What: French Bilingual Boot Camp

When: Sunday May 6, 2012 ; 10a.m. to 5p.m.

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

We are very excited to offer a French Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of French in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

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What: Arabic Bilingual Boot Camp

When: Sunday May 6, 2012 ; 10a.m. to 5p.m.

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

We are very excited to offer an Arabic Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of Arabic in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

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What: Chicago Green Festival.

When: May 5-6, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m

Where: Navy Pier, 600 East Grand Avenue  Chicago, IL 60611

 

Green festival will showcase more than 350 diverse local and national green businesses displaying and selling eco-friendly, fair-trade and sustainable products. More than 150 visionary speakers appear for standing-room-only panel discussions, presentations, and main stage speaking events.

 

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What: Cinco de Mayo Parade

When: Sunday May 6, 2012

Where: Cermak Rd. from Wood St. to Kedzie, Cermak Rd. & Wood St. Chicago, IL 60608

 

The Cinco De Mayo Parade is held to remember the victory the Mexican forces had over the invading French army in the Battle of Puebla on 5 May, 1862.

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What: Polish Constitution Day Parade

When: May 5, 2012, starts at 11:30 a.m.

Where: Downtown Chicago, Columbus Dr. & Balbo Dr. Chicago, IL 60605

 

The Polish Constitution Day Parade is the largest Polish parade outside of Poland, and celebrates the anniversary of the ratification of the Polish Constitution of May 3, 1791.

 

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What: Manifest Urban Arts Festival 2012

When: May 4, 2012

Where: Columbia College Chicago Campus,1001 S Wabash Ave Chicago IL 60605

 

Manifest is the annual showcase for Columbia College Chicago, the largest arts and media college in the country and one of the largest private colleges in Illinois. With 25 buildings in an urban campus setting where more than 15,000 individuals live, work, and study on a daily basis, Columbia anchors the South Loop innovatively, radiating art and culture throughout the surrounding Loop community. In it’s eleventh year, Manifest has become an unrivaled public cultural event, regularly recommended in TimeOut Chicago and the Chicago Reader. It is a celebration of graduating undergraduate and graduate work representing every department on campus. The festival includes an art walk and sale, live music on three stages, over 75 showcases featuring screenings, readings, live radio broadcasts and webcasts, an alumni celebration and much more.

 

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What: 175 Days to love Chicago : El Alma de la Fiesta

When: January 20, 2012 – August 19, 2012

Where: National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St. Chicago IL 60608

 

The Chicago Latino Film Festival is one of the city’s biggest and most diverse international cultural events. The Festival is a cultural jewel for Chicago, and over the years has hosted more than 2,000 filmmakers and journalists. The Chicago Latino Film Festival shows over 100 films from Latin America, Spain, Portugal, the United States, and many other countries. The growth of the Festival from 500 attendees in 1985 to more than 35,000 this year is clear evidence of the great success the Festival has enjoyed over the years.

The successful celebration of the Silver Anniversary of the Chicago Latino Film Festival in 2009 was a milestone that marked our accomplishments; it paved the way to have a spectacular 26th anniversary, and now we are planning an even better 27th anniversary in the spring of 2011. In addition to the films, every year the Festival hosts international and national celebrities, which include filmmakers, actors, journalists and members of the film industry.

 

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What: Broadway in Chicago : Cats

When: May 1, 2012 – May 6, 2012

Where: Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St. Chicago IL 60601

The show that revolutionized musical theatre, CATS, is coming to Chicago’s Cadillac Palace Theatre for one week only! In October of 1991 CATS became the longest continuously touring show in American theatre history. Five continents, 26 countries, over eight and a half million audience members and almost 30 years later, CATS is still America’s most loved family musical. Celebrating not only its Broadway touring legacy but the birth of the musical spectacular, CATS is still revolutionary and awe inspiring. Now that it was been seen by millions of audience members worldwide, it is time to celebrate with the whole family the magic, the mystery, the wonder of CATS. Create a special ‘memory’ one more time.

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What: The Improv Play

When: Apr 10, 2012 – May 20, 2012

Where: Gallery 37 Center for the Arts, 66 E. Randolph St., Chicago IL 60601

 

A truly Chicago tale, The Improv Play jumps headfirst into the compelling and competitive world of the local improv scene in Chicago. Set in the wake of young Walt Regan’s New York departure to join the writing staff of Saturday Night Live, the play follows three characters on the same improv team as they seek success and validation on Chicago’s comedy stages, but instead discover the hard-edged truths of a life trying to make everyone laugh. Incorporating improvisation, stand-up and sketch comedy with scripted material to create a raucous, cutting, and honest exploration of performance, talent, and ambition, The Improv Play shines a light on the thousands of performers filling out the fringe of the comedy scene.

 

 

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What: Shen Yun Performing Arts.

When: April 19, 2012 – April 22, 2012

Where: Civic Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago IL 60606

 

Shen Yun presents colorful and exhilarating performances of classical Chinese dance and music. A performance by Shen Yun is a presentation of traditional Chinese culture as it once was: a study in grace, wisdom, and the virtues distilled from the five millennia of Chinese civilization. Every year, Shen Yun unveils an entirely new lineup of dances, songs, and musical scores. At the core of Shen Yun’s performances is classical Chinese dance with China’s numerous ethnic and folk dance styles rounding out the evening. In a collection of short pieces, audiences travel from the Himalayas to tropical lake-filled regions; from the legends of the culture’s creation over 5,000 years ago through to the story of Falun Dafa in China today; from the highest heavens down to the dusty plateaus of the Middle Kingdom.

 

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What: Greek Independence Day Parade

When: Sunday April 22, 2012

Where: Greektown, Halsted St. & Randolph Streert, Chicago, IL 60661

 

The 48th annual Chicago Greek Independence Day Parade will take place on Halsted Street in Greek Town, the parade commemorates the 192nd Anniversary of Greek Declaration of Independence.

 

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What: Picturing the Past : Imaging and Imagining the Ancient Middle-East.

When: February 7, 2012 – September 2, 2012

Where: The Oriental Institute Museum
1155 E. 58th St.
Chicago, IL 60637

 

The West’s perception of the ancient Middle East has been formed by countless engravings, paintings, architectural reconstructions, facsimiles, models, photographs, and computer-aided reconstructions of monuments and sites. This collection of forty examples of art portraying ancient sites examines how preconceptions, the perceived audience, and artistic conventions have informed us about the ancient Middle East and how some of the more imaginary reconstructions have obscured our understanding of the past.

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What: My Chinatown: Stories from Within

When: April 21, 2012 – December 31, 2014

Where: Chinese-American Museum of Chicago – Raymond B. & Jean T. Lee Center, 238 W. 23rd Street, Chicago IL 60616

 

My Chinatown: Stories from Within is an exhibition at the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago presented in collaboration with the Chicago History Museum and made possible by generous grants from the Chicago Community Trust. It is a multi-media presentation of the immigration history of the people of Chinatown past and present. The exhibit primarily uses oral histories and storytelling to demonstrate the rich culture of the vibrant Chinese community in Chicago.

175 Days to Love Chicago celebrates Chicago’s 175th birthday with an exciting 175-day-series of programs, promotions, and fun history. Launching on the 175th anniversary of the city’s incorporation on March 4 and continuing through August 26, 2012 this cultural calendar offers visitors and residents exciting opportunities to explore Chicago everyday. From special events to special packages at local hotels, the campaign showcases the breadth and vibrancy of Chicago’s cultural landscape.

 

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What: Chicago Latino Film Festival

When: April 13, 2012 – Apr il26, 2012

Where: Landmark Century Theatres, 2828 N. Clark Street, Chicago IL 60657

 

The Chicago Latino Film Festival is one of the city’s biggest and most diverse international cultural events. The Festival is a cultural jewel for Chicago, and over the years has hosted more than 2,000 filmmakers and journalists. The Chicago Latino Film Festival shows over 100 films from Latin America, Spain, Portugal, the United States, and many other countries. The growth of the Festival from 500 attendees in 1985 to more than 35,000 this year is clear evidence of the great success the Festival has enjoyed over the years.

The successful celebration of the Silver Anniversary of the Chicago Latino Film Festival in 2009 was a milestone that marked our accomplishments; it paved the way to have a spectacular 26th anniversary, and now we are planning an even better 27th anniversary in the spring of 2011. In addition to the films, every year the Festival hosts international and national celebrities, which include filmmakers, actors, journalists and members of the film industry.

 

More Info >>

 

 

What: Spanish Bilingual Boot Camp

When: Sunday April 15, 2012 ; 10a.m. to 5p.m.

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

We are very excited to offer a Spanish Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of Spanish in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

More Info >>

 

 

 

What: Japanese Bilingual Boot Camp

When: Sunday April 15, 2012 ; 10a.m. to 5p.m.

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

We are very excited to offer a Japanese Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of Japanese in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

More Info >>

 

 

What: 17^th Annual Asian American Showcase

When: through Thurday April 19, 2012

Where: Gene Siskel Film Center

 

The Gene Siskel Film Center and the Foundation for Asian American Independent Media (FAAIM) present the 17th edition of Asian American Showcase, April 6 through 19. The festival encompasses comedies and dramas, probing documentaries, provocative shorts, and an array of special activities, all showcasing a wealth of talent on the Asian American scene.

The art exhibition 100 Years, featuring work by Chicago artists Wang Frank Yefeng, Cheng-Yung Kuo, and noted Chinese brush painter Qigu Jiang opens in our Gallery/Café on Friday, April 6, with a reception from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The exhibition is presented in conjunction with Chicago’s Chinatown Centennial Celebration.

 

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What: 28^th Chicago Latino Film Festival 2012

When: April 13-26, 2012

Where: Landmark’s Century Center Cinema, 2828 North Clark Street – Instituto Cervantes, 31 West Ohio Street.

 

The Latino Film Festival is one of Chicago’s biggest and most diverse international cultural events. The Festival is a jewel for the City of Chicago, and has contributed greatly to its positioning as a world-class city. Over the years, we have hosted more than 2,000 filmmakers and journalists. They have experienced the cultural scene and life of Chicago, and we have appointed them as ambassadors of Chicago to their respective homeland.

Nowadays, the Chicago Latino Film Festival shows over 100 films from Latin America, Spain, Portugal, the United States, and many other countries. The growth of the Festival from 500 attendees in 1985 to more than 35,000 this year is clear evidence of the great success the Festival has enjoyed over the years.

 

 

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What: Germania on the Pier (Neighborhoods of the World)

When: Sunday April 15, 2012

Where: Navy Pier, 600 East Grand Avenue
Chicago

 

Navy Pier is proud to honor Chicago’s ethnic neighborhoods and cultural diversity with this weekly performance series. Join us in the Crystal Gardens each Sunday for a lively afternoon of music, dance, colorful costumes, authentic cuisine, and local folk artists.

 

The Neighborhoods of the World series concludes by honoring the German culture with a nod to the Lincoln Square neighborhood. It’s Oktoberfest in April at Navy Pier!

Entertainment includes Bohemian waltzes, traditional Bavarian dances, and German pop hits of the 50s and 60s performed by the band Pieptone!Featuring performances by Paloma Band, Amazing Mike, The Fanfaren Drum & Bugle Corps, Amazonen Tanzgruppe and Egerlander Tanzgruppe.

 

 

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What: Chicago Opera Theater : Moscow, Cheryomushki

When: Saturday April 14, 2012

Where: Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive, Chicago IL 60601

 

Chicago Opera Theater opens their 2012 season with Dmitri Shostakovich’s Moscow, Cheryomushki, running April 14 – 25, 2012 at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park. Recently revived in Europe to blockbuster success, Chicago Opera Theater, under conductor Alexander Platt; director Mike Donahue; and set/costume designer Anya Klepikov, brings its own unique twist to this musical comedy. Renowned Shostakovich scholar Gerard McBurney scores the music for chamber orchestra to capture the operatta’s lighter mood.

In this opera, Sasha and Masha are recently married, but are unable to secure an apartment together because of the housing crisis. Living in separate locations, the newlyweds resort to romantic trysts in museums and the subway. The predicament is played out in a hilarious mix of memorable songs, satire and spectacle – which made the operetta a blockbuster during its premiere in 1959.

 

 

 

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What: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater

When: April11, 2012 – April 15, 2012

Where: Auditorium Theare, 50 E. Congress Pkwy. Chicago IL 60605

 

Enjoy Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Chicago’s performances April 11 – 15, 2012 at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University and celebrate Robert Battle’s inaugural season as Artistic Director. The eclectic program features brand new pieces added to the Ailey repertoire including hip-hop choreographer Rennie Harris’ “Home,” set to a soul-lifting score of gospel house music and inspired by people living with or affected by HIV; Artistic Director Robert Battle’s bravura solo work “Takademe;” “Arden Court,” the first Paul Taylor work ever danced by the company; Ohad Naharin’s inventive and highly improvised “Minus 16;” as well as classics from Alvin Ailey’s body of work.

 

 

 

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What: Genghis Khan

When: February 24, 2012 to September 2, 2012

Where: The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago IL 60605

Who was Genghis Khan – a ruthless warrior, or a revered statesman? Uncover the amazing story of one of the world’s greatest leaders and most misunderstood conquerors. Discover the essence of his extensive empire and the lasting influence of his legacy. Experience a world of conquest, diplomacy, innovation, and destruction, only at the Field Museum

 

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What: A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

When: February 7, 2012 to April 8, 2012

Where: Navy Pier’s Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Avenue, Chicago IL 60611

 

Following his acclaimed Chicago Shakespeare production ofAs You Like It, Associate Artistic Director Gary Griffin takes on Shakespeare’s spectacular tale of fairies and paramours. When a quartet of mismatched lovers and a gaggle of hapless actors cross paths with the king and queen of the fairies beneath the boughs of an enchanted wood, they experience the inexplicable magic of falling in love—and the wonder of waking up from the sweetest of dreams.

 

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What: Las Hermanas Padilla

When: February 29, 2012 to April 1, 2012

Where: Gallery 37 Center for the Arts, 66 E. Randolph St., Storefront Theater, Chicago IL 60601

 

An award-winning work by emerging New York playwright Tony Meneses, Las Hermanas Padilla is a poetic, humorous, and fantastical vision of ten sisters-in-law who, while the world is at war, find solace, despair, humor, and grace in their unexpected sisterhood. Chicago Fusion Theatre explores their journey through storyboards and snapshots of the sisters as they discover their own paths, test the limits of their strength, and find the true meaning of family.

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What: Afro-Beats ! Fela, Monk and the Roots of American Music.

When: February 25, 2012

Where: Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E. Randolph Drive, Chicago IL 60601

 

Fulcrum Point New Music Project, the city’s leader in new art music and inventive collaborations between traditional music and popular culture, commemorates Black History Month with Afro-Beats! Fela, Monk, and the Roots of American Music in one performance only at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance.  The concert program, which includes works by Fela Kuti, Thelonius Monk, Paquito D’Rivera, John Coltrane and more, explores West African music and dance, which still dramatically influences American culture today. Recognized for its percussive beat, the West African rhythms and dance are used to show the interconnectedness of different cultures through music. Children of all ages are invited to participate in drumming circles, traditional African dances, and soulful songs in this spirited one-time-only event.

 

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What: Amazing India.

When: February 26, 2012

Where: Navy Pier’s Crystal Gardens, 600 E. Grand Avenue, Chicago IL 60611

 

Navy Pier presents Neighborhoods of the World, a free weekly performance series honoring Chicago’s ethnic neighborhoods and cultural diversity every Sunday from February 26 – April 15, 2012. Amazing India features performances by Punjabi Cultural Society, Bollywood Rhythm, Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts, and more, and is presented in partnership with the Indo-American Heritage Museum and the Consulate General of India.

 

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What: THE MARCH : A Civil Rights Opera Project.

When: February 26, 2012

Where: South Shore, Grand Crossing.

 

The Chicago Park District and South Shore Opera Company of Chicago present THE MARCH, an opera in development that explores people and events surrounding the 1963 March on Washington. This concert is FREE!

 

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What: Uncovered, Rediscovered : Stories of Jewish Chicago

When:September 19, 2010 to December 31, 2012

Where: Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies, 610 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago IL 60605

 

 

Showcasing archival materials, cultural and fine art objects, and audio and visual recordings from its rich and varied collections, Spertus Institute of Jewish Studiesopens an evolving eight-part exhibit that explores the Chicago Jewish experience. Beginning Sunday, September 19 and continuing through the end of 2012, Uncovered & Rediscovered: Stories of Jewish Chicago will unfold in a series of focused, changing “chapters” (each on display from three to six months) revealing the stories of individuals, places, events, and particular moments from Chicago’s Jewish past. These stories range from the 19th-century romance behind the launch of the Spiegel mail order catalog to the impact of Jewish votes from Lawndale on the election of President Kennedy. The exhibit will tell tales of Chicago’s Jewish pioneers and politicians, artists and anarchists, authors and entrepreneurs, and even Jewish boxers.

Uncovered & Rediscovered is FREE to the public and open 10 am – 5 pm, Sunday – Thursday, in the ground floor vestibule and lobby of the Spertus building.  The exhibit will expand to other areas of the building as it progresses, and is augmented by an interactive media center on the 2nd floor, featuring clips of film and television recordings about Chicago Jewish life. In addition, visitors will be able to add their own personal stories of Jewish life to an interactive map of the Chicago area. This “memory map” will be accessible on-line and at Spertus.

 

 

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What: French Bilingual Boot Camp

When: Sunday February 12, 2012; 10a.m. to 5p.m.

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

 

We are very excited to offer a French Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of French in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

 

More Info >>

 

 

 

 

What: Spanish Bilingual Boot Camp

When: Sunday February 12, 2012; 10a.m. to 5p.m.

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

 

We are very excited to offer a Spanish Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of Spanish in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

More Info >>

 

 

 

 

 

What: Mandarin Bilingual Boot Camp

When: Sunday February 12, 2012; 10a.m. to 5p.m.

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

 

We are very excited to offer a Mandarin Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of Mandarin in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

More Info >>

 

 

 

 

What: Black Creativity 2012. Powerful: African Americans in Energy

When: January 25, 2012 to April 15, 2012

Where: Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St & Lake Shore Drive, Chicago IL 60637

 

The Museum of Science and Industry’s 2012 Black Creativity exhibit Powerful: African Americans in Energy, explores the pros and cons of various energy sources and showcases African-American leaders in the energy field through a fun, miniature golf course.

 

A juried art exhibition of African-American artwork is held in conjunction with the exhibit from Januray25-February 29.

 

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What: Margaret Jenkins Dance Company

When: February 9, 2012 to February 11, 2012

Where: The Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago, 1306 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago IL 60605

 

Margaret Jenkins is known for creating works that are at once physically rigorous, intellectual and psychologically demanding and always imbued with observations about the human character. InLight Moves, Jenkins collaborates with her dancers, along with internationally recognized composer Paul Dresher, Wallace Stevens Award-winning poet Michael Palmer, and critically acclaimed multimedia artist Naomie Kremer.

 

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What: 175 Ways to love Chicago

When: January 16, 2012 to March 4, 2012

Where: All around town

 

The City of Chicago turns 175 years old on March 4, 2012! We’re celebrating this momentous occasion with “175 Ways to Love Chicago”, featuring notable Chicagoans’ Windy City favorites! From January 16 to March 4, we will offer notable locals’ unique perspectives on the things they love most about this great city.

 

 

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What: Luminous Field by Luftwerk.

When: February 10, 2012 to February 20, 2012

Where: Millennium Park, Michigan Ave. & Washington St. Chicago, IL 60602

 

This February, Millennium Park is transformed into a digital canvas of light and geometrical form with its first-ever site-specific video and sound installation by the Chicago-based artistic ensemble Luftwerk. Created specifically for Millennium Park, the installation will illuminate Cloud Gate – known by many Chicagoans as “The Bean” – and its surrounding AT&T Plaza with dramatic images and colors set to music composed by Owen Clayton Condon, of the local avant-garde classical ensemble, Third Coast Percussion.

Luminous Field will be on view on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6 – 10 pm, and Sunday - Thursday evenings from 6 – 9 pm.  This groundbreaking winter event will be complemented by fun family activities, including hands-on art projects, musical games and craft activities; and music and dance performances in a heated tent on the Park’s Chase Promenade North.

 

 

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What: Chicago Park District Ice Rinks

When: through February 2012

Where: vary

 

Bring your own skates and skate for free at most Chicago Park District outdoor rinks!

Rinks open for the season the week of Monday, November 28 and are open through February 2012, weather permitting.  Rinks offer skate rentals for various fees and concessions are available at many of the rinks. Hours vary. All rinks are outdoors with the exception of McFetridge in California Park which is open year round except for the month of August. Admission fees apply at McFetridge and the Rink at Wrigley.

For a list of rink locations, hours and fees, click here.

For further information contact the individual ice rinks or the Chicago Park District at 312.742.PLAY (7529).

 

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What: Spread the Word! The Evolution of Gospel from Chicago to the World

When:  through May 20, 2012

Where: DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Pl. Chicago, IL 60637

 

This exhibition at the DuSable Museum of African American History celebrates the rich history of gospel music, from its origins in Chicago to the contributions made to the genre by gospel legends such as Mahalia Jackson, Albertina Walker, Thomas Dorsey, James Cleveland, Sallie Martin and many others. Legendary Chicago choirs, such as Reverend Milton Brunson and The Thompson Community Singers, along with Dr. Charles G. Hayes and The Cosmopolitan Church of Prayer Choir (aka The Warriors) “testify” with the “First Families of Gospel,” The Yancy Family and the Staple Singers. Additionally, the renowned “singing “ preachers such as Reverend Clay Evans and Pastor Maceo Woods “minister” right next to award-winning soloist such as Mahalia Jackson and Albertina Walker, while contemporary artist such as Darius Brooks share the spotlight with Joshua’s Troop.

 

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What: Cabaret with a view – Millennium Park

When: Sunday December 11, 2011; from 10 am to 5 pm

Where: Millennium Park, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E. Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60601
312.742.TIXS (8497)

All performances take place on the enclosed, heated Jay Pritzker Pavilion stage.

Experience cabaret like never before with top Chicago performers in an intimate, climate-controlled environment with an exceptional view. Cabaret returns to Millennium Park with the popular series, Cabaret with a View, where audiences have a chance to sit on the enclosed stage of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion to experience music in an intimate setting and a climate-controlled environment.

 

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What: Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light.

When: November 17, 2011 to January 9, 2012

Where: Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St. & Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60637

 

Celebrate 70 years of Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light, an exhibition that has brought holiday cheer and global festivities to generations of museum goers at the MSI. What began as a United Nations Day salute to America’s World War II allies in 1942 is now a beloved Chicago holiday tradition that features over 50 dazzling trees and displays that are decorated by members of ethnic communities across the city to reflect holiday customs from all over the world. Experience ethnic dancing and singing, storytellers, school choirs and other festivities to get everyone in the holiday spirit

 

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What: Holiday Events in the Parks

When: November 26, 2011 to January 8, 2012

Where: Chicago Park District field houses citywide locations, Chicago IL 60611
Phone : 312-742-PLAY (7529)

 

The Chicago Park District hosts numerous holiday events this winter such as dinner with Santa, rollerskating with Santa, chocolate house making, and much more. Go here for a complete schedule of the holiday events.

 

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What: The Black Ensemble Theater: The Jackie Wilson Story.

When: November 20, 2011 to January 8, 2012

Where: The Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark Street Chicago IL 60640
Phone : 773.769.4451

 

The Black Ensemble Theater kicks off its 2011-12 “Legendary Season of Rhythm & Blues” with a production of the hit musical showcasing the rise and fall of the legendary performer, Jackie Wilson.  The Jackie Wilson Story is written, produced and directed by Black Ensemble Theater founder and CEO, Jackie Taylor, and is scheduled to run through January 8, 2012.

This high energy musical was first produced in 2000 to critical acclaim, and went on to tour the country in 2002 before culminating in a landmark performance at New York City’s famed Apollo Theater.  Though this production will differ slightly from the original version, the show will reprise many of Wilson’s favorite hits, such as (Your Love Keeps Liftin’ Me) Higher & HIgher, To Be Loved, Danny Boy and Doggin’ Me Around, as well as new songs by Frankie Lymons.

 

 

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What: Winter Solstice Festival at North Park Village Nature Center

When: December 17, 2011 from 6 pm to 9pm

Where:  North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski Road Chicago, IL 60646

The Chicago Park District’s North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N. Pulaski Rd., welcomes winter with a special annual event, the Winter Solstice Festival, which celebrates the change in season on Saturday, December 17 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Winter Solstice Festival, admission free and open to all ages, is a delightful opportunity to explore the North Park Village Nature Preserve during the evening hours. The festival includes walks along the nature trails lit by luminaries, a visit with critters from Big Run Wolf Ranch and chestnuts roasted on an open fire. Guests can help create edible holiday ornaments for the animals that make the Nature Center their home.

 

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What: Bilingual French Boot Camp

When: Sunday December 11, 2011; from 10 am to 5 pm

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

 

We are very excited to offer a French Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of French in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

 

More Info >>

 

 

 

 

What: Bilingual Spanish Boot Camp

When: Sunday December 11, 2011; from 10 am to 5 pm

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

 

We are very excited to offer a Spanish Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of Spanish in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

 

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What: Navy Pier’s Winter Wonderfest

When: December 2, 2011 to January 8, 2012

Where: Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611

 

The 11th annual Winter Wonderfest transforms Navy Pier into an indoor winter wonderland full of games, rides, music and a forest of beautifully decorated trees. New this year is an added week of family fun with 170,000 square feet of rides, inflatable slides, entertainment, stunning holiday lights and decor, and much more!

It’s beginning to look a lot like Winter WonderFest at Chicago’s Navy Pier! There’s more fun than ever before to be had in the 11th annual edition of Winter WonderFest, presented by Bank of America, a beloved Chicago holiday tradition that runs from December 2, 2011 – January 8, 2012.  This year, Navy Pier has extended Winter WonderFest by one week, to January 8, 2012.

 

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What: National Hellenic Museum.

When: Closed on Monday

Where: 333 South Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60607

 

The National Hellenic Museum is the only major museum in the United States dedicated to telling the story of Greek history, culture and arts from ancient times to today. The Museum connects all generations – past, present and future – to the rich heritage of Greek history and the Greek American experience. The National Hellenic Museum opened its doors in a new home at the corner of Halsted and Van Buren, in the heart of Chicago’s famed Greektown, in December of 2011

 

 

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What: Maxwell Street Market

When: January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2012

Where:  South Loop, Desplaines St & Roosevelt Rd Chicago, IL 60607

 

The Maxwell Street Market is a Chicago tradition of bargains and bargaining with an international flavor.

 

The Maxwell Street Market will be closed on Christmas Day (Dec. 25, 2011) and New Year’s Day (Jan. 1, 2012).

Email us at maxwellstreet@cityofchicago.org if you would like to receive our Maxwell Street Market Newsletter.

 

 

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What: Chicago Gives

When: November 18, 2011 to January 8, 2012

Where: Expo 72, 72 E. Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60601

Chicago Gives is an exhibition featuring a variety of small-scale organizations that use culturally based actions to accomplish broad social good by employing a combination of traditional business and philanthropic practices. The more than 15 groups promote job training, life skills, community development, healthy living, urban agriculture/community gardening, reading, cultural literacy, art appreciation and more through direct involvement with constituents in need of services and the community at large. The exhibit will feature information about each group and images or products highlighting their efforts.

 

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What: Jazz City Concerts

When: December 9, 2012

Where: Chicago Park District Parks, various locations, Chicago, IL 60601

JazzCity is a collaboration initiated in 1997 by the Jazz Institute of Chicago with the Chicago Park District. The concerts present something for everyone—from jazz masters Von Freeman and Willie Pickens to a jazz and basketball improvisation with a hip hop poet, from classic big bands to a tribute to Chicago’s poet/lyricist Oscar Brown Jr.

Many young Chicago musicians have made their public debut with JazzCity and gone on to national repute, and several established musicians have presented projects on a grand scale. Numerous JazzCity projects have gone from the neighborhood parks to the grand stages at Millennium Park and the Chicago Jazz Festival. Come celebrate the past, present and future of jazz in Chicago.

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What: A Christmas Carol.

When: November 18, 2011 to December 31, 2012

Where: Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60601

Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol has delighted Chicago audiences since the very first production over thirty years ago when the Chicago Tribune raved: “magic took over the show.”

Charles Dickens’ classic story, the exceptional actors and the miraculous stagecraft have made A Christmas Carol a beloved Chicago tradition. Every year, audiences look forward to the “Bah Humbugs,” the arrival of the ghosts, the music and dancing and Scrooge’s joyful discovery of life and love.

This timeless play will put the magic in your holiday season!

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What: Bilingual Italian Boot Camp

When: Sunday December 4, 2011; from 10 am to 5 pm

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

 

We are very excited to offer an Italian Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of Italian in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

 

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What: Caroling at Cloud Gate

When: November 25, 2011 to December 6, 2011

Where: Millennium Park, Chase Promenade Central

N. Michigan Ave. & E. Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60602

 

Celebrate the holidays in Millennium Park, when Caroling at Cloud Gate returns on Friday evenings from November 25 through December 16, 2011 at 6 PM during the holiday season. This free program, presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, in partnership with the Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture, showcases Chicago choral groups and invites visitors to participate in a holiday sing-along.

Now in its sixth season, Caroling at Cloud Gate has become a cherished tradition in Chicago, with hundreds of singers gathering each week in the Park. Complimentary warm beverages will be provided by Caribou Coffee. Following the 50-minute caroling session, everyone is encouraged to skate at Millennium Park’s McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, one of the most popular winter destinations in the city.

 

 

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What: Zoolights at The Lincoln Park Zoo

When:             November 25, 2011 to January 1, 2011

Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614

 

Lincoln Park Zoo transforms into a dazzling wonderland with a series of free seasonal festivities for Zoolights, November 25 through January 1.  Enter a winter wonderland illuminated by approximately 2 million lights at Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual ZooLights Presented by ComEd and Charter One. This holiday classic has become one of the Windy City’s must-see seasonal events.

Get your picture taken with Santa through December 23rd, prepare holiday crafts and watch ice carving. Then escape the cold and experience the climates, conditions and animals of four continents: South America, Africa, Asia and Australia in our Regenstein Small Mammal Reptile House. Animal exhibits stay open late.

 

 

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What: Santa Claus House

When: November 23, 2011 to December 24, 2011

Where:  Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St. Chicago, IL 60602

 

Jolly Old St. Nick will again grace the plaza with his holiday cheer in his Midwest satellite workshop on Daley Plaza!

As part of UL’s ongoing partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, UL is also providing a Santa’s House on Daley Plaza, where children and families can experience the wonder of the North Pole and have their picture taken with Santa Claus throughout the holiday season. UL’s Santa’s Workshop will open in coordination with the City of Chicago Annual Tree Lighting and offer activities and important safety tips to enjoy while children wait to tell Santa their holiday wishes.

A photographer is on duty and visitors can download their free photos by visiting the UL website: SafetyAtHome.com. Personal cameras are welcome.

 

 

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What: Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing

When: December 2, 2011 to February 26, 2012; 10am-4pm

Where: Northerly Island, 1400 S. Lynn White Dr., on the Museum Campus, Chicago, IL 60605

On select weekends in December, January and February, you can come out and trek around Northerly Island on snowshoes or cross country skis. See the Northerly Island sites, track the animals that stay out in the cold, and take in the amazing views of the city skyline. Check-out snowshoes or cross country skis for $5 for two hours with an I.D. on a first-come, first-served basis. If you have your own cross country skis or snowshoes, it is free to ski and trek around the island! Please note: there must be at least 3 inches of snow on the ground. For more information call (312) 745.2910.

 

 

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What: Ice skating at the McCormik Tribune ice rink

When: November 18, 2011 to March 11, 2012

Where: Millennium Park, Michigan Ave & Washington Street, Chicago, IL 60602

Kicking off Chicago’s winter season, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park will open on Friday, November 18, 2011 and will remain open through Sunday, March 11, 2012, weather permitting. The rink, now in its eleventh season, draws more than 100,000 skaters annually and is free and open to the public. Skate rental is available for $10. The ice rink is located on Michigan Avenue between Washington and Madison streets.

 

 

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What: Christkindlmarket Chicago.

When: November 23, 2011 to December 24, 2012

Where: Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington Street, Chicago, IL 60602

A month long traditional holiday market based on the centuries old markets in Germany, in the heart of downtown Chicago on Daley Plaza. This free event features German and international vendors who display handcrafted ornaments, toys, and unique gifts, as well as traditional German foods, sweets, and beverages.

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What: Bilingual Hebrew Boot Camp

When: Sunday November 20, 2011; from 10 am to 5 pm

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

 

We are very excited to offer a Hebrew Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of Hebrew in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

 

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What: Bilingual Russian Boot Camp

When: Sunday November 20, 2011; from 10 am to 5 pm

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

 

We are very excited to offer a Russian Bilingual Boot Camp this Sunday. This special class will have you understanding the basics of Russian in no time! For those that want to learn the basics of a language but don’t have a lot of time to do so, consider our 7-hour Bilingual Boot Camp: an intensive program for beginners looking to learn practical vocabulary and expressions in advance of a trip or for business. Curriculum materials will be included for you to use and take home.

 

 

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What: Living Green for a Cause with Unieros

When: November 19, 2011, 7-11pm

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

 

Join our friends at Unieros, a multicultural friendship group, celebrate their 2 year anniversary at our center. The event –Living Green for a Cause – will be a charitable food drive to help Chicago immigrant families eat healthy this holiday season.

To attend the party and meet a lively bunch of multicultural friends, please bring at least 2 non-perishable food items to donate or $5 cash.

For a list of items needed by the families, please visit Unieros’ website here.

If you won’t be able to make it to the party but you still want to help, you can drop off the food items at our center. We have a donation basket in our café area. You can also help out by donating online via Paypal.

 

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What: “Lope” Screening at the SAIC Gene Siskel Center.

When: Saturday, November 19, 2011, 3 – 5:45pm

Where:  164 North State Street, Chicago, Illinois 60601

 

Multilingual Chicago is partnering with the SAIC Gene Siskel Center to present a special screening of the Spanish language movie, Lope (description below), in support of their annual Festival of New Spanish Cinema (Oct 27 – Nov 23). For more information, please visit their website here.

We will be hosting a special (1st) screening at the film center on Nov 19 at 3 p.m., followed by a reception from 5 – 5:45 p.m. Cost is $10 per person.

If you are interested in attending, please RSVP to hilary@multilingualchicago.com. Space is limited, so reserve soon!

 

 

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What: Multilingual Kids Performance.

When: November 19, 2011, 11:30am

Where: Multilingual Chicago, 2934 North Milwaukee Avenue, Suite C, Chicago IL 60618

This Sunday, our At-school and Multilingual Chicago Kids students will put on a joint performance at our Logan Square center. This is a terrific opportunity to see what your child has learned during his/her class, so feel free to invite the whole family for a very special treat!

Special guest: Andrew Yearick!

Andrew teaches the ¡Canta conmigo! Spanish Music class at Multilingual Chicago. He has been teaching Spanish in the city for 6 years to kids from toddlers to adults. Andrew has a degree in Education from Lock Haven University. We’re proud and excited to have Andrew Yearick as this year’s performer!

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