Featured Events in Evanston in October, 2023(January Updated)

Join the esteemed gathering of embodied researchers at the Dancing A Black Social: Fall 2023 Symposium. This exciting in-person event will be held at Abbott Hall - Northwestern University in Chicago. Supported by a grant from the Mellon Foundation, the symposium is part of the multi-year SLIPPAGE project Black Dance and Geographies of Freedom, convened by SLIPPAGE artistic director Thomas F. DeFrantz. The symposium aims to explore advanced thought-in-motion around Black Social Dance practices, creating an organizational scaffolding for narratives of liberation. Specialists in Black Dance and Black social formations will come together to imagine relevant research methods that highlight the theoretical and experiential complexity of movements known as Black Social Dance. The symposium will feature a screening of the film Uprooted: The Journey of Jazz Dance, followed by a talkback with contributors from the film. There will be researcher presentations, interactive public presentations, and conversations throughout the event. Don't miss the chance to be part of this intellectually stimulating symposium. Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 12, 2023, and join us at Abbott Hall - Northwestern University. Admission is free, so make sure to secure your spot now. This event is sponsored by the Mellon Foundation, the Alice Kaplan Institute for the Humanities, and SLIPPAGE: Performance|Culture|Technology.

Join the Block Museum Student Associates at the Block Museum of Art, Northwestern University in Evanston for an engaging Art Talk! Take a deep dive into the captivating works on display in our Fall exhibitions, including "Rosalie Favell: Indigenous Artists Facing the Camera" and "For One and All: Prints from the Block's Collection." The Block Museum Student Associates, a group of talented Northwestern undergraduates from various disciplines, will be present in the galleries to initiate thought-provoking conversations about the artworks that pique their curiosity and explore ideas that are relevant to our lives today. You don't want to miss this unique opportunity to gain new insights and expand your artistic horizons. This event is open to all, and no RSVPs are necessary, although they are appreciated. Mark your calendar for the following dates: October 14th from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm for "Rosalie Favell: Indigenous Artists Facing the Camera," October 28th from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm for "For One and All: Prints from the Block's Collection," and December 2nd from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm for another chance to explore "Rosalie Favell: Indigenous Artists Facing the Camera." Art Talk! at the Block Museum of Art is a free event that promises to be both enlightening and inspiring. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to engage with exceptional artwork.

Billy & the Kids is an electrifying concert event that is set to take place at The Capitol Theatre on October 20, 2023. Situated at 149 Westchester Ave, Port Chester, NY, 10573, this iconic venue will be the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable musical experience. The air will be filled with a vibrant energy as the crowd gathers to witness the magic unfold. The talented performers will take the stage and captivate the audience with their incredible musical prowess. From the first chord to the final note, Billy & the Kids will transport you to a world where music reigns supreme. Immerse yourself in the melodic symphony that is sure to leave you breathless. The carefully curated selection of songs will awaken a range of emotions, taking you on a journey through time and space. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these artists in action. So mark your calendars and get ready to be swept away by the enchanting melodies of Billy & the Kids. Don't miss out on this extraordinary event. Tickets will be available for purchase starting from September 9, 2023, at 14:00 until October 21, 2023, at 01:00. Secure your place and prepare to be amazed.

Afrobeats: Lower Frequencies of Contemporary African Sounds, a captivating arts event, is set to take place in the lively city of Evanston. This highly anticipated gathering will be hosted at 1877 Campus Drive room 226, Evanston, IL, USA, offering attendees an immersive experience that transcends geographical boundaries. The event promises to showcase the rich diversity of contemporary African sounds, transporting listeners to the heart of the continent's vibrant music scene. From October 20th to October 21st, visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rhythms and melodies that have been captivating audiences worldwide. What makes this event even more enticing is the fact that admission is free of charge, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to partake in this mesmerizing cultural celebration. Afrobeats: Lower Frequencies of Contemporary African Sounds is a must-attend event for music enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable encounter with the pulsating beats of Africa. Whether you are a connoisseur of African music or simply curious to explore new sounds, this event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that will leave you craving for more. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity to celebrate the lower frequencies of contemporary African sounds.

Join the panel discussion on the hopes, lives, and fates of Afghan women and girls under Taliban rule. Witnessing the Taliban's swift and unexpected recapture of Afghanistan two years ago was a shocking moment for the world. Following 20 years of war, the country's rapid fall led to a hurried evacuation and U.S. troop withdrawal. Unfortunately, the Taliban has failed to fulfill its promises of fair governance and respect for human rights. Instead, they have imposed increasingly severe restrictions on Afghan women and girls. In light of these challenges, the Northwestern Roberta Buffett Institute for Global Affairs, the Central Asia Institute, and the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law's Center for International Human Rights cordially invite you to a discussion on Afghanistan's current situation. Delve into the obstacles faced by Afghan girls and women, explore the remaining possibilities for their empowerment, and understand why it is essential for Americans to remain engaged. Esteemed speakers include Najia Mahmodi, former Chief Prosecutor for Elimination of Violence Against Women in Afghanistan; Martin Smith, renowned producer, writer, narrator, and foreign correspondent; and Alice Thomas, Executive Director of the Central Asia Institute. Annelise Riles, Northwestern Buffett's Executive Director and Associate Provost for Global Affairs at Northwestern University, will expertly moderate the discussion. This event, titled "Afghanistan: What's Next for Women and Girls," will take place at the Northwestern Buffett Event Space in Evanston, IL, on October 25, 2023. Admission is free.

Join the Speaking Bodies Dancing Voices workshop by Altered Skin’s Shane Shambhu on Sunday, October 29th from 10 AM to 1 PM. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to delve into the world of Bharatanatyam, a South Indian Performing Art, and explore its underpinning principles. Participants will have the chance to devise from a different cultural standpoint and discover the impact of multilingual work through reflections on rhythm and structure. Throughout the workshop, you will explore different approaches and starting points to the devising process, as well as the interplay between text and movement. Additionally, you will uncover the power of multilingualism in creating and devising. The workshop will take place at the Virginia Wadsworth Wirtz Center for Performing and Media Arts at Abbott Hall, located at 710 N. Dusable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60611. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your artistic skills and immerse yourself in an enriching cultural experience. The cost to participate is $50.

Join award-winning local suspense author Lori Rader-Day and Susanna Calkins in the MiniBar at Bookends & Beginnings in Evanston as they launch Lori's latest novel, The Death of Us. Lori Rader-Day's thrilling masterpiece, The Death of Us, is a must-read for suspense thriller enthusiasts. Packed with unreliable characters, family secrets, and unexpected twists, this atmospheric and gripping tale deserves a spot on everyone's to-read list. New York Times bestselling author Mary Kubica praises Rader-Day's work, describing it as "unputdownable." Fifteen years ago, Liss Kehoe's life changed forever when she received an unexpected visit from her lifelong rival, Ashley Hay. On that fateful night, Ashley left her infant son, Callan, in Liss's care and vanished without a trace. Liss has raised Callan as her own, but the question of Ashley's fate has always haunted her. Now, Ashley's car has been discovered in the quarry pond on the Kehoe property, raising more questions than answers. Was Ashley's disappearance a tragic accident or something more sinister? As tensions escalate in the small community, Liss must protect her family and keep her own secrets hidden, or risk losing everything. Lori Rader-Day, an acclaimed author with numerous awards to her name, will be joined by Susanna Calkins, an accomplished author of historical mysteries. Together, they will delve into the intricacies of The Death of Us and captivate their audience. Don't miss this opportunity to attend the book launch event on October 4, 2023, at Bookends & Beginnings in Evanston. Admission is free, so mark your calendars and immerse yourself in the world of suspense and intrigue.

BLK FRIDAYS is a remarkable event in Chicago that provides a platform for performing artists and community leaders to come together and celebrate their achievements and the abundance within their fields. Hosted by the talented Writer, Educator, and Activist Awthentik The Poet, and the skilled Poet and Comedian Mark James Heath, this event creates a space for self-care and appreciation for the beautiful humans who contribute to making our city and the world a better place. BLK FRIDAYS takes place on the first Friday of every month from 7pm to 10pm at the Black-owned and operated Bobo Emporium, located at 435 East 71st Street in Chicago. The event is open to individuals aged 21 and above, and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. It is also 420 friendly, so feel free to bring your own beverages. After the captivating performances, there will be Spades and Uno games for everyone to enjoy. Tickets for this extraordinary event are priced at $10, with an option to purchase them for $15 at the door. If you are interested in becoming a vendor, feature, or sponsor, please contact markjamesheath@gmail.com. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of the BLK FRIDAYS celebration!

Welcome to the Opening: Evanston Made Artist Studio Tour Preview Pop Up, an exciting arts event taking place in the vibrant city of Evanston. Located at 2113 Greenleaf St in Evanston, Illinois, this event is set to captivate art enthusiasts and creatives alike. Scheduled for October 6th, 2023, this preview pop-up offers a unique opportunity to experience the artistic talents of Evanston's finest artists. Best of all, admission is free, allowing everyone the chance to immerse themselves in the world of art. Explore the diverse range of studios and be inspired by the creativity on display. Whether you're a seasoned art connoisseur or simply curious about the local art scene, this event promises to be a visual feast for the senses. So mark your calendars and make sure not to miss out on the Opening: Evanston Made Artist Studio Tour Preview Pop Up. Join us as we celebrate the power and beauty of art in this one-of-a-kind event.

Join the Signals and Pixels Art & Tech Meetup every second, third, and fourth Thursday for an exhilarating gathering that celebrates the harmonious blending of art and technology. This meetup is perfect for individuals interested in creative coding, MaxMSP, and the tech arts. Immerse yourself in the exploration of visuals, music, projection mapping, and visual design. This inclusive group envisions a trimonthly+ meetup where sound, visual, and interdisciplinary artists can showcase their latest projects and stumble upon unexpected tech art serendipities or avenues of research for potential grants. Our weekly gatherings feature an array of activities designed to inspire and educate attendees. Prepare to be enlightened by presentations from local creative coders who will share their innovative work and cutting-edge techniques. Additionally, we are considering hosting periodic workshops on various creative coding topics like MaxMSP, MaxforLive, Processing, and VDMX, providing an opportunity to master new skills and embark on your creative coding journey. Furthermore, our open hacking-playtime sessions encourage collaboration and offer a space for you to develop your own creative coding projects. Lastly, take advantage of the networking opportunities at our meetup to connect with like-minded individuals and explore potential collaborations. We eagerly await your presence at the next Signals and Pixels Art & Tech Meetup. Remember to bring your laptop and any necessary materials if you plan to give a presentation, and any instruments you require for workshops. Let us converge in Chicago at the Hairpin Arts Center located at 2810 North Milwaukee Avenue, on October 12, 2023, for this free event.

Join Northwestern’s Department of Spanish and Portuguese for a captivating event titled "Lit & Luz: A Reading and Conversation with Isabel Zapata." On October 18th, attendees can immerse themselves in the insightful world of Zapata's book, In Vitro, and gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable nonfiction piece. Furthermore, this event provides an opportunity to delve into Zapata's work as an independent editor. The event will be moderated by Professor Alfonso Fierro from Northwestern University. This engaging gathering will take place at Locy Hall 314, 633 Clark St, Evanston, IL, providing a serene and intellectually stimulating environment for attendees. Lit & Luz Festival, a distinguished celebration of language, literature, and art, marks its ten-year anniversary with this event. The festival has been instrumental in fostering essential dialogues between Mexican and American residents through curated artist collaborations. From October 13th to 21st, this unique cultural festival will offer a diverse range of bilingual events in Spanish and English, both in-person at various venues in Chicago and online. The festival's opening event, REENCOUNTERS/REECUENTROS, is an exhibition featuring new work from past and present Collaboration Cohort participants. Esteemed author Ana Castillo will deliver the keynote address in partnership with UIC's Center for Latinx Literature of the Americas on October 14th. On October 21st, the Live Magazine Show will take place at the Museum of Contemporary Art theater, where six pairs of Collaboration Cohort participants will present their multimedia collaborative pieces. This event requires tickets for admission. For a detailed schedule of all the events, please visit the official website of the Lit & Luz Festival. Attend Lit & Luz: A Reading and Conversation with Isabel Zapata at Northwestern University to explore the power of language and literature in bridging cultures and fostering meaningful connections.

Join the Block Museum of Art and the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian in Evanston for a special Open House Celebration event in honor of the exhibition "Rosalie Favell: Indigenous Artists Facing the Camera." This festive day will feature open galleries, delicious food, captivating music, and engaging storytelling by portrait sitter Mark Jourdan. Additionally, there will be a gallery talk led by Kim Vigue, the Executive Director of the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, who will provide insights into the history and future of the museum. The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian, located in Evanston, is a unique institution dedicated to showcasing the rich histories, cultures, traditions, and arts of Indigenous people from the United States and Canada. Since its establishment in 1977, this museum has been a valuable educational resource, fostering a deeper understanding of Indigenous peoples and celebrating their diverse cultures and contributions. Mark M. Jourdan, a portrait sitter at the event, has a fascinating background as a member of the Ho-Chunk and Oneida nations. Growing up in Chicago, he traveled extensively with his family, immersing himself in the vibrant Pow-Wow circuit and developing a deep appreciation for music. Today, Mark not only performs music but also teaches guitar and voice training, aiming to convey emotions through his music. Kim Vigue, another portrait sitter, is an enrolled member of the Oneida Nation and a descendant of the Menominee Tribe of Wisconsin. With over 20 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to supporting Native children, families, and communities through culturally relevant initiatives. As the founder of Wolf River Consulting Group and former Communications Director at the U.S. Department of the Interior's Bureau of Indian Education, Kim brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Mitchell Museum. Don't miss this extraordinary Open House Celebration, where you can explore the compelling exhibition of Rosalie Favell's work, indulge in delightful food and music, and gain valuable insights from the portrait sitters themselves. Admission is free, so mark your calendars for October 21, 2023, and join us at the Block Museum of Art in Evanston for this remarkable event.

Coffee & Critiques: October 2023 is an upcoming event organized by AIGA Chicago, a renowned organization in the world of design. This event offers a unique opportunity for designers to receive valuable feedback on their portfolios, websites, resumes, and projects, all while enjoying a casual and relaxed atmosphere. Hosted at the Friendly Coffee Lounge in Berwyn, Illinois, this event promises to be an exciting morning filled with lively discussions and engaging conversations among fellow creatives. At Coffee & Critiques: October 2023, attendees will have the chance to connect with like-minded designers and gain valuable insights into their work. Whether you are looking to enhance your skills, receive feedback on a specific project, or simply connect with other designers, this event is the perfect platform for you. The friendly and supportive environment will encourage meaningful interactions and provide a space for constructive critique. The event will take place on October 22, 2023, at the Friendly Coffee Lounge located at 6731 West Roosevelt Road, Berwyn, IL 60402. Admission to Coffee & Critiques: October 2023 is free, making it accessible to all designers who are eager to improve their craft and establish connections within the industry. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to network with fellow designers and receive valuable feedback on your work. Mark your calendars for Coffee & Critiques: October 2023 and join us for a morning of inspiration, collaboration, and growth. We look forward to seeing you there!

Join the Block Museum Student Associates at the galleries of the Block Museum of Art, Northwestern University for an exclusive Art Talk! This Fall, they bring you closer to the captivating works on view in our exhibitions. Don't miss the opportunity to engage with the thought-provoking art and gain insights into the artists' perspectives. Immerse yourself in the Indigenous Artists Facing the Camera exhibition by Rosalie Favell on October 14 and December 2 from 12:30-1:30pm. On October 28, from 12:30-1:30pm, explore For One and All: Prints from the Block's Collection. And delve into The Block Collects 2023 on October 14 from 1:30-2:30pm and November 11 from 12:30-1:30pm. These Art Talks are facilitated by the Block Museum Student Associates, exceptional Northwestern undergraduates representing diverse fields of study. Their aim is to foster engaging conversations around the artworks and their relevance to our lives today. Admission is on a first-come-first-served basis, so don't miss out! While RSVPs are not required, they are appreciated as they help us prepare for attendance. Mark your calendars for this enriching experience and join us at the Block Museum of Art, located at 40 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston, IL 60208. Art Talk! is a free event that promises to inspire and expand your understanding of art.

Running Tour + In-Person Q&A with Author Rebecca Makkai is an extraordinary physical activity that offers a unique blend of fitness and literary inspiration. This captivating event takes place in the vibrant city of Chicago, providing participants with a memorable experience like no other. Hosted at the renowned Third Space Chicago, located on West Addison Street, this event promises to engage both body and mind. The precise address, 716 West Addison Street, Chicago, IL 60613, ensures easy accessibility for all attendees. Mark your calendars for the exciting date of October 28, 2023, when this immersive experience will come to life. This Running Tour + In-Person Q&A with Author Rebecca Makkai is not just a simple run; it encompasses the opportunity to engage with the brilliant mind behind the words. Rebecca Makkai, an esteemed author, will be present to share insights, answer questions, and provide a deeper understanding of her literary creations. This event is a haven for book lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a well-rounded adventure. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Chicago's streets while gaining unparalleled literary knowledge. Tickets for this exceptional event are priced at $40 to $60, offering a range of options to suit every budget. Don't miss out on this enchanting opportunity to combine physical activity, literary exploration, and the chance to meet the talented author herself. Running Tour + In-Person Q&A with Author Rebecca Makkai is an experience that will invigorate both body and soul, leaving you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the power of words. Secure your tickets now and embark on this remarkable journey.

Adriana Poterash Artist Talk is an exclusive event that offers an intimate afternoon with renowned artist Adriana Poterash. Set to take place on October 29, 2023, at the Evanston Art Center in Evanston, IL, this inspiring gathering will commence at 2:00 PM (Central Daylight Time). Prepare to be captivated by Adriana's artistic journey, as she delves into her creative process and shares the stories behind her mesmerizing artworks. Whether you're a passionate art enthusiast, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about the world of art, this talk is a must-attend! The Evanston Art Center, located at 1717 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201, sets the perfect ambiance for immersing yourself in the art world and connecting with fellow art lovers. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to gain first-hand insights from Adriana Poterash herself and unravel the magic behind her captivating creations. Mark your calendars and get ready to be inspired at Adriana Poterash Artist Talk. This event is free, so make sure you don't miss out!