22 Things to Do in Chicago This Weekend: Events & Activities – March 2024

Chicagoans have a full weekend ahead, with options ranging from an opera performance led by Riccardo Muti to a celebration of South Side quilters. West Town Restaurant Week begins Friday, offering prix fixe menus and discounts at neighborhood eateries, even as Lakeview’s coffee scene will be on display during the Lakeview Coffee Stroll.

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra will host an opera night featuring works by Verdi, with conductor Riccardo Muti leading performances Thursday through Saturday. Tickets begin at $49, according to the CSO.

West Town Restaurant Week kicks off Friday and runs through March 29, showcasing the neighborhood’s diverse culinary scene. Participating restaurants include Bangers & Lace, offering a steakhouse cheeseburger pairing, and Brasero, with a four-course meal priced at $60 per person. Sportsman’s Club will feature a new whiskey cocktail, according to the West Town Chamber of Commerce.

For vintage enthusiasts, the Windy City Market’s Spring Vintage & Artisan Market will be held Saturday and Sunday, featuring clothing, handmade goods, and wellness products. The event is free with RSVP.

Friday brings a variety of events, including the release of Begyle Brewing’s “Coffee Tough Guy” draft, a collaboration with Backlot Coffee. No Telling Vintage in Bridgeport will host a clothing swap, encouraging participants to exchange items and find new looks. Chicago comedian Greg Kennedy will host “good,” a stand-up comedy showcase at The Lincoln Lodge, featuring Sam Rocha, who was named Chicago Reader’s Best Stand-Up Comedian for 2026.

The Den Theatre will premiere “The Posthumous Trial of Giulia Tofana” on Friday, a one-person indicate exploring themes of bodily autonomy and justice. The play, written by Gwyneth Forsythe and directed by Cheryl Snodgrass, tells the story of Giulia Tofana, who allegedly sold poison to women in 17th-century Italy.

Also on Friday, Metro will host “Chicago Drag Melts ICE,” a fundraising event featuring 40 drag performers, with proceeds benefiting Midwest immigration justice organizations. Underground Lounge will host the Chicago Femmerock Fest, showcasing women-fronted bands.

Saturday’s events include a Gardener’s Exchange in Morgan Park, offering seed swaps, seedlings, and gardening workshops. The Dead City Oddities Market will feature dark art, spooky treats, and over 35 vendors. Roots and Rays Creative Counseling will host an open studio for art-making. The Block House Gallery in Pullman will open an exhibit showcasing the work of South Side quilters Doris Barnes, Margo Haynes, Loretta Pope and La Sheral Smith.

The Givins Castle in Beverly will host a “Global Strings” concert featuring Carlo Basile, Fran Banish, and Abdoulaye Conde. Flowers for QTs will host a Trans Wellness Fair in Pilsen, offering resources, performances, and a free food pantry.

Sunday offers the return of the Jefferson Park Sunday Market, featuring produce, meats, and live music. The Lakeview Coffee Stroll will allow attendees to sample coffee and pastries from local cafes along Southport Corridor and Lincoln Avenue. The Viva La Mujer market in Bridgeport will showcase women artists and small businesses. The City-Wide Symphony Orchestra will perform a free concert in Jefferson Park. Podlasie Club will host Shokoufeh Nowruz Edition, a celebration of Persian New Year featuring performers Nick AM, Athena and A. Parssi.