Chicago is the place to be this weekend as the Chicago Humanities Festival starts and Kristin Chenoweth comes to town. Or, stay in the suburbs for Halloween fun at Westfield Old Orchard and Chicago Botanic Garden. Plus, whether you’re ready or not, holiday shopping begins at the OLPH Holly Fair.

OLPH Holly Fair

Oct. 22-23
Glenview

Can you believe it is already time to start your holiday shopping? This fair has been a favorite in the community for 34 years, so don’t miss 50 booths of one-of-a-kind items, the Candy Cane Café, Ladies Night on Thursday, a cookie walk, and raffle.

Kristin Chenoweth

Oct. 24
Chicago

Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth visits The Chicago Theatre (and you don’t want to miss her live show!).

HallowFest

Oct. 24-25
Glencoe

Chicago Botanic Garden’s Model Railroad Garden will be decorated for Halloween, and you can take a ride around the grounds on the Howlin’ Express. Plus, walk through the Spooky Forest, get your face painted, take home a free plant and pumpkin, boogie during the dance party, and more.

Chicago Humanities Festival

Begins Oct. 24
Chicago

The Chicago Humanities Festival brings authors, activists, chefs and more to Chicago to discuss everything from public shaming to global cuisine. Find a complete list of speakers and our can’t-miss events here. The festival ends Nov. 8.

Harvest Festival

Oct. 24
Skokie

Westfield Old Orchard is hosting fall fun for the entire family this weekend. Dress up for the kids’ costume contest and enjoy face painting, carriage rides, pick-your-own pumpkin, and treats and crafts from mall businesses.

Bonus

• Join Make It Better and Glencoe merchants for a Wine and Cheese Party on Thursday, Oct. 22 at Anne Loucks Gallery. RSVP to haley@makeitbetter.net.
• Egea Spa is hosting An Evening of Fashion and Beauty on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Discover Egea’s fall trends for lip and nail color, and shop jewelry from Eve J. Alfillé and clothes by Annie Andrews of Annie A. Clothing. Plus, receive a complimentary gift with any purchase.
• The 10th annual Andersonville Dessert Crawl, featuring more than 20 local restaurants, is Sunday, Oct. 25.