Last weekend, the city welcomed more than 130 acts to grace the stages in Grant Park. Chicago’s most popular summer festival, Lollapalooza, has come and gone. Fear not, there is still plenty of fun to be had in the city as well as a lot of cool festivals to check out. If you’re wondering what to put on your agenda for this weekend, the following list has something for everyone’s interests.
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August 9-11 – Ginza Festival – Old Town
Whether you are accustomed to the Japanese Holiday, Ginza, this weekend-long festival will no doubt offer great food and even better performances. Located at the Midwest Buddhist Temple in Old Town, this place of worship is just a short el ride away from DePaul’s campus and welcomes all visitors for the festival. Keep in mind that there is a small entrance fee but the authentic Japanese fare and amazing martial arts performers will keep you entertained and interested for your entire stay.
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August 10 – Josh Groban Concert – Ravinia Festival, Highland Park
For those who are willing to travel a bit farther north this weekend, the Josh Groban concert at Ravinia is not to be missed. Tickets appear sold out online, but there are a slew of tickets still being sold on Craigslist. Make sure you pack up a picnic and get to the park early to claim your space on the vast Ravinia lawn. Groban is sure to draw a large crowd for this performance and goes on at 7:30 Saturday night.
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August 10-11 – Retro on Roscoe at Damen – Chicago
For folks who can appreciate the uniqueness of antique cars, the Retro on Roscoe at Damen festival is not to be missed. Here, you will be able to peruse more than 50 antique cars while enjoying grub from an array of local food vendors. If you happen to be toting a child with you when you head over to this Roscoe Village festival, there is a kid’s corner that will be offering activities for youngsters to enjoy. Keep in mind that a $10 donation is suggested to attend this event.
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August 10 – Haunted places tour – Naperville
Already checked out the terrifying film “The Conjuring” and are craving more summertime terror? Starting this weekend, Ghost Tours of Naperville will be starting their haunted tours program. Deemed the “creepiest tour in the Midwest” by The Biography Channel, each tour starts in Naperville and will stop at infamously haunted locations. Similarly to “The Conjuring,” participants will be led by a paranormal investigator. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at http://www.naperville-ghosts.com. Keep in mind that these tours are led through the pitch-dark streets of Naperville, so the faint at heart might opt for a less frightening weekend plan.
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August 10 – Yoga at The Zoo – Lincoln Park
Right in DePaul’s neck of the woods, the Lincoln Park Zoo is offering basic yoga classes to participants through the end of September. Each class is $20 but the opportunity to practice yoga in an equally relaxing and unique outdoor location offers an unparalleled experience. It is recommended to sign up in advance to secure your spot for the yoga classes. No other experience in the city would allow you to practice your cow pose in close proximity to actual cows, so make sure to check it out this weekend.