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City Cast Chicago

Emily Mack

. The City of Broad Shoulders is home to the 

, which publishes “Poetry” magazine, plus constant

spoken word events and workshop opportunities. We’re on it year-round. But since April is 

 National Poetry Month, consider diving in deeper.

Some classic and more contemporary lyric odes to the complicated city we love. 

Hog Butcher for the World … City of the Big Shoulders

Chicago who wears her skyscrapers like a necklace ...

Chicago … Like loving a woman with a broken nose, you may well find lovelier lovelies, but never a lovely so real.

✒️ Favorite line: The whole thing! (It’s short.)

“the great stone lions outside monumentally pissed by jumbo wreaths and ribbons”

“whenever i’m at that land is chicago”

underneath my gym shoes. is a trail of salt. that last sentence is a test.

 “i’ll miss crossing guards ushering the grown folks too, like ducklings”

Chicago Public Library and plenty more organizations are hosting readings, workshops, lectures, and performances throughout the month.

 | April 8 | Call & Response Books | Kenwood

 | April 9 | Haymarket House | Uptown | Free

 | April 11 | Archer Heights Branch | Free

 | April 11-12 | Ruth Page Center for the Arts | Near North Side

 | April 13 | Portage Cragin Branch | Free

 | April 15 | Harold Washington Library | Loop | Free

 | April 19 | Offshore Rooftop | Navy Pier

Patricia Smith, Ashley M. Jones, Donika Kelly, Aimee Nezhukumatathil

 | April 23 | Poetry Foundation | River North | Free

Sijo and Sijo-song: Korea’s Poetry Form

 | April 25 | Little Village Branch | Free

Every month is Poetry Month in Chicago. But since April is actually National Poetry Month, consider diving in deeper. 

Celebrate Poetry in Chicago for National Poetry Month

Celebrate Poetry in Chicago

Find the best of everything that Chicago has to offer.

Chicago’s Best

Chicago's Best

the city’s last Black-owned bowling alley

, closes permanently April 26. In operation since the 1950s, it was one of the South Side’s few remaining bowling alleys as the sport 

 after 98 years following the pandemic. More recently, 

 and closed its city site. My teenage haunt, Lincoln Lanes, burned down years ago …

There are just about a dozen bowling alleys left in Chicago. Lucky for us, though, they’re as fun as ever.

 in Logan Square — call in advance since there are lots of leagues. You can also form your own!

 in West Lawn is an old-school joint with a Sunday Special for big groups.

 may look old, but the manual-scoring spot is a fairly new addition to 

 in North Center is where it’s at. And if you’re at nearby businesses, keep on the lookout for those free coupons!

 in Jefferson Park has been a North Side birthday destination for over 50 years.

 in Forest Park is, yes, technically suburban, but it’s been a local staple since 1941.

 is located inside Marina City in River North, carrying on the 

long tradition of bowling within the famous complex

 in Auburn Gresham has 12 bowling lanes in addition to its 

 in River North and Wrigleyville. A free open house (with cheap drinks) for Wrigley’s summer league 

 in Bucktown is more known for, well, WhirlyBall, but the event space has several bowling lanes.

 in Goose Island, part of a national chain, 

Where You Can Still Bowl in Chicago

Sure, April showers bring May flowers. Tulips and cherry blossoms, specifically! But this month has a lot more than just rain in store. Check out all there is to do in Chicago.

. Just 130 galleries will be participating in the Navy Pier event, a drop of about 23%. (I will still be there, people-watching for outfit inspo.)

. That’s plenty of time to check out the jam-packed roster of shows at Landmark Century Centre Cinema in Lakeview.

showcasing filmmakers under 22 returns to FACETS in Lincoln Park 

, but April has extra opportunities to dive in:

CAConrad, Rickey Laurentiis, Jake Skeets, S Yarberry

 | April 2 | Poetry Foundation | River North | Free

 and stay tuned to City Cast Chicago all month long for more poetry events.

The eight-day Jewish celebration starts tonight! Here’s where you can 

, Easter is a time for special delicacies in Chicago. 

Then it’s time for carrot cake. Reader recs include:

And if, like me, you find lamb-shaped butter heartbreakingly nostalgic, you can pick some up at 

 in citywide park cleanups ahead of Earth Day on 

Last year, I tried to partake in 420 and had an ego death at Lottie’s after drinking a 5 mg soda. Know your limits — and consider hitting up these 

 on your journey. You can still enjoy a range of hemp products thanks to 

Mayor Brandon Johnson’s veto of the ban

April showers bring May flowers. But this month has a lot more than just rain, check out everything to do in Chicago!

Your Guide to April 2026 in Chicago

Your Guide to April 2026

, don’t forget about the city’s independent Black-owned bookstores. Here are some spots to support across the city.

One of the city’s newest bookstores, Honey & Hue opened in December. The Black woman-owned shop focuses on sharing stories about the experiences of Black people, Indigenous people, and other people of color.

Semicolon Books' physical shop is currently closed for renovations, but you can still order online. It’s set to reopen sometime this year. The nonprofit bookstore was founded by Danielle Moore in 2019 with the mission to amplify minority voices and provide a welcoming space for all readers. It's since provided thousands of free books to Chicago Public Schools students.  

, journalist trina reynolds-tyler, and organizer Andrea Faye Hart co-opened Build Coffee and Books. The shop sells books and zines about social justice and local politics — and 

Underground Bookstore is dedicated to historical literature. By offering a curated selection of books focused on Black heritage and history, they provide resources that can help educate and inspire.

Located in Hyde Park, this Black woman-owned bookstore showcases works by authors of color for readers of all ages. In addition to their curated selection, they host 

Since opening in 2007, this bookstore has developed a large collection of books for kids. It also hosts regular events. 

, Sadeqa Johnson and L. Michelle Smith both have signings and on Saturday, there’s a book brunch for kids.

Jurema Gorham owns this nonprofit bookstore, committed to bringing culturally relevant literature to Chicago’s youth. In addition to providing books to CPS, they also have a variety of events including a book club and a spelling bee.

Where do you get your books in Chicago? 📚

Here are five Black-owned bookstores you can support in the city.

Black-Owned Bookstores in Chicago

Check Out These Black-Owned Bookstores in Chicago

As the feds descend on our city, it’s hard to think of much else. But Chicago is still Chicago. And Chicago is great in the fall.

There are so many ways to soak up autumn — carving pumpkins, watching scary movies, drinking Oktoberfest ales, dressing up for Halloween … Luckily, Chicago covers it all with festivals, parades, and pumpkin patches. Whether your ideal fall day is cozy, spooky, or crafty, we’ve got a recommendation for you!

Take a hayride along the river and enjoy apple cider donuts at Island Party Hut’s autumn Saturday celebrations.

Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Scarecrow Weekend this year by voting on your favorite handmade straw watchman or making a scarecrow-to-go.

 | Oct. 19 | North Park Village Nature Center

Newsletter Editor Emmi highly recommends putting your scarecrow-making skills to the test in the scarecrow competition.

Enjoy a stroll through decorated gardens and watch the animals participate in the fall fun with themed enrichment toys!

West Chicago Fall Festival and Pumpkin Patch

Whether you want your hayride haunted or picturesque, this festival has options!

Come for Chicago’s largest corn maze, stay to enjoy the food trucks and specialty cocktails.

 | Oct. 8-12, 15-19, 22-26 | Chicago Botanic Gardens

Get inspired by hundreds of artist-carved gourds featuring tributes to Chicago sports teams, landmarks, and legends.

 | Oct. 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 | Johnson’s Farm, Hobart, IN

Pick your own pumpkins and squash — to eat or decorate with!

For the serious horror movie marathoner, check out this 24-hour film line-up!

This annual tradition has been named one of the best Halloween parades in the country, so don’t miss it!

 | Through Nov. 2 | Six Flags Great America

Embrace the screams in the scare zones and enjoy terrifying live shows after dark.

What happens when you combine fall flavors and Mexican cooking? An inspired menu featuring pumpkin ancho tostadas and apple empanadas.

Help feed your neighbors and enjoy local brews at the same time! The entry is a suggested donation to The Friendship Center.

The city’s largest Oktoberfest is back with brats, beers, and Bavarian vibes.

Whether your ideal fall day is cozy, spooky, or crafty, we’ve got a recommendation for you!

2025 Fall Fests Coming Up in Chicagoland

Fall Fests Coming Up in Chicagoland

The end of summer can feel tragic in Chicago, but don’t worry — 

temperatures shouldn’t drop consistently till the end of the month

. That means there are about 30 warm days left. Take advantage!

Stave off the end-of-summer blues with jazz. You can kick things off Sept. 1 at the 

 for $25. Later in the month, free options include:

 | Willie Dixon’s Blues Heaven Foundation | South Loop

Meanwhile, other fests continue all over the city. Art lovers, consider 

And for the foodies: two Oktoberfests — one in 

, Riot Fest is back in Douglass Park this year Sept. 19-21. To strike a deal, Riot Fest pledged an additional $1 million to the park over the next five years.

This year’s headliners include Blink 182, Weezer, and Green Day. And — probably — John Stamos will perform. Fest founder “Riot Mike” just got a 

 on his leg, which was one of the actor’s demands to drum for the Beach Boys’ set. 

Riot Fest has a longstanding meme-y obsession with the actor.

 at Soldier Field against the Minnesota Vikings. Will you be tailgating? This year could be one of the last to darty outside the ol’ Spaceship stadium. As of now, building a new Bears stadium in Arlington Heights is 

54th Annual Mexican Independence Day Parade

 will take place Sept. 14 along 26th Street, while the accompanying fest, 

This year’s theme is “Pride and Power: Our Strength, Our Legacy.”

The last couple Emmy Awards were a source of hometown pride as “The Bear” swept. This year, TV’s biggest night takes place Sept. 14, and “The Bear” is nominated in 

 … but I still love seeing Chicago repped at awards shows.

 is a twice-yearly phenomenon when the sun lines up perfectly with Chicago’s grid. This fall, it’ll happen

Sept. 22-25. Head to the Loop to capture building-framed shots, but you should be able to see the burning orange golden hour from just about any east-west street.

Got other things you’re excited for in September? Hit us up at 

The end of the summer can feel tragic in Chicago. That's why we're not calling it the end of summer.

Your Guide to Chicago in September 2025

Between Valentine’s Day and other holidays, there’s lots to love about Chicago in February. Here’s how we’re making the most of the month.

Making dinner reservations around Feb. 14 can be competitive. Plan a unique date instead to a board game cafe like 

 are fun and all, but take inspiration from these locals who 

Lunar New Year celebrations are underway between 

. But we’re perhaps most excited about parades on 

The monthlong commemoration has roots on the South Side. Now, Chicagoans can seek out the new 

If you love the 1993 Bill Murray movie filmed in Woodstock, Illinois, head to the northwestern town for 

 this weekend. Events include a musical adaptation of the film, walking tours, groundhog trivia, and a themed 5K. 

 is also hosting its second annual celebration Sunday.

A production of “A Raisin in the Sun?” A play about the 

 that inspired the lottery? Choose from more than 100 performances for as low as $15 during the 

Watch the Super Bowl with other bitter Bears fans at the 

 at Soldier Field on Feb. 9. Rooting for the Birds? Head to 

 in Roscoe Village. Part of Chiefs Kingdom? Watch the game from 

 in Wrigleyville. Now is the time to get your ticket for 

Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s Chicago concert

 before prices increase after the halftime show.

Craving spring? So is everyone else in Chicago. Book your reservations ASAP for the 

Lincoln Park conservatories’ flower shows

 opening Feb. 12. The team shared tips last spring for how 

Between Valentine’s Day, Lunar New Year, and Black History Month, there’s lots to love about Chicago in February.

Your Guide to Chicago in February 2025

Expecting to have a lot more free time now that 

 in the U.S.? More room on your phone? Here are other apps Chicagoans should have that could at least make your life easier.

The Chicago-based startup hopes to make it easier for people to make friends in the city. Scroll through to find events that interest you with like-minded Chicagoans.

One of the best parts of TikTok? Finding things to do in Chicago. Luckily, The Nudge has ideas for everything from date night to new restaurants in the familiar shortform video format.

Whether you’re tuning into “The Traitors” or awaiting the upcoming season of “The Bachelor,” 

Bracketology TV is the fantasy sports app for reality TV shows

. Draft contestants for different games and compete against fellow fans. Bonus: You can fill out brackets for awards shows.

The app connects people with leftovers that restaurants and grocery stores would otherwise throw away (e.g., day-old pastries, entrees that were returned, etc.). The City Cast Chicago team had a 

 when we tried it out a couple of years ago.

If there’s one thing we know about Hey Chicago readers and City Cast Chicago listeners, you’re all foodies! Beli lets you rank and recommend restaurants — and see what your friends are eating.

City Cast Chicago producer Michelle Navarro’s mom swears by the Pete’s app: You can clip coupons, make lists, and earn rewards!

One of my Near Year’s resolutions is to finally use the Jewel app to find deals and save at the grocery store. Fifty cents off Yoplait yogurt? Paper towels for 90 cents? Say less!

Don’t wait until you have an emergency to download this app: The Flush Toilet Finder app helps you find bathrooms at nearby businesses and 

Whether you need snow shoveled or a pothole filled, make your request to the city’s non-emergency service via their app. Complaining isn’t ideal, 

but it is the way we get things done in Chicago …

Put books on hold and renew titles in the app. Plus, you can check out books with your 

 to borrow e-books and audiobooks from the library.

Upload money to your card and see when the nearest CTA bus or train is coming. You can also purchase Metra tickets on the app.

I toggle back and forth between a few different apps to track the bus, but my favorite is the Transit app, where fellow riders can let you know where buses and trains are in real time.

. If you’re looking for street parking, you’ll need two apps: one to see a map of open spots and another to fill the meter.

Reserve parking spots in garages and lots or valets through this third-party app. You can make hourly or monthly reservations.

Tired of surge pricing on Uber and Lyft? Request a ride in a licensed taxi now or later. You can pay in the app or with cash.

Whether you're looking for a nearby toilet or a cab without surge pricing, these apps will make your life easier.

arts & entertainment

Celebrate Poetry in Chicago

Where You Can Still Bowl in Chicago

Your Guide to April 2026

Latest articles

Celebrate Poetry in Chicago

Where You Can Still Bowl in Chicago

Your Guide to April 2026

Check Out These Black-Owned Bookstores in Chicago

Fall Fests Coming Up in Chicagoland

Your Guide to Chicago in September 2025

Your Guide to Chicago in February 2025

Latest articles

Check Out These Black-Owned Bookstores in Chicago

Fall Fests Coming Up in Chicagoland

Your Guide to Chicago in September 2025

Your Guide to Chicago in February 2025

What Apps to Use in Chicago (Besides TikTok)

What Do You LOVE About Chicago?

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