Four Star Family Fun

Think the upcoming Four Star Comedy Fest at Navy Pier is just for grown ups? Think again. The inaugural fest, scheduled for October 6, is a daylong event that features free improv workshops for kids and families. “I love that they’re doing stuff for families,” says Evanston resident Tim Kazurinsky, a well-known comedian/actor/writer and Saturday […]

Labor Day Weekend Go Guide

In town for the holiday weekend? There are a bunch of great ways to celebrate summer’s swan song in Chicago and the suburbs—from sports to song, fairs to fun runs. You’re certain to find something for everyone in the family to enjoy. And with an extra day, more time to do it. Here are our […]

Fun ‘Til the Cows Come (Go!) Home: The Wisconsin State Fair

Craving a cheesy good time? On a stick? Look no further than a 90-minute drive north, and the Wisconsin State Fair, open August 2 – 12. Full disclosure, here—I am a former Wisconsinite and therefore partial to this fair over its cousin here in Illinois. But if you’ve never been, you simply must go. Here […]

5 Don’t Miss Museum Exhibits This Summer

School’s (almost!) out, summer’s on and the kids want to know what’s next. If you’re looking to entertain, here are 5 exhibits for sure-fire fun. The best part? They also can stave off that summer brain drain. *Note: Special exhibits usually require a separate ticket or admission fee. If you are a museum member, you […]

5 Best Places for Santa Sightings

Santa Claus is coming to town this winter – in a big way. Whether it’s at the mall or on the train, there will be plenty of chances for you to spot Saint Nick this season. Here are our top five picks: Pictures with Santa Nov. 19-Dec. 24 Northbrook What would Christmas be without a […]

2011 Holiday Go Guide

Is your house home base for the family over the holidays? We’ve got the goods on where to go—for everyone in your family:   Arts & Music For kids of all ages: Try Dr. Suess & The Art of Invention at the Museum of Science and Industry. 40-somethings will enjoy the trip back in time […]

The Joy of Toys: Chicago Toy & Game Fair

Young, old and even in-between … we all love toys. So it’s a good thing The Chicago Toy and Game Fair is coming up. Scheduled for November 17 and 18 at Navy Pier, the Fair is the largest public toy fair in the U.S.—which means we get a chance to play with the hottest, newest […]

99 Days of Summer: August

Memorial Day through Labor Day—summer is here, and with just 99 days to enjoy warm weather on the North Shore, it’s time to get busy. Need some ideas? We’re going to offer up 33 a month, so you’ll never lack for a fresh option. Here’s what’s happening in August: Score some cotton candy at Northbrook […]

Venue Spotlight: Pitchfork Music Festival

Union Park, Chicago July 15-17   A mini-Lollapalooza featuring lesser-known, up-and-coming bands, Pitchfork Music Festival is just as fun. Whether your kids are begging you to let them go, or you yourself want to go, here are some fest tips that bridge the gap. Get your tickets soon. Three-day passes are already sold out. But […]