May 17, 2012
 

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

The weather is expected to be just perfect so be sure to head out and enjoy. What's on our radar this week? Chicago Craft Beer Week kicks off today throughout Chicago with an emphasis on 'neighborhoods'. The Map Room, Small Bar, Hot Chocolate, Bangers & Lace, Piece and more will be participating. Be sure to take advantage of the special craft beer being featured this week. But that's not all. We've also included a variety of fundraisers, new art exhibitions, music fests, movies in the park, community events, spa nights, great deals and more. For additional details, just click on the photos.

But that's not all, The Trenchermen is hosting their "Preview Party" tonight. Want to know how to buy tickets? We've included that too. For up to the minute updates throughout the week be sure to follow us on Facebook & Twitter.

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

 

   Bars

          Chicago Craft Beer Week

Chicago Craft Beer Week kicks off today and this event will be taking place throughout Chicago. Full maps and details have been provided for each neighborhood and in Wicker Park and Bucktown, plan on visiting The Map Room, Small Bar, Bangers and Lace, Big Star and more.

        Sadie Hawkin's Throwback Party

Tonight...Sadie Hawkins is back. Cheeky Chicago and Leinenkugel present the Sadie Hawkins Throwback Party at The Anthem at 1725 W. Division Street in Wicker Park. There's still time to reserve your tickets but you have to hurry. Party starts at 6pm.

 

 

  Community

       Annual Kitten Shower

Bucktown's Annual Kitten Shower is being held this Saturday at Treehouse Humane Society at 1625 N. Ashland Avenue. For just a $5 donation you can ooh & ah over 20+ kittens ready for adoption. A great organization. Hope you can make it.

         Bucktown Garden Walk Dates Announced 

 When you think of Summer in Bucktown, you can't help but think of the Bucktown Garden walk, petting zoo for kids and big bash that weekend at Lotties Pub. The dates were announced this week so mark your calendars.

 

        Lights Camera Action  - MTV Films in Wicker Park

Just a word to the wise, MTV's Underemployed is filming in Wicker Park; specifically around the Evergreen and Hoyne area. If you live in the area or are planning to head into the neighborhood to visit, the parking in that area is a little tough. Filming is expected to last a couple of weeks.

 

      Undergraduate/Graduate Internships  Available

Want to work with the Insider's Guide? We have internships available for Graduate and Undergraduate Students with DePaul University. This is a perfect opportunity for marketing/advertising/media students. Let us know if you're interested and feel free to pass this on to anyone you know who might be a great candidate.

 

     Wicker Park's Farmers Markets Open in June

This year Wicker Park will be hosting 2 Farmers Markets and they're right around the corner. The first is the traditional Wicker Park Farmers market that's held every Sunday at 1425 N. Damen Avenue. That Farmers Market will open June 3rd. The 2nd will be hosted on Thursdays at the Polish Triangle starting June 7th.

 

     Wicker Park & Bucktown's Movies in the Park

At long last, both the Wicker Park and Bucktown Movies in the Park have been announced for this Summer. We told you earlier about the Wizard of Oz, The Lorax and Ferris Bueller heading to Bucktown. Hugo, Raiders of the Lost Ark and ET head to Wicker Park. Dates for the Wicker Park "Movies in the Park" are right here. 

 

  Galleries/Art

        A Personal Project Show
13 Chicago artists bare their souls so you can see how their photographs, paintings and other ... expressions came to be. It's extraordinary. Head to Defibrillator Performance Art Gallery 1136 N. Milwaukee Avenue  this weekend for the opening.

       LVL3  - Suspended
Suspended is a state, a moment, some kind of disbelief, a stalemated gesture frozen in its own established conditions. The Suspended Exhibition features the work and paintings of Richard Galling and opens at  LVL3 in Wicker Park this Saturday.

       Monique Meloche - 2 New Exhibitions
Also opening this Saturday, 2 exhibitions at Monique Meloche in Wicker Park. The first called wood is a group exhibition with artists who incorporate the element of wood into their respective practices with differing goals and objectives. The 2nd exhibition is "on the wall" and can be viewed on Division Street. PPPPPresto! directly references 5 male artists creating paintings and sculptures out of wood. Both exhibitions open Saturday.   

 

 

 

  Music 

       Hozac Blackout Fest This Weekend
This former 'zine turned garage-rock label will be hosting their Annual Blackout Fest this weekend at The Empty Bottle. The two-day event showcases the label's best bands. Tickets are on sale now.

 

 

Rock For Rescues This Saturday

A great cause; The Annual Rockin' For Rescue Fundraiser for the Trio Animal Foundation is this weekend! Food will be provided by a top Chicago Caterer featuring signature items designed and served by Hot Doug's Chef.  There will also be an open bar, 2 VIP areas, and a fabulous silent auction and raffle. All donations are tax-deductible.

     Soul Summit Dance Party Friday

The SOUL SUMMIT is a monthly dance party spanning the spectrum of early, raw R&B, Soul & Funk. Monthly parties are free except when showcasing live bands. This weekend's dance party is Friday May 18, Double Door, 9pm, Guest Band Brooklyn's IKEBE SHAKEDOWN (Ubiquity Records).

 

 

 

 

 

  Restaurants

 

 

 

  Retail/Shopping

     Futurgarb's New Location, VIP Program and 20% Off 

Indie boutique Futurgarb has moved! They're now located at 1369 N. Milwaukee Avenue and have moved into a bigger space. Futurgarb sells very cool and hip men's and women's apparel and accessories at very reasonable prices. They also provide excellent service + 20% off everything in the store on Wednesdays. A don't miss. 

 

             Health, Wellness, Gluten Free and $10 Off

The owners of Mazi Dance Fitness are committed -of course- to fitness and offer many classes which strengthen and tone your body. But that's not all. Mazi is also focused on overall health & well-being. As an example of their commitment they've developed a video guide which explains the value of a gluten-free diet and where you can find it in the neighborhood. Mention this video and you'll get $10 off your next class.

           Staples Celebrates Small Businesses 

As a small business, we can attest to the fact that Staples Wicker Park, 1300 N. Ashland Avenue, is extraordinarily supportive of small businesses in our community. Be sure to stop by and celebrate our small businesses with them next week. Can't make it? Staples will begin showcasing small businesses every single month. Stay tuned for additional updates about Staples Small Business Showcase.

             The Wicker Perks 

Have you checked the Wicker Perks lately? We update neighborhood deals just about every day. So be sure to check in and see what's available. Are you an area business and would like to be included? Just let us know. 

 

               Yoga Spa Night Friday 

On Friday night, head to Wicker Park's Elevenzees for an evening of relaxation and tlc. First, you'll enjoy 90 minutes of yoga. Then you'll move to a hand massage, refreshments, crudites, a private shopping event and more. Ready to relax and be pampered? Make your reservation today.

Again, if you're interested in receiving up-to-the minute news & event information from us throughout the week, please feel free to join us on Facebook & Twitter. We'd love to include you. Have a great weekend and we'll see you in the neighborhood.    

 

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

May 3rd, 2012
 

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

The Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo arrive this weekend and there are many events and parties planned throughout the neighborhood. But that's not all. We've also included community news, art gallery celebrations, new restaurant openings and more. If you'd like to receive information throughout the week, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter. We would love to include you. 

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

 

   Bars

   Cinco de Mayo- Kentucky Derby Parties

This weekend Cinco de Mayo and the Kentucky Derby land on the same day. So we've included Cinco de Mayo street festivals, Kentucky Derby parties and those celebrations that will include both. We're adding a few more parties so if you're looking for fun and festive options in the neighborhood, we've got em right here.

 

  Community

   1st Ward 1st Thursday - Small Bar 

They're baaack. Alderman Joe Moreno is hosting a 1st Ward 1st Thursday get together tonight at Small Bar - 2049 W. Division Street. So head to Small Bar for appetizers and drinks with the Alderman. Have questions or concerns? Bring those too.

 

   Movies in the Park - Bucktown

The Bucktown Community Organization announced their Movies in the Park line-up this week. So, which movies are heading to Churchill Park this Summer? Ferris Bueller's Day Off, The Wizard of Oz and The Lorax. And they're free. Stay tuned for the dates. As soon as they're announced, we will let you know. 

 

   Wicker Park Farmers Market

It's coming....the highly anticipated Wicker Park Farmers Market will reopen in Wicker Park proper at 1425 N. Damen Avenue on June 3rd. For those who may not know, the market is located at the corner of Damen & Wicker Park Avenue. We will see you there!

 

   Wicker Park Plant Sale & Fundraiser

Don't miss the Annual Plant Sale & Fundraiser this weekend in Wicker Park. Experienced gardeners and designers will help you pick the plants that are best for you. Proceeds are donated to the 10,000 square foot Wicker Park Gardens and lecture series.

 

  Galleries/Art

     Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Arts N Spirits
Want to do something different this weekend in honor of Cinco de Mayo? Head to Arts N Spirits at 1921 N. Damen Avenue in Bucktown with your friends and drink of choice. (They're BYOB). You'll have a great time and come home with artwork ready for framing. Details for how to sign up are right here.  

 

    Park Schrek's 1 Year Anniversary
Park Schrek Gallery is celebrating their 1st Year Anniversary with an opening reception this Friday from 7:00pm - 10:00pm. Featured work will include Jonathon Stein and the one and only Dan Schrek & John Park. Congratulations on a terrific 1st year.

 

 

 

 

  Music 

    Better Than Something - Film Screenings
The Empty Bottle will be hosting 2 film screenings this weekend for Better Than Something:  a feature documentary about the controversial and prolific garage rock icon Jimmy Lee Lindsey Jr, better known to the world as Jay Reatard.The portrait of Jay's life is captured just months before his untimely passing. Public Works Gallery - 1539 N. Damen Avenue.

    Local H - This Saturday

Hailing from Chicago, Local H is a two-man wrecking crew; a powerhouse invigorated by former Triple Fast Action drummer Brain St. Clair and driven by the distinct lyric and melodic vision of guitarist/vocalist Scott Lucas. Get your tickets now. Keep your eyes open on our facebook and twitter pages. We may just be giving a way a free pair of tickets for this show . Double Door- 1572 N. Milwaukee Avenue.

 

Rockin' For Rescue Fundraiser

Mark your calendars. The Annual Rockin' For Rescue Fundraiser for the Trio Animal Foundation heads to the neighborhood May 19th. Food will be provided by a top Chicago Caterer featuring signature items designed and served by Hot Doug's Chef.  There will also be an open bar, 2 VIP areas, and a fabulous silent auction and raffle. All donations are tax-deductible.

 

 

 

 

  Restaurants

 

 

 

  Real Estate

Every foreclosure we publish sells within a week or less. The 1 bed + den we mentioned last week was under contract in couple of days. But you have another chance. This 3 bed/2 bath is in Ukrainian Village is current listed for $341k. We've also included a banner on our website which links to foreclosures. Don't wait on these if you're interested. 

 

  Retail/Shopping

     Mother's Day Gift Baskets- $25

Looking for a gift for Mom? Head to Greenheart Shop. You'll find beautiful gift baskets that extend beyond physical and cultural borders. Support fair trade and empower mothers everywhere. Starting at only $25. 

 

    Spex Grand Opening Party - Friday

Spex opened their Wicker Park location earlier this year at 1407 N. Milwaukee Avenue and on Friday May 4th they'll be hosting their official Grand Opening Party. With swag bags, refreshments and appetizers, it's sure to be a great time. Be sure to stop by.

 

 

  Theater

   The Mariachi Man Drinks to Cinco de Mayo

For one day only this weekend, in celebration of Mexican Heritage and drinking holidays everywhere, the cast of El Mari Chi Chi will perform an interactive drinking theme burlesque show. The audience may keep up with the characters on stage and take a drink for each time a character takes a swig. Gorilla Tango Theatre - 1919 N. Milwaukee Avenue.

Again, if you're interested in receiving up-to-the minute news & event information from us throughout the week, please feel free to join us on Facebook & Twitter. We'd love to include you.

If you'd like to receive our Weekend Guide each Thursday, here's how you do it. Sign up.

 

 

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

 

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

March 8, 2012
 

Hello and welcome to this week's edition of your Insider Weekend Guide. This week we've got lots of news and many fantastic events to share. Spring is just around the corner and this Saturday night don't forget to turn your clocks ahead. But that's not all, St. Patrick's Day celebrations are starting this weekend and the Green Music Fest 2012 headliners have already been announced. Can Summer be far behind?  For full details, just click on the photos below. Thanks, as always, for joining us and we'll see you in the neighborhood. 

  _Bars

   The Fat Pour Update

Several months ago, Metromix reported that a new 7,000 square foot sports bar would be heading in to the spot formerly the home of Adobo Grill. Although the original opening date was projected for early this year, according to the folks behind this project, it looks like Fat Pour's opening is being delayed to late Fall or even early Spring of 2013.

 

   March Madness Picks

March Madness is kicking off so if you're looking for a great spot to watch the games, here's where we'll be. These bars are true sports bars and offer good food, a fun environment, easy tv viewing and great specials. We'll be adding their specials later this week.

 

    St. Patrick's & Anniversary Parties

It's hard to believe our friends at The Fifty/50 are celebrating 4 years on Division Street. They're having a big party on Monday which starts at 7pm. The Fifty/50 will also be celebrating St. Patrick's Day this weekend and next. 

 

   Community

     Bloomingdale Trail Unveiling 

CBS has reported that the plans for the Bloomingdale Trail are ready to be presented. The Chicago Department of Transportation will be holding a meeting tonight. The time and the location of that meeting are attached.

 

    Cheerleading Workshops for Kids

For kids, tweens and teens, please join Dance Spa every Monday starting April 2nd for their Cheerleading workshops presented by United Spirit Athletics. Hurry! Classes start soon.

      The Art of Design - Lecture Series Monday

On Monday, don't miss this month's lecture series featuring Craig Bergmann. Bergmann has been an active gardener for over 40 years and is also a landscape architect and plantsman

 

 

        Help Find Snickers A Home

The Insider's Guide and Bucktown's Treehouse Humane Society are working together to find this young kitten a home. Found in Wicker Park, this little guy was outside in sub-zero temps and hadn't even developed his teeth yet! If you or anyone you know are interested in Snickers, please let us know and/or help to spread the word.

 

 

  Galleries

      Wicker Park & Bucktown Exhibitions

Curious to know which galleries are currently hosting exhibitions? Here is an overview of the neighborhood's current open exhibitions and Park Schrek has a new opening scheduled for next Friday at 7pm.

 

  Music 

        Lez Zeppelin - This Friday

This New York based all female quartet has become the first and foremost female rock act to pay homage to Led Zeppelin and to garner rave reviews across the board. And you can catch them this Friday at Double Door - 1572 N. Milwaukee Avenue.

 

 

      Garage Rock Sale - 7 Shows $20

The Empty Bottle is known for showcasing a broad range of genres in their club and this month you can score a pass for 7 days of garage rock shows for only $20. A very limited number of tickets are available. Also this weekend, Sausage Fest kicks off SXSW Weekend.

 

 

  Restaurants

         Eat Out Award Nominations

A very big congratulations to our Wicker Park and Bucktown businesses for being nominated for Time Out's 2012 Eat Out Awards. Those who have been nominated include: Forever Yogurt, The Southern Mac, Ripasso, The Anthem, Francesca's Forno, Tipsycake and more. There's one week left to vote for your favorites.

 

        Where You Can Find Free WiFi

Every day we look for places we can access wifi in the neighborhood. So we thought if we are ... you might be too. So here's our handy little guide to where you can find free wi fi in Wicker Park & Bucktown. 

 

    1/2 Off Bottles of Wine at Via Carducci

Head to Via Carducci Monday - Wednesday and not only will you enjoy a delicious Italian meal, you can enjoy bottles of wine for 50% off. The details are attached. 

 

 

  Retail/Shopping

        Celebrate Women's International Day

Spend $10 or more at the Greenheart Shop on International Women's Day today and receive a FREE cupcake from The Giving Treats. Each cupcake handed out at purchase is a cupcake donated to The Safe Haven Foundation.

 

       Handmade Market - Saturday

This Saturday, head to the monthly Handmade Market hosted by the Empty Bottle at 1035 N. Western Avenue. Each month you can support over 33 artisans selling clothing, accessories and more. 

 

 

     Second Time Around is OPEN

If Jimmy Choo, Chanel and Louis Vuitton are music to your eyes, be sure to head to Second Time Around; Wicker Park's newest consignment shop. You'll find high-end fashion and budget-friendly prices and you can find them at 1543 N. Milwaukee Avenue.

 

 

  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. Our pick for this weekend:

 

    Death & Harry Houdini

Don't miss Death & Harry Houdini at The Chopin Theatre in Wicker Park. You'll see the very talented magician, Dennis Watkins, perform Houdini's incredible Water Torture Cell escape trick --- and more. 

Don't forget to review your favorite bar, restaurant, shop or events. You can log on to our website any time to rate your experience and provide comments. And, for up-to-the-minute information throughout the week, please join us on Twitter and Facebook where we publish information daily. We'd love to have you.

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

 

 

The Wicker Park Bucktown Insider's Guide

Don't Miss Life's A Cabernet's Wine Tasting Today - Starts at 3:00pm

1937 W. North Avenue - Wicker Park, IL

773.360.5536

www.lifesacabernet.net

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