Jenna Fischer’s Next Chapter: From 'Ashland Avenue' at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre to the Big Screen With Green Day

When Jenna Fischer takes the stage in Ashland Avenue at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre (Sept. 6–Oct. 12), she’s doing more than debuting a new character. The Emmy-nominated actor — beloved as Pam Beesly on The Office and co-host of the Office Ladies podcast — joins a star-studded lineup for Goodman Theatre’s centennial season. Fischer will star […]

30 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs in September 2025

Chicago’s cultural calendar never takes a break — and September proves it. The city and suburbs are packed with a nonstop lineup of festivals, concerts, theater, and community gatherings that carry us from the last golden days of summer into the first notes of fall. From iconic traditions to fresh debuts, here are the best […]

'Mates for Life': Chicago Filmmaker and Joffrey Dancers Fuse Ballet and Bird Conservation in New Film Series

An unlikely collaboration between a Chicago-based filmmaker, dancers at The Joffrey Ballet, and the International Crane Foundation became a passion project and the beginning of the conservation short film series Mates for Life. Shot in a prairie setting, Mates for Life features two dancers, Joffrey artists Olivia Duryea and Dylan Gutierrez, portraying whooping cranes in […]

14 Films That Showcase the Best in Humanity

The 2025 Oscars may be over, but the conversations sparked by great films and the creatives behind them will long outlive award season. From film to music to theater, award shows are never just about the trophies. Presenters, performers, and winners often use their moment on the grandest stage to speak — or sing — […]

31 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs in January 2025

January in Chicago offers the perfect mix of festive finales and fresh starts. From the last chance to see holiday light displays to cultural exhibitions, performances, and culinary delights, we’re highlighting the best ways to kick off the new year in style with the best things to do in Chicago and the suburbs this month. […]

2024 Through the Lens: Top Photographers Share Their Most Powerful Photos of the Year 

Photography has the extraordinary power to document, inspire, and connect.  As Director of Photography for the Make It Better Foundation, a contributing editor to photography publications around the world, and a photographer with over four decades of experience, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most talented photographers who have captured the […]

Giving Tuesday 2024: Where to Donate

The holiday season invites us to reflect, express gratitude, and transform it into meaningful action. Giving Tuesday, observed this year on December 3, is more than a single day of generosity — it’s a global movement encouraging us to make a lasting impact through intentional giving. Established in 2012 by New York City’s 92nd Street […]

31 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs in December 2024

Celebrate the magic of the season in Chicago with a packed lineup of can’t-miss holiday events. From the Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker and Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol to festive markets, dazzling light displays, and unique pop-ups, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re indulging in traditions like Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum’s or checking […]