Holiday Parties, Live Music, Chicago events 11/29 - 12/2

The Local Tourist, NBC5 Street Team

“I’d rather be a lamppost in Chicago than a millionaire in any other city.” William A. Hulbert

I have been up to my ears in music lately. With all the studio recordings, interviews at the House of Blues, and numerous shows I’ve seen I’m beginning to feel like a bona fide groupie. The guys from Lucid Ground probably think they’ll have to get a restraining order on me – including their studio recording at Chicago Acoustic Underground I’ve seen them five times in the last two months. And I’m seeing them again tonight. They, along with another TLT featured band Abstract Giants, are competing in the Bodog Battle of the Bands.

One of my recent recordings was with Maura Lally & The Pickin’ Bubs. This bluegrass band met years ago at Old Town School of Folk Music, and I bet they’ll be at the 50th Anniversary Party on Saturday, along with several other talented alumni.

There’s a lot more to do in Chicago than just hear live music. Now that Thanksgiving is past the holiday season is in full swing – Casino Swing, that is. The 16th annual black-tie optional gala lets you pony up for numerous children’s charities. Speaking of ponies, there’s a new betting parlor in town. Stretch Run Sporting Club & Grille not only provides kobe burgers, prime beef, and wings, it also lets you lay your money down on televised horse races. Prefer to wager your money at the table? Ante up at Aces UP! Celebrity Poker Tournament.

I’ll bet you’re getting tired of all those gambling references, and I know when to fold ‘em. It’s now that time of year when holiday parties take over. The Hardrock Hotel is hosting the Peppermint Holiday Party, Eshe Day Spa is providing free mini-treatments for its party, and Pops for Champagne is putting on a candlelight concert.

If, like me, the idea of shopping the weekend after Thanksgiving is akin to being surrounded by thousands of Gollums all clutching their selections and hissing “precious”, it’s not too late to get some early shopping in. Stop by “Jingle.Mingle.Shop.” in Lincoln Park Zoo’s Cafe Brauer for gifts created by local artists. Be sure to stop by Sugar Bliss’s booth and try Teresa Ging’s cupcakes (chocolate peppermint and vanilla eggnog – need I say more?).

This weekend is also the grand reopening of Spertus Museum. Besides unveiling the gorgeous new architecture, the opening reception and the open house help bring Judaism to life.

As always, there’s much much more going on. Check out the events calendar for more, and have a great weekend!

Theresa

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