This week, Chicago's individuality in the country's cityscape shone through. We established ourselves as quirky eaters, nontraditional daters, creative problem-solvers and a generally fun-loving bunch. If we can get that much done during the work week, imagine what we have in store this weekend. So let your freak flag fly, Chicago, and commune with your own at these events.
ALL WEEKEND
Reptilefest
If these critters don't give you the creepy crawlies, then it's worth checking out scaly vertebrates at the 18th annual Reptilefest hosted by the Chicago Herpetological Society his weekend. Pets won't be on sale, but guests can meet and learn about all different animals within this category from experts in the field.
Where: UIC Physical Education Building, 901 W. Roosevelt Rd.
When: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, Apr. 14 and Sunday, Apr. 15
Price: $10 adults, $7 kids ages 3-11
Disney In Concert: Magical Music from the Movies
Whether or not you can sit through a Disney movie these days doesn't mean the classic soundtracks won't always have a special place in your heart. Cruise the highlights at "Disney in Concert: Magical Music from the Movies" performed by the New Philharmonic at the College of DuPage's McAninch Arts Center.
Where: McAninch Arts Center, College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Apr. 14, 3 p.m. Sunday, Apr. 15
Price: $45-55
FRIDAY
Fashioning the Object: Bless, Boudicca, Sandra Backlund
Appreciate the artistry behind high fashion at the Art Institute's Night Heist gala, where attendants can get a sneak peek at the "Fashioning the Object" exhibit, showcasing Bless, Boudicca and Sandra Backlund. Guests can play model for the night at a digital photo booth during the annual gala.
Where: Art Institute of Chicago's Modern Wing, 149 E. Monroe St.
When: 8 p.m. - 11 p.m. Friday, Apr. 13
Price: $95
SATURDAY
Sister Spit
You don't have to go as far as San Francisco to catch queer poetry and performance troupe Sister Spit this weekend. The group swings by Chicago this Saturday for a show featuring performances from founder Michelle Tea, Dorothy Allison, Erin Markey, Cassie J. Sneider, Mx Justin Vivian Bond and Kit Yan. Don't miss the after party at Beauty Bar!
Where: Wicker Park Art Center, 2215 W. North Ave.
When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Apr. 14
Price: $12
Alta at K Station Polar Plunge
Chicago's been blessed with a warm winter this year; so why not pack a season's full of chilliness into a few minutes for charity? Join residents of Alta at K Station for their second annual dip in their chilled eighth-floor outdoor pool. Admission and funds raised will benefit Children's Memorial Hospital.
Where: Alta K. Station, 555 W. Kinzie St.
When: 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Apr. 14
Price: $10
SUNDAY
Nachos y Muchachos
Admit it: your booze-fueled nights of revelry often end with nachos. Cut out the middleman at Evil Olive's theme party Sunday, which will feature all-you-can-eat nachos and beats all night from muchachos DJ Zebo and DJ Phenom.
Where: Evil Olive, 1551 W. Division St.
When: 10 p.m. Sunday, Apr. 15
Price: $5
Food Fight For Scleroderma
You don't need a reason to eat the gourmet creations of Belly Shack's Bill Kimm, Old Town Social's Jared Van Camp, and Boka's Carl Shelton--but here's a great one. Proceeds from the Iron Chef-style Chicago Food Fight will benefit the Scleroderma Foundation. (Don't worry--guests will get to sample the competing creations).
Where: Kendall College, 900 N. North Branch St., 5th Floor
When: 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday, Apr. 15
Price: $85