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

Those sweet summer days we’ve waited for all year long are flying by. In the spirit of squeezing all we can from Chicago’s most spectacular season, we’ve compiled the best things to do in Chicago and the suburbs this August. Don’t forget to tag us in your posts on Instagram @betterchicago All Month Dino’s Alive […]

Life Expectancy Linked to Nature Access: Brushwood Center's 'Convergence' Transforms Research into Art

Across the United States, how long you live is determined by where you live. A person’s health is shaped  by their environment, their ability to access nature, and the systems that support communities. In Lake  County, IL, north of Chicago, often recognized for an abundance of nature, including Lake Michigan,  forest preserves, parks, and grassroots-created […]

From Blockbuster Movies to Lollapalooza: How Chicago Philharmonic Is Breaking Genre Barriers and Changing the Game for Orchestras

The Chicago Philharmonic, now celebrating its 35th season, is asking a very important question: How do we make orchestra concerts for everyone? The orchestra, founded in 1989 by principal musicians of the Lyric Opera Orchestra, has long occupied a unique space within the city’s performing arts ecosystem.  The organization eschews the traditional audition/tenure system for […]

31 Best Things to Do in Chicago and the Suburbs This March 2024

Whether you’re celebrating Women’s History Month; the traditions of St. Patrick’s Day; or merely the resurgence of spring, Chicagoland is blossoming with events and celebrations of community, food, art and more — for everyone. For those who patiently waited for winter to pass, the time has come to explore the city once again. Read on for our […]

JCC Chicago's Violins of Hope Showcases Stories of Jewish Resilience Through Music

For 20 years, Israeli violinmakers Amnon and Avshalom (Avshi) Weinstein collected and restored Holocaust-era violins. The father and son duo presented these beautifully crafted string instruments worldwide through their project Violins of Hope — an international sensation showcasing Jewish stories of resilience, resistance and unity through the power of musical performance. The Jewish Community Center […]