Chicago Weekend Events Guide

Chicago Air and Water Show

Prepare for a thrilling display above the city. The Chicago Air and Water Show features extraordinary performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team, and skilled civilian pilots Susan Dacy and Kevin Coleman. This exhilarating event runs from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on August 15-16, with a rehearsal on August 14, centered on North Avenue Beach, 1600 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Learn more about this free event at chicago.gov.

Brahms X Radiohead at Ravinia

Experience an innovative musical fusion at Ravinia. Steve Hackman has orchestrated a seamless blend of Brahms’s First Symphony with Radiohead’s “OK Computer.” Performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and guest vocalists, this unique presentation challenges the audience with unexpected transitions. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. on August 14, with gates opening at 5 p.m. at Ravinia Festival, 201 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park. Tickets start at $30, available at ravinia.org.

Mon Laferte at Allstate Arena

Latin sensation Mon Laferte takes the stage at Allstate Arena with her latest album, “Femme Fatale Vol. 2.” Described as “ambitious and unhinged” by Pitchfork, the Chilean-Mexican artist brings a mix of playful and poignant sounds. The concert starts at 8 p.m. on August 15 at Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. Tickets start at $56.45. Visit rosemont.com for more information.

James Austin Johnson Stand-Up in Chicago

Famed for his Trump impersonations on “Saturday Night Live,” James Austin Johnson is bringing his “Ideal Man” comedy tour to Chicago. Catch his stand-up routine at the Den Theatre with shows at 7:15 p.m. on August 14 and shows at 7:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on August 15. The venue is located at 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave., and tickets are available from $28 with a two-item minimum. Purchase tickets at thedentheatre.com.

Tori Amos at Auditorium Theatre

Join Tori Amos as she performs her latest album, “In Times of Dragons,” which combines haunting piano chords with contemporary political themes. See her live at 8 p.m. on August 14 at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive. Tickets start at $47.80. Visit auditoriumtheatre.org for more details.

Moe. and Umphrey’s McGee at Ravinia

For jam band enthusiasts, Moe. and Umphrey’s McGee offer a night of improvisational performances that promise a distinctive experience. The concert begins at 6:30 p.m. on August 15, with gates opening at 5 p.m. at Ravinia Festival, 201 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park. Ticket prices start at $60, available at ravinia.org.

K-Love Live at Chicago Theatre

CeCe Winans headlines “K-LOVE Live,” presenting music from her latest album, “The Hymns.” Joining her are contemporary Christian musicians Jeremy Camp and Andrew Ripp. The event begins at 7 p.m. on August 16 at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St. Tickets are available from $85.45 at msg.com.

Elston Skate Club at Salt Shed

Get your skates ready for a fun-filled day at the Elston Skate Club. Enjoy live DJ performances while you skate, learn skills, and participate in contests and races. The event runs from 3 to 10 p.m. on August 16 at Salt Shed, 1357 N. Elston Ave. Tickets start at $21.38 at saltshedchicago.com.

World’s Largest Karaoke at Salt Shed

Join a massive karaoke event aiming to set a record. Gather with fellow singing enthusiasts from 4 to 10 p.m. on August 15 at Salt Shed, 1357 N. Elston Ave. Enjoy this free event and find details at saltshedchicago.com.

Fan Expo at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

Fan Expo promises a star-studded weekend with appearances by Kurt Russell, William Shatner, Danny Glover, Christopher Lloyd, Elijah Wood, and more. Celebrate nostalgia and meet actors from classic movies and hit series. The expo continues through August 16 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Tickets start at $51 at fanexpohq.com.

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