Things to do around Chicago: Ringling Bros., the Children’s Film Festival and a toy fair
The circus is in town. Also a film festival just for kids and Dwight Yoakam in concert, and the Chicago Architecture Biennial is now open.
‘The Greatest Show on Earth’
After a five-year hiatus, a touring show by the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus is stopping at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont this weekend. Instead of animal tricks, expect aerial acts, dance trapeze and spectacles such as the Double Wheel of Destiny.
Nov. 3-5 at the Allstate Arena, 6920 Mannheim Road, Rosemont; tickets $18-$128 at ringling.com.
Chicago International Children’s Film Festival
This festival, which is celebrating 40 years, is a chance to discover new global indie films for children and teenagers, including animation, live-action and documentary movies. Attend in-person or virtual Q&A sessions with filmmakers to learn more about their work.
Nov. 3-19 at various venues including Facets, 1517 W. Fullerton Ave.; single tickets start at $12, more information at facets.org/cicff
Hot Chocolate Run
Run 5K, 10K, 15K or 2 miles and then indulge in a post-race party. Racers will get a mug of chocolate fondue with dippables, and of course, hot chocolate at the end of the run.
7:30 a.m. Nov. 5 starting at Grant Park, 301 S. Columbus Drive; more information at hotchocolate15k.com
Dwight Yoakam
The Grammy Award-winning country artist many times over is playing at Hard Rock Live this weekend.
7 p.m. Nov. 4 at Hard Rock Live Northern Indiana, 5400 W. 29th Ave., Gary; tickets from $59.50 at www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com
Chicago Toy and Game Fair
Explore experimental and immersive events, interactive exhibits and other activities at North America’s biggest game and toy fair. Check out giant Jenga, bumper cars, a racecar simulator and other games. Plus there’s a beer and board game garden for adults to enjoy
10 a.m.-6 p.m. Nov. 4 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 5 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont; tickets are $12 for adults, $6 for children (kids under 3 are free), more information at chitag.com/2022-fair
Wines in the Wild
Sip on wine and liquor from distilleries and wineries across the country, snack on food, and hear from animal ambassadors. There will also be a silent auction with prizes related to travel, wine and the zoo.
6-10 p.m. Nov. 4 at the Brookfield Zoo’s Discovery Center, 8400 31st St., Brookfield; tickets are $300, more information at czs.org/WinesintheWild2023
Chicago Architecture Biennial
North America’s largest survey of international architecture and architectural thought takes place in Chicago just every other year. Its fifth edition, titled “CAB 5: This is a Rehearsal” is now open at sites across the city, including the Cultural Center, the Thompson Center and the Chicago Architecture Center, with works from more than 80 participants under the artistic direction of Floating Museum.
Through Feb. 11, 2024; more information at chicagoarchitecturebiennial.org
Hubbard Street Dance
The leading Chicago dance company begins its 46th season with a program titled “Of Peace,” featuring choreographer Darrell Grand Moultrie’s “Dichotomy of a Journey,” Lar Lubovitch’s “Coltrane’s Favorite Things” and Aszure Barton’s “Return to Patience,” a company premiere by the resident artist.
Nov. 2-5 at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. at Millennium Park; tickets $15-$110 at www.hubbardstreetdance.com
