Windy City, we know you've had it rough this week. You're losing schools, "At The Movies" and maybe even your belief in Santa Claus. You've felt the chill of dread triggered in true Chicagoans at the sight of the season's first snow. But Rahm's bound to be celebrating turning 52 this weekend, and we'd be remiss not to party with him, so fill up your social calendar with some of our top picks from around town this weekend.
ALL WEEKEND
Renegade Holiday Craft Fair
Seeking holiday presents of the heartfelt, homespun variety without having to get your hands dirty? Let Chicago's top craftsters do all the work, and peruse their wares at the 6th annual Renegade Holiday Craft Fair. Over 150 DIY artisans will be selling jewelry, clothing, bath and body products, artwork and more. They'll also lead hands-on activities for visitors, if they can take a break from food and drinks brought by local eateries.
Where: Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, 1419 W. Blackhawk St., Chicago
When: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 and Sunday, Dec. 4
Price: Free
Harold and the Purple Crayon: A Dance Adventure
Did you ever wish for a magic purple crayon like Harold's in the classic Crockett Johnson children's story? See the imaginative magic come to life with a critically-acclaimed family program by Hubbard Street 2. Audience participation is encouraged at this reimagining of the 50-year-old book, but please don't scribble on the dancers.
Where: 205 E. Randolph Drive, Chicago
When: 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 and Sunday, Dec. 4
Price:
Lincoln Square Christkindl Market
Does the approach of Christmas make you more nostalgic for gluhwein than gingerbread? If so, clear your weekend calendar for Lincoln Square's fourth annual Christkindl Market, a blend of Old World and New World traditions for adults and children. The three-day event will feature live music, a Kids Korner and plenty of seasonal food and drink.
Where: Lincoln Square, Leland and Western Ave, Chicago
When: 12 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2; 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4
Price: Donations accepted
FRIDAY
GLOW for Dreams Bar Night
If you'll already be drinking Friday night, do it for a cause. Supplies for Dreams is hosting a bar night at Division Ale House to support their efforts helping Chicago Public School students, from assembling school supply kits to funding extra-curricular activities. Enjoy drink specials and enter to win raffle prizes.
Where: Division Ale House, 1942 W Division St., Chicago
When: 9 p.m. - 12 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2
Price: $30
Vitaminwater Winter Escape Chicago
Whatever holidays you celebrate, this season can be trying on anyone's wallet -- so why not take in a Friday night concert for free? Vitaminwater is hosting a free show at the Hard Rock Hotel with performances by Smith Westerns, Franki Chan, Black Light Saint, Windy City Soul Club and Kirby Kaiser, hosted by Ernest Wilkins of Redeye Chicago.
Where: Hard Rock Hotel, Fender Ballroom, 230 N. Michigan Ave, Chicago
When: 9 p.m. - 2 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2
Price: Free
SATURDAY
Mitchell Museum Holiday Bazaar
Looking for some unique gifts that can't be found in a Black Friday-rush? The Mitchell Museum is hosting a bazaar highlighting the art and craftwork of Native American artists, with jewelry, pottery, beadwork and more available for purchase. Finished shopping? Take in the Mitchell's exhibits and learn traditions and techniques from Native artists.
Where: The Mitchell Museum, 3009 Central St., Evanston
When: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3
Price: $5, free for museum members
Paper Machete
Now that we've passed Thanksgiving, a free-fall into the holiday spirit becomes increasingly permissible. Let the Paper Machete kickstart your season with Christmas and Hanukkah-themed performances from Chicago author Stuart Dybek and burlesque artist Plucky Rosenthal. Still think it's too early for all this cheer? Tune in in time to catch orchestral pop band Canasta jam.
Where: The Horseshoe, 4115 N. Lincoln, Chicago
When: 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3
Price: Free
SUNDAY
How Hans Gruber Stole Christmas: A Die Hard Christmas Special
Do Christmas carols inexplicably give you flashbacks to scenes from "Die Hard?" Then you must've caught last year's Christmas show at ComedySportz. If you missed it, they're bringing back the acclaimed improv spectacular this season. 'How Hans Gruber Stole Christmas: A Die Hard Holiday Spectacular' will feature guns, improv, confetti poppers and more.
Where:The ComedySportz Theatre, 929 W Belmont Ave, Chicago
When: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4
Price: $10, $7 with donation of a non-perishable food item
THE WEEK AHEAD
THURSDAY
Let It Ho!
Do your holiday plans involve more booze and adult-style frivolity than the Macy's window-gazers would approve of? You'll feel right at home at Off Off Broadzway's "Let it Ho!" Raise your glass for sexually-oriented holiday puns, Santa-bashing and more fun from a the comedy group's jingle belles.
Where: Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago
When: 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8
Price: $18