion, including the first commercial viola album by an Indian violinist, “Tribute to Miyan Tansen on Viola.” He also contributed to “Melodic Intersect: One Vision,” which received an Akademia Music Award in Los Angeles in 2016.

Tammy Pescatelli, Bret Ernst, and Pat Tomasulo share the spotlight in a comedy celebration shaped by Italian feasts and the warmth of family storytelling. The evening focuses on stand-up and personality, creating a night out for adults that feels like gathering around the dinner table, relaxed and full of laughter.

Duane Betts brings a renewed charge to Southern rock, drawing on the legacy of his father, Dickey Betts, while shaping his own voice with soulful blues accents and commanding guitar work. Performing with Palmetto Motel, he blends roots rock and blues with space for improvisation, pairing heartfelt storytelling with sharp, six-string intensity and a contemporary feel that still honors classic influences. The result is a live set that stays grounded yet kinetic, with solos that crackle and passages that unfold in the moment. Palmetto Motel features Johnny Stachela on guitar and vocals, Pedro Arevalo on bass and vocals, Vincent Fossett Jr. on drums, and Max Butler on B-3 organ. Together they emphasize top-tier musicianship and a strong link to rock and roll history, aiming to turn each show into a fully realized musical experience.

Focus on your well-being at a health and wellness fair at the Weber Leisure Center. Try free Fitness First classes, connect with health industry vendors, sit in on brief speaker seminars, and enter a giveaway drawing. Admission is free.

Euro Klasse Chicago brings together European car enthusiasts for a laid-back morning meet at Grind N Gears Café. Enjoy coffee while checking out everything from timeless classics to contemporary European models, and enthusiasts of all kinds are welcome. Parking is limited in the main lot, with additional spaces available in the adjacent bank lot. To maintain a courteous and safe environment, avoid engine revving and burnouts, keep music volume down, and skip any dangerous driving. Please treat the lot, the café, and nearby neighbors with care, and remember to tidy up before you leave. With mutual respect, this community meet can continue as a relaxed, ongoing gathering.

A monthly meetup in Evanston brings together local investors, property owners, and neighbors who want to build, protect, and master their financial futures. Sessions take place at Lula B. Sherman, and there is no cost to attend. The format is structured and encourages questions, shared experiences, and practical takeaways. Each meeting spotlights a single theme, rotating through real estate, strategic financing, asset protection, and estate planning. Discussions may cover how to interpret market cycles, apply valuation methods, assess risk, and scale a portfolio in real estate, how to structure debt, optimize leverage, and allocate capital in financing, how to use legal entities, trusts, and compliance to reduce liability in asset protection, and how to plan for generational wealth, manage taxes, and preserve a legacy in estate planning.

Deadfest Band brings live music and dancing to Goat Village in Norridge. There is a $15 cover at the door.

Albert Cummings channels soulful blues and driving rock into a high-energy performance filled with raw emotion. Expect searing guitar work, powerful vocals, and a stage presence that turns the room into a live-wire experience. Recognized for memorable shows, he brings unwavering energy and passion to the stage and stands among today’s most exciting blues artists.

The Lowest Pair is the duo of Kendl Winter and Palmer T. Lee, crafting folk songs that linger in life’s uncertainties instead of rushing from sorrow to joy or confusion to clarity. Across more than a decade together they have refined a give and take where voices and strings breathe together, responding to each other’s stories in real time. Their eighth album, Always As Young As We’ll Ever Be, produced by Tucker Martine, features ten tracks that showcase spare, potent lyrics, graceful, string-led arrangements, and the easy rapport that anchors their sound. Winter, who grew up in Arkansas and has made Washington State home for many years, and Lee, a Minnesota native, first drew notice as poetic singer-songwriters on banjos. Their toolkit now reaches beyond those beginnings, yet the heart of their music remains the same... a conversation that listens as deeply as it plays.

Houston Dash meets Chicago Stars FC at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium in Evanston. Both sides favor a high-tempo style and showcase strong individual talent, so the outcome may come down to the little things. Set pieces, quick counterattacks, and late-game adjustments could be the difference in this competitive NWSL clash.

This Kidical Mass style neighborhood ride welcomes families and neighbors, including parents biking with kids in seats or trailers and children ready to ride without training wheels. The pace is relaxed to help new riders feel comfortable and to encourage connections within the community. The route departs from Twiggs Park and travels about 1.5 miles one way through Evanston to the Downtown Evanston Trick or Treat Stroll. There is time before departure for kids to play and adults to get situated. Participation is free, similar to the adult rides, and riders should bring helmets.

Celebrate the spooky season early at Whiskey River Bar & Grill. This pre-Halloween party encourages attendees to test-drive costume ideas and enjoy a few drinks in a fun, spooky atmosphere.

Maria Bamford takes the stage at the North Shore Center for a single-night performance that highlights her unmistakable style. Known for candid honesty, oddball characters, and personal storytelling, she blends vulnerability with the absurd to deliver laughs that also land with heart. Expect inventive stand-up from a singular voice in comedy.

At Evanston SPACE, Jack ONeill and Cary Pierce bring their long-running duo Jackopierce to the stage, known for energetic performances and tightly woven harmonies. They began in 1988 as theater students at the Meadows School of the Arts at SMU, gained early momentum, and within a few years signed to a major label to record Bringing on the Weather with producer T Bone Burnett. Their travels have spanned three continents, nine countries, and 46 states, reaching millions of listeners and appearing alongside John Mayer, Dave Matthews, Matchbox20, Counting Crows, Wallflowers, Sheryl Crow, Toad the Wet Sprocket, Vertical Horizon, and Lyle Lovett. After a five year pause they reunited in 2002 and have remained active, releasing new music each month and touring across the country. Decades in, they continue to take the stage with fresh energy and a close bond.

Vitamin String Quartet showcases a genre-blurring approach to strings, blending classical technique with the pulse of dance, hip hop, and pop. Known for reinventing songs by artists such as Billie Eilish, BTS, Taylor Swift, The Weeknd, Danny Elfman, and Daft Punk, the ensemble delivers vivid arrangements that highlight fresh textures and rhythms. Their work has been highlighted by outlets including BuzzFeed, The New York Times, Consequence of Sound, and Nerdist, amassing more than two billion streams and multiple appearances on Billboard charts. Their music can also be heard in popular series like Bridgerton on Netflix, Westworld on HBO, and Modern Family on ABC.

The Arcadian Wild is an indie folk and pop group from Nashville, Tennessee, led by songwriters Isaac Horn, Lincoln Mick, and Bailey Warren. Their music blends confessional pop, folk, progressive bluegrass, and elements of formal vocal performance, creating a sound that connects timeless traditions with a contemporary edge. Audiences can look forward to rich harmonies, agile musicianship, and storytelling that welcomes listeners into moments of rest, wonder, laughter, and tears, with a spirit of community and sing-along warmth.

An inclusive, fully non-food trunk or treat at Northbrook United Methodist Church offers a safe Halloween experience for families managing allergies. Children can explore a parking lot filled with creatively decorated trunks, costumes, and music while collecting non-edible goodies such as stickers, glow trinkets, small toys, and other surprises. There is no candy or food, only festive fun. Local businesses and community organizations can inquire about hosting a trunk space.

Rocks Off brings a high-energy Rolling Stones tribute to Evanston SPACE, recreating the feel of a classic Stones concert with both famous anthems and lesser-heard favorites. The Chicago-based group draws on the blues influences that shaped the originals and spotlights the early seventies era, channeling Mick Jagger’s stage presence, Keith Richards’ signature guitar sound, Charlie Watts’ steady groove, and Mick Taylor’s searing leads. Expect a performance dedicated to authenticity and a lively atmosphere made for dancing and singing along.

An improvisation clinic celebrating everything ukulele takes place at Skokie Public Library. Participants can explore making music on the spot and experiment with creative approaches to the instrument.

John Cowan and Luke Bulla bring a set shaped by 25 years of shared history, trust, and friendship to Evanston SPACE. They weave favorites from New Grass Revival alongside both new and longtime originals, combining agile picking, a rich vocal blend, and stories that are touching, funny, and hard-won. Cowan offers the perspective of a veteran artist with decades on stage and a host of meaningful collaborations, and he expresses deep appreciation for Bulla’s musicianship and heart. Bulla, inspired by Cowan since his youth, began his Nashville journey at 19 with Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder, later joining The John Cowan Band and releasing projects of his own that feature Cowan, while Cowan has also recorded several of Bulla’s songs. Their performance is rooted in joy, gratitude, and profound mutual respect.

Presented in collaboration with the Eisenhower Public Library District, this live, in-person program runs one hour and features educator and world traveler Brian Michalski. Drawing on five years spent exploring more than 60 countries across six continents, he shares funny, moving, and candid lessons that look past landmarks to what travel reveals about perspective, resilience, and the human experience. A handpicked selection from his 30,000 photographs pairs with vivid storytelling to spotlight small delights and unexpected kindness, while unpacking themes of fear, comfort zones, materialism, cultures, and curiosity. Attendees can expect to leave seeing the world, and their own lives, with a refreshed outlook.

London-born, Brooklyn-based singer and songwriter Teddy Thompson appears at Evanston SPACE, bringing the refined songcraft and warm tenor that have drawn praise from outlets such as The New York Times, the Associated Press, and Billboard. He recently returned with Never Be The Same, his first collection of original material since 2020, a ten-track set that reflects on love, longing, and the passage of time. At its core is a recurring call to keep evolving, with songs that acknowledge heartbreak and loss while urging growth and change in a world where everything is temporary.

Giordano Dance Chicago is back at the North Shore Center for Performing Arts in its 64th season with a program that pairs new creations with familiar repertory, all brimming with energy and spirit. The company honors a lineage that links founder Gus Giordano’s bold vision with Nan Giordano’s 42 years of artistic leadership, highlighting a distinctive mix of strength, refinement, and exuberance. With roots in Chicago and performances spanning 28 countries, 47 states, and more than 1,300 cities, the company brings inventive, boundary-stretching jazz choreography to the stage in a performance that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Get an up-close look at genuine dinosaur fossils, hear stories from excavation digs, and explore some of the latest discoveries in this fossil-focused program. Arrive 15 minutes before the start to meet Ranger the T-Rex. After the presentation concludes, presenters will stay for up to 30 minutes so attendees can take photos or spend extra time with anything they missed. Please contact the library to find out if registration is required.

A casual mahjong gathering at The Fat Shallot welcomes players of every experience level. Attendees may bring a board if they have one. Food and drinks will be available.

The 12-piece band Sons of Chicago honors the music of Bruce Springsteen with a full evening at Skokie’s Northshore Center for the Performing Arts. The performance spans big anthems, tender ballads, and deeper tracks, with favorites such as Born to Run, Thunder Road, Rosalita, Glory Days, Badlands, Tenth Avenue Freezeout, and Bobby Jean. Played with the drive and feeling of the originals, these songs spark memories and keep the audience dancing and singing along.

Charles Dickens’ storytelling has long been essential reading, and its phrases have found a home in everyday conversation. Think of how the word 'Scrooge' instantly paints a picture. This program looks back on Dickens’ life and explores his most cherished books while considering how the culture of his era shaped his writing. Possible topics include A Tale of Two Cities, Great Expectations, A Christmas Carol, and The Cricket on the Hearth, along with selections from his short stories and nonfiction.

Adam Ezra Group arrives with momentum forged over more than two decades of relentless touring, building not just a following but a fan-powered community. Venues across the country have been filling up as longtime supporters even travel across state lines to catch multiple performances, drawn to nights that never unfold the same way twice. There is no fixed setlist. The band reads the room and lets songs, stories, and spontaneous moments guide the show in real time, creating an experience that feels equal parts concert, communal spark, and a reminder of live music at its best. Their sound blends folk and Americana soul with rock and roll drive and songwriting rooted in everyday humanity. This approach has cultivated one of live music’s most authentic underground followings and a growing national profile while staying fiercely independent. SPIN has highlighted how their rise is happening outside the usual industry lanes through word of mouth, community activism, and a genuine bond with audiences that often turns first-time listeners into lifelong fans. The result is an intimate, high-energy night where the connection between stage and crowd takes center stage.

Tyler Ballgame brings a live show rooted in presence, treating each performance as a chance to step away from the digital routine and share something unmistakably human. The sound leans into alternative indie pop with bright hooks, a nostalgic glow, and subtle echoes of classic songwriting from the 60s and 70s. Appearing at Evanston SPACE, Tyler is on the cusp of a debut full-length, For The First Time, Again, created with longtime collaborators Jonathan Rado and Ryan Pollie.

Discover how Celebrity Cruises is bringing its ocean style to Europe’s rivers at a no-cost Cruise Night hosted by Expedia Cruises, NorthShore. A Celebrity River Cruises representative will introduce the new brand and share what to expect, from award-winning dining and sleek, sophisticated design to the all-inclusive approach that defines the experience. Expect highlights of itineraries along the Rhine and Danube, with time to learn what sets these sailings apart. Guests can enjoy snacks and wine during the presentation. Given the strong demand that saw inaugural 2027 departures sell out in less than six minutes, vacation consultants will be available to answer questions, help match you with an itinerary, and assist with bookings on the spot. Seating is limited.

Great Lake Swimmers appear at Evanston SPACE, led by founder Tony Dekker. The group arrives in the era of Caught Light, the ninth album, created quickly in the Ganaraska Forest with producer Darcy Yates and engineer Jimmy Bowskill. Aiming for the warmth of early 70s folk, pop, and rock, they drew inspiration from the classic work of Gordon Lightfoot, the gentleness of Dory Previn, and John Martyn’s Bless the Weather. For the first time, Dekker entrusted production to Yates, a former Great Lake Swimmers bassist, who assembled a studio band that included veteran drummer Gary Craig. Core tracks were recorded in three days with two more for overdubs, including backing vocals by Colleen Brown. The record highlights strong new material such as One More Dance Around the Sun, a sunlit reflection on hometown roads, familiarity, and the grounding pull of community following Dekker’s move back to the Niagara area. The performance reflects this nimble, light-catching spirit and the band’s naturalistic approach to songwriting and sound.

AJ McLean offers a close-up night of live music and personal storytelling, sharing songs from his latest solo project while presenting Alexander James to the audience. The set pairs new material with the signature charisma and vocals that have shaped his pop career, creating a theater experience that favors intimacy over the scale of his arena shows.

This session offers a pause from everyday noise and a full-body reset for mind, body, and spirit through an immersive sound meditation. Layers of resonance from gongs, singing bowls, handpan, chimes, flutes, and other instruments help melt stress, soothe the nervous system, and encourage inner balance. Guided by Simon Jay Cervania of Harmonic Waves Healing, the experience blends clearing stagnant energy, grounding practices, and intention setting to support deep rest and renewal. It is ideal for stress relief, emotional release, deep relaxation, and ongoing self-care. For comfort, bring a yoga mat, a blanket, a pillow, an eye mask, water, and clothing you can relax in.

They have graded stacks of papers, endured countless staff meetings, and used up the last of their patience, so those battle-tested stories now take the spotlight on stage. Bored Teachers returns with an all-new set, bigger laughs, and teacher-life humor that is as relatable as it gets. For nearly a decade, this comedy powerhouse has led educator entertainment, earning over one billion views, building a community of more than ten million followers, and hosting the number one teacher-comedy podcast. Since 2022, the tour has played for more than 200,000 teachers and sold out over 200 theaters across 49 states, five countries, and three continents. The Is It Friday Yet?! tour offers a night of laughter and camaraderie for anyone who has worked in education, taught a class, or navigated parent-teacher conferences. Expect candid tales, sharp truths, and laugh-out-loud classroom confessions that leave teachers, parents, and anyone who has set foot in a school nodding and clapping in recognition.

Singer-songwriter Tyrone Wells appears at Evanston SPACE with candid storytelling and a catalog approaching a thousand songs. In his own words, he is a preacher’s son, brother, husband, dad, real estate lover, major-label and independent artist, opener and headliner, a self-conscious dancer, gardener, aspiring surfer, someone who has needed therapy, pickleball player, and barstool theologian. He writes honestly and sets his songs free, whether they reach millions of listeners or only a few, and he continues to create with gratitude, aiming for music he and the audience can both love.

The Trinity Gala offers an evening filled with dinner, an auction and raffles, and time among friends. Tickets are available for purchase.

Amythyst Kiah takes the spotlight with music shaped by her new album Still + Bright, produced by Butch Walker, whose credits include Taylor Swift, Green Day, and Weezer, and recorded at his Nashville studio. The record turns inward, drawing on her interest in Eastern philosophies and spiritual traditions, a powerful connection to the natural world, and formative years as an anime-loving mall goth. Working with Walker, she expands the rootsy alt-rock of her 2021 breakthrough Wary + Strange into something darker and more cinematic, blending fuzz-laced guitars, industrial-leaning beats, gleaming pedal steel, and her graceful banjo to create an arresting sonic landscape. Her Rounder Records debut traced grief, trauma, and alienation and earned wide recognition, including a place on a major year-end list for Country and Americana albums and praise from outlets such as Pitchfork, along with a Grammy nomination for the anthem Black Myself. With the new collection, she moves from catharsis to joy, writing with confidence and clarity and embracing the sounds and stories she has always wanted to share.

Little Feat brings The Last Farewell Tour, announced with a wink as a step back from the grind of constant travel. It is not a final goodbye. The band is easing off the road over several years while continuing to perform and record as long as they are able. The story begins in 1969 when Frank Zappa encouraged Lowell George to start his own group. It took shape with George, Bill Payne, and Richie Hayward, then grew to include Kenny Gradney, Sam Clayton, Paul Barrere, and eventually Fred Tackett. Across 56 years they created songs including Dixie Chicken, Oh, Atlanta, Willin', and Fat Man in the Bathtub, along with the live album Waiting for Columbus. The road also brought the losses of George, Hayward, and Barrere, yet the groove continued with Scott Sharrard on guitar and Tony Leone on drums, as well as a recent album of original material titled Strike Up the Band. Their blend of rock, New Orleans swamp boogie, jazz, and blues fuels a celebration of a storied legacy, even as the trusty tour bus finally gets a rest.

Emmy-winning comedian, actor, writer, and producer David Cross brings his celebrated stand-up tour to North Shore Center. Known for Arrested Development and Mr. Show with Bob and David, he delivers a set filled with bold humor, keen social observations, and storytelling that takes surprising turns. The night showcases one of stand-up’s most influential voices.

Fran Lebowitz appears for a wide ranging conversation that pairs a guided interview with time for questions from the audience. Known for quick wit and incisive cultural observations, she keeps the exchange spontaneous and lively. Expect candid humor and thoughtful commentary throughout.

Acclaimed Mexican singer-songwriter Oceransky brings his 2026 tour to Chicago for an intimate concert rich with emotion, storytelling, and song. Celebrated for forging a deep rapport with listeners, he shapes an evening that resonates with longtime fans as well as those discovering his music for the first time. The performance takes place at Sabor A Café Niles, where dinner and drinks are available alongside the live music. Admission is $40.

Special Consensus brings its celebrated bluegrass sound to Seman Violins, led by banjo pioneer Greg Cahill, who has guided the group with a blend of tradition and fresh ideas for five decades. The band pairs the drive and close harmonies of classic bluegrass with contemporary material and inventive arrangements. The lineup features Cahill’s distinctive banjo and the commanding lead vocals of Greg Blake, recognized as the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Male Vocalist of the Year in 2023 and 2025, alongside Brian McCarty on mandolin and vocals and Nico Humby on bass and vocals. Their music spans instrumentals touched with jazz to acclaimed original songs, always grounded in their bluegrass roots. With 22 albums, two Grammy nominations, and eight IBMA awards, the group’s legacy speaks for itself.

Renowned contemporary circus ensemble Gravity & Other Myths presents Ten Thousand Hours at the George Van Dusen Theatre in Skokie. This production intertwines acrobatics, physical theater, and storytelling to illuminate the commitment and discipline behind exceptional physical skill. A cast of eight elite acrobats delivers bold sequences and seamless ensemble work, shaping a vivid experience that reflects on the thousands of hours it takes to achieve mastery. Tickets start at $39.

Holiday favorites get a 007 twist in a lively orchestral program that blends seasonal music with iconic spy film themes. The Third Coast Symphony performs under music director and conductor Victor Muenzer, joined by assistant conductor Anna Therese George and associate conductor Charles Taylor. Expect familiar selections from For Your Eyes Only, Live and Let Die, and Goldfinger, plus The Pink Panther, alongside Christmas carols and additional seasonal music. Presented at the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, this festive concert is planned with families and fans in mind. Tickets range from $35 to $44.25, with children and student pricing from $14 to $20.60.

A casual mahjong party at The Fat Shallot welcomes players at any experience level. Bringing a board is encouraged if you have one. Food and beverages will be available.

This event features music and dancing at Double Clutch Brewery.

Full Spectrum Bluegrass offers an open door to the genre while honoring its roots. Based in Rogers Park in Chicago, the group combines the drive of classics like Bill Monroe and JD Crowe with original songs that speak to queer, trans, and urban life. Their debut EP, Homesick, released in November 2025, highlights both their musical virtuosity and distinctive voice as songwriters. In concert they keep the momentum high with a mix of originals, bluegrass standards, and a few deep cuts, appealing to traditional bluegrass fans, Deadheads, and Americana listeners.

Laurie Berkner brings a live family concert to Cahn Auditorium, filled with upbeat songs for kids. Children and caregivers can sing along, dance, and share an energetic music experience together. It is a cheerful way to enjoy time with little ones and create lasting memories.

Pete the Cat takes the stage in a toe-tapping musical adventure brimming with songs, friendship, and feel-good fun. Inspired by the popular book series, this family show celebrates being yourself and rolling with life's surprises. Everyone is welcome, with an ideal audience of children ages 2 to 9. The performance lasts about 55 minutes and is presented without an intermission.

Raise a glass to the holiday season at a festive tasting class focused on sparkling wines from around the world paired with cheeses. Attendees will sample seven bubblies with decadent pairings while exploring global styles and why they work so well together. This popular class often sells out. Plan to eat beforehand, as the session features tastings of seven wines rather than a full meal. A one-week cancellation policy applies. The venue is two storefronts from the Main Street Metra and the Main Street L stops.

A high energy tribute brings the 80s sound of Huey Lewis and the News to North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. The performance captures the band’s upbeat vibe and features favorites like Power of Love, I Want a New Drug, and Working for a Livin', celebrating the hits that filled 80s airwaves.