After the post-holiday slump, February gives us plenty more to look forward to — like celebrating Black History Month, Valentine’s Day and, this year, Leap Day. Whether you’re looking for something new to do, want to celebrate the love in your life or just want a fun-filled weekend, there’s something for everyone in our list of the best things to do in Chicago and the suburbs this month.
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All Month
ILLINOISE
The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare is home to a new kind of musical based on Grammy and Oscar-nominated Sufjan Stevens’ acclaimed concept album. Story by Justin Peck and Jackie Sibblies Drury, and Directed & Choreographed by Justin Peck. Running until February 18, 2024. Grab your tickets now while you can at Chicago Shakespeare online.
800 E. Grand Ave.
Cosmic Rhythms
Action Lines Media, The Joffrey Ballet and the Adler Planetarium present a new, cutting-edge collaboration of Cosmic Rhythms — running Wednesday evenings from February 14-April 17. Projected inside the Adler’s Grainger Sky Theater, the full-dome experience takes audiences on a mesmerizing journey through the universe by blending dance with animation, computer-generated imagery and insightful commentary from Adler astronomers. Visit the Adler Planetarium online to get all the details for your visit.
1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr.
Threaded Visions: Contemporary Weavings from the Collection
This exhibit draws entirely from the Art Institute’s permanent collection, exploring the ancient and global practice of weaving through the works of 13 artists from five countries. Some of these artists are internationally admired and have decades-long careers; others have come to prominence quite recently. The exhibit opens February 24 but will run until August 26. For more specifics about the exhibit or to plan your visit, check out the Art Institute website.
111 S. Michigan Ave.
Black By Popular Demand: A Black Excellence Revue
Need a pick-me-up during these long days of winter? Then join in the “celebration of Black Joy” via Second City’s show Black By Popular Demand: A Black Excellence Revue. Enjoy brand new songs, sketches and improv brought to you by “this cast of future stars” — running from February 9-March 25. Last year sold out, so grab your tickets now by visiting Black By Popular Demand: A Black Excellence Revue online.
230 W. North Ave.
Disney100: The Exhibition
Celebrate a century of Disney magic as The Walt Disney Archives brings its vault to life at the Exhibition Hub Art Center in Chicago — now through the end of February. With tickets available through the end of the month, Disney 100: The Exhibition invites guests to experience Disney’s storied journey, from classics like “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” (1937) to the recent “Encanto” (2021). This expansive 20,000+ square-foot exhibit, previously showcased in cities like Philadelphia and London, celebrates 100 years of Disney history through 14 interactive installations and more than 250 artifacts, props, costumes and memorabilia representing Disney, Star Wars, Pixar, and Marvel franchises.
Exhibition Hub Art Center, 2367 W Logan Blvd, Chicago
The Orchid Show of Wonders
“A grandiose dose of silliness and fun” awaits you at this year’s Orchid Show at the Chicago Botanic Garden — which is open February 10-March 24. At the show, expect to see your favorite carnival and circus attractions to come to life in new ways. Guests will walk under Ferris wheel seats, marvel at unicycles on tightropes and many other gravity-defying surprises. This Orchid Show will take you where you’ve never been, all while surrounded by 10,000 fresh, vibrant blooms. Tickets and details can be found on the Chicago Botanic Garden website.
1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe
Notes from the Field
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TimeLine Theatre proudly presents the powerful stories of 19 individuals fighting to overcome and transform America’s education and criminal justice systems. In a piece dubbed “strikingly intimate” the cast presents snapshots of life for real people “documenting their intersections with the American dream and the obstacles that work to block them from it.” This moving and “deeply human” piece is on run now through March 24. Tickets can be purchased at Notes from the Field online.
615 W. Wellington Ave.
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition
For a limited time only, experience “The History, The Fashion and The House” of Downton Abbey. Located at the Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center, the experience will give guests the opportunity to be fully immersed in the fascinating social history, the culture and memorable moments that made the show the smash-hit that it is. The exhibit runs from now until the end of March, but tickets are on sale now, and going quickly. Grab yours at the Downton Abbey: The Exhibition.
4905 Old Orchard Center, Skokie
a home what howls (or the house what was ravine)
“A coyote howling. A home in disarray. A young woman alone.” This and more can be found in Steppenwolf’s latest production which embodies earnest youth activism against forces of injustice. When hope begins to dwindle as Soledad Vargas fights for her family’s right to live on their land, how far will she go to save it? Check out this show, and the rest of the 2024 season, by visiting Steppenwolf Theatre.
1650 N. Halsted St.
Black Makers Market
From noon-6pm every Saturday in February, head down to Navy Pier where the Black Makers Market will be in full swing. Explore the vast creativity from neighborhoods across the city, and choose from hand-crafted creations, jewelry, apparel, spices, artwork, literature, accessories, soaps and more. Find out more at Black Makers Market.
600 E. Grand Ave.
Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists from Japan
Radical Clay celebrates 36 contemporary ceramic artists — all women — through 40 stunning pieces. This exhibition focuses on the explosion of innovative and technically ambitious compositions by such artists since 1970 — a body of work which they developed in parallel with, but often separately from, traditional, male-dominated Japanese practice and its countermovements. Runs until June 3, check out the Art Institute for more details.
111 S. Michigan Ave.
Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition
Since 1970, the Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition has made an annual appearance at the Museum of Science and Industry — making it the longest-running exhibition of Black art. The exhibit features paintings, drawings, fine art prints, sculpture, mixed-media, ceramics and photography from artists both professional and amateur, including youth artists between the ages of 14 and 17. The show is open now through April 21, secure your tickets at the Museum of Science and Industry online.
5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive
North Shore Restaurant Month 2024
If Chicago Restaurant Week — which ends February 4 — wasn’t enough, expand your horizons to the larger North Shore area, where this month they celebrate all things dining. Many eateries are running special deals all month long, making it the perfect time to try something new. View the full lineup of participating restaurants at North Shore Restaurant Month online.
February 1-4: Woodstock Groundhog Days
What other minor holiday has a cult classic film such as Bill Murray’s Groundhog Day? For all you fans, the tradition is still alive and well in the filming location of the movie, Woodstock, Illinois. Just outside of Chicago, the quaint, historic downtown has everything from men in suits and top hats to their very own weather predictor Woodstock Willie. Stick around for several days worth of activities such as Groundhog Day Dinner, dancing, drinking and watching the movie in the historic Harold Ramis theater. More information is available on the Groundhog Days website.
February 1-10: Once Upon a Symphony: The Three Little Pigs
The classic tale of the Three Little Pigs is set to be explored on the big stage at the Symphony Center with the help of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. This story discovers, through music, “how the combination of courage, hard work and individual talent leads to success.” Once Upon a Symphony® is designed to introduce children ages 3 to 5 to the world of classical music and the musicians of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. To join in the fun — from now until February 10 — purchase your tickets at Once Upon a Symphony: The Three Little Pigs.
February 3: Cider Summit Chicago
Hard cider has made a resurgence as a beloved beverage, and now fans of the drink can taste to their heart’s content at the Cider Summit Chicago. Try samples of more than 150 cider selections from over 50 local and international producers of cider-like cocktails, mead, spirits and more. This 21+ event will be hosted at the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier — grab your tickets at Cider Summit Chicago.
800 E. Grand Ave.
February 8-18: Chicago Theatre Week 2024
Chicago Theatre Week returns this year with its annual celebration of the rich tradition of theatre-going in Chicago. During this time, audiences can grab value-priced tickets to incredible shows all over town — with some shows costing $30 or even $15. Last year’s Chicago Theatre Week hit a record with over 20,000 ticket sales. Don’t be left out of the fun, visit Chicago Theatre Week 2024 for a full lineup and tickets.
February 9-11: Fika Fest
Always celebrating its roots, the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce returns with their annual Fika Fest — a play on Swedish tradition, coming from the phrase “a coffee and cake break.” But it’s more than that, too. It’s meant to connect neighbors and friends and is considered “an essential part of the day” for many Swedish folks. Visit the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce website for more information as it becomes available.
February 10: Heart of Chicago Soul Club Valentine’s Day Party
Join Heart of Chicago Soul Club for their Valentine-themed, all-vinyl dance party. Just in time for the holiday, prepare to be “lovestruck” by the DJs’ stellar soundtrack of vintage Soul, RnB and Psych music! Come check out the fun and see why this event was nominated for Best Dance party in the Chicago Reader’s Best of 2023. Visit Heart of Chicago Soul Club Valentine’s Day Party online for tickets and more information.
Color Club, 4146 North Elston Ave.
February 10: Purple Party: A Mardi Gras Experience
Let the good times roll this carnival season at Cradles to Crayons’ 2nd Annual Purple Party, which this year is themed: a Mardi Gras experience. From 7:30-10:30pm, Cradles to Crayons will turn their day-to-day space into Bourbon Street, featuring “all of the fun and mystique you can expect to find in the Big Easy.” Your ticket will include an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and other surprises — plus, they encourage festive cocktail attire. Secure your tickets online at Cradles to Crayons and see how your donation will help support their cause.
2500 W Bradley Pl.
February 10: Valentine’s Crush – Winemaking Experience Dinner & Dance
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Looking for a unique way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your partner? Then you should consider the Valentine’s Crush – Winemaking Experience Dinner & Dance hosted at Wild Blossom Meadery and Winery. The evening will include wine tasting, wine making, dinner and dancing — a complete evening for couples who want a little fun with their romance. Sound interesting? Visit the Valentine’s Crush – Winemaking Experience Dinner & Dance page for details and tickets.
9030 S. Hermitage Ave.
February 11-25: Chicago Black Restaurant Week
As community members and neighbors, we should be supporting Black-owned businesses all year long, not just during Black History Month. But if you’re looking for a good place to start this February, look to Chicago Black Restaurant Week — which pulls together a long list of Black-owned eateries, vendors and businesses in order to both celebrate and support them. And this year, each day will be themed, too. Check out the Chicago Black Restaurant Week website for a lineup of participating spots and how to support.
February 10-19: Chicago Auto Show & Food Drive
At the Chicago Auto Show, you can enjoy a fun-filled day browsing unique and beautiful cars, and while you’re at it you can support your community too. Every year, the Chicago Auto Show helps support local and national charity organizations via donations. This year, the Auto Show will also feature a food drive from February 14-16, which is hosted by A Safe Haven, who ensure “these goods will be distributed to families experiencing food scarcity within the neighborhood.” For more information visit the Chicago Auto Show, or A Safe Haven online.
McCormick Place, 2301 S. King Dr.
February 15-25: Studies in Blue
Studies in Blue — Joffrey Ballet’s latest piece — incorporates three dynamic works “that test the limits of classical ballet.” The program features ‘Yonder Blue’ by Andrew McNicol, followed by ‘Hungry Ghosts’ by Stina Quagebeur and concludes with the Joffrey premiere of Liam Scarlett’s ‘Hummingbird.’ An evening of captivating programming awaits you, visit Studies in Blue online to secure your tickets and read more about what to expect.
20 N. Wacker Dr.
February 17: Blade Runner: In Concert
Thanks to the new Auditorium Philms Concert Series, one of the all-time best sci-fi classics will be given the live-in-concert treatment. Join Auditorium Theatre for Blade Runner: In Concert this month, as an all-electric 11-piece chamber orchestra made up of members of the Chicago Philharmonic perform the thrilling futuristic score by Vangelis, mixed in-sync with dialogue and sound effects from the original film. This exciting show is for one night only, so grab your tickets while you can at Auditorium Theatre.
50 E. Ida B. Wells Dr.
February 17: Polar Adventure Days
Who says Chicago’s outdoors can’t be enjoyed in the winter? Because the Chicago Park District has certainly found a way around that, with a Polar Adventure Days this month, located at Northerly Island. The all-outdoor activities include: touring the Northerly Island Natural Area during winter; encountering birds of prey; building a shelter in the Nature Play space; and much more. This event is perfect for kids looking to burn off a little winter steam or families looking to spend more time outdoors. More information on how to register and what to expect can be found on the Chicago Park District website.
February 18: Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade
Though Chinese New Year falls on February 10 this year — the Year of the Dragon — the Chinatown Lunar New Year parade will take place on February 18. Starting at 1pm, from the intersection of 24th Street and Wentworth Avenue headed north, parade goers will be able to share in the brilliant, colorful, culturally-important celebration. This annual showcase of pride and community is well worth the trip — check out more details on the Chicago Chinatown Community Foundation website.
February 22: WBEZ Presents: An Evening with Billy Dee Williams
Join legendary actor Billy Dee Williams for a conversation about his new memoir What Have We Here? which recounts his journey from Harlem to a galaxy far, far away — and beyond. Tickets range from $50-55, visit WBEZ for all details.
Francis W. Parker School, 330 W. Webster Ave.
February 23: Deli Delights and Free Admission at Illinois Holocaust Museum
Illinois Holocaust Museum is excited to offer free admission on the last Friday of the February. In addition, the Museum is also pleased to host Chicagoland deli Once Upon a Bagel who will be on site selling food in connection with, “I’ll Have What She’s Having”: The Jewish Deli.
9603 Woods Dr., Skokie
February 28: Leap Year Bunny Yoga
An opportunity like this doesn’t come around all the time — more specifically, it’s only every four years. To help celebrate the 2024 Leap Year, this yoga class will focus on strengthening and engaging major muscle groups. It will also help improve self-awareness, balance and lower back tension — all while in the presence of adorable bunnies. Check out the event listing and secure your spot by visiting Leap Year Bunny Yoga.
Cuddle Bunny – Club, Care & Community, 2901 N. Clark St.
More from Better:
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- New In Town: Guinness Open Gate Brewery, a Bevy of Bao in Wilmette, Awesome Arancini in Lakeview, and More
- The 2023 Guide to Giving in Chicago and Beyond
Margaret Smith is a Chicago-based writer and editor with a passion for socio-political storytelling about their community. They are a graduate of Columbia College Chicago.
