Afternoon, Chicago! Tbh I am very over the cold. Snow - yes, like it’s so pretty. Cold - no, it’s just too cold, and I need to be hot. But, hey! The spring equinox is just a few days away, and then we’ll have plenty of blooming flowers and warm days ahead of us. What spring things are you most excited for?

Also - huge, huge, HUGE thanks to everyone who came out last Thursday for 312 Day. It was an awesome event, and we were especially honored to have Mayor Brandon Johnson in attendance, and making an official proclamation for 312 Day! Last week was a movie.

JUST ANNOUNCED

• Lollapalooza is bringing Charli xcx, Tate McRae, Lorde, Olivia Dean, John Summit, JENNIE, The Smashing Pumpkins, The xx, Lil Uzi Vert, Turnstile, Sombr, The Neighbourhood & many more to Chicago this summer. See the lineup and sign up for presale.*

• Get ready for Bat Out Of Hell – The Musical — the electrifying, award-winning spectacle where the legendary music of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf takes centre stage. Enter to win tickets for the April 9th performance at The Auditorium.*

• The Pussycat Dolls are back, which means we’re throwing a Y2Kabararet. Happening this Thursday at Sidetrack. We’ll have drag, burlesque, ticket giveaways and a free drink special for the first 50 guests. RSVP now!*

• FAN EXPO Chicago just announced their first guests for the 2026 event. With cast reunions from Lord of the Rings, The Goonies, and Smallville. Tix on sale now for the August convention.

• Plus other just announced shows from Evanston Folk Festival, Ravinia Festival, Creed, Bleachers, Two Door Cinema Club, Jeff Rosenstock, The Pretty Reckless, Rawayana, Judy Collins, Yebba, and more!

FRIDAY FISH FRIES IN CHICAGO

It is Tuesday, and you want fried fish on Friday. But you are not trying to get burned by a mid plate. This guide gets straight to it, crispy golden perfection across Chicago, from old-school taverns to lowkey neighborhood gems. Use it wisely and prepare to argue about who does it best.

COMING UP

LOCALS ONLY

• Logan Square Arts Festival is back this summer with music, art, and enough street energy to carry your whole weekend. Mark it now for June 26th-28th.

• Puppy yoga is coming to 360 Chicago, which is exactly what it sounds like. Stretch a little, hold a dog, and adopt your new furry pal. Tix here for the event.

• Field Notes is hosting a Spring Launch Party and Happy Hour on Thursday. This is your excuse to clock out early, grab a drink, and pretend it’s warm again. Grab a brewski and enjoy the latest release.

• Women’s History Month events across the city spotlight artists, leaders, and community spaces worth your time. Show up for Women’s History Month.

WIN STUFF

FEATURED