Eight Things To Do in the City and Western Suburbs: Mar. 13 to Mar. 15, 2026

Spring is just around the corner, and so are plenty of fun happenings to enjoy close to home. Discover what's blooming near you at one of these weekend events. 

Savor delicious sips at the Winter Whiskey Tasting.
Spend an evening sipping whiskey and admiring the trees at the Arboretum's Firefly Pavilion. Sample a curated selection of whiskeys chosen by experts while enjoying live music and the cozy warmth of fire pits on the pavilion's open-air patios. Traditional Irish musicians Paul Kaye and Alec Synakowski will perform throughout the evening, and all ticket holders will receive a commemorative six-ounce snifter glass. 

Date: Mar. 14
Time: 3:00–5:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Cost: $60, $30 for Designated Driver ticket
Location: Morton Arboretum
More Info: mortonarb.org 

Unleash your inner hero at DuPage Comic Con.
The beloved DuPage Comic Con is back for 2026! This family-friendly convention is packed with excitement for fans of all ages. Explore a wide range of prime comic book dealers, talented artists, and toy, trading card, and collectible vendors. Meet special guests, show off your creativity at the Cosplay Event at 3:30 PM with cash prizes, and enjoy free parking. Kids 12 and under attend for free, making it the perfect day for the whole family. 

Date: Mar. 14
Time: 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Cost: $12.51
Location: DuPage Event Center and Fairgrounds
More Info: eventbrite.com

Embrace adventure at the Muddy Shamrock Run at The Forge.
This early-season trail challenge will take runners through wooded single- and double-track trails, offering scenic views around the historic Lemont Quarries. Both race distances wind through twisty single-track mountain bike trails and some gravel paths across The Forge and neighboring trail systems. Whether you love the thrill of the trail or the challenge of early-season mud, the Muddy Shamrock promises a fun, rugged adventure you won't want to miss.

Date: Mar. 14
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Cost: $65+
Location: The Forge
More Info: runsignup.com 

Have a blast at the St. Patrick's Weekend Festival.
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day weekend at a massive outdoor street festival on Hubbard Street. Enjoy nonstop fun with 20+ DJs and live bands, a full festival stage, outdoor bars, food vendors, tented areas, merch, and access to River North favorites like Hubbard Inn, Joy District, Boss Bar, and Kitchen Karaoke. The fest is free and open to the public, with a suggested donation supporting local organizations. 

Date: Mar. 14
Time: 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Cost: $25
Location: Hubbard Street, River North
More Info: eventbrite.com 

Watch the Chicago River turn green at the Irish Village Market.
The St. Patrick's Day Irish Village Market celebrates Ireland's rich heritage with authentic Irish food, drinks, crafts, and entertainment. The market returns to downtown Chicago on March 14, near the DuSable Bridge, offering a great spot to watch the dyeing of the Chicago River. The event is free and open to everyone, with proceeds from purchases supporting local Irish charities. 

Date: Mar. 14
Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Pioneer Court
More Info: irishvillagemarket.com 

Get festive on Division Street at Shamrock & Roll.
Shamrock & Roll returns to Division Street this weekend for one of Chicago's premier St. Patrick's Day street festivals. Stretching from State Street to Clark Street outside The Lodge Tavern, the celebration features two stages of live bands, Irish dancers and bagpipers, beer and liquor tents, and festive food vendors. Tickets include complimentary admission to The Lodge Tavern, She-nannigans, and Butch McGuire's until 6:00 p.m., plus event swag. The festival is free and open to the public, with a suggested donation at entry supporting local community initiatives. 

Date: Mar. 14
Time: 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
Cost: $21
Location: 21 W. Division Street
More Info: lodgetavern.com 

Discover the best of Andersonville during Andersonville Restaurant Weeks.
Hosted by the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce, this event highlights the neighborhood's diverse dining scene and encourages visitors to try new spots while supporting local restaurants. Most participating locations will offer special prix fixe menus priced at $30, $45, or $60 (prices and offerings vary by restaurant).

Date: Mar. 15-29
Time: Various times
Cost: Various prices
Location: Various locations
More Info: andersonville.org 

Shop sustainably at the Handmade Market.
The Handmade Market is back at the Empty Bottle as your go-to spot to support sustainable local crafters. Order a mimosa from the bar and shop from a rotating cast of local crafters who offer fresh selections every month. Expect an eclectic spread of handmade jewelry, glassware, fiber arts, handbags, clothing, paper goods, and other thoughtfully crafted finds.

Date: Mar. 14
Time: 12:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: The Empty Bottle
More Info: handmadechicago.com