April is here, so you know what that means: The City Cast Chicago team has the best happenings this month.
Time to Get Outdoors
- 🕶️ Grab a pair of eclipse glasses and see the solar eclipse on April 8. Chicago is not in the path of totality, but we’ll get a partial eclipse. Parts of southern Illinois are in the path, so you can plan a solar eclipse road trip.
- 🌎 Volunteer for Earth Day park cleanups on April 20. There’s an interactive map that will help you find your nearest park.
- 🌳 Speaking of greenery, Arbor Day — started by the family that founded The Morton Arboretum — is April 26. You can support the organization by visiting or making a donation.
- 🌺 There’s still time to see flower shows at the Garfield and Lincoln Park conservatories.
Seek Community
- ⚾ Baseball is back, baby! The Cubs’ home opener is today (April 1) and the White Sox are already rolling.
- 🦹 Calling all my fellow nerds! The Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo returns April 26-28.
Where to Get Your Art On
- 🖼️ Art lovers will gather April 11-14 at EXPO Chicago, the annual exposition of modern and contemporary art. Be sure to check out the artist and expert talks.
- 🎬 Make time for the movies at Chicago Latino Film Festival April 11-22. My wife and I personally recommend “Érase Una Vez En El Caribe” — we saw it at the Puerto Rico Film Festival last year, and it was quite the ride.
A food truck outside Sunnyside Cannabis Dispensary in 2020. (Kamil Krzaczynski / Getty)
4/20 Celebrations
- 🎨 Keep it chill and artsy at Puff & Paint. All skill levels are welcome.
- 💃 If you’re in more of a festive mood, stop by the Sixpenny Bit for their Danksgiving celebration, featuring burlesque, comedy, music, and more.
- 🧁 Get extra baked with edibles from the person behind Mindy’s Bakery.
