Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

October 27, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of your  Insider Weekend Guide. This week our focus is on Halloween and the festive events happening throughout the neighborhood.

But a little bit of spooky trivia first: did you know a few of our businesses have claims of being haunted? Our neighbors at The Congress Theatre were featured in a Ghost Hunters episode in 2009 due to the paranormal activity being reported there. But that's not all. In the 1970's a man was shot and killed at Bucktown's Club Lucky. They still have the evidence of the gunshots in the bar. And at night, when the employees are getting ready to close, they occasionally hear footsteps walking in the bar. But of course... no one is there. Just a few stories to set the mood for the week.

 

As always, there are many fantastic events happening throughout the neighborhood and we're happy to be your Guide. Almost every bar is having a party but there's so much more. Our picks are included below. Have a terrific weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

   Bars

  Halloween Bar Events

Almost every bar is having a Halloween Party and/or costume contest so you really can't miss if you head to any bar in the neighborhood on Saturday night. The Fifty/50 is offering a $300 cash prize for their winner for best costume. But there are other events planned as well including:  Lottie's Road Trip to the haunted house Screams in the Park tonight!

 

  Pumpkin Party - Small Bar

Looking for something a little different than the traditional Bar Halloween Party?  Head to Wicker Park's Small Bar. Small Bar is known for their soccer - and great beer. And this weekend Small Bar will be hosting their Pumpkin Party. You can try a variety of pumpkin beer, candies and cupcakes.

  Community Events

Boo-Palooza for Kids & Dogs

Boo-Palooza is a family and dog-friendly event facilitated by the Wicker Park Advisory Council and supported by 33 local organizations. You'll find lots of fun in store rain or shine. So be sure to check the agenda and head to the park this weekend. Dressing up your dog? Well bring them too. Costume contests are waiting for you. Oh...and we'll be there! So be sure to stop by and say Hi. We'd love to meet you.

 

Haunted Indoor Drive In Movies

Miss your Summer Movies in the Park? So do we. But this weekend, the Chicago Park District will be hosting their Annual Indoor Drive-In Movies Event. Always fun for all ages, this year you'll find Abbott & Costello and lots of Mummies.

 

 

  Music 

Mind Shivers at Davenports

Looking for a different and spooky event? Meet Sydney Friedman at Davenports for a night of fun, mind games, ESP, premonitions and more. Sydney's shows always leave his audience in awe. This weekend only.

Double Door's Annual Halloween Bash

This year marks the 15th Year for the Double Door's Annual Hallowen Bash and it's always lots of fun. Local bands throw on their costumes and cover a set of songs. This year you'll "see":  The Clash, The Runaways, Stone Temple Pilots and more.

Halloween Handmade Farmers Market

Don't miss the Halloween Handmade Farmer's Market this weekend at The Empty Bottle. Costumes are welcome. Check out the list of the participating vendors right here. The market is free and fun for all ages.

 

 

  Restaurants

  All You Can Eat - Hand Made Pasta - Just $14.95

So, yes we know this has nothing to do with Halloween but we saw the Executive Chef making the pasta this week and it looked fantastic. It's also a great deal. Don't miss out next Tuesday at Via Carducci in Wicker Park. 

 

  Halloween Events for Kids

   Halloween Cupcake Decorating

The Color Wheel Studio and Goddess & Grocer have teamed up this weekend for their Annual Halloween Cupcake Decorating Event. It's only $5 and all materials will be provided. But you have to hurry. This event was almost sold out when our Weekend Guide was being written.

  Halloween with Psychobaby

Halloween is a favorite holiday for the folks at Psychobaby and if you head there on Saturday, you'll be sure to have lots of fun. Trick or treaters, prizes and more are waiting for you.

 

   Trick or Treat with Building Blocks Toys

Be sure to bring your  little trick or treaters to Wicker Park's Building Blocks on Halloween. Fun, goodies, treats and more are all waiting for you. Stop by any time between 3:30pm and 5:00pm on Monday.

 

  Theater

We love the variety of theater and performing arts options available to us every week. Everything from comedy to drama to film and more. Check our  Theater  section for the many performances included in the Insider's Guide.  If you're looking for a Halloween-appropriate show this weekend, check out True Twilight, Gorilla Tango style.

 

  True Twilight: A Glee Club Musical

Vamps! Wolves! Gleeks! For something a little different, head out to Gorilla Tango for the fun and campy True Twilight: A Glee Club Musical. Suckie Stickhouse has just moved to Wiccan Park and is torn between 2 men. Sound familiar? 

 

These are just a few of the highlights for this weekend and beyond. We have 100s of special events on our website. So feel free to check in...often ...for the most updated information available. Or for additional neighborhood information throughout the week, please join us on Twitter and Facebook where we post updates/information daily. We'd love to have you.

If you're a business and would like to be featured in the Insider's Guide or would like to renew your spot in 2012, be sure to contact us.  You don't want to miss this outstanding opportunity.  To the many who have already signed up, thanks so much. We're looking forward to a fantastic 2012 !

Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.    

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

October 27, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of your  Insider Weekend Guide. This week our focus is on Halloween and the festive events happening throughout the neighborhood.

But a little bit of spooky trivia first: did you know a few of our businesses have claims of being haunted? Our neighbors at The Congress Theatre were featured in a Ghost Hunters episode in 2009 due to the paranormal activity being reported there. But that's not all. In the 1970's a man was shot and killed at Bucktown's Club Lucky. They still have the evidence of the gunshots in the bar. And at night, when the employees are getting ready to close, they occasionally hear footsteps walking in the bar. But of course... no one is there. Just a few stories to set the mood for the week.

 

As always, there are many fantastic events happening throughout the neighborhood and we're happy to be your Guide. Almost every bar is having a party but there's so much more. Our picks are included below. Have a terrific weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

   Bars

  Halloween Bar Events

Almost every bar is having a Halloween Party and/or costume contest so you really can't miss if you head to any bar in the neighborhood on Saturday night. The Fifty/50 is offering a $300 cash prize for their winner for best costume. But there are other events planned as well including:  Lottie's Road Trip to the haunted house Screams in the Park tonight!

 

  Pumpkin Party - Small Bar

Looking for something a little different than the traditional Bar Halloween Party?  Head to Wicker Park's Small Bar. Small Bar is known for their soccer - and great beer. And this weekend Small Bar will be hosting their Pumpkin Party. You can try a variety of pumpkin beer, candies and cupcakes.

Miss Wicker Park Finals

We sure hope you've voted. The 10 Finalists for the Miss Wicker Park Contest head to the Double Door on Thursday October 27th. The contest is open to everyone but our fingers are crossed that the winner will be from the neighborhood. After all...it is called Miss Wicker Park.

  Community Events

Boo-Palooza for Kids & Dogs

Boo-Palooza is a family and dog-friendly event facilitated by the Wicker Park Advisory Council and supported by 33 local organizations. You'll find lots of fun in store rain or shine. So be sure to check the agenda and head to the park this weekend. Dressing up your dog? Well bring them too. Costume contests are waiting for you. Oh...and we'll be there! So be sure to stop by and say Hi. We'd love to meet you.

 

Haunted Indoor Drive In Movies

Miss your Summer Movies in the Park? So do we. But this weekend, the Chicago Park District will be hosting their Annual Indoor Drive-In Movies Event. Always fun for all ages, this year you'll find Abbott & Costello and lots of Mummies.

 

 

  Music 

Mind Shivers at Davenports

Looking for a different and spooky event? Meet Sydney Friedman at Davenports for a night of fun, mind games, ESP, premonitions and more. Sydney's shows always leave his audience in awe. This weekend only.

Double Door's Annual Halloween Bash

This year marks the 15th Year for the Double Door's Annual Hallowen Bash and it's always lots of fun. Local bands throw on their costumes and cover a set of songs. This year you'll "see":  The Clash, The Runaways, Stone Temple Pilots and more.

Halloween Handmade Farmers Market

Don't miss the Halloween Handmade Farmer's Market this weekend at The Empty Bottle. Costumes are welcome. Check out the list of the participating vendors right here. The market is free and fun for all ages.

 

 

  Restaurants

  All You Can Eat - Hand Made Pasta - Just $14.95

So, yes we know this has nothing to do with Halloween but we saw the Executive Chef making the pasta this week and it looked fantastic. It's also a great deal. Don't miss out next Tuesday at Via Carducci in Wicker Park. 

 

  Halloween Events for Kids

   Halloween Cupcake Decorating

The Color Wheel Studio and Goddess & Grocer have teamed up this weekend for their Annual Halloween Cupcake Decorating Event. It's only $5 and all materials will be provided. But you have to hurry. This event was almost sold out when our Weekend Guide was being written.

  Halloween with Psychobaby

Halloween is a favorite holiday for the folks at Psychobaby and if you head there on Saturday, you'll be sure to have lots of fun. Trick or treaters, prizes and more are waiting for you.

 

   Trick or Treat with Building Blocks Toys

Be sure to bring your  little trick or treaters to Wicker Park's Building Blocks on Halloween. Fun, goodies, treats and more are all waiting for you. Stop by any time between 3:30pm and 5:00pm on Monday.

 

  Theater

We love the variety of theater and performing arts options available to us every week. Everything from comedy to drama to film and more. Check our  Theater  section for the many performances included in the Insider's Guide.  If you're looking for a Halloween-appropriate show this weekend, check out True Twilight, Gorilla Tango style.

 

  True Twilight: A Glee Club Musical

Vamps! Wolves! Gleeks! For something a little different, head out to Gorilla Tango for the fun and campy True Twilight: A Glee Club Musical. Suckie Stickhouse has just moved to Wiccan Park and is torn between 2 men. Sound familiar? 

 

These are just a few of the highlights for this weekend and beyond. We have 100s of special events on our website. So feel free to check in...often ...for the most updated information available. Or for additional neighborhood information throughout the week, please join us on Twitter and Facebook where we post updates/information daily. We'd love to have you.

If you're a business and would like to be featured in the Insider's Guide or would like to renew your spot in 2012, be sure to contact us.  You don't want to miss this outstanding opportunity.  To the many who have already signed up, thanks so much. We're looking forward to a fantastic 2012 !

Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.    

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

October 13, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of your  Insider Weekend Guide.  October is always so much fun with the Halloween Events heading our way. This week we're featuring:  fundraisers, martini parties, new bars, restaurant specials, Circus in the Park's final show of the season , the Bucktown's Apple Pie Contest and more. There are so many fantastic events happening throughout the neighborhood and we're happy to be your Guide. For additional details about any of the events below, just click on the picture. Have a terrific weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

   Bars

  Scream in the Park with Lotties Pub

We haven't been to Scream in the Park but Lotties Pub is planning a road trip and it sounds like fun. One price covers everything. If you've been to Scream in the Park let us know if it's as scary as it looks...because it looks jump-out-of-your-skin scary.

 

O Say Can You See What's Heading to Division Street

We've had so many inquiries about the space formerly the home of Makisu Sushi and Fuel. As it turns out the owners of Bangers & Lace and Duchamp are behind the new establishment. Chicago Magazine recently interviewed them to see what their plans were going to be and we just were sent a link with a little information as well.  A retro-style sports bar is heading our way. 

  Community

Lots of fun happening in the community this weekend and beyond. The details are listed below. We also received the following information regarding dodge ball in Wicker Park. Sounds like fun to us. Wicker Park Dodge Ball. And we love it when people send us great information like this. So please keep it coming.

 

Circus in the Parks

"Circus in the Parks" is closing here for the season and the final event scheduled for the neighborhood is this weekend. This weekend the event is being held at Commercial Park just south of Division Street. It's a beautiful event and fun for all ages. In addition, the proceeds benefit Chicago Parks. It's a great way to spend the afternoon and it's for a good cause.

 

 

  The Bucktown Apple Pie Contest

This year The Bucktown Apple Pie Contest had to close registration due to the high number of contestants! So you know what that means. Bucktown will be filled with apple pie on Sunday. Sounds like the competition will be tough but we will be there - fork in hand. 

 

 

    Mew & View Spooktacular - Double Feature 

Catch a Double Feature just in time for Halloween and help a great cause too! Treehouse Humane Society is hosting  their Annual Mew & View at the Bucktown Branch this Sunday. Animation is the name of the game this weekend with The Simpson's "Treehouse of Horror" and Tim Burton's "Corpse Bride" being featured at Treehouse.

 

 

Wicker Park Farmers Market
Fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers and much more are available every Sunday at the Wicker Park Farmers Market in Wicker Park proper. But time is running out. The last Farmers Market will be Sunday October 30th so catch it while you can.

 

Wicker Park's Boo - Palooza 

Lots of fun for kids, don't miss Wicker Park's Boo-Palooza Rain or Shine heading to the neighborhood at the end of the month. Don't have kids? Well bring your dogs! There are lots of events on the agenda for dogs too. Read on for details and get those costumes ready. We will be there so be sure to stop by and say hi.

 

 

 

  Galleries

Monique Meloche's Newest Exhibition

This weekend don't miss the Opening Reception for 2 artists at Monique Meloche's Gallery in Wicker Park: Scott Stack and Cheryl Pope. This will be Scott's 3rd exhibition at Monique Meloche and Cheryl Pope continues her 2nd Part of a 3 Part Series "On the Wall".  Both local artists, you can attend their Opening Reception on Saturday from 4pm -7pm.

 

 

  Music 

  Black Crowes Rich Robinson at Double Door

If you've followed the band the Black Crowes, you know the path to success hasn't been easy for brothers Chris & Rich Robinson. And this week Rich Robinson will be at the Double Door showcasing his independent talent as an artist & musician.

 

Echotone - A Documentary Screening

This Saturday join The Empty Bottle for a film screening of the documentary Echotone; an inside look at the music wheel in Austin Texas. For only $5 you'll receive access to the documentary screening and a performance by Paper Mice.

 

  Restaurants

       Club Lucky's Autumn Martini Party

Next week, Club Lucky is hosting an Autumn Martini celebration where each Ketel One martini will cost only $6. A great deal and you can pair them with whatever you'd like including: brushettas, antipasti, calamari and the incredible entrees that are only Club Lucky. 

 

    50% Off Sushi - Nori's Grand Opening Special

Nori has opened a week early in Wicker Park at 1389 N. Milwaukee Avenue and they're offering 50% off until next week (for sure) and possible for 2 weeks. If you want to try Nori for half the price, be sure your stop by next week. That's a great deal. Dine in Only.

 

    Oysters & Champagne at The Bedford

Executive Chef Mark Steuer introduced Oysters Rockefeller at The Bedford this past Tuesday. Every Tuesday you can enjoy 1/2 off of oysters and champagne. Just one more reason to head to The Bedford. And if you haven't been yet, the interior is truly one-of-a-kind.

 

  Retail/Shopping

    Building Blocks BIG Toy Sale

Get a head start on Holiday Shopping next weekend at Building Blocks Toy Shop. Building Blocks is hosting a big sale in honor of their 15th Anniversary and everything in stock will be 20% off!  Plus you'll be entered to win lots of prizes in their Shopping Contest. Always so much fun going on at Building Block Toy Shop in Wicker Park.

 

  Theater

We love the variety of theater and performing arts options available to us every week. Everything from comedy to drama to film and more. Check our  Theater  section for the many performances included in the Insider's Guide. This week we'd like to remind you about Dennis Watkins' Magic Show every Friday night. A great neighborhood secret. He's an excellent magician and the show is lots of fun. 

Dennis Watkins - The Magic Continues

These are just a few of the highlights for this weekend and beyond. We have 100s of special events on our website. So feel free to check in...often ...for the most updated information available. Or for additional neighborhood information throughout the week, please join us on Twitter and Facebook where we post updates/information daily. We'd love to have you.

 

If you're a business and would like to be featured in the Insider's Guide or would like to renew your spot in 2012, be sure to contact us.  You don't want to miss this outstanding opportunity.  To the many who have already signed up, thanks so much. We're looking forward to a fantastic 2012 !

Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.    

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

October 6, 2011
 

Good morning and welcome to this week's edition of your  Insider Weekend Guide.  This weekend is a little quieter than last but there are still many great "don't miss" events happening this weekend and beyond. We're also receiving lots of information on Halloween Parties planned throughout the neighborhood. More on those soon. To all of you who send us your information, we appreciate your input and please keep it coming. Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

    Bars

This week and weekend we are being treated to an incredible gift: daily temperature highs in the 80's and that means it's patio weather. Football or no football we have warm and sunny weather heading our way and we hope you have a chance to enjoy it. Equally important, do not miss Piece's Oktoberfest Celebration tonight. When a brewery throws an Oktoberfest Party you know the beer will good ...and so will the food. The party starts at 6pm.

Your Favorite Neighborhood Patios

 

  Oktoberfest Party Thursday at Piece

 

   Community

Just around the corner is the 7th Annual Bucktown Apple Pie Contest.  Mark your calendars and be sure to attend ... if you're not competing. And an early warning for Boo-Palooza. The Annual Children's Event is hosted by the Wicker Park Garden Club every year and this year Boo-Palooza will head to Wicker Park on Saturday October 29th from 10am -2pm with a movie being shown at 2pm. We've also gotten an early heads up on the Halloween Movies heading our way. Wicker Park is going to be a busy spot this Halloween. Additional details will follow next week.

      The Bucktown Apple Pie Contest

 

     Wicker Park's Boo - Palooza

 

 

   Galleries

Opening this weekend be sure to stop by Jackson Junge Gallery for 2 new exhibitions. Element Flux - which we mentioned last week - features 53 Artists and the opening reception is this Friday from 6pm -9pm. The opening reception for Ego Altered:  One Artist - Two Minds is also being hosted this weekend at the Jackson Junge Gallery. The exhibitions at Jackson Junge are always interesting and beautiful. For your convenience, we've also included information about the amazing art gallery exhibitions currently open throughout the neighborhood. 

  New Exhibitions & Opening Receptions

  Current Gallery Exhibitions

 

 

 

 

    Music 

Riot Fest opened yesterday with many fantastic bands - like Social Distortion and Weezer - playing throughout the city. And because we have incredible venues in Wicker Park, they have been invited to participate in the Fest this year as well. Additional details about Riot Fest are below. As a friendly reminder, The Smoking Popes are playing a FREE show at Double Door on Saturday. This truly is a don't miss show.  The very talented Wild Flag returns from Wicker Park Fest to play The Empty Bottle this weekend. And ...we're receiving Halloween Show information so stay tuned for additional details about these shows.

 

   Riot Fest's 5 Day Festival

 

  FREE Smoking Popes Show

Wild Flag at The Empty Bottle

 

 

 

    Restaurants

Via Carducci has just announced a delicious offer for All-You-Can-Eat Pasta every Tuesday night in Wicker Park. Join the Executive Chef each week to see what entree is being featured. Reservations are recommended. Also, we have created an amazing Brunch Directory thanks to the input of viewers like you. So if you're looking to try something new, try these highly recommended hot spots. And last but not least, please welcome TOZI to Wicker Park. Tozi will feature Korean Barbecue and is hoping to open early - mid November.

       Via Carducci's All You Can Eat Pasta 

       Who You Voted for Best Brunch

 

      TOZI - Korean Barbecue Cuisine

 

 

    Retail/Shopping

Every week we feature special deals, sales and promotions in the Wicker Perks. So be sure to check in often and see what's available. We'll include retail, restaurant, bar and service specials 365 days a year. Also this week,  Building Block Toy Store is hosting their FREE 'Read for the Record' Event. It's story time at Building Blocks and for each child who attends, Building Blocks will make a $15 donation to JumpStart. Additional details are outlined below. 

     The Wicker Perks

    FREE 'Read for the Record' Event This Week

 

 

    Theater

We love the variety of theater and performing arts options available to us every week. Everything from comedy to drama to film and more. Here are a few highlights for this weekend but we have many more Theater performances included in the Insider's Guide. Feel free to check any time.  We're available 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

  Summer And Smoke Thursday - Sunday

 

  True Twilight: A Glee Club Musical - Thursday

These are just a few of the highlights for this weekend and beyond. We have 100s of special events on our website. So feel free to check in...often ...for the most updated information available. Or for additional neighborhood information throughout the week, please join our 6,000 followers on Twitter and Facebook where we post updates/information daily. We'd love to have you.

 

If you're a business and would like to be featured in the Insider's Guide or would like to renew your spot in 2012, be sure to contact us.  You don't want to miss this outstanding opportunity.  To the many who have already signed up, thanks so much. We're looking forward to a fantastic 2012 !

Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.    

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide