January in Chicago: Events Around Town
Updated: January 25, 2018
January is heating up, literally. The weather will be great this weekend and there are a few things to check out around town. Chicago Restaurant Week is kicking off so go try out some new restaurants. Tune in to The Jam tomorrow from 6-8AM to get more on this weekend's happenings!
NOW - January 28: Fillet of Solo
Come out and enjoy storytelling performances at Lifeline Theatre. There will a dozen storytelling collectives and numerous solo performers for a three-week, multi-venue selection of powerful personal stories. Regular single tickets are $40.
January 26 - February 8: Restaurant Week 2018
Chicago Restaurant Week 2018 returns on January 26 and continues through February 8. The 11th annual culinary celebration features special prix fixe menus starting at $22 for brunch or lunch, and $33 and/or $44 for dinner (excluding beverages, tax, and gratuity). Over 370 restaurants take part all over Chicago will be participating!
January 28: Donut Fest
Donut Fest is coming to Chicago, with an amazing line-up of some of the best donuts from around town. Spend a day dining on fried dough at this year's fest. This is a perfect event to satisfy a sweet tooth. Tickets are priced a $50.
If you need more ideas, check out Zak Stemer's weekend round-up on The Jam.
PAST
January 1: New Year's Firework Presentation
What better way to bring in the New Year than with a Chicago firework show? Navy Pier’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks Show takes place on New Year's Eve, from 12:00 am – 12:15 am.
January 8 - 14: Chicago Park District Free Fitness Week
Want to kick off the new year by getting in shape? You can get a free workout at the fitness centers at various parks in Chicago. With dozens of fitness centers, hundreds of fitness classes and more than 20 parks that offer lap swim times, there are a variety of ways at locations throughout the city to get your new year off to a healthy start. All classes and entries are free.
January 11-21: The Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival
January does not have to be gloomy. Laugh for 8-days straight at The Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival. The Chicago Sketch Comedy Festival is now the largest in the world, hosting over 180 groups from around the globe, performing nearly 200 shows over 8 days. A two-week pass is $250 and a one week pass is $125.
January 12 -14: Cubs Convention
Calling all Cubs fans to the 33rd Annual Cubs Convention! The event will be held at the Sheraton Grand Chicago and feature autograph signings, player meet-and-greets, interactive exhibits and special panels with Cubs players, alumni and management and more.
January 20: Chicago Ale Fest
The 2018 Chicago Ale Fest – Winter Edition will take place on Saturday, January 20, 2018, in the Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier. The fest will feature more than 150 American craft beers, food trucks, and a live DJ. Tickets start at $49.
January 20: Polar Plunge
Take the plunge and support the Chicago Polar Bear Club. After you jump in, go celebrate at the afterparty. Tickets for the full experience are $35. All of the proceeds are donated.
January 20: Polar Adventure Day
Geared towards kids, Northerly Island’s Polar Adventure Days features lots of fascinating fun, including meet and greets with Siberian Huskies, ice sculpture creations, storytelling, live music, and more.
