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Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

Your Wicker Park & Bucktown Summer Events Guide

Michael Hamrick - Saturday, June 30, 2012

 

  FESTIVALS

         

Wicker Park & Bucktown's Summer Festivals

Your Guide to all of the Wicker Park & Bucktown Summer Festivals is right here. Do Division was a big hit last weekend. But Green Music Fest, Wicker Park Fest, the Bucktown Arts Fest and Renegade are still to come with great food, music and shopping. So mark your calendars. Festival Guide.



 

  FOOD

     

FREE Gift Cards from Forever Yogurt - How You Can Get Yours

Just in time for the 90 degree weather predicted for the weekend! You can win a FREE gift card compliments of Forever Yogurt (1924 W. North Avenue) . All you need to do is spot us walking our dogs around the neighborhood and we'll give you a gift card for FREE Forever Yogurt right on the spot. Gift Cards

 

 

 

 

 

  NEWS

     

Chicago Park District Pools - Opened June 15th

Mark your calendars! The Chicago Park District's outdoor pools are open. So yes Holstein and Pulaski Park Pools should be open and ready for business very soon. Park District Pools.

 

 

Holstein Park Celebrates 100 Years

It's hard to believe Bucktown's Holstein Park (2200 N. Oakley) is turning 100 this year. A big 100 year birthday party is being planned and you can join the Chicago Park District in this once in a lifetime celebration. The details.

 


 

 

 

 

  SPECIAL SUMMER EVENTS


Bucktown Garden Walk

Over 700 attendees explore the 100 gardens of various sizes and locations each Summer in the Bucktown neighborhood. Trolleys provide transportation with designated stops for refreshments and a big party and petting zoo at Lotties follows. Garden Walk

 

 

Farmers Markets are Open

Two Farmers Markets are open again in Wicker Park this year. The first is the traditional Wicker Park Farmers Market hosted at 1425 N. Damen Avenue in Wicker Park proper. The 2nd is hosted in the Polish Triangle located at Division/Milwaukee/Ashland Avenue. It should be opening today:  Farmers Markets.

 

Historic Walking Tours

The Chicago Architecture Foundation is hosting Historic Walking Tours throughout the neighborhood this Summer and early Fall. With its history as a community dating back to the 1870's, you can explore everything from Victorian mansions to the commercial districts. Walking Tours.

 

Learnapalooza

Learnapalooza has come and gone for the year. So look for Learnapalooza to arrive next June. Each year Learnapalooza provides an incredible opportunity for people to participate in workshops/classes for FREE. The classes are hosted by neighborhood business. Sign up early. As you can imagine, these classes fill up very quickly. Learnapalooza.

 

 

Movies in the Park

One of the neighborhood's favorite Summer events, Movies in the Park are held in Wicker Park, Churchill Park and Commercial Park. For a full list of films, dates and times: Movies.

 

 

Sunday Symphonies and More

Doesn't this sound like a great way to kick off a Sunday Summer morning? This Summer you can head to Wicker Park Sundays and enjoy a little classical music. Grab a picnic lunch or a few treats from the Farmers Market and relax in the park. Classical.

 

 

The Magic Boat Puppet Show

Lots of fun for young and old alike, please join The Magic Boat Puppet Show this Summer at the Wicker Park Playground - 1425 N. Damen Avenue -Sundays at 11am. Magic.

 

 

Wicker Mic's Open Mic

Come out and perform your songs, poetry and stand up, or just enjoy listening at the outdoor open mic in Wicker Park (1500 N. Damen Avenue) every 4th Friday of June-September, from 6-9pm. Sign-up on the day of the event at 5pm. Wicker Mic.

 

Wicker Park Garden Tours

Kicking off this Sunday, now you can take a tour of the 10,000 square feet of award-winning ornamental gardens designed, funded and maintained by hard-working volunteers working in conjunction with the Chicago Park District. Tours will be available into early September.  Tours

 

As new events are announced, of course we'll keep you posted. Thanks and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

Holstein Celebrates 100 Years TODAY with 14 Food Trucks, Bands, Beer & More

Thyra DeCicco - Saturday, June 30, 2012
Saturday June 30th from 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Holstein Park - 2200 N. Oakley Avenue Bucktown
$5 Donation
http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/holstein-centennial-celebration/

  Holstein Centennial Celebration 

Saturday June 30th from 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Holstein Park
2200 N. Oakley Ave
Chicago, IL , 60647

(312) 742-7554


1912-2012 -- Holstein Park is 100 years old and the Chicago Park District is throwing a once in a lifetime celebration. This event is sponsored by Friends of Holstein Park.

Fees: $5

Age Range: Family-Friendly

 

Holstein Park is turning 100!

And we’re throwing it a party!
Saturday, June 30th
11am – 7pm
2200 N. Oakley

Food Trucks – Bands – Beer – Fun for All

The Holstein 100 will feature 14 of Chicago’s finest food trucks, a selection of Goose Island beer Company’s tasty summer beers, and many great live bands throughout the day. The festivities will be held on the park grounds adjacent to the historic field house as well as the surrounding streets. There will be many activities for the younger park fans in our dedicated children’s play space.

The entire event is a fundraiser for the ambitious rehabilitation plan of the historic Holstein Park field house that is celebrating 100 years of continuous service to the community.

Volunteers are welcome to help on the day of the event – email us at holsteinpark100@gmail.com for further information on how you can help!

 

 

 ***Take us to the FINALS! We've qualified for a Small Business Grant but would love to make the finals. Logon. Search WICKER. Vote. Takes 30 seconds. THANK YOU!  ***

Your Wicker Park & Bucktown Weekend Guide 6-29-12

Thyra DeCicco - Friday, June 29, 2012

June 29th, 2012

 

Hello and welcome to this week's edition of your Insider Weekend Guide.

 

We just can't believe July is right around the corner! Where does the Summer go? On Saturday, Holstein Park will be celebrating 100 years and it's going to be quite a party with 14 food trucks, music, beer & more. So be sure to stop by. We've also included spots where you can find a cool treat, special events, a little news and much much more. This weekend is a little more quiet than usual because of July 4th. Hope you have a great one.

 

Last but not least, there are only 1 more day to push the Insider's Guide into the finals for a small business grant. So please VOTE! It really does take 30 seconds. Additional details are outlined below.

 

Thanks, as always for joining us. Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

 

 Take Us Into the Finals!  Only 2 Days Left to Vote

Push us into the FINALS for a small business grant!  It only takes 30 seconds. Logon here and type in Wicker. Vote and you're done. But hurry! All votes must be in by Saturday June 30th. Thank you so much.

 


 

 

  BARS

 

4th of July Sing-Off

Oh say can you sing? Head to The Anthem on July 4th for their very special sing-off. You can win cash & prizes and it's being sponsored by 97.9's WLUP so you know it's going to be packed. Get there early and warm up those vocal chords. Sing-Off.

 

 

FoodieChats Fireworks Party

If you're on Twitter, chances are you already know Steve Green and his weekly Monday Tweet-Up called #Foodiechats. This Monday Steve is bringing Foodiechats to Wicker Park and we'll be a special guest! Be sure to stop by The Anthem/Bangers & Lace on Monday for lots of fun and free food! We will see you there. Foodiechats.


 

 

 

 

 

COMMUNITY  

     

 

Holstein Park's Centennial Bash Saturday

Holstein Park in Bucktown is celebrating their 100 Year Anniversary this Saturday so be sure to head to the park at 2200 N. Oakley. You'll have lots of fun with 14 food trucks, bands and beer waiting for you. Let the celebration begin. Centennial.

 

Magic Boat Puppet Show

For young and old alike, please join The Magic Boat Puppet Show at the Wicker Park Playground - 1425 N. Damen Avenue this Sunday at 11am. You can also stop by the Sunday Farmers Market in Wicker Park proper that morning and then head to the playground. Puppets

 

 

Sign Up for Spanish - With Elena Chicago

If you missed the opportunity earlier and would love to take Spanish Classes, Elena Chicago is back in July. Join award-winning educator Elaine Winer for her 8 week course at Bucktown's Club Lucky. Forget the stuffy classroom.Grab a glass of wine and enjoy. But hurry. Classes start soon. Elena Chicago.

 

 

Your Wicker Park & Bucktown Summer Guide

For your convenience, we've created this very cool Summer Guide to Wicker Park and Bucktown which includes all of the festivals, Summer events, movies, garden tours, pool openings and more. You can even find our directory to sweet Summer treats. Summer Guide

 

 

 

 

  MUSIC

    

Pitchfork Aftershows at The Empty Bottle

The Empty Bottle has announced their Pitchfork Aftershows. If you missed our announcement last week, be sure to check the shows right here. You know these are going to sell out quickly. Pitchfork Aftershows.

 

 

The Giving Tree & Joe Purdy Tonight

If you were hoping to head to Double Door to see The Giving Tree and Joe Purdy tonight, that show is sold out. . Music.

 

 

 

 

 RESTAURANTS

        

Ice Cream, Gelato, Frozen Yogurt & More

With the thermometer close to 100 degrees today and 90-ish degrees in the forecast for the next week, here's where you can find incredible - and cool - sweet treats like frozen yogurt, gelato, creamy rich ice cream, Italian ice and more. Indulge.


Sabor Saveur Closes

The "For Lease" signs are up at 2013 W. Division Street, the website is down and we're sorry to report that it appears Sabor Saveur has closed their doors. An email was issued by the owners stating the restaurant would be closing. No additional information is available at this time. 

 

 

Seafood. Raw Bar. Absinthe Coming Soon

On a brighter note, Wicker Park's first seafood restaurant/raw bar is heading in to the space formerly the home of La Fonda del Gusto at 1408 N. Milwaukee Avenue. Their focus will also be on absinthe. Look for The Savoy to open the week of July 13th.

 

 

 

 

 RETAIL/SHOPPING

 

 

Best Toy Stores in Chicago

A very big congratulations goes out to Building Block Toys and Bullfrogs & Butterflies for being cited by CBS News as 2 of Chicago's Best Toy Stores. If you're looking for a fun way to spend time with the kids, be sure to head to Building Block Toys every Tuesday for their Crafternoons Event.

 

 

Insider Deal of the Week

Ladies: this one's for you. Wicker Park's Shear Sapphire is celebrating their 1 Year Anniversary and if you purchase full highlights, you'll receive your cut for FREE. Men - you can also score 50% off your haircut.The details: Shear Sapphire

 


Urba Baby Heads to Division

We just love the team behind Lincoln Park's Urba Baby and these former Wicker Park residents have decided to open a 2nd store right on Division Street. Look for Wicker Park's newest kids' shop to open late Summer in the space formerly the home of Bonnie & Clyde's at 1751 W. Division. Urba Baby.

 

 

 

 THEATER 

 

Harry Houdini - For A Limited Time

As a friendly reminder, don't forget to get your tickets now for the 30 additional performances that have been added this Summer for Death & Harry Houdini at The Chopin Theatre in Wicker Park. Dennis Watkins is terrific. Do not miss this show. Magic.

 

 


If you're interested in receiving up-to-the minute news & event information from us throughout the week, please feel free to join our 8,000+ followers on Facebook & Twitter. We'd love to include you. And if you have news or an event to share, please don't hesitate to let us know.


If you'd like to receive our Weekend Guide every Thursday via email, here's how you sign up. It's easy! Weekend Guide

 

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

 

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

Milwaukee - Wood Intersection to Get Much-Needed Makeover - Starts in September

Thyra DeCicco - Friday, June 29, 2012

Photo Credit: Grid Chicago

This comes as such great news. Over 7 years ago, we met with, then Alderman, Manny Flores to discuss our concerns about the intersection at Wood Street & Milwaukee Avenue (at 1400 N. Milwaukee Avenue) and how dangerous it was. With the street lights being difficult to see, many times cars traveling North to South on Milwaukee Avenue would fail to see the light had turned red - and we (heading Northeast on Wolcott/Wood) and would almost be broadsided.

The problems extend far beyond that, however, with pedestrians having an equally tough time and Steve Vance of Grid Chicago has done an excellent job of outlining both the safety issues as well as the potential solutions. For starters, the island pictured in the photo above will be removed enabling the flow of traffic. Grid Chicago has included the City's plans to make this a safer intersection.

According to the 1st Ward Office construction on the revamped intersection is to begin September 2012. For Full Details:

Confusing intersection of Milwaukee-Wood-Wolcott to be redesigned [Grid Chicago]

 

 ArrayDrawing provided via: Grid Chicago

Your Wicker Park & Bucktown Guide Has Arrived ! 6-28-12

Thyra DeCicco - Thursday, June 28, 2012

June 28th, 2012

 

Hello and welcome to this week's edition of your Insider Weekend Guide.

 

As the time of writing this, it's 98 degrees in Wicker Park....in the shade. So please be careful out there today and this week. On Saturday, Holstein Park will be celebrating 100 years and it's going to be quite a party with 14 food trucks, music, beer & more. It's sure to be a great time.We've also included spots where you can find a cool treat, special events, a little news and much much more.

 

Last but not least, there are only 2 more days to push the Insider's Guide into the finals for a grant. So please VOTE! It really does take 30 seconds. Additional details are outlined below.

 

Thanks, as always for joining us. Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

 

 Take Us Into the Finals!  Only 2 Days Left to Vote

Push us into the FINALS for a small business grant!  It only takes 30 seconds. Logon here and type in Wicker. Vote and you're done. But hurry! All votes must be in by Saturday June 30th. Thank you so much.

 

 

 

 

 

  ART


Wine Tasting Tonight

Please join Arts N Spirits at 1921 N. Damen Avenue tonight for their combination of painting class and wine tasting event. You'll have a lot of fun and you'll bring home this cool piece of artwork. Register or call ahead to make your reservation:  ArtsNSpirits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  BARS

 

4th of July Sing-Off

Oh say can you sing? Head to The Anthem on July 4th for their very special sing-off. You can win cash & prizes and it's being sponsored by 97.9's WLUP so you know it's going to be packed. Get there early and warm up those vocal chords. Sing-Off.

 

 

FoodieChats Fireworks Party

If you're on Twitter, chances are you already know Steve Green and his weekly Monday Tweet-Up called #Foodiechats. This Monday Steve is bringing Foodiechats to Wicker Park and we'll be a special guest! Be sure to stop by The Anthem/Bangers & Lace on Monday for lots of fun and free food! We will see you there. Foodiechats.


 

 

 

 

 

COMMUNITY  

     

 

Holstein Park's Centennial Bash Saturday

Holstein Park in Bucktown is celebrating their 100 Year Anniversary this Saturday so be sure to head to the park at 2200 N. Oakley. You'll have lots of fun with 14 food trucks, bands and beer waiting for you. Let the celebration begin. Centennial.

 

Magic Boat Puppet Show

For young and old alike, please join The Magic Boat Puppet Show at the Wicker Park Playground - 1425 N. Damen Avenue this Sunday at 11am. You can also stop by the Sunday Farmers Market in Wicker Park proper that morning and then head to the playground. Puppets

 

 

Sign Up for Spanish - With Elena Chicago

If you missed the opportunity earlier and would love to take Spanish Classes, Elena Chicago is back in July. Join award-winning educator Elaine Winer for her 8 week course at Bucktown's Club Lucky. Forget the stuffy classroom.Grab a glass of wine and enjoy. But hurry. Classes start soon. Elena Chicago.

 

 

Your Wicker Park & Bucktown Summer Guide

For your convenience, we've created this very cool Summer Guide to Wicker Park and Bucktown which includes all of the festivals, Summer events, movies, garden tours, pool openings and more. You can even find our directory to sweet Summer treats. Summer Guide

 

 

 

 

  MUSIC

    

Pitchfork Aftershows at The Empty Bottle

The Empty Bottle has announced their Pitchfork Aftershows. If you missed our announcement last week, be sure to check the shows right here. You know these are going to sell out quickly. Pitchfork Aftershows.

 

The Kaia String Quartet Tonight

Please join the Den Theatre tonight at 1333 N. Milwaukee Avenue for an intimate evening of chamber music. Complimentary wine and cheese will be served. Starts at 7:30pm. For additional details: Quartet

 

 

 

 

 

 RESTAURANTS

        

Ice Cream, Gelato, Frozen Yogurt & More

With the thermometer close to 100 degrees today and 90-ish degrees in the forecast for the next week, here's where you can find incredible - and cool - sweet treats like frozen yogurt, gelato, creamy rich ice cream, Italian ice and more. Indulge.


Sabor Saveur Closes

The "For Lease" signs are up at 2013 W. Division Street, the website is down and we're sorry to report that it appears Sabor Saveur has closed their doors. An email was issued by the owners stating the restaurant would be closing. No additional information is available at this time. 

 

 

Seafood. Raw Bar. Absinthe Coming Soon

On a brighter note, Wicker Park's first seafood restaurant/raw bar is heading in to the space formerly the home of La Fonda del Gusto at 1408 N. Milwaukee Avenue. Their focus will also be on absinthe. Look for The Savoy to open the week of July 13th.

 

 

 

 

 RETAIL/SHOPPING

 

 

Best Toy Stores in Chicago

A very big congratulations goes out to Building Block Toys and Bullfrogs & Butterflies for being cited by CBS News as 2 of Chicago's Best Toy Stores. If you're looking for a fun way to spend time with the kids, be sure to head to Building Block Toys every Tuesday for their Crafternoons Event.

 

 

Insider Deal of the Week

Ladies: this one's for you. Wicker Park's Shear Sapphire is celebrating their 1 Year Anniversary and if you purchase full highlights, you'll receive your cut for FREE. Men - you can also score 50% off your haircut.The details: Shear Sapphire

 


Urba Baby Heads to Division

We just love the team behind Lincoln Park's Urba Baby and these former Wicker Park residents have decided to open a 2nd store right on Division Street. Look for Wicker Park's newest kids' shop to open late Summer in the space formerly the home of Bonnie & Clyde's at 1751 W. Division. Urba Baby.

 

 

 

 THEATER 

 

Harry Houdini - For A Limited Time

As a friendly reminder, don't forget to get your tickets now for the 30 additional performances that have been added this Summer for Death & Harry Houdini at The Chopin Theatre in Wicker Park. Dennis Watkins is terrific. Do not miss this show. Magic.

 

 


If you're interested in receiving up-to-the minute news & event information from us throughout the week, please feel free to join our 8,000+ followers on Facebook & Twitter. We'd love to include you. And if you have news or an event to share, please don't hesitate to let us know.

 

 

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

 

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

Triva, Jazz and a Special Pairing Tonight - Tuesday Specials in Wicker Park

Michael Hamrick - Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Looking for something a little different to do tonight? On Tuesday nights don't miss Trivia at Wicker Park's Standard Bar & Grill. Every Tuesday you can win cash and prizes and there are plenty of drink specials. In the warmer months, the windows and patio are open.

 Tuesdays at 8:00pm

 Standard Bar and Grill - 1332 N Milwaukee Avenue


$5 Three Olives o-bombs
$10 Miller Lite buckets
$15 Buckets of Point Nude Beach and Blue Moon
$5 Quesadillas


Prizes and cash giveaways

 

At Bangers & Lace - 1670 W. Division Street - don't miss their Tuesday Special. $13 gets you their featured beer and a house made sausage pairing. Great food & drink and a great deal.

 

 

Feel like Jazz?

 

Every Tuesday enjoy free parking, a beautiful patio, the jazz band the GB Duo and the Banh Mi special; a Banh Mi sandwich and Domestic Beer for just $6.95, $2 PBR and $3 well shots specials at MC Restaurant- 1401 N. Ashland Avenue. A perfect relaxing way to spend a Summer evening.

 

 

 

*** HELP US WIN!  We're finalists for a Small Business Grant. Takes 30 Seconds. Logon. Search Wicker. Vote. Done. We really appreciate your support. ***

 

20 Votes Gets Us to the Finals !

Thyra DeCicco - Monday, June 25, 2012
Take Us to the Next Level

With your help, the Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide has become the most popular website in the neighborhood!


Because of that incredible success, we're eligible for a Small Business Grant from Chase/Living Social but need lots of votes to take us to the next round. We're currently in the homestretch but need a few more votes to qualify for the FINALS!  Your vote will make a difference and will help take us to the next round for consideration .... and it only takes 30 seconds from start to finish.

 

 

1) Go to this website: https://www.missionsmallbusiness.com/


2)Login with your Facebook credentials.

 

3) Type in WICKER (where it says business).

 

4)Vote.

 

 

That's it! But you have to hurry. All votes need to be submitted by June 30th. 

 

Thank you for supporting local small businesses. We're incredibly appreciative... and, as always.... we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

 

 

All the best, 

 

Thyra DeCicco

Publisher


Bucktown's Holstein Park Celebrates 100 Years with 14 Food Trucks, Music & More

Michael Hamrick - Monday, June 25, 2012
Saturday June 30th from 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Holstein Park - 2200 N. Oakley Avenue Bucktown
$5 Donation
http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/holstein-centennial-celebration/

  Holstein Centennial Celebration 

Saturday June 30th from 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM Holstein Park
2200 N. Oakley Ave
Chicago, IL , 60647

(312) 742-7554


1912-2012 -- Holstein Park is 100 years old and the Chicago Park District is throwing a once in a lifetime celebration. This event is sponsored by Friends of Holstein Park.

Fees: $5

Age Range: Family-Friendly

 

Holstein Park is turning 100!

And we’re throwing it a party!
Saturday, June 30th
11am – 7pm
2200 N. Oakley

Food Trucks – Bands – Beer – Fun for All

The Holstein 100 will feature 14 of Chicago’s finest food trucks, a selection of Goose Island beer Company’s tasty summer beers, and many great live bands throughout the day. The festivities will be held on the park grounds adjacent to the historic field house as well as the surrounding streets. There will be many activities for the younger park fans in our dedicated children’s play space.

The entire event is a fundraiser for the ambitious rehabilitation plan of the historic Holstein Park field house that is celebrating 100 years of continuous service to the community.

Volunteers are welcome to help on the day of the event – email us at holsteinpark100@gmail.com for further information on how you can help!

Green Music Fest - This Weekend - in Wicker Park

Thyra DeCicco - Saturday, June 23, 2012

GREEN MUSIC FEST 2012: Saturday June 23rd  and June 24th 12 Noon - 10pm

$5 Donation

Dinosaur Jr. photo credit: consequenceofsound.net

Don't miss the 4th Annual Green Music Fest at Damen Avenue between North and Schiller, adjacent to Wicker Park (1425 N. Damen). Headliners for this year will be Dinosaur Jr. and the Raveonettes.

Raveonettes Photo Credit: Myspace.com

Via Jambands, here's the final Green Music Fest line up.

Saturday, June 23

North Stage:
Dinosaur Jr. 8:00 pm
Bailiff 5:30 pm
Minor Characters 3:30 pm
Santah 1:30 pm

*South Stage:
Hey Rosetta! 6:30 pm
California Wives 4:30 pm
Aktar Aktar 2:30 pm
Mark Rose 12:30 pm

Sunday, June 24

North Stage:
The Raveonettes 8:00 pm
Apteka 5:30 pm
Viceroy 3:30 pm

South Stage:
Passafire 6:30 pm
Oh My God 4:30 pm
Milano 2:30 pm

The green technology-themed event reflects the environmentally-conscious West Town community by blending cutting edge, environmentally-conscious bands with all green vendors and activities. The festival, now in its fourth year, aims to “connect eco-conscious Chicagoans with environmentally-sustainable companies, products, ideas and services, and inspire change in the community and lifestyles of its members.”

What can you find at the Green Music Fest? Food, fun and of course, great music. In addition the to the great music, food and drink, there's also a spot to for kids to have fun during the day.

 

 Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Twitter for the most current news.

 

 

***Support Small Businesses! Please vote for us! It takes 30 seconds and we still need 70-ish votes to qualify for a grant. Just go to this link, sign on, type in WiCKER & vote! Hurry! We don't have much time. Thank you!! ***

 

Your Wicker Park & Bucktown Weekend Guide 6-22-12

Michael Hamrick - Friday, June 22, 2012

June 22, 2012

 

Hello and welcome to this week's edition of your Insider Weekend Guide.

We have an exciting weekend ahead with beautiful weather in the forecast. If you're a music lover, this week and weekend are for you. Green Music Fest arrives Saturday and free music shows are available at the Empty Bottle and Double Door all week - and weekend - long. But that's not all. We've also included Savannah style shrimp boils, lots of free community events, theater and more. 

The Lollapalooza Aftershows we mentioned last week are already selling out. So if you haven't gotten your tickets to those yet...do it.  

 

Last but not least, we learned this week our small business is eligible for a very generous grant. But we need 250 Votes to be qualify. If you're a small business fan and could vote for us, we would be incredibly appreciative. It literally takes 30 seconds. Additional details are outlined below.

 

Thanks, as always for joining us. Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.

 

 

 

  BARS

 

Southern Shrimp Boil

Please join The Southern at 1840 W. North Avenue on Monday, June 25 for a Savannah style shrimp boil prepared with andouille sausage, red potatoes and corn on the cob. The boil will be poured out just after 7:30 pm. For details & ticket information: Shrimp.

 

 

 

COMMUNITY  

     

2012 Chicago Reader "Best Of" List

The Chicago Reader just published their best of list for 2012 which includes a number of Wicker Park & Bucktown businesses. But that's not all. 1st Ward Alderman Joe Moreno was voted as Best Alderman and Wicker Park was voted as the Best Neighborhood for Nightlife. This we already know. Chicago Reader's Best Of 2012.


 

Puppets in the Park

For young and old alike, please join The Magic Boat Puppet Show at the Wicker Park Playground - 1425 N. Damen Avenue this Sunday at 11am. You can also stop by the Sunday Farmers Market in Wicker Park proper that morning and then head to the playground. Puppets

 

Spanish Classes - At Club Lucky

If you missed the opportunity earlier and would love to take Spanish Classes, Elena Chicago is back in July. Join award-winning educator Elaine Winer for her 8 week course at Bucktown's Club Lucky - 1824 W. Wabansia. Forget the stuffy classroom.Grab a glass of wine and enjoy. But hurry. Classes start soon. Elena Chicago.

 

Wicker Mic - Open Mic- Tonight

Come out and perform your songs, poetry and stand up, or just enjoy listening at the outdoor open mic in Wicker Park proper (1425 N. Damen Avenue) this Friday from 6-9pm. Sign-up on the day of the event at 5pm. Each slot is 5 minutes (2 songs, 3 poems or 5 minutes of stand up). The weather is just perfect. Wicker Mic.

 

 

 

 

  MUSIC

    

Empty Bottle Announces Pitchfork AfterShows

The Empty Bottle just announced the Pitchfork 2012 AfterShows they'll be hosting and tickets are on sale now. You know these shows will sell out quickly. Want to know who will be playing at 1035 N. Western Avenue Pitchfork Festival Weekend? Aftershows.

 

 

FREE Music All Week & Weekend Long


The Double Door & Empty Bottle are offering FREE music shows all weekend long. No cover will be required but you may need to RSVP to sure your cover charge is waived. So you can catch great music all weekend long. Did me mention it's free? Freekend. Empty Bottle

 

Green Music Fest

Green Music Fest is also heading into the neighborhood this weekend on Damen Avenue between Schiller and Wicker Park Avenue. A $5 donation is requested but you can catch great bands like Dinosaur Jr. and the Raveonettes. The full line up.

 

 

 RESTAURANTS

        

Bucktown's Bluebird Introduces New Summer Menu

Bucktown's Bluebird -1749 N. Damen Avenue - is bringing in a new chef - and new menu just in time for Summer. Talented Chef Dave Ford is heading to Bluebird and will be overseeing the kitchen. What can you expect with his new menu? Predominantly small plates with a few large plates included to round out the menu. Here's a preview of what you'll find. Bluebird Menu.

 

FREE Forever Yogurt Gift Cards

The good news/bad news. The bad news is that we haven't been out walking the dogs as much as we usually do because the weather has been so incredibly hot. The good news is we still have a few Forever Yogurt gift cards to give away. And we'll be out and about this weekend for sure. See the dogs & we'll give you a $5 gift card right on the spot. While supplies last. Forever Yogurt.

 

Team Behind Prasino Plans New Spot

Alderman Moreno announced in a State of the Ward meeting that the team behind Prasino will be opening a new Greek/Middle Eastern gyro spot called Covo on Milwaukee Avenue next to Native Foods Cafe at 1482 N. Milwaukee Avenue. Look for this casual eatery to open late Summer. Additional details to follow.

 

 

 

 RETAIL/SHOPPING

 

 

Joe's Wine Cellar Opens Tuesday

Joe's Wine Cellar has moved in to Wicker Park and is located in the space formerly the home of Division Cleaners at 2108 W. Division Street. But we can assure you, there are no signs of the cleaners left in this space. Joe's offers 350+ varieties of wine, 16 taps for tasting, 80+ craft brews in bombers and mix and match six-packs plus mainly local cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh-baked baguettes from La Boulangerie. Joe's doors are open sporadically this weekend. Look for the official opening to happen Tuesday. Joe's Wine.

 

Plenty Grocery Heads to Wicker Park

Plenty Grocery & Deli is moving in to Wicker Park in the space formerly the home of Zaraz Collections at 2036 W. Division. Although plans are still in the works you can expect a neighborhood grocery store feeling and produce, dairy, breads, meats and cheeses. Plenty.

 

Temple Beautiful & The Fountain of Youth

Would you like to learn how to keep those botox injections at bay? Head to Temple Beautiful at 1903 W. Division tonight for an interactive workshop where you can learn a few secrets and participate in an acupressure session. Fountain of Youth.

 


SMALL BUSINESS GRANT 

 

Small Businesses Rock - Please Vote For Us !

Many people don't realize we're a small business. And because we are a small independent business we're eligible for a Chase/Livingsocial Small Business Grant. But we need your help. Please take a moment to vote for us! It only takes about 30 seconds (seriously). You logon here and type in Wicker into the "business" section and you're done. If everyone votes we'll have enough votes to qualify by the end of the day. But if you don't, we may not qualify at all. Thank you so much for your support!!  Rock the Vote.

 

 

 

 THEATER 

 

Anger/Fly At Trap Door Theatre

Bucktown's Trap Door Theatre at 1655 W. Cortland Avenue was just recognized by the Chicago Reader for having the Best String of Theatrical Stunners in Chicago. Don't miss Anger/Fly; Trap Door's current show. It closes June 30th. Anger/Fly.

 

If you're interested in receiving up-to-the minute news & event information from us throughout the week, please feel free to join our 8,000+ followers on Facebook & Twitter. We'd love to include you. And if you have news or an event to share, please don't hesitate to let us know.

 

 

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

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide


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