January’s not even halfway over, and we’ve already got a Taylor Rave, a Magic: The Gathering mixer, and The Wailers on deck. If this is what 2026 looks like, consider us locked in.

Cheese lovers, this one’s for you. The Mac & Cheese Crawl takes over Wrigleyville with ooey-gooey bites at every stop. Want to win free tickets to a day of endless cheese?*

JUST ANNOUNCED

• Bottom Lounge just announced three new shows for 2026 with Bryce Vine on February 26th, Lords of Acid on May 6th, and Spite on June 6th.

• Bob Marley’s original backing band still hits. Catch The Wailers bringing the legend back to life at Old Town School of Folk Music on April 24th. Get tix here.

• Triumph is back and reloaded, baby. Canadian power rock, pyro, and enough 80s hair to short out the grid. They just upgraded their show to Allstate Arena. Tickets on sale here.

• NGHTMRE’s already en route back to Chicago for a show on March 7th at Ramova Theatre. Snag your tickets.

• Plus other just announced shows from Bruno Mars, Royel Otis, Nikki Glaser, Music Frozen Dancing, Dark Star Orchestra, Electric Six, Tigers Jaw, Peach Jam, Lala Lala, Armand Hammer, Wild Zero, Rick Springfield, and more!

FREE STUFF FRIDAY

Free is our favorite F word. We’re rounding up the best no-cover concerts, gallery hangs, museum days, pop-ups, and broke-friendly blowouts every week. On this weekend’s agenda:

• SHIMMER - SHOEGAZE/DREAMPOP PARTY: Tonight at DMen Tap

• THAT 90S THROWBACK COMEDY SHOW: Tonight at Cafe Mustache

• VOYAGE: CLASSIC ARENA ROCK: Tomorrow at Arcada Theatre

• BEARS VS PACKERS PLAYOFF WATCH PARTY: Tomorrow at Ramova Theatre

• FILM SCREENING FREAKIER FRIDAY: Sunday at Chicago Lawn Public Library

THIS WEEKEND

LOCALS ONLY

• We’re hiring a Sales Account Executive. If you love live events, local business, and getting people hyped to do stuff, join our team. Learn more about the role here.

• Need a winter serotonin hit? Head to the RV Show this weekend and start dreaming about your summer getaway. Check it out.

• Magic: The Gathering, local beer, community and a queer-focused gathering. Tomorrow at Meeting House Tavern.

• Need a Sober Guide to Chicago? Here's where to find booze-free cocktails, shops, and parties around Chicago that you’ll love.

WIN STUFF

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