Sample the best local eats at the Thursday night Argyle Street Market, where establishments like Sun Wah BBQ and Tank Noodle dish out dinner, and regional farmers share their bounties. The market opens at 5pm and also features musical performances. (Argyle St and Sheridan Rd, 5pm. Free)
The weekend celebration known as Fiesta del Sol begins tonight and continues into the weekend, so why wait? Jump-start the party with Mexican music, food and culture and be part of one of the largest Latino fests in the Midwest. (1400 W Cermak Rd, noon. Free)
3. Party in an alley with friends
Our favorite alleyway art exhibition/dance party returns to Couch Place. Tonight, ACTIVATE includes a sneak peek of the documentary, Midway: The Story of Chicago Hip-Hop, and performances coinciding with the "Move Your Body: The Evolution of Chicago House Music" exhibition currently at the Chicago Cultural Center. Did we mention this event is completely free, plus you can RSVP for a drink on the house? (Couch Place, enter on State between Lake and Randolph, 5pm. Free)