Chicago: where your bones freeze, your lashes frost, and your dog starts judging you for even going outside. It’s brutal out there, so bundle up, check on your people, and stay safe. Meanwhile, we’ve got hot shows, cozy date ideas, and some very cute giveaways to thaw you out.

19:26 is headlining PRYSM with an all-star lineup: fj9, Riija, and vibes so icy they might actually match the weather. Going down Saturday, January 31st. Enter to win your way in.*

JUST ANNOUNCED

• Archspire just dropped the Long Roads, Big Loads tour, and that title alone deserves a T-shirt. Win tickets for the show, Friday, May 22nd at House of Blues.*

• International Jazz Day just tapped Chicago as the 2026 global host city. Stay tuned for an incredible day and month of jazz that the city has coming up on deck this spring.

• Taxidermy, bones, and more. The World Oddities Expo is slithering into town with the kind of macabre magic your mom definitely warned you about. April 13th at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center. Snatch up tickets.

• Nothing says “I love you” like handmade pasta and a small-batch candle that smells like a forest elf’s apartment. The Chicago Artisan Market returns Valentine’s weekend with 100+ local makers slinging gifts you actually want. Get your tix.

• Plus other just announced shows from Summer Walker, A$AP Rocky, Peso Pluma, Kaleo, Snail Mail, The Chameleons, Cure For Paranoia, Oh Wonder, James McMurtry, Jeffrey Lewis & The Voltage, SubDocta, vaultboy, Hugo, Austin Meade, and more!

CHICAGO RESTAURANT WEEK PICKS

You already spend half your paycheck on food, might as well do it intentionally. Our Chicago Restaurant Week guide breaks down 300+ prix-fixe spots that slap, from white-table bistros to late-night taco temples.

IN THE FUTURE

LOCALS ONLY

• Live music and a guided bouquet-making experience? Valentine’s Day plans: solved. Rosé & Roses hits Mesler Kitchen on February 14th. Sign up now.

• Teatro Zinzanni is taking its final bow in Chicago this month. Go catch one last absurd, high-flying, cabaret-circus fever dream while you can. Check out remaining shows.

• Subzero temps are no joke. The city has warming centers, help lines, and services for folks in need. Stay safe, Chicago!

• We’re hiring company-wide! Know someone dreaming about getting involved in live events, content and brand promotion? Check out our open roles.

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