Eight Things To Do in the City and Western Suburbs: Jan. 30 to Feb. 1, 2026

Don't let the cold hold you back — these weekend events are worth layering up for. See what's happening near you.

Get a taste of Bite Nite.
Bite Nite returns featuring a lineup of local restaurants and food vendors. Beyond the food, this event also offers the chance to interact directly with local chefs and restaurant owners, making it as much about the people behind the menus as the bites themselves. 

Date: Jan. 30
Time: 6:30–9:30 p.m.
Cost: $50+
Location: The Nineteenth Century Club. 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park
More Info: oprfchamber.org

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Chocolate Weekend.
Chocolate Weekend turns the Morton Arboretum into a winter destination for chocolate-focused vendors and artisans. The expo features samples and products ranging from baked goods and confections to chocolate sauces and specialty items, all made by local chocolatiers. Educational presentations run throughout the weekend, offering insight into chocolate-making, cacao sourcing, and the history of chocolate production. 

Date: Jan. 31–Feb. 1
Time: 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Cost: $25+
Location: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rt. 53, Lisle
More Info: mortonarb.org

Embrace the cold at the Ice Festival.
Downtown Downers Grove hosts its annual Ice Festival with nearly 60 sculptures displayed throughout the district. Watch live carving demonstrations, participate in interactive ice games, and marvel at the themed sculptures, all spread across walkable downtown streets.

Date: Jan. 30–Feb. 1
Time: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Downtown Downers Grove
More Info: downtowndg.org 

Have a good time at Begyle + Friends.
Begyle Brewing hosts a midwinter tasting party that brings together breweries, cideries, and distilleries from across the region, all under one roof. Expect pours from a wide mix of producers, live sets from Punk'd and Yacht Rockettes, and food trucks rotating throughout the event.

Date: Jan. 31
Time: 6–11 p.m.
Cost: $79
Location: Artifact Events, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave.
More Info: eventbrite.com

Catch the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival.
The Chicago International Puppet Festival's neighborhood tour brings puppet performances into community spaces across the city. Featuring artists from around the world, the shows range in style and storytelling, offering a close-up look at contemporary puppetry beyond the traditional stage. Each stop is designed to be accessible, intimate, and welcoming for audiences of all ages.

Date: Jan. 30–Feb. 1
Time: Various Times
Cost: Various Prices
Location: Various Locations
More Info: chicagopuppetfest.org

Try your luck at Family Bingo Night.
This Family Bingo Night offers an evening of classic bingo games designed for all ages. Families can grab cards, settle in together, and play for small prizes while enjoying snacks available during the event. 

Date: Jan. 30
Time: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Franklin Park, 4320 W. 15th St.
More Info: chicagoparkdistrict.com 

Glide over to Frozen Ocean Skate.
This themed ice skating event transforms the rink into an under-the-sea setting, complete with glowing marine-inspired décor. Skaters of all abilities are welcome, with sled-assisted skating available to make the experience accessible for both children and adults.

Date: Jan. 30
Time: 6–8 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Mount Greenwood Park, 3721 W. 111th St.
More Info: chicagoparkdistrict.com 

Take the night off at Kids/Parents Night Out.
This Kids/Parents Night Out event gives children their own evening plans, featuring themed crafts, a family-friendly movie screening, and snacks. Activities are led by experienced staff, allowing parents a night off while kids enjoy a structured, relaxed program designed just for them.

Date: Jan. 30
Time: 5:30–8 p.m.
Cost: $55
Location: Cuddle Bunny, 2901 N. Clark St.
More Info: eventbrite.com