Chicago's ladies looking for something else to do on these late weekend nights, we've got plenty of events you can stay at all night from now 'til Sunday -- gentlemen too. While you may not be able to book your plans while on the road, this weekend in the Windy City is worth calling your friends about. Whether you're looking for music, or mums, or marriage, we've got plenty to keep you busy this weekend. (Beloved lawmakers, whose belts may be tightening, we've got plenty for you to do on the cheap, too.)
ALL WEEKEND
Chi-Town Jazz Festival
Just because you can't sway outside, beer-in-hand, doesn't mean you can't take in some great jazz this season. Take in the sweet brass sounds at the Chi-Town Jazz Festival 2012, with concerts scheduled all weekend, all over town, including at legendary hot spots like the Green Mill Lounge.
Where: Varies
When: Varies, Friday March 9 - Sunday, March 11
Price: Varies
Chicago Flower and Garden Show
The Chicago Flower and Garden show kicks off at Navy Pier Saturday, and will display 25 gardens inspired by high-fashion couture garments.This year's theme, "Hort Couture," has inspired displays that incorporate sculpture, water, architectural ironworks and other elements to create a high-fashion aesthetic.
Where: Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
When: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday, March 9 and Saturday, March 10; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday, March 11
Price: $19
FRIDAY
Top Singles Party
Single and looking? Rub elbows with some of the city's most eligible bachelors and bachelorettes at Today's Chicago Woman's annual celebration of the hottest Chicagoans on the market.
Where: Enclave, 220 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago
When: 7 p.m. Friday, March 9
Price: $80
FML: How Carson McCullers Saved My Life
Steppenwolf is hosting the world premiere of a new play that explores the struggles of a gay teen growing up in La Grange, IL. The production touches on the issue of bullying in the young LGBT community, and will be followed by a discussion on that topic, led by Bill and Dan Savage, founder of the "It Gets Better" project.
Where: Steppenwolf, 1650 N. Halsted St.
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 9
Price: $20
SATURDAY
Bubble Ball
Chicago's Between Friends works to combat domestic violence between adults and teens in Chicago. Help support their cause at the annual Bubble Ball, an evening of food, drink and music, with a silent auction fundraising for the continued aid of domestic violence victims.
Where: River East Arts Center, 435 E. Illinois St., Chicago
When: 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday, March 10
Price: $175
Growing Salads Indoors
If Rick Bayless can do it, you can too. Learn how to grow all the necessary ingredients for a healthy salad, even in the most dismal of urban jungles, with a tutorial at the Chicago Botanic Garden led by Bayless' own Bill Shores.
Where: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Chicago
When: 9 a.m - 11 a.m. Saturday, March 10
Price: $37 nonmembers, $29 members
SUNDAY
Japanese Housewares Expo
Last year's earthquake and tsunami devastated some areas of Japan, and had a huge impact on the country's housewares manufacturing industry. Help support their reconstruction at the International Home + Houswares show, on the anniversary of the March 11, 2011 disaster, where Japan's governmental arm for external trade (JETRO) has created a special pavilion to display these company's products.
Where: McCormick Place Convention Center, 2301 S. Lake Shore Dr.
When: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sunday, March 11
Price: Free