1. Eat, eat and then eat some more
The Lollapalooza of fine dining, Chicago Gourmet, takes over Millennium Park this weekend. See cooking demos from popular chefs like Rick Bayless, Stephanie Izard and Sarah Grueneberg and sample everything while you’re at it. (Millennium Park, 55 N Michigan Ave, Sat-Sun 12pm-6pm. $180 per day, $295 weekend pass)
2. Find some treasures at an antique market
Randolph Street Market Festival is on again this month in the West Loop. Now’s your chance to find the most unique parts of your home and wardrobe. (Beaux Arts Plumbers Union Hall Building, 1340 W Washington Blvd, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. $10, advance $8)
3. Travel downstate for a great music fest
We don’t usually list events in Champaign, but the annual Pygmalion Festival hosts an impressive lineup of artists that are worth traveling to see, including Future Island and Wolf Parade. (The Accord, 51 E Main Street in Champaign, Fri-Sun 11am-2am. $20-25 per day)
Revolution Brewing hosts its annual Oktoberfest party this weekend at its Kedzie taproom facility. And with plenty of Rev Oktoberfest on tap, it’s always a great party. (Revolution Brewing Tap Room, 3340 N Kedzie Ave, Sat 1pm, Fri & Sun 6pm. $10)
5. Catch some great Chicago hip-hop
If you didn’t get tickets to Chance the Rapper’s Magnificent Coloring Day, you can still catch incredible hip-hop (including Jeremih and the Roots) at Common’s AAHH! Fest. (Union Park, 1501 W Randolph St, Sat 12pm-10pm, Sun 3pm-10pm. $75, advance $65)