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Chicago News and Information Navigate the Windy City like a pro with Time IN Chicago. Our daily podcast offers updates on weather, events, air quality, and local insights, so you can make the most of your time in the city. Whether you're visiting iconic spots like Millennium Park or exploring local neighborhoods, we've got all the info you need."

  1. 5H AGO

    Chicago's Chill Tunes, Hot Eats, and Quirky Vibes - A Winter Weekend Guide

    Welcome to Things to Do in Chicago, listeners! I'm Oly Bennet, your globe-trotting, laugh-out-loud sports nut who's traded soccer pitches for Chicago's wildest vibes. Today, Friday, February 20th, 2026, the Windy City's buzzing with a crisp winter chill—think bundle-up temps around freezing, maybe a light snow flurry to keep things frosty and fun, perfect for indoor jams and hearty eats. Kick off your day at the Winter Jazz Fair at the Chicago Cultural Center from 11:30 AM to 10 PM—free concerts, discussions, and vendor booths for all ages, swinging from smooth sax to bebop bliss. Culture lovers, catch Sons of the Never Wrong's 35th Anniversary and album release at Old Town School of Folk Music at 8 PM—hilarious folk trio with witty banter, special guests, and foot-tapping harmonies that feel like a musical comedy roast. Families, dive into University of Chicago Folk Festival at Mandel Hall with live acts like Gap Civil and workshops—tickets from $5, or stream free online. Night owls, hit The Neo-Futurists' Infinite Wrench at 10:30 PM for 30 plays in 60 minutes of chaotic genius. And foodies, it's the final stretch of Chicago Black Restaurant Week—score deals at Black-owned spots citywide. Local buzz: Gallagher Way's wrapping up Winterland teardown, so Wrigleyville's green space is closed through Sunday—head elsewhere for skating vibes. Public transit's smooth, but bundle up for those CTA winds. Must-dos today: Stroll Garfield Park Conservatory's lush gardens (book ahead), geek out at WNDR Museum's immersive tech art, or catch flicks at the revamped Music Box Theatre. Hidden gem: Grab folk fest vibes then hit Schubas for Haffway's show—raw energy like a quirky curling match on stage. Local tip: Chicagoans swear by the "Polish plunge"—dash from a folk show to a dive bar for pierogies; it's the ultimate winter warm-up hack for that true Chi-town glow. Tomorrow? Music Frozen Dancing block party at Empty Bottle and Argyle Lunar New Year Parade—epic chills and dragon dances await! Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. For more check out https://www.quietperiodplease.com/ and make sure to jump on these great deals https://amzn.to/3V0gjPt For more on Oly check out https://www.instagram.com/olybennet/ This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min

  2. 1D AGO

    Blustery Thursday in Chicago: Comedy, Music, and Lunar New Year Festivities

    Welcome to Things to Do in Chicago, listeners! I'm Ollie Bennet, your globe-trotting sports nut turned Windy City explorer, ready to chase the quirkiest vibes on this crisp Thursday, February 19, 2026. Chicago's buzzing with a chilly winter snap—think 25 degrees and flurries dancing like rogue hockey pucks—but the energy's electric, from comedy roasts to musical magic lighting up the gray skies. Kick off your day with Bernadette: The Musical at Athenaeum Theatre, a soul-stirring show celebrating faith and grit that's perfect for culture lovers. Families, bundle up for The Morning Mix Live on Stage up north on the Chicago North Shore, mixing tunes and laughs. Comedy fans, hit iO Theater for The Fizz Show's carbonated hilarity or Not Like Us, a Black History Month bash packed with improv wizardry. Night owls, gear up for Off-Site Mardi Gras at Cheney Mansion in Berwyn—beads, brass bands, and bites that turn history into a party. And improv junkies, don't miss Improv: The Play at iO for unscripted athleticism that'll have you doubled over. Local buzz: The Art Institute's gearing up for Matisse’s Jazz cutouts next month, while ongoing gems like Firelei Báez at MCA Chicago blend folklore and fire. Transit tip—no major snarls, but CTA's running smooth for these spots. Must-dos today: Storm iO for laugh riots—it's like watching sports improv on steroids—then warm up at a hidden gem like the National Museum of Mexican Art's Traqueros exhibit, tracing rail workers' epic tales. Cap it with Navy Pier's Global Connections Lunar New Year echoes for free festive flair. Local tip: Chicagoans dodge wind like pros—tuck your scarf football-style and yell "Da Bears!" to blend in; it's our secret handshake to instant camaraderie. Tomorrow? More zoo roars at Brookfield and art explosions—tune in, listeners! Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. For more check out https://www.quietperiodplease.com/ and make sure to jump on these great deals https://amzn.to/3V0gjPt For more on Oly check out https://www.instagram.com/olybennet/ This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    2 min

  3. 5D AGO

    Valentangs Shuffleboard, Dumpling Folding, and Nightlife Beats - Things to Do in Chicago

    Welcome to Things to Do in Chicago, listeners! I'm your globe-trotting, laugh-out-loud host Oly Bennet, diving into the Windy City's wildest vibes like a ferret chasing a deep-dish dream. Today, Sunday, February 15, 2026, Chicago's buzzing with a crisp winter snap—think sunny skies around 35 degrees, perfect for bundling up and chasing quirky adventures that beat any armchair sport. Kick off your day with the Valentangs Shuffleboard Tournament at Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club, where lovebirds and rivals sling pucks from 10 AM to 6 PM in a hilarious post-Valentine showdown—Eventbrite calls it the ultimate shuffle smackdown. Families, gallop over to Hing Kee Restaurant's Chinese New Year Dumpling-Making Dinner at 3 PM, folding fortunes for the Year of the Horse amid festive flavors, as highlighted by Chicago Asian Network. Dance into nightlife at Bevy on Sundays at Joy District, where Chicago Promotional Group promises non-stop beats and bubbly starting evening hours. Culture buffs, extend your Black History Month love with DuSable Black History Museum's seven-day February hours and fresh state grant news for epic renovations, per Chicago Gallery News. And train enthusiasts, catch the Juniper Junction Model Train Display at Morton Arboretum, chugging through February 14-22, straight from ChicagoKids.com. Local buzz: CTA's running smooth with no major delays, but snag Ventra app updates for L lines. New spot alert—grab post-shuffle snacks at nearby shuffleboard-fueled pop-ups. Must-dos today: Hit the shuffle tourney for goofy glory, dumpling-fold like a pro, then skyline-gaze from The Bean at golden hour. Hidden gem: Stroll the lakefront imagining Nick Cave's massive "Mammoth" sculptures lumbering by, as WBEZ recaps that wild art stroll. Local tip: Chicagoans dodge winter winds by hugging building sides—pro move for that authentic gust-busting swagger, plus did you know our shuffleboard scene rivals any Euro oddball league? Tomorrow, Josh Johnson's comedy flowers bloom at Chicago Theatre—tune in for more epic scoops! Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. For more check out https://www.quietperiodplease.com/ and make sure to jump on these great deals https://amzn.to/3V0gjPt For more on Oly check out https://www.instagram.com/olybennet/ This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min

  4. 6D AGO

    Romantic Chicago Chills: Hoops, Laughs, and Tasty Treats on Valentine's Day

    Welcome to Things to Do in Chicago, listeners! I'm Ollie Bennet, your globe-trotting sports nut turned Windy City whirlwind, and today we're diving into the quirky pulse of this epic town on this Valentine's Day Saturday. The vibe? Crisp overcast skies around 35 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit right now, according to Time and Date—perfect for cozy layers and that fresh Chicago chill without the brutal bite, setting a romantic, bundled-up tone for lovebirds and adventure seekers alike. Kick off with these hot picks happening today: Catch the electrifying Chicago Public League sports showdown at Credit Union 1 Arena via Ticketmaster—fierce hoops action that's pure adrenaline for sports fans. Romance alert: BioHarmonic Galleries hosts a Valentine's Day Learn Spanish Lunch Date at noon, complete with tacos, wine, strawberries, and beginner dance moves for couples—$75 for two, pure playful magic. Laugh the night away at the Valentine's Day Comedy Show at The Auditorium Theatre, tickets on Ticketmaster. Groove to DJ St. Stephen spinning from 2 to 7 PM at Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club—shuffleboard meets beats for a quirky nightlife twist. Families, bundle up for Adler Planetarium's stellar exhibits and skyline views, open till 4 PM with immersive space shows that scream unique date or kiddo fun. Local buzz: Newcity reports Baggu’s opening a second Chicago store in Lincoln Park soon—grab those reusable bags. The Bear TV fame’s boosting spots like Alinea and Kasama, per Illinois Film Office chatter. No major transit hiccups, but CTA's running smooth for your jaunts. Must-dos today: Hit the Museum Campus for Lake Michigan views and Field Museum wonders—a classic with hidden cosmic gems at Adler. Seek the quirky hidden gem: Stroll Lincoln Park Zoo's free outdoor paths, animals frolicking in the cool air. Seasonal thrill? Valentine's comedy or Spanish date for that offbeat Chicago romance. Local tip: Chicagoans swear by the "Polish triangle" in Avondale for killer paczki on holidays—grab one today for a sweet, doughy taste of Windy City soul; it's like a sports victory in pastry form. Tomorrow? Tease of Ruth Page's Center Stage Fest dance explosion and more—tune in for the scoop! Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. For more check out https://www.quietperiodplease.com/ and make sure to jump on these great deals https://amzn.to/3V0gjPt For more on Oly check out https://www.instagram.com/olybennet/ This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min

  5. FEB 13

    Ice Skating, Musicals, and Lunar New Year: Chicago's Winter Wonderland Awaits on Feb 13, 2026

    Welcome to Things to Do in Chicago, listeners—I'm Oly Bennet, your globe-trotting sports nut turned Windy City whirlwind, ready to spin you through the quirkiest corners of this epic town on Friday, February 13, 2026! Chicago's vibe today is pure winter magic: crisp air begging for hot cocoa, with ongoing ice skating rinks firing up the frosty fun amid a buzz of Valentine's weekend energy. Kick off with these hot picks hitting today. Families, dive into Disney On Ice: Jump In! at the United Center—magical adventures with Mickey and pals that'll have kids leaping like it's the Olympics of whimsy. Culture hounds, catch The Outsiders musical at Cadillac Palace Theatre at 7 PM, a gritty tale of rivalries that's got Tony vibes and heart-pounding drama. For artsy nights, Bad Bunny Paint & Sip at Avondale Music Hall mixes reggaeton beats with brushstrokes—perfect for 18+ creatives sipping and swaying. Music lovers, snag spots at Lincoln Hall's Staff Showcase with Trash Kickers and more, or Maanu at Schubas for global grooves. And hey, ChiTown Drive-In screens Friday the 13th horrors in Pilsen—cozy car chills with popcorn thrills! Local buzz: Ice skating's popping at Maggie Daley Park and Peninsula Sky Rink through March—Chicago Public Library branches host free Family Story Times all afternoon for pint-sized explorers. No big transit hiccups, but bundle up for those lake-effect winds. Must-dos today? Skate Millennium Park's rink for skyline selfies, then hit a hidden gem like Epiphany Center for the Arts' wild exhibits on Black female presence—quirky, profound, and free-ish. Pro tip: Locals swear by the L train's Divvy bike hybrid—grab one post-skate for that authentic Chi-town hustle, dodging tourists like a pro dodgeball champ. Tomorrow? Lunar New Year kicks off at Gangnam Market and puppy parties await—tune in for the deets! Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. For more check out https://www.quietperiodplease.com/ and make sure to jump on these great deals https://amzn.to/3V0gjPt For more on Oly check out https://www.instagram.com/olybennet/ This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    2 min

  6. FEB 12

    Lunar New Year Fever Hits Chicago with Disney on Ice, Konpa Dance Party, and More!

    Welcome to Things to Do in Chicago, listeners! I'm Ollie Bennet, your globe-trotting sports nut turned Windy City explorer, ready to chase the quirkiest vibes on this crisp Thursday, February 12, 2026. Chicago's buzzing with a wintry snap—expect chilly winds around 25 degrees Fahrenheit and flurries dancing like rogue snowballs in a pickup game—but the energy's hot with Lunar New Year fever kicking off the Year of the Horse. Jump into today's action-packed lineup! Families, lace up for Disney On Ice Jump In! at the United Center, where Mickey, Moana, and pals leap through magical worlds from 11 AM—perfect for pint-sized adventurers. Culture hounds, the Asian American Coalition of Chicago hosts their 43rd Annual Lunar New Year Celebration at Marriott Marquis in McCormick Place starting 4:30 PM, featuring lion dances, flutist Jennifer Zhang, and magician Shin Lim for a star-studded bash. Theater fans, catch The Outsiders at Cadillac Palace tonight, bringing S.E. Hinton's gritty tale to life with heart-pounding drama. Dance the night away at the Haitian American Museum's Swaré Konpa party with DJ Frantz, blending infectious rhythms for a cultural groove session. And for artsy souls, check Black History Month staged readings like The M**********r with the Hat nearby in theater circles. Local buzz: Skims just unveiled their sleek Gold Coast flagship in a former bank on Rush Street, dripping exclusive merch. Geja’s Café in Lincoln Park is expanding its fondue romance empire—over 137,000 first dates melted there! CTA's running smooth, but bundle up for any Loop walks. Must-dos today: Hit Millennium Park for free ice skating under the Bean if the rink's open, then snag deep-dish at a hidden gem like Bar Bambi in West Town for Katie Renshaw's wild clarified cocktails. Pro tip: Locals swear by the "Chicago handshake"—a slice of pizza in one hand, Italian beef in the other—it's the ultimate fuel for navigating these streets like a pro. Tomorrow? Josh Johnson’s comedy tour storms The Chicago Theatre—get ready to laugh! Tune in for more epic discoveries. Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. For more check out https://www.quietperiodplease.com/ and make sure to jump on these great deals https://amzn.to/3V0gjPt For more on Oly check out https://www.instagram.com/olybennet/ This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min

  7. FEB 8

    Winter Wonder in the Windy City: A Crisp Chicago Sunday

    Welcome to Things to Do in Chicago, listeners! I'm Ollie Bennet, your globe-trotting sports nut turned city explorer, diving into the Windy City's wild side on this crisp Sunday, February 8th. Chicago's vibe today is pure winter magic—chilly winds whipping off Lake Michigan, but hearts warming with community spirit as folks bundle up for meaningful gatherings and toe-tapping tunes. Kick off your day at the 2nd Annual Winter Walk Chicago in Humboldt Park at 9:15 a.m., a powerful stroll for solidarity against homelessness that'll have you feeling like a local hero. Families, snag free spots at Chicago Children's Museum's Play for All on Navy Pier starting at 10 a.m.—exclusive multisensory fun for kids of all abilities before it opens wide. Music lovers, catch Enjambre rocking House of Blues at 6:30 p.m., blending Latin beats that'll make you dance through the cold. For theater fans, Eureka Day wraps up today with family-friendly laughs at a Chicago spot, perfect for all ages. And if you're up for nightlife, check ongoing shows like Disney On Ice: Jump In! for pint-sized thrills. Local buzz: CTA's running smooth with no major delays, but bundle extra for those gusts—Windy City weather app says highs in the low 30s. New gem alert: Epiphany Center for the Arts just dropped fresh exhibits like Shane-Jahi's powerful portraits through Valentine's. Must-dos today? Stroll the Winter Walk, then warm up with deep-dish at a hidden Pilsen spot like Mano Cornudo for quirky tacos. Hit Millennium Park for ice skating under the Bean—seasonal bliss!—or uncover street art in Wicker Park alleys. Local tip: Chicagoans swear by the "L" train's divvy bike combo—grab a Divvy for last-mile jaunts and skip traffic like a pro. Fun fact: This city's hosted wife-carrying races in past festivals—quirky enough for me! Tomorrow, SZN4's tour hits House of Blues—tune in for more epic picks! Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. For more check out https://www.quietperiodplease.com/ and make sure to jump on these great deals https://amzn.to/3V0gjPt For more on Oly check out https://www.instagram.com/olybennet/ This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    2 min

  8. FEB 7

    Quirky Chicago Adventures: Musicals, Comedy, Art, and More for a Snowy Saturday Delight

    Welcome to Things to Do in Chicago, listeners! I'm Ollie Bennet, your globe-trotting sports nut turned Windy City explorer, ready to dive into the quirkiest corners of this epic town. Today, Saturday, February 7, 2026, Chicago's buzzing with a crisp winter snap—think mid-30s, flurries dancing like they're auditioning for Disney On Ice, and that classic lakefront energy firing up the crowds. Kick off your day with these hot picks hitting all vibes: Catch the Tony-nominated **Stereophonic** at CIBC Theatre, a rock 'n' roll rollercoaster inspired by Fleetwood Mac's studio chaos, perfect for music lovers craving '70s drama. Families, slide into Disney On Ice: Jump In! at the United Center for magical jumps and adventures. Comedy fans, laugh out loud at Hannah Berner's None of My Business Tour at The Chicago Theatre—doors at 6 PM for non-stop hilarity. Art hounds, hit Evanston Made's First Saturday Art Events on the North Shore for self-guided gallery hops full of local gems. And nightlife owls, rave into Levity with Deafadil and Thalo at Concord Music Hall starting 11 PM—pure electronic euphoria. Local buzz: Black Chicago Restaurant Week kicks off tomorrow with prix-fixe deals at spots like Bronzeville Winery and new pan-African gem Mahari, per Block Club Chicago. Palace Grill's sadly closed after 85 years for a United Center facelift, but Greektown's gearing up for its Restaurant Week next month with saganaki steals. Must-dos today: Bundle up for the Family Valentine's Dance at Gompers Park—twirl with kids under string lights. Chase hidden gems like the new Ukrainian mural on Western Avenue, sparking artist chats. Or prowl the Art Institute prepping Matisse's Jazz exhibit—paper cut-outs that scream innovation. Local tip: Navigate like a pro—tap the Ventra app for CTA real-time updates, and snag free saganaki at Greek Islands just by saying "OPA!" to the server. Tomorrow? Black Restaurant Week launches, plus more theater magic—tune in for the scoop! Thanks for listening, please subscribe, and remember—this episode was brought to you by Quiet Please podcast networks. For more content like this, please go to Quiet Please dot Ai. For more check out https://www.quietperiodplease.com/ and make sure to jump on these great deals https://amzn.to/3V0gjPt For more on Oly check out https://www.instagram.com/olybennet/ This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

    3 min
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Chicago News and Information Navigate the Windy City like a pro with Time IN Chicago. Our daily podcast offers updates on weather, events, air quality, and local insights, so you can make the most of your time in the city. Whether you're visiting iconic spots like Millennium Park or exploring local neighborhoods, we've got all the info you need."

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