Chicago is alive with events of international prominence this week. Some of the nation’s most impactful architectural masterpieces are opening to the public as part of Open House Chicago and world renown fashion designers will strut their stuff at The Chicago Fashion Week.
If looking for something lowkey, head over to Wrigleyville for some vinyl, bubbles and a beat or to Union Station for a movie and TV tour. The annual Chicago Halloween parade will be haunting State Street for those ready to kick off the spooky season.
Chicago Fashion Week: Oct. 9 – 19
It may be halfway over, but there’s still time to catch the end of Chicago’s Fashion Week. The week’s events include a fashion tour at Mata Traders, a sustainable fashion runway, a stylist symposium, a community repair workshop and an urban fashion and dandyism gala. Some of these events are upwards of $160, but many are free of charge, like the cocktail and styling party.
Vinyl Thursdays and Bubbles & Beats: Oct. 16-17
Take a break and catch a vibe at the Hotel Zachary Alma Lounge in Wrigleyville. Every Thursday 7-11 p.m. DJs play a range of genres from pop to punk to soul — all on vinyl. On Fridays 5-7 p.m. DJs bump top hits and underground classics. Champagne and cocktails will be available for 21+ individuals.
Union Station Movie and TV tour: Oct: 17
Take a walking tour of Chicago’s iconic Union Station highlighting the station’s Hollywood connections and references. The tour is led by a Ph.D. guide who will touch on the station’s usage in “The Untouchables,” “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” “Run” and “Fargo.” The tour will also include Union Station’s non-Hollywood history.
Arts in the Dark Parade: Oct. 18
The 11th annual Halloween parade is taking place on State Street from 6-8 p.m. Join fellow Chicagoans in celebrating artists from cultural organizations — floats, spectacle puppets and all forms of creative performance will be included
Open House Chicago: Oct. 18-19
Chicago’s architectural gems open to the public for free across the city in one of the world’s largest architectural festivals. These marvels include private residences, skyscrapers and historic places. A few locations near Loyola include Rogers Park’s Gerber/Hart LGBTQ+ Library & Archive and Andersonville’s Chicago Magic Lounge.
SAUCED Night Market: Oct. 17-18:
Fall shopping has begun: get ready for a sauceawesome weekend at Half Acre Beer Co.’s fall market. From 5-10 p.m., vendors will sell a vast range of items — from ceramics and vintage clothing to food and notebooks, guests won’t leave empty-handed. Visitors can participate in hands-on experiences and create their own embroidery or get permanent jewelry with a friend. The event is free and open to all ages.