It feels like we were saying “new year, new me” an entire year ago, but January is finally coming to an end. Hopefully, February brings warm, cuddly vibes for the V-Day season. For now, though, we’re ready to face the cold head-on. Keep reading to make sure you close out the month right.

You can never have too many carbs, right? Bagel Fest is rolling into town with Chicago’s best bagels, schmears, and more. Want a chance to win tickets to this dough-filled fest? We've got you covered.*

JUST ANNOUNCED

• The lineup you’ve been waiting for is here. North Coast Music Festival returns September 4th through 6th at SeatGeek Stadium. Bass, House, DnB, heavy hitters, and underground artists. Over 75+ Djs from around the world, playing on 6 stages, over 3 days, for 1 unforgettable weekend. Secure your wristband.*

• Hippie Sabotage is returning to Chicago to perform at The Riviera Theatre on Friday, May 1st, as part of their Give and Take Tour. Last year, they had an incredible sold-out show, and this year, they’re expecting an even bigger turnout. Get your tickets now!*

• Chicago multi-instrumentalist and composer Angel Bat Dawid is joined by The Great Blk Music Infinity Ensemble and D-Composed for a remarkable contemporary jazz experience, fusing music, history, and cultural expression at Harris Theater on February 10th. Win tix now!*

• Real rave culture is back, baby. Redline is throwing a ginormous two-day party at a secret, never-before-used location until 4 AM. This is the rave to end all raves, and we have two tickets to give away. Wanna win ‘em?*

• Plus other just-announced shows from Disclosure, Derrick Carter, Mike Dunn, Gene Hunt, Brendan Bayliss, Joel Cummings, King Tuff, Mod Lang, Poliça, Hatchie, David Ramirez, Rachel Baiman, Thomas Dolby, Tedeschi Trucks Band, and more!

FREE STUFF TO DO IN CHICAGO

Yes, you read that right. We’re in a giving mood, so here’s a list of our favorite free things to do around Chicago, no strings attached. A few shoutouts:

• TON. - THE COMMUNITY CROSSOVER: LATINX x BOLLYWOOD at THREE TOP LOUNGE

• TON. - QUEER OPEN MIC at ELI TEA BAR

• TOM. - RILEY & THE RED HOTS at ROBERT’S WESTSIDE

• TOM.-SUN. - VINTAGE HOUSE CHICAGO VALENTINE’S MARKET at ROCKWELL ON THE RIVER

• SUN. - WE’RE TURNING TWO! ALL-DAY PARTY at IGOR DOES MY BIKE

• SUN. - SUNDAY BUNDAY at CELL BLOCK CHICAGO

All absolutely free. Plan your weekend for diddly-squat now!

THIS WEEKEND & BEYOND

FEBRUARY SHOWS AT HOUSE OF BLUES

February at House of Blues is showing no signs of stopping. We’re giving away tickets to a TON of shows, including Heated RivalRave, Trippin Billies, Enjambre, Szn4, Sixteen Candles, and more.*

LOCALS ONLY

• The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) just dropped its events schedule for 2026. Start marking your calendar for the events that make Chicago, Chicago, from farmers markets, to the Air and Water show, to the tree lighting. Here’s the full list.

• The second round of the fourth annual You Name A Snowplow competition is opening up voting to Chicago residents tomorrow. Among the 25 finalists, the six winners will represent a snowplow in each of the city’s snow districts. Be ready to vote.

• We don’t gatekeep. If you love telling your friends about the happenings around Chicago, you’re basically already working with us. Apply now and make it official.

• SSA 27 is keeping winter traditions alive with Live Ice Sculpting in Lakeview this weekend. Catch them tomorrow at the Paulina Brown Line stop from 2-4 PM and on Sunday at St. Alphonsus from 12-2. The best part? Free Café Tola.

WIN STUFF

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