Events in North Shore, IL

Take a walking tour through downtown Skokie that mixes chills with a bit of humor, sharing true stories of local misdeeds and odd moments from the past. Highlights include a serial arsonist, an attempt on the life of Skokie’s founding father, connections to notorious gangsters, and a few quirky small-town emergencies. Admission is $15, and children 11 and younger are free with a paid adult. Pre-registration is available online or you can register at the door, and drop-ins are welcome as space allows. The tour proceeds in light rain. If severe weather arises, an indoor version will be offered at the Skokie Heritage Museum.

Art Impact Project partners with The Art Center Highland Park for a community art project. It is free to attend, all supplies are provided, and no prior experience is needed. The program welcomes adolescents and adults. Registration and additional details are available through The Art Center Highland Park online calendar. For questions, contact the Manager of Programming.

Explore the vibrant tradition of wycinanki, the Polish folk art of intricate paper cutting. Polish American artist Grace Bazylewski will share its history and techniques, then lead a hands-on segment where participants craft a decorative paper cutout to take home. Free registration is available to Lincolnwood Library cardholders.

Put your knowledge to the test with Sporcle Live Trivia. Play on your own or form a team to take on other groups for a Village Inn gift certificate. A half price pizza deal is available to enjoy alongside the competition.

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.

Each Wednesday brings a new wave of savings as prices update and the selection rotates, so every visit offers something different to discover. Expect premium halal meats, fresh seafood, fresh produce, and a wide range of deli and international groceries. Everything is 100 percent halal and prepared fresh daily, and the experience is family friendly. The sale takes place at Marketplace On Oakton in Skokie.

An in-person TRICARE West briefing at Lovell FHCC offers a monthly general overview of TRICARE benefits in the United States and compares available plans. The session takes place in Building 4, Auditorium 105, within the Education Center of Excellence. Parking is available in Lot T, followed by a short walk to Building 4. Enter through the glass doors, and the auditorium is just past the entrance on the left.

Discover the spirit of Día de los Muertos in a hands-on workshop that begins with a brief introduction to ofrendas and the cultural meaning of sugar skulls. Participants will decorate a sugar skull made entirely of sugar using royal icing, sequins, feathers, and other decorative accents, then take their creation home. Separate sessions are available for families and for adults, and the adult session requires a Lincolnwood library card. Please register each family member individually.

This guided walk through downtown Skokie shares a blend of chilling and occasionally playful stories from the community's past. Highlights include the case of a serial arsonist, an attempt on the life of the village's founder, ties to notorious gangsters, and a handful of unusual small-town emergencies. Tickets are $15, and children 11 and under are free with a paying adult. Advance registration is available online, and on-site registration is offered as space allows. The tour continues in light rain. If severe weather arises, an indoor version will be held at the Skokie Heritage Museum.

Compete in a local One Piece Trading Card Game constructed tournament at Gamers World Old Orchard in Skokie. The entry fee is $10, and registration is completed through the Bandai app. This event centers on constructed play for One Piece TCG fans.

Enjoy a no-cost live trivia night hosted by Pub Trivia USA at Village Inn Pizzeria Sports Bar and Grill. Participants can compete for nightly rewards, including Village Inn gift certificates, and there are also area tournaments offering substantial cash prizes for local teams. It offers a laid-back setting to spend time with friends, enjoy food and drinks, meet new people, and simply have fun.

Welcome the lengthening autumn evenings with social dancing, traditional tunes, and a warm sense of community at Sketchbook Brewing. The Duke of Perth Ceilidh Band will play live for the dances while caller Rich MacDonald leads participants. Admission is free with a suggested $10 donation, and no partner or prior experience is necessary. Food and beverages are available for purchase from the brewery. The venue can be reached by car with free parking, and it is also accessible via the CTA Yellow Line.

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.

Trio Globo returns to Studio5 for a rare reunion that brings together three Grammy-honored artists. Howard Levy on piano and harmonica, Eugene Friesen on cello, and Glen Velez on percussion draw from jazz, classical, sacred, and global traditions, shaped by exceptional technique and a spirit of improvisation. Appearances by this ensemble are uncommon, with their previous concert together taking place two years ago at Pittsburg State University in Kansas, and they are reuniting for a one-night appearance at Studio5 in Chicago. Levy, a two-time Grammy winner celebrated for his work with Béla Fleck and the Flecktones, is recognized as a virtuoso harmonica player as well as a pianist and composer. Friesen, a four-time Grammy recipient and longtime member of the Paul Winter Consort, has expanded the expressive range of the cello through improvisation and a wide-ranging career. Velez, a four-time Grammy winner and Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame inductee, is a leading figure in the modern evolution of frame drumming. Together they create acoustic music that crosses genres while staying lyrical, adventurous, and playful. Two performances are scheduled, so when purchasing tickets, choose the show you prefer.

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.

Start by building a deck from a Build and Battle kit filled with cards from the set, then challenge other trainers throughout the event. Earn additional booster packs for every opponent you defeat, and keep every card you open. Entry is $35.

A crackling campfire sets the scene at Little House of Glencoe for an evening of true and traditional tales, s’mores, and cider. This annual gathering celebrates 15 years of fireside fun in the woods of Glencoe, with a relaxed potluck picnic to start the night followed by storytelling around the theme CREEP. Attendees may want to dress warmly and consider bringing an extra blanket. Bringing a snack to share is welcome but not required. Costumes are encouraged. Tweens and teens may attend with adult supervision, and some stories may include mature themes. Dogs are not permitted. Restrooms are available inside the cabin. If the weather turns, the event shifts indoors by the fireplace, with time to enjoy the outdoor fire before or after. Space is limited to 35 listeners. Tickets are $40 plus a small processing fee. Ride help may be arranged for those without a car through the organizers.

This annual gathering focuses on reducing stigma and fostering connection, guided by the theme Where Connection Begins: Better Together, which emphasizes that mental health is best supported in community. The evening includes a dessert reception catered by Zelda's and a program featuring keynote speaker Ali Hearn, LCSW, a mental health advocate, educator, and leadership coach. The event will be held at Holiday Inn North Shore Chicago. Ticket and sponsorship opportunities are available.

Settle in for a restorative Tibetan sound healing meditation guided by Lama Lobsang Palden. Please bring a blanket, pillow, yoga mat, or any other items that help you stay comfortable while lying on the floor. The space fills with the resonant tones of traditional instruments, including drums, bells, gongs, singing bowls, cymbals, horns, and conch shells. TSA LUNG breathing practices support the opening of energetic pathways, while mantra and prayer nurture clarity, heightened awareness, and a sense of peace. The experience concludes with quiet meditation to encourage deep relaxation. Lama Lobsang Palden is an incarnate lama from eastern Tibet who studied Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and practice at Amdo Tashi Kyil and Kaja To Monasteries. He trained in Yantra Yoga and Tibetan healing massage with Tibetan doctor Rinzen Geshe Nyima and carries an intuitive healing lineage from his grandfather, a healing lama and yogi. Recognized as a gifted energy healer, he has received the blessing and encouragement of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to offer healing work and has shared Tibetan Buddhist meditation and Yantra Yoga around the world.

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.

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.

Grammy Award winner Jon Cleary has spent more than three decades shaping the sound of New Orleans. He brought that spirit home by assembling his Absolute Monster Gentlemen in his Bywater studio and recording live in the room to capture the energy of musicians playing together. The result, The Bywater Sessions, is a powerful showcase of grit, funk and joy that has resonated from New Orleans to audiences far beyond. Co-produced with John Porter, known for work with Roxy Music, The Smiths and Taj Mahal, the project underscores Cleary’s standing in the city’s musical vanguard while opening the door to fresh colors and textures. Longtime bandmates Cornell Williams on bass and A.J. Hall on drums provide the foundation, with contributions on the recordings from Nigel Hall on Hammond organ, Pedro Segundo on percussion, Xavier Lynn on guitar, and a horn section featuring Aaron Narcisse, Charlie Halloran and Jason Mingledorff. Cleary moves between the punch of a stripped-back piano trio and the breadth of an expanded lineup with horns, guitar, percussion and a second keyboard, letting arrangements grow in new directions. Rooted in a tradition where sophisticated, good-time funk functions as folk music, this sound reflects generations raised on street parades and second lines, honoring deep roots while welcoming the new.

Celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, at Lincolnwood Community Center with family friendly activities. Enjoy hands-on arts and crafts, live performances, and traditional refreshments. This event is open to all ages, and advance registration is encouraged.

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.

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.

Lucky Pickers bring their acoustic folk-grass sound to Seman Violins. Led by singer songwriters Despina Pafralides and Caleb Peters, this Northern Illinois project began as a relaxed duo while they were off the road from Miles Over Mountains and Fox Crossing Stringband, then grew into a fuller lineup with a rotating group of Chicagoland musicians. The performance centers on Americana and bluegrass influenced songs with tight vocal harmonies and versatile instrumentation. The set can flow from gentle, folk-leaning pieces to upbeat bluegrass numbers. Their catalog reaches from traditional favorites to original tunes and familiar contemporary songs. On stage they are known for lively shows that may include upright bass, dobro, and banjo, fitting both intimate rooms and festival settings.

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.

Jewett Park hosts the Deerfield Field of Honor, featuring a sea of United States flags arranged as a tribute. Presented by the Village of Deerfield, the display centers on the theme Honoring Our Veterans, creating a thoughtful space for reflection and gratitude for those who have served.

This monthly meeting takes place at the Robert Crown Library. It is intended for anyone interested in learning more and supporting the Evanston Public Library.

Art Impact Project leads a hands-on art program at Gorton Center in Lake Forest in collaboration with the center. Adolescents and adults are welcome. No prior experience is needed, all supplies are included, and attendance is free. Registration is available through the Gorton Center calendar.

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.

How do images of empty lots, quiet streets, and abandoned buildings shape what a city is understood to be? In this talk, scholar and cultural leader Adrienne Brown examines how notions of emptiness have long framed the modern metropolis, from a widespread fascination with Detroit’s ruins to earlier documentary traditions marked by melancholy, then brings together artworks that push back on those conventions and propose other ways to see and engage with urban space beyond stories of repair or redevelopment. The program is open to all on a first come, first served basis, and RSVPs are welcome though not required. Brown is a Professor in the Departments of English and Race, Diaspora, and Indigeneity at the University of Chicago and the Director of Arts + Public Life. Her work includes co-editing Race and Real Estate with Valerie Smith, authoring The Black Skyscraper, which received the Modernist Studies Association’s 2018 First Book Prize, and The Residential is Racial, published by Stanford University Press in 2024. Image credits include a 2009 gelatin silver print from Thomas W. Harney’s Stepping Stones series, Chicago, Illinois, in the Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art collection, and a portrait of Adrienne Brown by Anjali Pinto. The Block Museum of Art acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council.

Great Lake Swimmers perform at Evanston SPACE in Evanston, Illinois. Led by founder Tony Dekker, the band’s latest chapter centers on Caught Light, a ninth album made quickly and close to nature in Ontario’s Ganaraska Forest with producer Darcy Yates and engineer Jimmy Bowskill. Yates, a former Great Lake Swimmers bassist, selected the studio and assembled a lineup that included veteran drummer Gary Craig, then the team tracked the songs in three days and added minimal overdubs, including harmonies from Colleen Brown. The recording leans into the warm textures of early 1970s folk, pop, and rock, with nods to Gordon Lightfoot, Dory Previn, and John Martyn’s Bless the Weather. Themes of homecoming and community thread through the new material, reflecting Dekker’s move back to the Niagara region, and the album features the single One More Dance Around the Sun.

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 free expo for seniors at the Patty Turner Center brings together local organizations that support older adults and their families. Attendees can explore helpful resources, speak with community representatives, and take part in prize drawings. Refreshments will be available, and complimentary health screenings are included.

Kick off the day with DBR Chamber’s Morning Mingle, a relaxed networking meet-up that puts conversations first. Connect with fellow professionals, trade ideas, and explore new opportunities in an easygoing setting focused on meaningful connections rather than a sit-down meal. Enjoy coffee and light refreshments, with breakfast from Once Upon a Bagel made possible by support from Bradford Allen Commercial Real Estate. The format shifts month to month, featuring options like group introductions, small group conversations on current topics, or a fun game with a prize to help you meet peers in the local business community. Welcoming to long-time members and newcomers alike, this gathering is a friendly way to build relationships that support business growth. Admission is $15 for members and $25 for non-members.

Pete the Cat pads onto the stage for a lively musical adventure at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie, presented by Next Page Productions. Inspired by the much-loved children’s books, this upbeat show blends catchy songs, playful humor, and messages about friendship. It celebrates being yourself and embracing surprises along the way. The performance welcomes all ages, with a recommended range of 2 to 9, and runs about 55 minutes with no intermission.

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.

Local investors, property owners, and neighbors gather in Evanston to build, protect, and refine their financial futures together. This free, monthly gathering focuses on one core pillar at a time so participants can dig in, ask questions, and share practical insights. Real estate sessions look at how markets move, ways to evaluate properties, assessing risk, and growing a portfolio. Strategic financing explores debt structures, thoughtful use of leverage, and how to allocate capital. Asset protection covers legal entities, trusts, and compliance to reduce exposure. Estate planning delves into transferring wealth across generations, minimizing taxes, and preserving a lasting legacy.

Pete the Cat leaps from the beloved books to the stage in a lively musical about friendship, fun, and staying true to yourself. Catchy songs and playful storytelling highlight the joy of rolling with surprises and being yourself. The show welcomes all ages, with an ideal audience of children ages 2 to 9. The performance is approximately 55 minutes with no intermission.

This event honors Rebecca Makkai, an acclaimed novelist and Lake Bluff native. Her bestselling books, including The Great Believers, have brought national recognition, with finalist honors for the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. Through residencies at Ragdale and her mentorship of other writers, she has contributed to the North Shore’s creative life. She is recognized among a distinguished group of honorees as the 2026 Local Legend.

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.

Designed for ages 14 and up, this hands-on session helps participants strengthen confidence, sharpen awareness, and build practical self-defense skills. Through paired practice and engaging drills in a welcoming, safety-focused setting, attendees work on real-world concepts such as awareness of surroundings, managing space, breakaway moves, and control techniques. It is suitable for every experience level, and parents may participate alongside their teen. Instruction is led by Kyron Bowen, a Jiu-Jitsu black belt, professional MMA fighter, and active competitor.

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.

Enjoy a midday performance by classical guitarist Brad Conroy at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church. The church’s 1891 sanctuary, shaped by wood and stone, offers a warm and resonant setting that lets each note bloom. Admission is free. A voluntary offering will be received and shared between the performer and St. Mark’s Piano and Organ Fund. Street parking is available nearby within a short walk. Brad Conroy is a versatile guitarist, performer, and educator whose programs span music from the Renaissance to the present, often featuring his own compositions, improvisations, and new works written for him. He has appeared across the United States and abroad, including performances in Nizhny Novgorod, the International Guitar Festival in Brno, Vienna, Newport Beach, and Cornwall. His playing has been featured on WFMT Chicago, and he has performed for the Chicago Historical Society, the Chicago Classical Guitar Society, the Czech Guitar Society, and The Schweiker House, as well as in a private concert for Caroline Kennedy. He earned a B.M. in Classical Guitar Performance from Northeastern Illinois University, studying with Dr. Brian Torosian, and an M.M. from the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University, studying with Denis Azabagic and Sergio Assad. He currently serves as Department Chair of Guitar at the Music Institute of Chicago.

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.

Caregivers supporting someone with dementia will find a welcoming space to connect with others who understand. This monthly support group offers families and caregivers a chance to share experiences, exchange practical insights, and receive encouragement. It also emphasizes the importance of caregiver well-being, recognizing that dementia affects the entire family. The group is offered in partnership with Adam Apostolovich of Life Stages Therapeutic Services. Registration is available through Dolly.

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.

Kids Night Out at Ultimate Ninjas North Shore features an evening of obstacle course fun, group games, and friendly challenges for ages 3 to 12. This drop-off program is led by trained coaches who keep participants active, smiling, and building confidence in a safe and high energy setting. Pizza is included so kids can refuel between activities. Expect plenty of obstacle course play and team-based challenges that encourage movement and teamwork. The cost is $35 per participant. It takes place on the third Friday of each month, and spots tend to fill quickly.

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.

At First United Methodist Church in Evanston, Illinois, the Festival Choir presents a concert celebrating sacred choral music in the United States in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary. The program concludes with Leonard Bernstein’s “Chichester Psalms,” composed in 1965 and setting several psalm texts in Hebrew. The concert also features a range of American choral anthems, including spirituals, works by composers with ties to Evanston, and Randall Thompson’s “Alleluia.” Conductors Brian Schoettler and Cody Michael Bradley lead the performance. Admission is free and open to the public.

The Wood Brothers bring their rootsy mix of folk, blues, Americana, soul, and acoustic rock to Cahn Auditorium in Evanston. The trio’s close harmonies and organic interplay shape a warm, dynamic performance that spans their catalog. Look for audience favorites like "Luckiest Man," "Postcards from Hell," "Atlas," and "Singin' to Strangers," along with other standouts.

Ultimate Ninjas North Shore is hosting a high energy camp where kids take on obstacles inspired by American Ninja Warrior. Participants are grouped by age and work with coaches through warm ups, stretching, and focused instruction at skill stations. The schedule includes head to head races, team relays, dodgeball and basketball, as well as ninja themed arts and crafts. There is also open practice to hone favorite obstacles, and the experience wraps up with a full course run much like what they see on television. The camp welcomes ages 3 to 15. Pricing is $60 for a single session or $120 for a full day, with a 20 percent sibling discount.

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.

Guitarist, singer, and songwriter Willy Porter brings the Humans in a Room Quartet to Evanston SPACE in Evanston, IL, featuring cellist and vocalist Mai Bloomfield, singer and percussionist Carmen Nickerson, and multi-instrumentalist Ryan Pearl. The set presents Humans in a Room in full, Porter’s acclaimed immersive recording, along with fresh material and selections from his catalog. Immersive Audio Album highlighted the project as a leading Grammy nomination pick, noting its simple, collaborative approach that puts the listener at the center of the session. To carry that intimacy into the venue, the group performs with a custom immersive playback system designed to mirror the spatial detail of the studio onstage.

Next Page Productions brings Pete the Cat to the stage at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie. Based on the book series, this family friendly musical blends catchy tunes with a story about friendship and staying true to yourself, encouraging kids to roll with life’s surprises. The performance runs approximately 55 minutes with no intermission. All ages are welcome, with a recommended audience of ages 2 to 9.

A Mahjong party at The Fat Shallot welcomes players of all experience levels. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own board if they have one. Food and drinks are available.

Croozin’ The Loop brings music and dancing to Double Clutch Brewery. Attendees can enjoy a lively soundtrack and time on the dance floor.

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 performs a live children’s concert at Cahn Auditorium, inviting families to sing, dance, and enjoy music together. The event is geared toward young kids and their caregivers, with interactive moments and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Share a fun outing and create memories with your little ones as this popular children’s music artist takes the stage.

Celebrate all things uke in an improvisation clinic focused on the ukulele. The session highlights creative playing and exploration of improvising on the instrument.

Designed for ages 6 to 13, this hands-on self-defense workshop builds confidence and awareness while teaching practical skills in a supportive setting. Participants practice real-world techniques such as situational awareness, distance control, effective escapes, and restraint methods through interactive drills and partner activities. All experience levels are welcome. Instruction is led by Kyron Bowen, a Jiu-Jitsu black belt, professional MMA fighter, and active competitor. Parents are encouraged to participate alongside their teen in separate 14+ workshops.

Steve Solomon returns to North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie with Cannoli, Latkes, And Guilt, a comedy performance that blends audience favorites from his first three shows with a slate of new material. From the award winning creator of My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish, the evening spotlights Solomon’s storytelling and dialect driven humor. His work has played to audiences across the United States and abroad, reaching more than 750,000 people. Look forward to a mix of classic bits and fresh pieces in Skokie.

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 two-part seasonal celebration in Deerfield begins at Village Hall with live ice sculpting, tractor rides, and choral performances by the Deerfield High School Choraliers and the Frozen Robins. Roasted chestnuts and complimentary treats will be offered by Mayor Shapiro and the Board of Trustees. The festivities continue at the Patty Turner Center with a winter market featuring local craft and retail vendors, live music, tasty food, and activities for children, along with opportunities to connect with local civic organizations. Visitors can see Santa, drop a letter to the North Pole, ride the Polar Express train, and step inside a giant outdoor snow globe. Sponsors include Fortune Brands, Comfort Air, PVOLVE, Holy Cross, Law Offices of Dwayne Douglas, Merel Black, New York Life Insurance, North Shore Motessori Schools, Tamarisk, Barre3 North Shore, Coldwall Banker, Floor Coverings International, LoMastro, and Midtown Athletic Club.

Explore how sound shapes human experience in a hands-on course at Ahimsa Yoga Studio in Evanston. Participants build a grounded understanding of how interacting frequencies can influence mood, physiology, energy levels, the nervous system, and states of consciousness. The curriculum includes guided use of the scientific method with topics such as resonant frequency, cymatics, and entrainment, then connects observations to how sound meditation works in practice. Everyone designs and carries out an experiment to examine potential impacts of sound meditation, with discussion of the Meaning Response and the science of intention as part of the learning experience. Instructor Justin Peterson is a musician and educator with a Jazz Studies degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He has performed internationally for 25 years across classical, jazz, and rock, co-created Jazz Out The Box, and appears with Chicago groups including Steve Knight Trio, Here & Now Ensemble, Maxx Hunter McGathey Orchestra, and Wills McKenna Path Quintet. His approach values self-care alongside artistic study and draws on yoga, meditation, ethnobotany, and sound to nurture community, awareness, and empathy. Cost is $250 for non-members and $215 for Ahimsa members. No prerequisites. Singing bowls will be available to use during the course, with the option to purchase at the end at 20% off for bowls and 10% off for other instruments. For questions, contact school director Jay Taylor at ahimsasoundschool@gmail.com.

A seated singles dinner at Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant in Morton Grove creates a comfortable dinner party setting designed for real conversation over food and drinks. The gathering draws adults from across the Chicagoland area, with most attendees in their 30s to 50s. There are no party games, no speed dating, and no scripted introductions, which keeps the atmosphere relaxed and low pressure. Guests order from the full menu and receive individual checks, so you only pay for what you choose, and purchasing food is optional. Arriving solo is common, and the format is intended to make attending on your own feel easy. Seating is limited and these dinners often sell out, so securing a spot in advance is recommended. For questions, contact Break The Ice Social Events, as Cooper’s Hawk staff do not provide event information. If plans change, notifying the organizer before the event begins allows for a quick refund. Break The Ice Social Events is independently operated and not affiliated with Cooper’s Hawk, and also hosts other singles gatherings around Chicagoland and Milwaukee at restaurants, breweries, and entertainment venues.

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.

Candlelight transforms St Luke's Episcopal Church into an intimate setting for a festive program of Christmas Classics performed by the string quartet, Quartet Azure. Audiences can expect an immersive atmosphere as familiar carols and seasonal favorites unfold by candlelight. The tentative set features Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Greensleeves (What Child Is This) by William Chatterton Dix, Carol of the Bells by Mykola Leontovych, O Holy Night by Adolphe Adam, O Christmas Tree by Ernst Anschütz, We Wish You a Merry Christmas arranged by Arthur Warrell, Let It Snow by Jule Styne, Feliz Navidad by José Feliciano, Jingle Bells by James L. Pierpont, Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree popularized by Brenda Lee, Love Is All Around by Wet Wet Wet, Let It Go from Frozen by Kristen Anderson-Lopez, Once Upon a December sung by Liz Callaway, Maestro from The Holiday by Hans Zimmer, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas associated with Michael Bublé, Last Christmas by Wham!, and All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey. The experience runs for about 60 minutes, doors open 45 minutes before the performance, and late entry is not permitted once the music begins. Guests must be at least 8 years old, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. The venue is ADA compliant, and seating within each zone is assigned in order of arrival. This is a tribute concert experience that is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the original artists, their estates, or official representatives.

Ben Kweller performs at Evanston SPACE in Evanston, IL with Case Oats. After the loss of his teenage son, the indie rocker poured his energy into his seventh album, Cover The Mirrors, approaching the stage with intention and purpose. He characterizes the album as a candid reflection of both good days and hard days, and his shows are known to translate that honesty into compelling concerts that keep fans coming back.

Set aside everyday noise for a calming sound immersion that invites your whole being to unwind. Guided by Simon Jay Cervania of Harmonic Waves Healing, this restorative experience weaves the resonant tones of gongs, singing bowls, the hand pan, chimes, flutes, and other instruments to soothe the nervous system, ease tension, and encourage a sense of steady calm. The session blends cleansing practices, grounding, and intention work to help you rest, restore, and find balance. It is well suited for stress relief, emotional release, deep relaxation, and self-care. For comfort, please bring a yoga mat, blanket, pillow, eye mask, water, and comfortable clothing.