Featured Events in Chicago in October, 2025 (July Updated)

Born in Calcutta and raised in the verdant Himalayan mountains of Kashmir, Shaw draws deeply on the landscapes and memories of his early life, many of which were fractured by political upheaval. Forced to leave Kashmir as a teenager, he relocated first to New Delhi and later to London, where he studied at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design. His work is influenced by a broad range of sources—Mughal and Persian miniatures, Renaissance altarpieces, Old Masters paintings, Japanese arts of the Momoyama period, Kashmiri and Urdu poetry, and Hindu and Western mythology—and yet his visual vocabulary and technique are all his own.

Impressionist artist Gustave Caillebotte (1848–1894)—known and beloved by many Art Institute visitors for his monumental painting Paris Street; Rainy Day—takes center stage in this major exhibition exploring the very personal interests and relationships that shaped his world.

H. C. Westermann’s work combines a graceful mastery of materials, rough and tumble physicality, commonsense philosophizing, acrobatic wit and wordplay, and a sensitive worldview shaped in equal measure by the horrors of wartime and the devotions of love. He used a wide-range of materials but was most dedicated to woodworking, once stating that wood was his “whole life.”

Since 2007, Pixy Liao (廖逸君) has collaborated with her partner, Takahiro Morooka (諸岡高裕, nicknamed Moro), on a series of staged, often humorous self-portraits. These works wryly examine the power dynamics between artist and muse, prod at conservative gender roles, and document the evolution of their relationship.

A deft sculptor and printmaker, ardent feminist, and lifelong social activist, Elizabeth Catlett (1915–2012) was a defining artist of the 20th century. Across nearly 100 years—from Jim Crow segregation through the Cold War and into Barack Obama’s first term as president—Catlett remained steadfast in her commitment to both her art and her political beliefs.

Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition & Conference will showcases products like Aeromedical equipment, aircraft, avionics systems, electronic flight bags, finance & leasing, defence, security and much more etc The largest event of its kind in North America, the Technical Exhibition and Conference provides water quality professionals with top-notch education and training. The Utility Partnership Program offers discounted rates on full conference registration to maximize utility attendance. Information Source: Water Environment Federation | expotobi

Yoko Ono: Music of the Mind presents one of the most comprehensive exhibitions to date of Yoko Ono, the trailblazing artist, celebrated musician, and formidable campaigner for world peace. This remarkable retrospective—on view at the MCA as the only US venue*—celebrates key moments of Ono’s career, showcasing art driven by ideas and expressed in poetic, humorous, and profound ways. Tracing Ono’s career since the 1950s, Music of the Mind presents over 200 works across a variety of media including performance footage, music and sound recordings, scores, film, photography, installation, and archival materials. Participatory artworks—a key aspect of Ono’s practice—also feature in the exhibition, and visitors are invited to partake in several interactive, instruction-based artworks throughout Music of the Mind.

Wafaa Bilal: Indulge Me is the first major survey of internationally renowned artist Wafaa Bilal (b. 1966, Najaf, Iraq; lives in New York, NY). Working in performance, sculpture, and with online and interactive technologies, Bilal’s interdisciplinary practice investigates the dynamic between international and interpersonal politics while highlighting the tension between his home in the United States, which he has deemed the “comfort zone,” and the “conflict zone” of Iraq. The exhibition covers the breadth of Bilal’s versatile career by exploring his performance practice, the use of power in Saddam Hussein’s regime, and Iraqi history and antiquity. It will feature archival displays of his iconic month-long performance Domestic Tension (2007) and year-long performance 3rdi (2010–11), as well as two new works including a sculptural commission for the MCA.

Learn the untold history of four Kumu Hula (master teachers of Hawaiian Hula) who perpetuated, preserved, and protected Hula as a way of life. Listen to the voices of Kānaka Maoli (Native Hawaiians) as they tell their own history and learn how their community continues to thrive in Chicago and beyond. Chicago- and Hawai`i-born Native Hawaiians continue these practices together and act as co-curators for this limited-time exhibition.

Art and science intersect on the three-foot-tall pages of one of the world’s rarest books.

Step into the exciting world of one of the most beloved superheroes of all time in Marvel's Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing – The Exhibition. In this immersive exhibit, you'll see rare comic books, view props and costumes from your favorite Spider-Man movies, explore cutting-edge interactive installations and take photos with life-size statues of your favorite characters, like Miles Morales, Ghost-Spider and, of course, Spider-Man! Superfans can dive deep into the evolution of Spider-Man from his first comic book appearance to the latest TV, movie and video games, while kids of all ages can get hands-on with drawing activities and more.

City in a Garden: Queer Art and Activism in Chicago is an intergenerational group exhibition that highlights Chicago’s essential, yet often underacknowledged, role in the story of queer art and activism. The exhibition examines this history from the mid-1980s, when activists radically mobilized in response to the US government’s disastrous handling of the AIDS crisis. In this moment of change, activists reclaimed the historically pejorative epithet “queer” as a liberatory term, encompassing all who purposefully deviate from heteronormative society. Drawn from the MCA’s collection and other local collections, City in a Garden follows this paradigm shift in LGBTQ+ history by bringing together work from over 30 artists and collectives working in Chicago from the 1980s to the present.

TP20: Celebrating 20 Years of T-Pain is set to be a monumental event, marking two decades of musical innovation and chart-topping hits by the iconic artist T-Pain. Taking place at the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater in Bridgeport, this event promises an unforgettable evening filled with nostalgia and groundbreaking performances. On October 4, 2025, at 8:00 PM, fans and music enthusiasts alike will gather at 500 Broad Street, Bridgeport, CT, to honor T-Pain's illustrious career. Known for his unique blend of hip-hop and R&B, T-Pain has consistently pushed the boundaries of music, and TP20 is a testament to his enduring influence in the industry. With a lineup that promises to feature both classic hits and new surprises, this celebration is not just a concert but a tribute to a legacy that has shaped the sound of a generation. As the amphitheater fills with the electric anticipation of fans, TP20: Celebrating 20 Years of T-Pain will undoubtedly be a night to remember, echoing the artist's profound impact on music and culture.

🍺 Let's celebrate Oktoberfest by running!Get ready to lace up your lederhosen and fasten your dirndls! Our delightful 'Oktoberfest Fun Run' is back with a dash of Bavarian spirit. Join this race that's brimming with Gemütlichkeit (friendliness) and fun! 🍻Overview: Run will sell-out QUICK! We will close off waves the moment they fill up. If waves are sold out, you can sign-up for the virtual run option or wait list.This is a smaller, private group run with a cap per wave.All paces and ages (under 18 with guardian) are welcome - Run or Walk!There's no equipment or setup, this is a pure run with our coordinators to support you in a warm, stress-free setting!When you sign-up, we give you the support you need to help you achieve your goals and fitness. We also invite you to be part of our local run clubs that supports your fitness journey. Timing:- Timing is Optional: You may track your time on an app (Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, etc) and submit your times with our easy form to be posted online. Or you can ask our coordinators to help keep track of your time.- No timing chips (This is a stress free run to support you in achieving your goals)!What You Get (Swag Bag):-Running T-Shirt (Shipped to the address you register with - US only)- Finisher's Towel or Giveaway- Finisher's Medal!- Digital Training Pack- Online Results & Certificate of Completion-Invitation to Join one of our Local Running Clubs- We now have Technical Running Shirts (Optional). These lightweight, moisture wicking shirts can be upgraded for just $5 more.Packet Pickup:No hassle of picking up packets required!-Swag shipped direct to your address (Please make sure you provide your full, correct US mailing address including apartment number and check spelling)- Race bibs are provided on race dayWhen will I get my Swag?You will get your shirt at your mailing address the week of your race.Race Updates:We will email you a final update the Wednesday before the race with final details and course maps.Do you accept last minute registrations? (For those signing up 2 weeks before the race)Yes, but please note that it takes time for us to ship your shirt. Your shirt will likely arrive after the run. You can wear any shirt you find appropriate to run the race! Wave Times: (Email Us Your Desired Wave Time:info@thebestraces.com) (Waves filled on a First Come, First Serve Basis) Wave A: 7:30AM Wave B: 8:00AM Wave C: 8:30AMLate runners can run upon arrival (Please note our coordinators stay 3 hours after the first wave)Are there any other Questions we missed? https://www.thebestraces.com/faq/Virtual Run Option: - Our Virtual Run uniquely offers a Training Pack with Digital Tools to support your run.Virtual runs can be done any time and place of your choosing using any tracking device (optional). After you finish, you can submit your results to info@thebestraces.com to receive your medal!Race Bundle:Sign-up for more races and get a discount!Sponsorships & Promoting your Business:If you're looking to become a sponsor, we'd love showcase your business! https://www.thebestraces.com/events Team Glo Volunteers:If you're interested in helping put on runs for the Community and helping people achieve their goals, we invite you to join our team of volunteers, fill out the form here: https://www.thebestraces.com/volunteer-form/ Be part of the Journey!Our Charity Initiatives. Find out more @ www.thebestracesjourney.com Keep running. Every mile you log after the race, we'll donate $1 to one of the charities we work with! (Note that Fundraising is Optional) Information Source: The Best Races | eventbrite

🍩 Join the Donut Run! 🏃‍♂️Get ready for a sweet race! Gather your friends and lace up for our annual Donut Run, where you’ll run a beautiful course and be greeted at the Finish Line with... donuts🍩! Enjoy a fun-filled day of running, laughter, and Community.Don’t miss out on the chance to indulge in your favorite donuts while making unforgettable memories. Overview: Run will sell-out QUICK! We will close off waves the moment they fill up. If waves are sold out, you can sign-up for the virtual run option or wait list.This is a smaller, private group run with a cap per wave.All paces and ages (under 18 with guardian) are welcome - Run or Walk!There's no equipment or setup, this is a pure run with our coordinators to support you in a warm, stress-free setting!When you sign-up, we give you the support you need to help you achieve your goals and fitness. We also invite you to be part of our local run clubs that supports your fitness journey. Timing:- Timing is Optional: You may track your time on an app (Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, etc) and submit your times with our easy form to be posted online. Or you can ask our coordinators to help keep track of your time.- No timing chips (This is a stress free run to support you in achieving your goals)!What You Get (Swag Bag):-Running T-Shirt (Shipped to the address you register with - US only)- Finisher's Towel or Giveaway- Finisher's Medal!- Digital Training Pack- Online Results & Certificate of Completion-Invitation to Join one of our Local Running Clubs- We now have Technical Running Shirts (Optional). These lightweight, moisture wicking shirts can be upgraded for just $5 more.Packet Pickup:No hassle of picking up packets required!-Swag shipped direct to your address (Please make sure you provide your full, correct US mailing address including apartment number and check spelling)- Race bibs are provided on race dayWhen will I get my Swag?You will get your shirt at your mailing address the week of your race.Race Updates:We will email you a final update the Wednesday before the race with final details and course maps.Do you accept last minute registrations? (For those signing up 2 weeks before the race)Yes, but please note that it takes time for us to ship your shirt. Your shirt will likely arrive after the run. You can wear any shirt you find appropriate to run the race! Wave Times: (Email Us Your Desired Wave Time:info@thebestraces.com) (Waves filled on a First Come, First Serve Basis) Wave A: 7:30AM Wave B: 8:00AM Wave C: 8:30AMLate runners can run upon arrival (Please note our coordinators stay 3 hours after the first wave)Are there any other Questions we missed? https://www.thebestraces.com/faq/Virtual Run Option: - Our Virtual Run uniquely offers a Training Pack with Digital Tools to support your run.Virtual runs can be done any time and place of your choosing using any tracking device (optional). After you finish, you can submit your results to info@thebestraces.com to receive your medal!Race Bundle:Sign-up for more races and get a discount!Sponsorships & Promoting your Business:If you're looking to become a sponsor, we'd love showcase your business! https://www.thebestraces.com/events Team Glo Volunteers:If you're interested in helping put on runs for the Community and helping people achieve their goals, we invite you to join our team of volunteers, fill out the form here: https://www.thebestraces.com/volunteer-form/ Be part of the Journey!Our Charity Initiatives. Find out more @ www.thebestracesjourney.com Keep running. Every mile you log after the race, we'll donate $1 to one of the charities we work with! (Note that Fundraising is Optional) Information Source: The Best Races | eventbrite

The main idea is to hang with the Out Our Front Door community and welcome new folks that are interested in riding or volunteering with OOFD. It is a fun, chill, casual time to socialize and hangout/have a good time. Come meet some of the OOFD crew, ask questions, figure out ways to get involved, ask your questions about bike adventures and camping. At 8:00pm, we will briefly gather round for some very brief announcements. An OOFD Volunteer will highlight a couple upcoming events, share a fun fact about the ecology or history of our location, and point out other OOFD guides in attendance, so everyone knows the faces of some friendly folks who are happy to answer questions about anything Out Our Front Door. Back up location in case the weather is wet or too chilly will be Cove Lounge, a bar up the road from the park. In case of unfriendly outside weather, keep an eye on our social media the day of to see if we make the move. Information Source: Out Our Front Door | eventbrite

Sloths will get there!It doesn't matter how fast we get there, all that matters is we get there. Join this super fun unique 5K, 10K, or 13.1 Half-Marathon run where there is NO time limit!Overview: Run will sell-out QUICK! We will close off waves the moment they fill up. If waves are sold out, you can sign-up for the virtual run option or wait list.This is a smaller, private group run with a cap per wave.All paces and ages (under 18 with guardian) are welcome - Run or Walk!There's no equipment or setup, this is a pure run with our coordinators to support you in a warm, stress-free setting!When you sign-up, we give you the support you need to help you achieve your goals and fitness. We also invite you to be part of our local run clubs that supports your fitness journey. Timing:- Timing is Optional: You may track your time on an app (Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, etc) and submit your times with our easy form to be posted online. Or you can ask our coordinators to help keep track of your time.- No timing chips (This is a stress free run to support you in achieving your goals)!What You Get (Swag Bag):-Running T-Shirt (Shipped to the address you register with - US only)- Finisher's Towel or Giveaway- Finisher's Medal!- Digital Training Pack- Online Results & Certificate of Completion-Invitation to Join one of our Local Running Clubs- We now have Technical Running Shirts (Optional). These lightweight, moisture wicking shirts can be upgraded for just $5 more.Packet Pickup:No hassle of picking up packets required!-Swag shipped direct to your address (Please make sure you provide your full, correct US mailing address including apartment number and check spelling)- Race bibs are provided on race dayWhen will I get my Swag?You will get your shirt at your mailing address the week of your race.Race Updates:We will email you a final update the Wednesday before the race with final details and course maps.Do you accept last minute registrations? (For those signing up 2 weeks before the race)Yes, but please note that it takes time for us to ship your shirt. Your shirt will likely arrive after the run. You can wear any shirt you find appropriate to run the race! Wave Times: (Email Us Your Desired Wave Time:info@thebestraces.com) (Waves filled on a First Come, First Serve Basis) Wave A: 7:30AM Wave B: 8:00AM Wave C: 8:30AMLate runners can run upon arrival (Please note our coordinators stay 3 hours after the first wave)Are there any other Questions we missed? https://www.thebestraces.com/faq/Virtual Run Option: - Our Virtual Run uniquely offers a Training Pack with Digital Tools to support your run.Virtual runs can be done any time and place of your choosing using any tracking device (optional). After you finish, you can submit your results to info@thebestraces.com to receive your medal!Race Bundle:Sign-up for more races and get a discount!Sponsorships & Promoting your Business:If you're looking to become a sponsor, we'd love showcase your business! https://www.thebestraces.com/events Team Glo Volunteers:If you're interested in helping put on runs for the Community and helping people achieve their goals, we invite you to join our team of volunteers, fill out the form here: https://www.thebestraces.com/volunteer-form/ Be part of the Journey!Our Charity Initiatives. Find out more @ www.thebestracesjourney.com Keep running. Every mile you log after the race, we'll donate $1 to one of the charities we work with! (Note that Fundraising is Optional) Information Source: The Best Races | eventbrite

🎀 Join the Fight: Breast Cancer Run! 🎀Lace up and make a difference at our annual Breast Cancer Run! Together, we can raise awareness and funds to support those affected by breast cancer.Enjoy a spirited day filled with community, inspiration, and hope. Let’s unite for a cause that touches us all and run for a future without breast cancer! Sign up now and help us make a lasting impact!Overview: Run will sell-out QUICK! We will close off waves the moment they fill up. If waves are sold out, you can sign-up for the virtual run option or wait list.This is a smaller, private group run with a cap per wave.All paces and ages (under 18 with guardian) are welcome - Run or Walk!There's no equipment or setup, this is a pure run with our coordinators to support you in a warm, stress-free setting!When you sign-up, we give you the support you need to help you achieve your goals and fitness. We also invite you to be part of our local run clubs that supports your fitness journey. Timing:- Timing is Optional: You may track your time on an app (Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, etc) and submit your times with our easy form to be posted online. Or you can ask our coordinators to help keep track of your time.- No timing chips (This is a stress free run to support you in achieving your goals)!What You Get (Swag Bag):-Running T-Shirt (Shipped to the address you register with - US only)- Finisher's Towel or Giveaway- Finisher's Medal!- Digital Training Pack- Online Results & Certificate of Completion-Invitation to Join one of our Local Running Clubs- We now have Technical Running Shirts (Optional). These lightweight, moisture wicking shirts can be upgraded for just $5 more.Packet Pickup:No hassle of picking up packets required!-Swag shipped direct to your address (Please make sure you provide your full, correct US mailing address including apartment number and check spelling)- Race bibs are provided on race dayWhen will I get my Swag?You will get your shirt at your mailing address the week of your race.Race Updates:We will email you a final update the Wednesday before the race with final details and course maps.Do you accept last minute registrations? (For those signing up 2 weeks before the race)Yes, but please note that it takes time for us to ship your shirt. Your shirt will likely arrive after the run. You can wear any shirt you find appropriate to run the race! Wave Times: (Email Us Your Desired Wave Time:info@thebestraces.com) (Waves filled on a First Come, First Serve Basis) Wave A: 7:30AM Wave B: 8:00AM Wave C: 8:30AMLate runners can run upon arrival (Please note our coordinators stay 3 hours after the first wave)Are there any other Questions we missed? https://www.thebestraces.com/faq/Virtual Run Option: - Our Virtual Run uniquely offers a Training Pack with Digital Tools to support your run.Virtual runs can be done any time and place of your choosing using any tracking device (optional). After you finish, you can submit your results to info@thebestraces.com to receive your medal!Race Bundle:Sign-up for more races and get a discount!Sponsorships & Promoting your Business:If you're looking to become a sponsor, we'd love showcase your business! https://www.thebestraces.com/events Team Glo Volunteers:If you're interested in helping put on runs for the Community and helping people achieve their goals, we invite you to join our team of volunteers, fill out the form here: https://www.thebestraces.com/volunteer-form/ Be part of the Journey!Our Charity Initiatives. Find out more @ www.thebestracesjourney.com Keep running. Every mile you log after the race, we'll donate $1 to one of the charities we work with! (Note that Fundraising is Optional) Information Source: The Best Races | eventbrite