FAMILY FUN

EXPO CHICAGO is a leading international art fair held annually at Navy Pier, showcasing contemporary and modern art from over 170 galleries worldwide. The 2025 edition runs April 24–27 and features global exhibitors, talks, and public installations. Now owned by Frieze, the fair has cemented its status as a premier cultural event in Chicago.

The Chicago Tea Festival 2025 will take place on April 12-13 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Copernicus Center in Chicago. This annual event celebrates global tea culture and welcomes tea lovers, experts, and enthusiasts. General admission is $30 at the door, and VIP tickets are $79, with all tickets sold online. The festival is run by a nonprofit team of dedicated volunteers and features vendors, guest speakers, and educational sessions.

C2E2 2025 takes place April 11–13 at McCormick Place in Chicago, featuring comic creators, celebrity guests, panels, cosplay, and more. Big names like John Boyega, Elijah Wood, Molly Ringwald, and cast members from X-Men: The Animated Series will be in attendance. Tickets for Friday and Sunday are still available, but Saturday and VIP passes are sold out. Attractions include Artist Alley, Cosplay Central, Family HQ, and the Pride Lounge.

The Chicago White Sox will open their 2025 season with a four-game home series against the Los Angeles Angels at Rate Field from March 27-30. Opening Day is Thursday, March 27, at 3:10 p.m. CDT, featuring a ceremonial first pitch by Derrick Rose and a flyover by the Illinois Army National Guard. Other key games include Friday, March 28, at 7:10 p.m., Saturday, March 29, at 1:10 p.m. (with a 1907 replica jersey giveaway), and Sunday, March 30, at 1:10 p.m. for Kids Opening Day. All games will be broadcast on CHSN and ESPN 1000 radio

The Winter Farmers Market at Water Tower Place runs Sundays from January 12 to March 30, 12 PM - 4 PM, on Level 4. It features 75+ vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and snacks. Activities include live music, kids' play areas, VR gaming, cooking demos, and pet photography. The event also offers lounges, specialty programs, and interactive experiences.

The Chicago Flamenco Festival 2025, hosted by Instituto Cervantes Chicago, runs from March 1 to March 24, celebrating its 23rd anniversary. The festival showcases top flamenco artists through live performances, workshops, lectures, and films. It highlights flamenco’s multicultural roots and modern interpretations. Events take place at Instituto Cervantes and Space Evanston, with support from Spanish cultural organizations.

Take the plunge at the Chicago Polar Plunge on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at North Avenue Beach, where thousands will brave the icy waters of Lake Michigan to support Special Olympics Illinois. Register online, raise $200, and enjoy a fun-filled event with costumes, hot chocolate, and a community of supporters—all for a great cause. Sign up today and make a splash for inclusion!

Andersonville Restaurant Week runs from February 21 to March 2, 2025, featuring special prix fixe menus at $30, $45, and $60 from various local restaurants. It's an opportunity to explore diverse cuisine and support small businesses in the Andersonville neighborhood. Participating restaurants include Anteprima, Big Jones, Fiya, Lady Gregory’s, and more. Full details and menus will be available soon.

Experience the magic of puppetry at the 7th Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival, running from January 15 to 26, 2025. With over 100 events across numerous Chicago venues, the festival showcases a diverse array of performances, workshops, and exhibitions suitable for all ages. Don't miss captivating shows like "Dracula: Lucy’s Dream," "The Cabinet," and "I Killed the Monster." Ticket prices range from $15 to $48, ensuring an affordable cultural experience for everyone. Join us this winter to celebrate the enchanting world of puppetry!