What up, Chicago?! Okay, here’s my hot take. I prefer the Metra over the CTA. HEAR ME OUT. I get so motion sick on the train, and because the Metra is so much smoother, it’s much less of a painful ride for me. Plus, it’s usually faster. But you really can’t beat the views from the L…

You’re probably gonna wanna take the Red Line for this one…

In the famous words of WILLIS, “I Think I Like When It Rains,” especially in this heat. The indie rock band is coming to House of Blues this August, and it’s gonna be a night to remember. Wanna come ride with us in “CJ’s Van?” Enter to win a free pair of tickets.*

JUST ANNOUNCED

• Flow Fest Chicago is returning to Ping Tom Memorial Park, transforming one of the city's most scenic riverfront spaces into a full day of movement, creativity, and community. Wanna win all-access workshop passes?*

• The Salt Shed is hosting the Chicago-based indie band crossover of the century. Come jam out with Ratboys and Friko with Philly representatives Florry this December. Tickets drop on Friday.

• It’s time to rock out like it’s 1979. The Smashing Pumpkins are playing The Riviera Theatre next weekend for an official Lolla aftershow. This is a bucket-list-type concert. Make sure you’re there.

• You love her comically terrible mixes on TikTok; now it’s time to see what she’s really got. DJ Mandy is spinning at Chop Shop this October, and while it’s going to be lit, it might also be a little confusing. Only one way to find out.

• Plus other just announced shows from Trivium, YG, Suicide Silence, Face to Face, Token, George Lamond, TKA, The Jets, Julia Minkin, Seasaw, Jane Hobson, NOTD, Sixteen Candles, Downtown Alive!, and more!

WHERE TO PLAY PICKLEBALL IN CHICAGO

No pickles, but plenty of balls. Turns out that Wiffle ball + tennis = the fastest-growing sport in the nation. Pickleball is here to stay, and there are tons of places to play around Chicago. We rounded up some of our favorite spots for you to show off on the court.

KEEP YOUR WEEKENDS BUSY

You Know How to Have a Good Time. Now Try Feeling Good Too.

You're always up for something — a show, a festival, a night out with friends. Filling your calendar with great experiences is one of the best things you can do for yourself, but so is taking care of what's going on inside. BetterHelp makes therapy simple and flexible. Whether you're managing stress, navigating a tough stretch, or simply looking to feel more like yourself, BetterHelp offers a private, professional space to talk things through. Sessions are available by phone, video, or live chat, and you can message your therapist anytime, so support fits into your life between all the good stuff. Start your journey to better mental health today.*

LOCALS ONLY

• Road trip, anyone? The first Buc-ee’s near Chicago is opening in 2028 in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. We’re going to be first in line for the beaver merch and brisket sandwiches. Find out more.

• Lucky for us, we don’t have to wait too long for new stuff to open up in town. A new immersive sports bar is opening in West Loop this August. Check out Victory & Vice, brought by the same team behind Machine Cocktail Bar. Score.

• Nothing is better than wining and dining on a patio in the summertime under the Chicago sun. In case you haven’t heard, the patio is open at the newly revived historic Belmont Tavern. No better place to kick back with an Old Style.

• Experience the unexpected with Diner En Blanc, returning to Chicago on August 13th. Indulge in your passions for food, fashion, and community — dressed entirely “en blanc,” of course. It’s not too late to sign up.

WIN STUFF

FEATURED