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

It’s that time of year in Chicago when the sidewalks are lined with crunchy leaves and a crisp breeze signals the arrival of fall. With autumn in full swing, it’s time to dive into the seasonal events we’ve been anticipating all year. From Halloween thrills to cozy afternoon outings, we’ve rounded up the top things […]

Collaboration and Partnership Help Leading Arts Organization

“One out of every ten non-profit arts organizations in the U.S. reports that they ‘doubttheir ability’ to survive the pandemic,” The Wall Street Journal reported on January 21, 2021. As a college student, I clearly remember calling my mother from the communal phone inmy dormitory at Illinois State University. I was struggling with what, at […]

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 […]