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8 Things to Do in Chicago This Weekend: Nov. 8-10

Group of four friends revelling while holding sparklers

Chicago is well-versed in all lifestyles, and entertainment options abound within the Windy City and beyond. For fun events for couples, families, or groups of friends, consider these Chicagoland activities for your weekend fun.


Michael Rapaport, Friday, Nov. 8, The Vic, Chicago

Live from the Vic Theatre, guests can expect to experience taboo topics covered in a comedic and unafraid manner throughout the comedy performance for the ‘ I AM RAPAPORT: STEREO PODCAST’ as well as a Q&A session afterward. Be prepared to see special podcast guests on stage as well. Be part of the live audience of the podcast that will be online and available to citizens worldwide.

Frozen: The Broadway Musical, Friday, Nov. 8, Paramount Theatre, Aurora

After a hard week, take the kiddos to a place where playing is the only thing on the agenda. Head over to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago this Friday from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. for the never-ending festivities. Take in the world premiere of the latest LEGO Friends 4D movie, have fun in the Play Unstoppable Dance Party, and create LEGO flowers after designing your own spirit animal. Plenty of fun for kids to shake off the school week.

Dear Jazz 20, Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8 - 9, Fulton Street Collective, Chicago

Make plans to attend this collection of the biggest names of musicians, painters, and sculptures in Chi-Town. Set for Friday, November 8th, and Saturday, November 9th, Fulton Street Collective provides two evenings to discover and explore the talented artists at this exciting art exhibition and jazz concert event. Pick out the perfect painting to purchase while the smooth jazz sounds are performed live in the background.

Black Harvest Film Festival, Friday, Nov. 8 - 21, Chicago

Now entering its 30th year, the Black Harvest Film Festival allows celebration and exploration within the Black, African Diaspora, and African American filmmakers' projects. Highlighting upcoming and established talent, there will be both short and feature-length films from local directors, screenwriters, and producers.

Dia de los Muertos Celebration, Saturday, Nov. 9, Trickster Cultural Center, Schaumburg

This three-hour Day of the Dead celebration highlights the Mexican holiday celebrated by the Latino population. With celebrations geared toward the living and the loved ones no longer with us, this event balances the sweetness and sadness of losing someone. From 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., guests can purchase Pan de Muerto and hot chocolate and decorate an ofrenda (altar) while taking in traditional music and dance displays.

The Dinner Detective, Saturday, Nov. 9, Arlington Heights

Dinner and a show await at the Northern Chicago Suburbs of Illinois. Play detective while dining and solve a mystery that is part hilarious, part murderous. Different than the traditional murder mystery event, actors are blended into the crowd and hidden in plain sight among the audience members. For a fun and interactive evening just for adults, plan to get your tickets today.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Saturday, Nov. 9, Nederlander Theatre, Chicago

This high-demand live theatrical product is recommended for ages eight and older, providing a great outing for the whole family. Catch the play, which continues the story of 'The Boy Who Lived' and shows Harry and his friends as they enter adulthood. It is recommended that ticketholders arrive 45 minutes before the curtain rises. The evening will run for two hours and 50 minutes, including an intermission. This show, part of Broadway in Chicago, will run through February 1, 2025.

Photos with Santa, Saturday, Nov. 9, Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg

Get an early start with Christmas by creating memories of your children with Santa. Book your photo session early and then swing over to the Woodfield Mall for festive photo memories that will last a lifetime.

Weekend Roundup

  • Michael Rapaport Comedy Show:
    • Friday, Nov. 8, at The Vic, Chicago
    • Comedy show with live podcast recording and Q&A
    • Features taboo topics and special podcast guests
  • Frozen: The Broadway Musical:
    • Friday, Nov. 8, at Paramount Theatre, Aurora
    • Family-friendly musical perfect for an evening out
  • Dear Jazz 20 Art & Jazz Event:
    • Friday and Saturday, Nov. 8 - 9, at Fulton Street Collective, Chicago
    • Jazz concert and art exhibition featuring local musicians and artists
  • Black Harvest Film Festival:
    • Friday, Nov. 8 - 21, in Chicago
    • Celebrates Black, African Diaspora, and African American filmmakers
    • Showcases short and feature-length films by local talent
  • Dia de los Muertos Celebration:
    • Saturday, Nov. 9, at Trickster Cultural Center, Schaumburg, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
    • Includes traditional music, dance, and altar decorations
    • Guests can enjoy Pan de Muerto and hot chocolate
  • The Dinner Detective:
    • Saturday, Nov. 9, in Arlington Heights
    • Interactive murder mystery dinner with actors hidden among the audience
    • Designed for adults seeking a fun, engaging evening
  • Harry Potter and the Cursed Child:
    • Saturday, Nov. 9, at Nederlander Theatre, Chicago
    • Family-friendly play following Harry Potter into adulthood
    • Runs 2 hours and 50 minutes, recommended for ages eight and older
  • Photos with Santa:
    • Saturday, Nov. 9, at Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg
    • Early Christmas photo opportunity with Santa
  • What are some fun weekend activities near Chicago for couples and friends?

    What are the best things to do in Chicago this weekend for families?

    Where can I find unique events in Chicago on Nov. 8-10?

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