Category Archives: Summer Fun
Boystown Chicago Northalsted Market Days 2021
Northalsted Market Days® is set to return to Chicago in 2021: August 6, 7 and 8, adding a Friday night edition for the first time. The 1/2 mile long street festival has been an annual summer tradition in Chicago for nearly 4 decades.
As widespread vaccinations continue making progress against the pandemic, planning is underway for a much anticipated comeback.
With safety at the forefront, planning involves continual contact with health officials in the City of Chicago, the State of Illinois and monitoring of CDC guidelines in order to take all necessary precautions to ensure a safe event.
Since the first Market Day in August, 1982, the LGBTQ+ positive event has grown from a handful of folding tables and chairs on the sidewalk, to a half-mile long, annual summer ritual on Chicago’s North Halsted Street from Belmont to Addison.
39 years later, Market Days is now considered among Chicago’s top ten festivals. Thousands attend from near and far enjoying all-day lineups of live music on 5 stages, hundreds of vendors, summer food & drinks, dancing in the street, and more. Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates and this year’s entertainment details.
A $15 suggested donation for entry helps cover festival costs, benefits local charities and supports year round Northalsted chamber programming in the community. Generous public donations, funded the Chicago Pride Crosswalks project, the longest installation of its kind in the world, covering 14 intersections.
The BEST Parties for Chicago Market Days
|
|
|
|
|
|
NOT TO BE MISSED! WATCH!
Cirques Volta – Final Days!
LAST CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE THE HIGH ENERGY AND ACROBATIC WONDERS OF ‘VOLTA’ IN CHICAGO!
Cirque du Soleil’s new Big Top production leaves
Soldier Field’s South Lot on Saturday, July 6
VOLTA, Cirque du Soleil’s newest Big Top production, has less than two weeks left at Soldier Field’s South Lot, 461 E. 18th Drive, with its final performance being held on Saturday, July 6, 2019. VOLTA is the 25th Cirque du Soleil production to visit Chicago and marks the 30th Anniversary of Cirque du Soleil’s first engagement here in 1989 (with Cirque Réinventé).
Cirque du Soleil’s commitment goes beyond the performance, as it aims to positively impact people, communities and the planet with its best assets: art and creativity. During its stay in Chicago, more than 500 VOLTA tickets were donated to eight local organizations geared towards at-risk youth, including Children First Funds, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago and Golden Key Youth Services, and a recent Pride Night performance donated 15% of ticket sales revenue to Equality Illinois.
Following the Chicago engagement, the VOLTA company of 50 acrobats, actors, singers and musicians—along with the 71 trucks transporting the 2,000 tons of equipment needed to set-up VOLTA’s tents and stage—will head to Tysons II in Washington, DC where they will perform a limited engagement under the Big Top from July 26 – September 8, 2019.
The show
Energetic, urban and contemporary, VOLTA is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. Driven by a stirring melodic score, composted by Anthony Gonzalez from the international electronic group M83, and inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA is a story of transformation. It is about being true to oneself, fulfilling one’s true potential, and recognizing one’s own power to make it possible. Ultimate freedom comes with self-acceptance, and with the liberation of the judgement of others.
SNEAK PEAK HERE!
Tickets for the remaining Chicago performances are available for purchase by visiting cirquedusoleil.com/volta or calling 1-877-9CIRQUE (1-877-924-7783). Discover the Hennessy Black VIP Experience packagewhich includes a cocktail reception with open bar and hors d’oeuvres inspired by the show, access to the best seats for greater comfort, complimentary parking, and more!
FINALLY! Boystown Gets Rainbow Crosswalks!
Northalsted Business Alliance Announces Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks
Boystown will get a little more colorful just in time for Pride Month this June with the planned addition of Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks throughout the neighborhood. Initiated by the Northalsted Business Alliance, the rainbows will brighten the street at 14 crosswalks on east-west streets parallel to Halsted from Melrose north to Bradley, excluding Addison.
Thirteen of the crosswalks will feature the rainbow design that represents diversity and has become an inclusive symbol of the worldwide LGBTQ+ pride movement since the 1970’s. The 14th crosswalk will be dedicated to the transgender community. The blue, pink and white stripes found on the transgender flag will be located on Melrose south of the Howard Brown Health Center. This crosswalk will complement the mural at this intersection that has been dedicated to the queer and non-binary community.
The colorful crosswalks join the 20 iconic golden rainbow pylons, which are home to the Legacy Walk memorial plaques, the world’s only outdoor LGBTQ+ History Museum and now recognized by the Chicago Landmarks Commission as a Historic Landmark.
Funds for the Chicago Rainbow Pride Crosswalks come from Northalsted Business Alliance donated during the Chicago Pride Fest® and Northalsted Market Days® celebrations. This project has been in development since December 2018 with the Chicago Department of Transportation and the support of Alderman Tom Tunney and Alderman James Cappleman.
Northalsted President Ramesh Ariyanayakam explains the excitement around the additions.
“As an internationally recognized and historic landmark neighborhood, Boystown has been a place of acceptance and diversity for decades. These crosswalks show our commitment to maintaining a thriving LGBTQ+ community.”
About Northalsted
Since 1980, Northalsted Business Alliance (NBA) has worked collectively to enhance the entertainment district known as Boystown. Representing over 100 In & Proud businesses, NBA is recognized by the City of Chicago, national media outlets and residents for its leadership of advancing economic vitality and quality of life for the total community. To this end, NBA provides programs and services that will increase investment, security, opportunity and activity in our district
Chicago’s Northalsted Market Days Aug 11-12
Northalsted Market Days® is the largest outdoor street festival in the Midwest and Chicago’s biggest summer party! Founded in 1980, the celebration now spans 6 blocks of North Halsted in Chicago’s Boystown/Lakeview neighborhood stretching from Addison to Belmont.
The 2 day/weekend long festival features an all day lineup of live music on 5 stages, unique vendors, arts, crafts, food and drink, DJ’s and dancing. Attendance approaches nearly 200,000 fairgoers, from near and far, all walks of life, and all colors of the rainbow.
The 37th Northalsted Market Days® will take over Chicago’s Boystown neighborhood on August 11-12, 2018!
Performing LIVE: Kristine W – Martha Wash – TRENYCE – Ty Herndon and many more!
Two days – Four stages – Dozens of performers – Top DJs – Over 100 Vendors: Food/Drink/Arts/Crafts/Shopping MORE INFO: marketdayschicago.com
Like our Northalsted Market Days Facebook page for the most up-to-date information.
Northalsted Market Days 2017
Prince Poppycock
Northalsted Market Days Brings Bevy of Entertainment Options
The Northalsted Business Alliance brings a bevy of entertainment options to this year’s Market Days, set for August 12 and 13. The Boystown bash, known for its five stages of entertainment, features a veritable bazaar of shopping and food options in addition to the live music.
The sheer diversity in entertainment guarantees there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From national headliners like Jody Watley to local favorites, from cabaret style singers to funk and beyond, Market Days delivers on its reputation as a must-do fest in the Midwest.
Northalsted Business Alliance Executive Director Chad Honeycutt expands on the appeal of the festival. “To host one of the biggest and longest running festivals in Chicago in such a vibrant neighborhood, naturally draws people from all over the city, state, country and beyond. It’s truly a welcoming and wonderful weekend to experience a fantastic array of music and enjoy the area and all of our offerings.”
Northalsted Market Days/Saturday, Aug 12th
North Stage
1:30P-3:30PM Drag Show
345P-4:30PM Prince Poppycock
4:45PM-5:30PM Inaya Day
5:40PM-7:30PM Drag Show
7:45PM-8:30PM Linda Clifford
845P-930PM Jody Watley
Jody Watley
Steve Grand
7-11 Stage
1PM-2PM DJ
2PM-2:45PM Steve Grand
2:45PM-3:15PM DJ
3:15P-4PM TIFFANY
4PM-445PM DJ
445P-5:30PM Brian Justin Crumb
5:30-7PM DJ
7PM-7:45PM ROBYN S
7:45-9PM DJ
9PM-945PM Maxine Nightingale
Maxine Nightengale
Belmont Stage
2PM-3PM KC Ortiz
3PM-3:30PM DJ
3:30P-5PM Michael McBride & Friends
Michael McBride
5PM-5:30PM DJ
5:30P-7PM Wedding Banned
7PM-7:45PM DJ
745PM-945PM Satisfaction
Jazz Stage (Aldine)
130PM-3PM Joe Policastro Trio
330PM-5PM Whiskey & Cherries
530PM-730PM BMR4
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
NORTHALSTED MARKETDAYS 2017/Sunday, Aug 13th
Big Freedia
North Stage
115P-3PM Drag Show
3:15-4PM BIG FREEDIA
4-6PM Drag Show
615P-755PM Rod Tuffcurls
8PM-8:30PM DJ
835P-955PM Purple Xperience
Belmont Stage
130P-230PM Girl Power Night
2:30-3:15PM DJ
3:15PM-4PM Cece Peniston
Frenchie Davis
4:15-5PM Frenchie Davis
5-6PM DJ
6P-7:30PM Boy Band Review
7:30-8:15PM DJ
815PM-9:45PM Catfight
7-11 Stage
1:15PM-2PM Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus
2:15P-3:30PM Don’t Speak
3:30PM-4PM DJ X-Tasy
4P-515PMJC Brooks & the Uptown Sound
5:15PM-6PM DJ X-Tasy
6PM-720PM 10,000 Maniacs
7:20PM-7:50PM DJ X-Tasy
7:50P-9:50PM 16 Candles
Jazz Stage (Aldine)
130PM-3PM The Winchester Sound
330PM-5PM The Flat cats
About the Northalsted Business Alliance (NBA)
Formed in 1980, NBA represents more than 100 businesses along the Halsted Street corridor. The organization hosts major events throughout the year including Chicago Pride Fest, Pride Prom Northalsted Market Days, the Halloween Parade, Frost Fest and the Legacy Live Series. For information about NBA visit www.northalsted.com.
OUT IN THE PARK Volunteer Event June 13
HEY EVERYONE! This is year 6 for OUT IN THE PARK @ Six Flags Great America.
Every summer we NEED VOLUNTEERS! Anyone interested should join this page.
we will have our first meeting at Charlies in Boystown, Tuesday June 13th at 6:30 pm.
We will provide some pizzas and couple drinks for those who can make it.
There are many different ways to help.
And you can earn FREE TICKETS to the event and other cool stuff.
Each year, a portion of money for the ticket goes to a different charity.
This year HOWARD BROWN HEALTH will benefit!
Neverland Pool Party July 2
The Neverland Pool Party is back! One of the most unique summer parties in Chicago (the ONLY big LGBT dance party with a pool) returns for 4th of July weekend on SATURDAY, JULY 2nd. All-day party from noon-8pm with music by Neverland alum DJ JALIL Z (Miami). Deuce’s and the Diamond Club 3505 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60657
PRIVATE CABANAS: There are 8 private poolside cabanas. Purchase of a cabana comes with a premium bottle of Belvedere vodka & mixers, and admission for 4 people.
VIP POOLSIDE LOUNGE: There are 2 premium VIP poolside lounges; chic setups along the pool with sofas, a bottle of Belvedere vodka & mixers, and admission for 4 people.
**BEEFED-UP SOUND** provided by ILC, the masterminds behind Neverland’s Metro stage installations & lighting.
or Egoist Underwear (3526 N Halsted) has hard-copy tickets (no service fee) for $15 to the pool party.
BEST Summer Vacation Rentals
Beaches, boats, lighthouses, quaint shops, a variety of restaurants, and exciting nightlife awaits you as you enjoy one of our beautiful waterfront condos…
Majestic Getaways offers premier condo rentals in major locations throughout the Midwest;
including Saugatuck and Douglas Michigan. 140 miles from Chicago, these Small towns = BIG Fun! Visit the twin cities of Saugatuck and Douglas Michigan for a welcoming, casual atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the community. Lots of LGBTQ folks from the Midwest flock here to get away from the bigger city life to enjoy the small town feel and great outdoors. Grassy dunes, white sand beaches and quaint streets of shopping make these harbor towns the perfect getaway.
St Joe Michigan. St. Joseph is carefully nestled on the southern tip of what has been termed “The Riviera of the Midwest.” This deepwater port town is a growing resort community – part of a “small town” chain stretching from the state line in a spectacular arc along Lake Michigan. The lakeshore is peppered with remarkable sand dune formations and lined further inland with a lush countryside that produces some of the nation’s finest orchards and vineyards. It is the largest non-citrus fruit growing region in the nation.
Located just 90 miles from downtown Chicago, St. Joseph is a quaint community situated within the larger Benton Harbor/St. Joseph MSA.
South Haven Michigan. One of Michigan’s featured Beachtowns, South Haven defines resorting on Lake Michigan’s eastern shore with majestic vistas and dazzling sunsets.You’ll feel this rich heritage as you gaze over our 100-year old lighthouse -a welcoming beacon in an often turbulent world.
Sandusky Ohio. Sandusky is midway between Toledo to the west and Cleveland to the east. Thrill seekers will have no trouble getting their kicks in Sandusky, home to the world-renowned Cedar Point Amusement Park, boasting 17 roller coasters, plentiful children’s attractions and carousels.
Outside the park, the city entices travelers with its sandy white Erie shores, stunning coastal trails, mysterious Seneca Caverns and numerous refreshing water parks. The downtown waterfront boasts historic architecture, charming boutiques and unparalleled views over Lake Erie.
and Chicago Illinois – Besides Pizza, hot dogs, skyscrapers and world class shopping, Chicago is also known for it’s waterfront. Spanning Over 30 miles of beaches and waterfront that offer the perfect settings for playing, relaxing and soaking it all in. An 18 mile bike path, kayak rentals, dinner cruise on Lake Michigan it’s all here! And you can rent a place Downtown Chicago located in the heart of the city, overlooking the Chicago River!
WATERFRONT VACATION RENTALS by MAJESTIC GETAWAYS offers premier condo rentals! Visit their website for more details and photos. Call them at (269) 349-7700!
Cazwell at Chicago PrideFest
HE’S BACK! CAZWELL!
The seventh single from Cazwell’s Hard 2 B Fresh album is a head-to-toe ratchet trap club banger with hard twerk beats, raunchy, sex-fueled lyrics and a killer drop.
Produced by Richie Beretta, “Downtown” was originally composed for Major Lazer, the electronic music project comprising of record producing DJ Diplo and DJs Jillionaire and Walshy Fire. Cazwell admits he begged Beretta for the opportunity to write lyrics to and record the single as he felt it was the one crucial sound missing from his album. “I needed this vibe for Hard 2 B Fresh,” he explains. “I can be pretty convincing when I want to be.” Cazwell’s “Downtown” is available on iTunes and at all major online music retailers now.
“To take it “downtown” means you’re gonna turn up and not give two fucks about the repercussions,” explains Cazwell from his Manhattan home. The term has become something of a mantra for the party-going rapper whose songs defy convention by mixing gay themes with sharp-edged east coast Hip Hop. He’s even adopted Hip Hop’s large-living lifestyle, something he raps about it in his song.
“I have the money now but there was a time I was ‘downtown’ bougie,” he admits. “That’s when you spend way more money than you can actually afford on dumb shit, not caring about what happens next. If you spend the last of your savings on a bottle of Goose at the club so you can impress your friends, you’re just dead wrong bougie.”
He traces his attraction for lavish street flash to a youth spent listening to classic nineties rap. “I remember the legendary MC Lyte singing how she was ‘funky fresh, dressed to impress, ready to party’. That line always resonated with me.”
It’s even echoed in “Downtown” when Cazwell raps how he is ‘pressed fresh and I don’t give a fuck’. “It essentially means the same thing,” he acknowledges. “I’m squeaky clean, I’m dressed fly as all hell, I’m moisturized, my clothes are wrinkle free and my kicks are crispy. I’m about to show off and nobody can tell me nothin’.”
It’s not the song’s only throwback to pre-millennium fabulousness. There’s also a nod to nineties supermodels Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, and Naomi Campbell. “You know I had to give a little old school shout out to the ladies,” he laughs. “If you’re sitting pretty that’s one thing, but if you’re sitting pretty with the original supermodels than you must be fresh and pressed.”
The larger than life downtown fantasy is carried into the song’s music video, directed by 19-year-old first-time music video directors, Bob Bottle and Ben Evans. It’s a style of video fans will likely view as atypical for Cazwell, harkening back to the homegrown (and initially banned) feel of his first hit, “All Over Your Face”.
“We were inspired by the films “Spring Breakers” and “Clockwork Orange”, and the new generation of gay teenagers on Tumblr who are curating sexy boy pics like they’re some kind of world renowned art collection,” explains Cazwell. “We bring their digital fantasy to life by submerging gay porn stars, models, and go-go boys in a surreal New York City house party overloaded with Tumblr-inspired imagery.”
When conceiving the video, they paid close attention to creating shots they thought would make great GIFS and still frames. Many contain pop culture references, including a cameo from New York nightlife icon, Amanda Lepore, who truly embodies the magic of Downtown. “Amanda is the extra something special with any video she has a cameo in, and since the song is very New York, it made a lot of sense to have her included,” says Cazwell.
“I thought it would be especially funny if she showed up when the party was over and was basically like ‘where is everybody?’”
A Massachusetts native, Cazwell has been described as what would have happened if Eminem had grown up on Madonna’s front lawn. He became a You Tube sensation after a million people viewed his ‘Ice Cream Truck’ music video in a single week. He has since earned hipster credibility with a steady flow of danceable hip hop tracks that impressively showcase his hypomanic take on pop culture.
Earlier this year, Cazwell released his first full-length album in four years, “Hard 2 B Fresh” on Brooklyn indie, Peace Bisquit. The new batch of Hip Hop comedy gems features seventeen tracks including his latest that is currently tearing up dance floors, “Dance Like You Got Good Credit,” “Spicy”, “The Biscuit” and “Don’t Get It Twisted.”
WATCH THE NEW VIDEO DOWNTOWN
Catch Cazwell in Chicago at PrideFest Sunday June 21st at 5pm!
For more information, visit Cazwell.com and PeaceBisquit.com. The “Downtown” Tumblr page is at: http://downtowncazwell.tumblr.com/
Gay Pride Puerto Vallarta DEALS
• Hotels, condos, tour operators and airlines have joined forces to be part of the largest LGBT event in the region.
• Vallarta Pride is proud to have the unconditional support of local, national and international businesses to carry out a world class event.
CHICAGO! get away this May and SAVE!
The third gay pride festival “Vallarta Pride” will take place from May 17 to 25, 2015. This festival in honor of the LGBT community living and visiting our vibrant tourist destinationis being supported by several local, national and international businesses under the theme of “Unity”.
It is now easier than ever to come enjoy and live the Vallarta Pride experience with the special promotions and travel packages that hotels, condos, tour operators and airlines are offering this year.
The Blue Chairs Hotel, Hotel Emperador, Hotel Catedral, Hotel Mercurio, Puerto de Luna, Rivera del Río and Villa Mercedes are all offering the 4th night free by booking 3. This promotion will run throughout Vallarta Pride. The condos Andales on the Bay, Condo Carmen Alicia and Piñata Gay Guest House will also join this initiative offering the same deal.
Other accommodation deals include Casa Cupula and OlasAltas Suites (book 4 nights and get the 5th night free), Puerto Vallarta Beach Club (4th night free by booking 3 via http://www.equalitydestinations.com/ using the code EQDPV) and Puerto Vallarta Timeshare Rentals (Get 70% off resort prices when you book a week through http://www.sellmytimesharenow.com/).
The Airlines that have joined the Vallarta Pride travel deals and will offer a discount of up to 10% are Aeroméxico (code B542D12A, valid only in national flights and form May 20 to 25, 2015), Alaska Airlines (code EC8368 and valid till May 29, 2015) and Delta Airlines (code NMKSE and valid form May 9to June 2, 2015).
As nightlife entertainment cannot be missed during your Puerto Vallarta visit, Gay Vallarta Bar Hopping is offering 10% discount when booking using the code Vallarta Pride. GayPV is also offering two complete travel packages:
• Exclusive Travel Package for Pride*
Airfares, Hotels, Events and Excursions (Including Andrew Christian Events)
• VIP Travel Package*
Andrew Christian event tickets, “Wet & Wild” Gay Cruise, fashion show and 5-night hotel accommodation.
*Exclusive deals only available on: http://gaypv.mx/deals/pride2015/.
For more information on these deals and promotions, visit here
and the official Facebook Page
HEATWAVE CHICAGO IS HERE!
THE TEMPERATURES
ARE PLUNGING!
There is a polar invasion in the Midwest…..
but don’t fret…HEATWAVE IS ALMOST HERE! After more than 1 year of planning, the party, like no other, is arriving this weekend. BUT IT’S ALMOST SOLD OUT!
24 hours at Key Lime Cove. We bought out the ENTIRE COMPLEX and portions of rooms booked will go the benefit the Chicago Gay Mens Chorus!
400 rooms.
12 hours of music with 4 DJ’s and CAZWELL!
Don’t want a room?
Can’t stay the night?
Get a party ticket for $85.
Room packages start at $200 for 2 people for 24 hours!
Yesterday EVERYONE wis trying to call and book rooms for Heatwave. Is that a Midwest thing…waiting to the last minute?? LOL – Because this is a special private event, each reservation can take time to process and answer everyone’s questions – hence, phone hold times may be annoying.
SO, WEDNESDAY NIGHT (Nov. 12th) 8pm-10pm the Key Lime Cove folks are coming to Scarlet Bar (3320 N. Halsted) to do reservations live one-on-one in person. And we only have about 50 -55 room packages left – where you get a room and party admission! So if you have not booked a room yet – come on out and book your room and we’ll celebrate with some Fireball shots on me!!
An event like Heatwave HAS NEVER BEEN DONE. You do not want to miss this!
Friday night we’ll be at Scarlet bar for another event – Heatwave Kick Off Party!
Come hang with Trannika Rex, designer Traver Rains and the fabulous Jasen Kaplan!
See YOU at HEATWAVE!
Heatwave is less than 8 Weeks Away
In about 8 weeks, HEATWAVE will be here! Summer fun in NOVEMBER!
From the producers of OUT IN THE PARK @ SIX FLAGS comes this new and unique event.
24 Hours of LGBT Paradise at Key Lime Cove INDOOR Water Park Resort!
Be a part of the country’s first-ever 24-hour PRIVATE LGBT Indoor Poolside Dance Party and Water Park Celebration Benefiting a Chicago Non-Profit Organization each year. Year one will be Chicago Gay Mens Chorus.
You get a room AND the party for $100 per person (based on double occupancy).
get all the details at HeatwaveChicago.com
You must call the hotel to book your room and you must say HEATWAVE EVENT.
AIDS Foundation Chicago Walk Run Sept. 14th
PRE-REGISTRATION ENDS TOMORROW on September 3 for the 2014 AIDS Run/Walk Chicago!
Sign up to join our community of passionate individuals and partner organizations gathering to support vital services for those living with HIV/AIDS in the Chicagoland area!
www.aidsrunwalk.org
Girls Girls Girls! BackLot Bash Chicago 2014
Where the girls come and play!
Back Lot Bash is an outdoor music and entertainment festival started in 2004 and one of the most highly anticipated and attended pride weekend events for lesbians in the country!
FOUR DAYS of events Showcasing local and emerging musicians as well as established performers of different genres, Back Lot Bash highlights unity, equality and inclusiveness in an environment that is festive and celebratory of everyone in our community.
AND MUCH MUCH MORE!
Grab a weekend pass while they are still available and save!
Fresh Cooking Ideas with Chef Tong June 22 @ Chicago Bontanic Gardens
Foodies and their friends will be flocking to the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden for this day of great tastes and gorgeous presentations.
Chef Christopher Tong of My Private Chef, one of Chicagoland’s most versatile Chefs, will share one of his favorite garden fresh recipes at Chicago Botanic Garden’s
popular annual Garden Chef Series.
Chef Tong will appear on Sunday, June 22, 2014 at 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. in the
Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, Illinois.
The Garden Chef Series promotes the Garden’s message of growing and using seasonal vegetables,
fruits and herbs. Chef Chris will use the spectacular open-air kitchen and amphitheater at the Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden to present his cooking demonstration.
People who are casual cooks or lovers of gourmet food get to ask questions, discuss preparation,
and come away with a fabulous recipe that they can try at home. Chef Tong will give tips on ingredients, and serving. And, everyone gets to have a taste! Seating is limited and on a first-come, first served basis.
Admission to the Chicago Botanic Garden and Garden Chef Series is free.
Parking is $25.00 per car; free for Garden members.
For more information about this Garden Chef Series event, call 847.835.5440
or visit www.chicagobotanic.org.
My Private Chef is enjoying popularity as one of Chicago’s favorite private gourmet dining services. Trained in European-style fine cuisine, Chef Tong established his reputation at fine restaurants and hotels in Florida, California, and Chicago. Now he has adapted his impressive skills to the world of private entertaining. My Private Chef offers enticing cuisine for a wide range of events, from intimate dinners
to weddings to corporate parties.
Chef Chris says: “Every event is different and I’ve met some wonderful people including many celebrities. Being part of very special occasions makes my work worthwhile. I also love doing cooking demonstrations where I get the feeling that audience members will go home and try some new dishes!”
Some recent appearances include cooking classes and demonstrations on local television, at Bloomingdale’s Home & Furniture Stores, Whole Foods Market, Gilda’s Club Chicago, Taste of Chicago and this return engagement at the Chicago Botanic Garden
For more information about My Private Chef, call Event Services at 773-370-8131 or visit www.myprivatechef.net.
Madison WI Fruit Fest June 14th
Madison’s Gay Summer Music Festival FRUIT FEST returns June 14th!
Fruit Fest is an Annual LGBTQI Summer Music Festival held in Madison, Wisconsin. The music festival is an all-ages free event organized to celebrate Madison’s gay community through a day of music, performance, art, and celebration. This year’s Fruit Fest will be held on June 14th and feature headliner Debbie Gibson, as well as many local folk musicians, punk bands, DJs & drag queens. The event will also include the 4th Annual Fruit Loop 5k run/walk, and the 4th Annual Star Fruit karaoke competition. Food, beer and alcohol will also be served on festival grounds from a variety of vendors.
Fruit Fest is located in the heart of Willy Street in the Marquette Neighborhood, an Eastside neighborhood swarming with LGBTQA folks making it the most diverse, and ‘coolest’ hood according to Madison’s Isthmus Favorites. Last year, attendance was near 1200+ over the course of the nine hour festival including locals & many from 90+ miles away.
Fruit Loop 5k
On June 14th Fruit Fest will be hosting the Fourth Annual Fruit Loop, a 5K run/walk through the beautiful Marquette Neighborhood, starting and ending at the Fruit Fest event grounds. The proceeds from the run/walk are distributed to Community Shares of Wisconsin who gives them to LGBT organizations.
In 2011, the First Annual Fruit Loop had over 120 runners and walkers. Check out all the great pictures from the event. We expect the turnout to be even greater this year! Dress as fruity as you want and come out to run or walk and have some fresh-squeezed summer fun for a good cause. If you are interested in participating in the upcoming Fruit Loop on June 14th, you can register here.
Keep up to date with their official FACEBOOK PAGE
Spring Arrivals at J Prince Studio in Boystown
One of Chicago’s top interior designer and event planner, Ramsey Jay Prince has set up a permanent shop, J PRINCE STUDIO, on North Broadway, and has something for everyone.
The boutique is a beautiful mélange of Prince’s trademark, luxurious style with carefully selected one of a kind vintage and salvaged pieces with seasonal couture items also for sale. This is the urban Fashionista’s one stop shop for their home, fashions, and gifts.
Lots of new spring arrivals! Including one-of-a-kind mens swimsuits, shorts and shirts! Check out the Spring Fashion Show and Sale! Friday April 25th at MiniBar.
Spring Fling Fashion Show and Sale. See the hottest looks in Spring/Summer sportswear and swimwear. You will be able to purchase some of the looks right off the runway in the pop up shop with a portion of all sales to benefit Chicago House ! Doors at 8 show at 9
Besides lots of wonderful gift items and decor for the home, the store has gotten a very unique line of swim suits, underwear and summer clothes that no one else in the city is carrying.
Cute shorts and fun shirts plus hot swim suits!
Stop in and see what’s new!
3744 N Broadway.
b/t Waveland Ave & Grace St in Lakeview.
