NATO hits Chicago next weekend, and chances are it will cramp your social life. So get the most out of this weekend--it's not like you have to worry about keeping up with the playoffs anymore. Hit up some of our favorite picks for things to do this weekend. (Save the movie nights for the summit.)
ALL WEEKEND
Occupy Festival
Whether you've been a participant or a spectator, you've likely been interacting with Occupy Chicago for months now. Show a little love at Occupy Festival in Union Park, a two-day festival of music, art and family-friendly activities that will help fundraise for the Occupy Movement. Half of all profits go right back to the local grassroots movement.
Where: Lake Street and Ashland Ave.
When: 2 p.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, May 11 and Sunday, May 12
Price: $35
FRIDAY
Super Moms
Moms are definitely superheroes. Let yours ditch the disguise for a day and don her cape proudly at the Kohl Children's Museum's Super Moms Celebration. The evening will include dinner, dessert and kids-friendly entertainment, special guests and activities. Don't leave before getting a commemorative photo snapped!
Kohl Children's Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview
When: 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Friday, May 11
Price: $20
Uncorking the Past
You probably drink wine most Fridays, but do you know the significance behind what you drink? Tour museum galleries and learn about the cultural significance, history and practices behind winemaking and wine-drinking at the Oriental Institute's Uncorking the Past expo.
Where: Oriental Institute at the University of Chicago, 1155 E. 58th St.
When: 6 p.m. Friday, May 11
Price: $25
SATURDAY
RollerJam
Love Derby? Revel in all things four-wheeled at the screening party for Scotchworthy Productions' new feature film "The Storm," for an evening that will include live music, mingling and appearances by roller derby team the Antonio Bay Bombshells. Scotchworthy will also screen their award-winning zombie short, "A Chance In Hell."
Where: The Portage Theater, 4050 N. Milwaukee Ave.
When: 7 p.m. Saturday, May 12
Price: $15-20
S.W.A.P. Kickoff Party
Do good deeds while you drink at the launch party for Sheffield's Water From Ale Project, a new initiative that donates 10 cents of every dollar spent on beer to organizations like Water.org and Friends of the Chicago River. Saturday's kickoff will include an all-you-can-eat fish fry, live music and plenty of Two Brothers beers in the garden.
Where: 3258 N. Sheffield Ave.
When: 3 p.m. Saturday, May 12
Price: Free
SUNDAY
Looking for a follow-up to your brunch date with Mom this Sunday? Grab your sibling and take her to a special Mother's Day Concert starring Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra alumni Demarre McGill and Anthony McGill.
Where: Orchestra Hall, 220 S. Michigan Ave
When: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 13
Price: $20-40
Bike-In Movie Theater
After months of gloomy weather, we're constantly on the lookout for excuses to be outside--but a drive-in movie in the city is hard to swing. Luckily, the Hideout's got you covered with their Bike-In Movie Theater, screening "The T.A.M.I. Show" this Sunday, a documentary about the 1964 concert featuring Marvin Gaye, The Supremes and the Rolling Stones.
Where: The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia Ave.
When: 8 p.m. Sunday, May 13
Price: Free