Ready for a long weekend in Chicago? You will be with this lineup of cool things to do. From test driving new cars at the Chicago Auto Show to discovering new artists at Pancakes and Booze, these annual events have a lot to offer for new and familiar vistors alike!
Read on and discover what’s events are taking place this weekend in Chicago.
Test Drive a New Car at the Chicago Auto Show
Now – Monday, February 20th // Time Varies
Cost: $0 – $15
The 2023 Chicago Auto Show is officially open to the public now through Monday, Feb. 20, Presidents Day, at McCormick Place. The 2023 show is the most experiential Chicago Auto Show yet, with seven total indoor test tracks and four outdoor test drives. Attendees can take a ride on the all-new redesigned Chicago Drives Electric EV Track, featuring the latest EVs from major car companies. In addition to the indoor test tracks, manufacturers will offer plenty of opportunities for fans to jump behind the wheel and take a test drive on city streets. Tickets to the 2023 Chicago Auto Show are currently on sale at ChicagoAutoShow.com.
Celebrate 15 Years at the Winter Block Party with Vocalo Radio
Saturday, February 18th // 12:00 p.m.
Cost: Free with RSVP, Tickets available at the door
Vocalo, Chicago’s Urban Alternative celebrates 15 years of being the nation’s first 24/7 non-profit radio station focusing on R&B, Hip Hop, Jazz, Dance music, and more. Their Winter Block Party is returning to Metro and Smartbar this weekend and everyone is invited. This year’s Block Party will feature programming from community organizations, including frequent partner Young Chicago Authors, an indoor market with local vendors, performances from local artists and DJ sets to keep everyone grooving all day long.
Pancakes & Booze Art Show at Reggies
Friday, February 17th – Saturday, February 18th // 8:00 p.m.
Cost: $10 – $15
Chicago’s Pop-Up Underground Art Show is back on February 17 and 18 at Reggies Chicago. Discover work from 100+ local artists exhibiting over 750+ pieces of work. Taste All-U-Can Eat Pancakes for free, as you view live performances from local DJs, producers, and live painting.
Experience Black History Month Events Across the City
Thursday, February 16th – Sunday, February 19th // Time Varies
Cost: Price Varies by Event
Black History Month is here in Chicago! And, the events this year are bigger and bolder than ever. Check out these cool events this weekend in Chicago:
UIC Choral Festival Concert featuring Adrian Dunn
Connecting the Dots, The Bridge to the African Diaspora
Queens of the Policy(Multiple Days) at Harold Washington Cultural Center
BLK. Celebration of Everything Black
BLACK SUNDAY 2023 A SIB’S Breakfast Club BLACK HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Weekend Mardi Gras Celebrations in Chicago
Friday, February 17th – Saturday, February 18th // 8:00 p.m.
Cost: Price Varies by Event
Just because you aren’t in New Orleans, doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate Mardi Gras in Chicago. A selection of cool restaurants and bars in Chicago are hosting Mardi Gras events across the city that you have to check out. Find one near you below:
Mardi Gras Bar Crawl – Chicago
Carnivale 3 Mardi Gras Celebration
Soulphonestics at West Town
Saturday, February 18th // 6:30 p.m. – midnight
Cost: Free Admission
Dance the night away with the #InternationalRudeBoys Soulphonetics at Beatrix in West Town. The Chicago-based DJs and producers will provide uniquely curated vibes for a night out in Chicago. Enjoy music, food, cocktails, and more during this cool night out in Chicago
If you like our guide to weekend events, check out more posts about things to do in Chicago.
It’s Here! Your Complete Guide To Black History Month in Chicago
Awesome Ideas for a Girls’ Weekend Out in Chicago
The Best Festivals in Chicago: According to The Haute Seeker
