You’re probably overwhelmed with the possibilities when you think about the three-day weekend ahead – what to do with all that free time? Chill out, we’ve already rounded up the best events going on this weekend so you can maximize your Memorial Day fun.
Friday, May 27Dating for Nerds HolidateThink smart is sexy? Then head to The Hidden Shamrock this Friday for a Nerds at Heart dating event, which unlike many other dating shindigs is open to both gay and straight singles. Trivia games with geek-themed prizes will offer the perfect opportunity to chat up fellow smarty-pants participants.Where: Hidden Shamrock, 2723 N. Halsted St.; 773-883-0304When: 7 – 10 p.m.Price: $30
Indonesian Fare at The Rice-Table This catering business will open a pop-up restaurant for one night at Sip Coffee House. Enjoy Indonesian dishes like spiced potato fritters, stir-fried beef and spicy mackerel in grilled banana leaves at this BYOB event.Where: Sip Coffee House, 1223 W. Grand Ave.; 312-563-1123When: 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.Price: $18
Saturday, May 28Chicago Memorial Day Parade Show your support for our nation’s veterans at this year’s Memorial Day parade, which will begin at State and Lake. The procession will be led by General Raymond T. Odierno, a U.S. Army Commander and Iraq vet.Where: State St. and Lake St., heading south on State to Van BurenWhen: 12 p.m.Price: FREE
Chicago Gaelic Park Irish Fest Bring your brood down to the Gaelic Park Irish Fest in Oak Forest for an afternoon of fun and games. Carnival rides, a petting zoo and magic shows will keep the kids entertained until dusk, when a fireworks display is scheduled to kick off.Where: 6119 W. 147th St., Oak Forest; 708-687-9323;When: 12 – 11p.m.Price: $15 general admission, $12 for seniors and kids ages 2–12
Sunday, May 29Bike the Drive There’s still time to sign up for this annual event which shuts down Lake Shore Drive so that bike enthusiasts can go out for a leisurely morning ride. Afterwards, cyclists can gather in Grant Park for a post-ride celebration complete with pancakes and live music.Where: Lake Shore Drive from 57th St. to Bryn MawrWhen: 5:30 – 9:45 a.m. (Grant Park party from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.)Price: $45 advanced registration, $55 for day-of-event registration
International Mr. Leather Contest This isn’t your grandma’s beauty pageant. Now in its 32nd year, the annual International Mr. Leather weekend events will culminate in the final contest, where participants will wear their best leather attire. Finalists will give a speech and show off their physique before the judges choose this year’s winner.Where: Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St., 312-334-7777When: 6 – 9 p.m.Price: $35 – $45
Belmont/Sheffield Music Festival The annual street fest will get a little rowdy on Sunday night when Wedding Banned hits the stage to perform covers of ‘80s and ‘90s hits. Meanwhile, the band uses audience participation to make the show feel like a wedding – get ready for the garter toss.Where: Belmont Ave. and Sheffield Ave. When: 8:30 p.m.Price: $5