Be the first to see the next Tina Fey or Aziz Ansari at Comedians You Should Know. This weekly show is hosted by five Chicago- and Los Angeles-based comedians who bring hidden stand-up gems to the stage. (Timothy O'Toole's, 622 N Fairbanks Ct, 9pm, $5 advance, $10 door)
2. Get to know some 17th century icons
See a series of portrait prints from the 17th century painter Anthony van Dyck which are on display at the Art Institute for the first time in 90 years. The project consists of more than 100 portraits of iconic monarchs, diplomats and scholars of old. (Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, 10:30am-5pm, Free for children, $16-$25)
Taste a bit of poetry during your lunch break at the Poetry Foundation's 30-minute Pop-Up Poetry series. Today's reading features Helene Achanzar who has received awards from the University of Iowa Writer's House and Philippine American Writers and Artists. (Poetry Foundation Building, 61 W Superior St, 12pm, Free)