1. Watch the deadliest reading series
Literary lovers do battle and pray their penmanship takes them to the next round in Literary Death Match. Four authors face-off and only make it to the next round if they impress a panel of judges, otherwise, they're cut. Who will win this round? (iO The Mission, 1501 N Kingsbury St, 8pm, $12 online and $15 box office)
2. Play ping pong at Susan Sarandon's club
SPiN is having a grand opening tonight for its new Chicago location with a surprise performance at 10pm. Grab a table and some paddles at this social club, restaurant and bar (oh, and coffee lounge by day). (SPiN, 344 N State St, 9:30pm, $29-$59)
Hollywood and science converge in this film series that screens Back to the Future tonight. During the event, three Alder astronomers answer all the burning time travel questions that pop into guests' heads. (Adler Planetarium, 1300 S Lakeshore Dr, 6pm, $22 adult, $15 member $10 child)