Fiestas Patronales Puertorriqueñas: Chicago’s 46th annual Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade kicks off at 2 p.m. Saturday at Division Street and Campbell Avenue, but the party has already started in Humboldt Park. Expect live music, a carnival, vendors, arts, dominoes, a pageant and plenty of food and drink. 4 p.m.-10 p.m. June 7 and noon-10 p.m. June 8-9 in Humboldt Park, 2800 W. Division St.; festival tickets $12.50-$68.50 at puertoricanfest.com

Andersonville Midsommarfest: Andersonville nods to its Swedish heritage with a street festival featuring dozens of vendors and merchants, kids’ activities and five stages of entertainment. The Swedish American Museum, which has a fantastic children’s area, will offer free admission throughout the weekend as well as Swedish cuisine and activities.  5 p.m.-10 p.m., June 7, noon-10 p.m. June 8-9 on Clark Street, between Foster Avenue and Gregory; tickets suggested donation $10, more information at andersonville.org

“The Enigmatist”: Puzzle-solvers take note: Magician and New York Times crossword creator David Kwong offers a glimpse into his way of thinking in his 95-minute mind-bender of show, inspired in part by a bit of Chicago-area history. Through June 30 Upstairs at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Navy Pier, 800 E. Grand Ave.; tickets $59-$110 at chicagoshakes.com

“Stokely”: Snag tickets to Nambi E. Kelley’s biographical play about the life of civil rights activist Stokely Carmichael. The play, which a Tribune review deemed “superbly directed” by Tasia A. Jones, spends most of its 90 minutes exploring Carmichael’s childhood and youth. Through June 16 at the Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Ave.; tickets $56-$88 at courttheatre.org

“Ravel Boléro”: Stéphane Denève will conduct Maurice Ravel’s “Boléro” and Claude Debussy’s “Ibéria” at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet will perform Camille Saint-Saens’s “Egyptian” concerto (Piano Concerto No. 5). The program also features Lili Boulanger’s “D’un matin de printemps.” 7:30 p.m. June 6-11 at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave.; tickets $35-$350 at cso.org

James Taylor and His All-Star Band: Nothing says summertime like listening to James Taylor under the stars. This year at Ravinia, the cicadas will be backing him up. 7:30 p.m. (gates at 5 p.m.) June 8-9 at Ravinia, 201 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park; tickets $77-$230 at tour.jamestaylor.com

“Shout OUT! A Tribute to Gays in Gospel Music”: Lucy Smith and the Lucy Smith Quintet will perform the music of Little Richard (Richard Penniman), Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Rev. James Cleveland, Clara Mae Ward and Billy Preston in a concert honoring LGBTQ+ contributions to gospel music. Cheryl Corley, who wrote and narrates the show, will explore the historical role these musicians played in the Civil Rights Movement as well as their relationship to the church. 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. June 9 at Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St.; tickets $15 at lucysmithjazz.com

Katherine Blanford: Comedian Katherine Blanford brings her confessional brand of stand-up to Chicago for a three-night stand. Known for her “human golden retriever presence,” Blanford’s comedy centers around her Kentucky roots and her awkward adolescence. 7 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. June 7-8 at Zanies Chicago, 1548 N. Wells St.; tickets (ages 21+) $30 at katherineblanford.com

Godzilla vs. Music Box: Wish Godzilla a happy 70th birthday as the Music Box Theatre joins with the Japanese Arts Foundation to host a film fest celebrating the beloved kaiju. It kicks off June 7 with a double feature of “Shin Godzilla” and last year’s excellent (and poignant) “Godzilla Minus One”—the first Godzilla film to win an Oscar. The festival includes something for everyone: a 24-hour screening, kid-friendly flicks (one hosted by Svengoolie), film historians and, of course, plenty of epic monster battles. June 7-13 at Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave.; tickets $12-$35 at musicboxtheatre.com

Have something to do around Chicago? Tell us. Email events to day.chitribevents@gmail.com.

Opening night performances at Bridgeport’s Ramova Theatre are already sold out, but the blues will echo throughout the rest of the weekend from three stages in Millennium Park. Southern Avenue will headline Saturday night, and tributes to Jimmy Rogers, Dinah Washington and Otis Spann will feature jam sessions with nearly two dozen artists. 

The full lineup follows below for stages in Millennium Park, which is marking its 20th anniversary season. The Blues Festival has become a cornerstone of the park’s free summer series. 

IF YOU GO

When: Noon to 9 p.m. June 7-9

Where: Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St. Admission is free. Enter off of Michigan Avenue at Washington or Madison streets, or from Randolph and Monroe streets at the McCormick Place walkway midway up the block. (The BP Bridge from Maggie Daley Park is exit-only during events and the Nichols Bridgeway from the Art Institute is closed.)

Safety and security: The festival will be held rain or shine except in the case of severe weather. Allow time to pass through security. Bags and containers are subject to search and the area is under 24-hour surveillance. Prohibited items include weapons, drugs, fireworks, pets (service animals permitted), open flames, noisemakers, and bags and coolers larger than 26 inches long by 15 inches wide by 15 inches tall. Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult (age 21+) after 6 p.m. Park hours are 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Food and drink: Wally’s BBQ Pit, in the North Promenade, will offer a full menu of food and drink, including beer, wine and cocktails. Festival-goers can pack their own picnic, but no outside alcohol is permitted. 

Restrooms: The West Arcade and East Arcade restrooms on the lower level of the Pritzker Pavilion are open during park hours and have wheelchair accessible stalls. A small number of accessible restrooms are also located in the McCormick Tribune Plaza adjacent to Millennium Hall on Michigan Avenue.

More information: ChicagoBluesFestival.us. Follow on Facebook (@ChicagoBluesFestival), Instagram (@ChicagoDCASE), (@Millennium_Park); or X/Twitter (@Millennium_Park) or (@ChicagoDCASE).

SCHEDULE

THURSDAY, JUNE 6

6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Shemekia Copeland and Ronnie Baker Brooks at Ramova Theatre, 3520 S. Halsted St. in Bridgeport; free reservations are sold out (ages 18+), ramovachicago.com

FRIDAY, JUNE 7

Jay Pritzker Pavilion
7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. Centennial Tribute to Jimmy Rogers featuring Kim Wilson, Jimmy D. Lane, Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne, Bob Margolin, Sebastian Lane, Felton Crews and Kenny “Beedy Eyes” Smith
6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Mr. Sipp
5:15 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Corey Harris

Visit Mississippi Juke Joint Stage (South Promenade)
4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Big A & The Allstars
3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. J’Cenae
1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Keith Johnson & The Big Muddy Band
Noon to 1:15 p.m. Nora Jean Wallace

Rosa’s Lounge (North Promenade)
6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Last Call with WDCB Radio and Carlos Johnson
5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Sheryl Youngblood
3:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Luke Pytel Band, featuring Laretha Weathersby
2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Ivy Ford
12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Lil’ Jimmy Reed with Ben Levin

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

Jay Pritzker Pavilion
7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. Southern Avenue
6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Vanessa Collier
5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Centennial Tribute to Dinah Washington, featuring Dee Alexander, Elizabeth Faye Butler, Kristin Atkins, Bruce Henry, Miguel de la Cerna, Jeremiah Hunt, Charles Heath IV and Melody Angel

Visit Mississippi Juke Joint Stage (South Promenade)
4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Dexter Allen
3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Ra’Shad the Blues Kid
1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Melvin Taylor
Noon to 1:15 p.m. Mzz Reese and Reese’s Pieces

Rosa’s Lounge (North Promenade)
6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Last Call with WDCB Radio and Ivan Singh
5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. The Mike Wheeler Band
3:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Jamiah “Dirty Deacon” Rogers and the Dirty Church Band
2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Vino Louden
12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Al Spears & The Hurricane Project

SUNDAY, JUNE 9

Jay Pritzker Pavilion
7:45 p.m. to 9 p.m. Buddy Guy
6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Cash Box Kings
5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Centennial Tribute to Otis Spann, featuring Johnny Iguana, Roosevelt Purifoy, Rie “Miss Lee” Kanehira, Sumito “Ariyo” Ariyoshi, Oscar Wilson, Bob Stroger, Billy Flynn and Kenny “Beedy Eyes” Smith

Visit Mississippi Juke Joint Stage (South Promenade)
4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. Jaye Hammer
3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Anissa Hampton
1:30 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Jonathan Ellison & The RAS Blues Band
Noon to 1:15 p.m. Southern Komfort Brass Band

Rosa’s Lounge (North Promenade)
6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Last Call with WDCB Radio and The Stephen Hull Experience
5 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. Melody Angel
3:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. Omar Coleman Westside Soul
2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Joey J. Saye Trio
12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Nate Manos Band with Alicia “Ya Yah” Townsend

AFTER-PARTIES AND MORE BLUES

Consult the venues for hours and ticket information.

June 7

10th annual Blues Fest AfterParty at Reggies Chicago, 2105 S. State St.; www.reggieslive.com

Lil’ Jimmy Reed with Ben Levin Band at Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W. Armitage Ave.; rosaslounge-com.seatengine.com

June 8

Hot Blues Night at Chess Records Studio with Nick Moss Trio and guest Ben Levin, 2120 S. Michigan Ave.; www.bluesheaven.com

June 9

Joe Pratt & Source One Band at The Odyssey East, 9942 S. Torrence Ave.; 773-978-6520 and facebook.com/joeprattsourceone

Little Harvey and Chi-Town Blues at Rooster’s Palace, 5748 W. North Ave.; facebook.com/p/Roosters-Palace-Music-House

“Native Son”: Lifeline Theatre’s production of Nambi E. Kelley’s “propulsively paced one-act play” based on Richard Wright’s classic 1940 novel garnered four stars in a recent Tribune review. The play, which debuted a decade ago at Court Theatre in Hyde Park, stars Tamarus Harvell and James Lewis. Through June 30 at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave.; tickets $18-$48 at lifelinetheatre.com

Rhino Fest: Billed as Chicago’s longest-running fringe theater fest, Rhino Fest continues throughout the month of June, hosting about 70 shows at six venues across Chicago. The event will feature the fourth-annual BIPOC Play Fest at Perceptions Theatre. Rhino Fest is presented in partnership with Prop Thtr, which supports the development of new plays and other performance and digital arts work. Through June 30 at various venues; pay-what-you-can tickets and information at rhinofest.com

Chicago Puppet Lab Showcase: Snag a ticket to watch original puppet theater take shape. Each performance features four original works-in-progress by Chicago artists Tracey Christmas, Rev. Van Ferdinand, Leah Lara, Wendy Madrigal, Jacqueline Penrod, Myra Su, Brett Swinney and Laura Torres. Through June 2 at Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center, 4048 W. Armitage Ave.; tickets $15-$20 at chicagopuppetfest.org

Tim McGraw: The Grammy Award-winning country music star brings his Standing Room Only Tour to the United Center. Carly Pearce and Heartwreckers will open. 7 p.m. May 31 at the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.; tickets $70.50-$95.50 at timmcgraw.com

An Evening with John Cusack: Watch a screening of “High Fidelity,” the 2000 movie based on Nick Hornby’s novel. Evanston native John Cusack will chat afterward about the making of the film and his career. 7:30 p.m. May 31 at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive; tickets $46-$96 at auditoriumtheatre.org

Circus Vazquez: Acrobats, clowns and death-defying stunt performers will put on a show in three Chicago-area locations. The 55-year-old Vazquez family circus will roll into town featuring an international cast in a climate-controlled big-top tent. Through June 3 at 440 W. 26th St.; June 7-June 24 at Woodfield Mall, 5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg; and June 28-July 7 at Yorktown Center, 203 Yorktown Shopping Center, Lombard; tickets $30-$40 at circusvazquez.com

Nocturna 36th Anniversary Ball: Dance all night as DJ Scary Lady Sarah presides over the 36th anniversary celebration of the dark alternative dance party. Features GlitterGuts photobooth, a candy cauldron and giveaways. All black attire encouraged — or your best interpretation of goth club chic. 11 p.m.-5 a.m., June 1 at Metro, 3730 N. Clark St.; tickets (ages 18+) $15-$20 at etix.com

Butterflies and Blooms: The Chicago Botanic Garden’s 2,800-square-foot butterfly enclosure has opened for the season, now through Labor Day. Catch an eyeful of color as species native to North America, South America, Asia and Africa flutter by, including blue morphos, paper kites, starry crackers, buckeyes and Julia longwings. Or, if Glencoe’s too far, go to Lincoln Park: The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s Judy Istock Butterfly Haven offers daily first flight releases at 2 p.m. and Saturday morning yoga classes. Both institutions include butterfly exhibits with general admission fees. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, is open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; tickets $11.95-$21.95 at chicagobotanic.org. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive; tickets $8-$17 at tickets.naturemuseum.org

Beyond Wonderland: Experience two days of EDM and rave music, art and culture as a new festival debuts on the Chicago lakefront, put on by Insomniac Events. Music on four stages, including headliners Kaskade, Diplo and Tiësto. 2 p.m.-11p.m. June 1-2 at Huntington Bank Pavilion on Northerly Island, 1300 S. Linn White Drive; two-day general admission passes start at $229.98 (ages 18+) at chicago.beyondwonderland.com

Have something to do around Chicago? Email events to day.chitribevents@gmail.com.

“English”: Sanaz Toossi’s Pulitzer Prize-winning drama “English” ostensibly follows four Iranian adults as they prepare for a language test, but its real work is in examining the expression of identity.  Through June 16 at the Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St.; tickets $20-$55 at goodmantheatre.org

Ana Belaval: You may know her from WGN-TV’s morning news, but Ana Belaval has been performing bilingual standup for more than a decade. Her comedy explores the gaps between Puerto Rican and American culture. 7:15 p.m. May 24-25 at Zanies Comedy Club, 5437 Park Place, Rosemont; tickets $30 at rosemont.zanies.com

Sueños Chicago: Rauw Alejandro, Peso Pluma, Maluma and Young Miko headline a lineup featuring more than 25 Reggaeton and Latin artists. Noon to 10 p.m. May 25-26 in Grant Park; suenosmusicfestival  

LCD Soundsystem: Go see if James Murphy is losing his edge as LCD Soundsystem brings its Kinda Tour to the Aragon Ballroom for a four-night stand. 8 p.m. May 24-27 at the Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W. Lawrence Ave.; tickets $90.50 and up (ages 18+) at lcdsoundsystem.com

“Back Home: Polish Chicago”: Consider how Polish immigrants shaped Chicago since the mid-1800s in an exhibition featuring more than 100 photographs and 90 artifacts and documents. Artwork by Voytek Glinkowski, Andrea Jablonski, Andrzej Krukowski, Monika Lozinska and Irena Siwek punctuates the exhibit, exploring themes of duality and industry. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday through June 8 at the Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St.; tickets $15-$29 at chicagohistory.org

“Level Up: Gamers & Writers”: A new exhibit explores the evolution of role-playing and video games and their place in American culture. From Dungeons & Dragons (invented in Lake Geneva) to Baldur’s Gate 3, soak up 50 years of this unique narrative form and then try it for yourself: The exhibit features a room where visitors can play storytelling games. Opens May 24 at the American Writers Museum, 180 N. Michigan Ave.; tickets $10-$26 at americanwritersmuseum.org 

Sundays are For Lovers: R&B Day Party and Fever II: The Ultimate Afrobeats Rave: It’s a long weekend, so treat Sunday like it’s Saturday. Consider an afternoon of R&B or stay out late with Mo Gwala, DJ K.O. and DJ Certified. R&B at 3 p.m., Fever II at 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. May 26 at The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave.; tickets (ages 21+) $13.86-$168.86 at promontorychicago.com

Game Changer Wrestling: Feeling aggressive? Hardcore professional wrestling takes over Thalia Hall. 8 p.m. May 25 at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St.; tickets $34.99-$52.99 at ticketweb.com

Garden Movies: Outdoor movies have returned to the Music Box Theatre’s patio. Wrap up Memorial Day Weekend with the launch of Christopher Guest Week: “For Your Consideration” screens Monday and Tuesday, with “A Mighty Wind” following on Wednesday and Thursday. Additional films will play in the garden throughout the summer, featuring such themes as John Waters, Grey Gardens and School’s Out. 8:30 p.m. most Mondays-Thursdays at the Music Box Theatre, 3733 N. Southport Ave.; tickets $8 at musicboxtheatre.com

Have something to do around Chicago? Email events to day.chitribevents@gmail.com.

CHIRP Music Film Festival: Binge on concert films and music documentaries as the CHIRP Music Film Festival takes up residence in Lincoln Square’s Davis Theater. It kicks off Friday with a screening of “Melomaniac,” a film about Aadam Jacobs, who recorded tens of thousands of Chicago concert sets. Jacobs will play snippets of his collection following the film. Other screenings will feature Joan Baez, Grace Jones and Little Richard as well as films about backup singers, early ’80s punk and new wave, and the history of Chicago house and hip hop music. May 17-19 at the Davis Theater, 4614 N. Lincoln Ave.; tickets $14-$55 at eventbrite.com

Chicago Jazz String Summit: Founded 10 years ago by cellist and composer Tomeka Reid, the summit will pay honor to violinist Regina Carter and celebrate the contributions of other string artists to jazz. Performers will include cellists Dorothy Carlos and Janel Leppin, DoYeon Kim on the gayageum, and Yacouba Sissoko on the kora. May 17-19 at various venues; tickets $15-$20 each night; more information at chicagojazzstringsummit.com

Holly Humberstone: The British singer-songwriter tours with her debut album, “Paint My Bedroom Black.” Humberstone opened for Olivia Rodrigo during several stops of the Sour tour, and it’s not hard to see why. Swifties and Livies take note. 7:30 p.m. May 17 at The Vic, 3145 N. Sheffield Ave.; tickets $100 at hollyhumberstone.com

“Ridiculous!”: Magician and sleight-of-hand artist David Williamson considers the meaning of the word “ridiculous” in a new one-man stand in Rogers Park’s intimate Rhapsody Theater. Through June 30 at the Rhapsody Theater, 1328 W. Morse Ave.; tickets $30-$75 at rhapsodytheater.com

Millennium Park Summer Workouts: Summer comes early to Millennium Park, as weekly Saturday workouts kick off this week. Take your choice of pilates, yoga, cardio kickboxing or Zumba. Bring your own mat and soak up the skyline. 8 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. May 18 to Aug. 31 on the Millennium Park Great Lawn, 201 E. Randolph St.; free; more information at www.chicago.gov

Renegade Craft Fair: Head to Andersonville to browse the booths of more than 250 artisans and artists. Can’t make it to the craft show’s spring installment? It’s due to pop up in other areas of the city in July, September and November. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 18-19 on Clark Street between West Bryn Mawr and West Edgewater Avenue; more information at renegadecraft.com

“Mortified Live — Summer Vacation”: Ready to cringe? For more than 20 years, “Mortified” has been offering comedy and catharsis as average folks share embarrassing snippets from their childhoods — diary entries, notes, poems, videos and more — to illuminate life stories. 8 p.m. May 18 at the Studebaker Theater, 410 S. Michigan Ave.; tickets $39.50 at getmortified.com

American Writers Festival: With about 75 authors, the second installment of the American Writers Festival promises to pack a whole gamut of literature into the afternoon of May 19. The lineup includes novelists Lydia Millet and Michael Zapata; historians Kevin Boyle and Harold Holzer, literary critic Marie Arana; journalist Mark Bowden; comedian Jamie Loftus;  and young-adult novelists Samira Ahmed and Claire Legrand. Free panel discussions will be conducted alongside writing workshops, literary crafts and book signings. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 19 at Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St.; free; information at americanwritersmuseum.org

Henry Crown Space Center reopens: A SpaceX Dragon and a biofeedback belt worn by astronaut Mae Jemison will go on display as part of the newly renovated Henry Crown Space Center at the (recently rechristened) Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Jemison, who was raised in Chicago, was the first Black woman astronaut in space. The Dragon spacecraft, which was briefly on display after MSI acquired it in 2022, ferried cargo to the International Space Station in 2017 and 2019. The Henry Crown Space Center first opened in 1986 and showcases the Apollo 8 Command Module and the Mercury Aurora 7 Capsule. 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily beginning May 19 at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive; tickets $14.95-$25.95 at msichicago.org

Heart: The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers arrive in Rosemont with Cheap Trick on their 2024 Royal Flush World Tour. 8 p.m. May 17 at the Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont; tickets from $35 at www.ticketmaster.com

Megan Thee Stallion: She’s playing two nights in Chicago on her Hot Girl Summer Tour with guest GloRilla. 8 p.m. May 17 and 19 at the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.; tickets from $75.50 at www.unitedcenter.com

Have something to do around Chicago? Email events to day.chitribevents@gmail.com.

Chicago Archaeopteryx: If you’ve ever struggled to explain to your child how that pigeon on your windowsill is related to ancient dinosaurs, now you can show them: The Field Museum is now home to a rare Archaeopteryx fossil, the earliest known avian dinosaur. Featuring feathers, hollow bones, a long tail and 50 teeth, the fossil is the museum’s most significant acquisition since Sue the T. rex. Its display features a hologram-like, 3D rendering of what the Archaeopteryx might have looked like when it was alive. It will be on view until the museum’s Dinopalooza on June 8. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through June 8 at the Field Museum, 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive; tickets $14-$30 at fieldmuseum.org

National Mural Day: Tuesday marked the official day, but there’s no expiration on appreciating free public art. Consider a self-guided tour, made all the easier by a map highlighting 20 murals in Wicker Park and Bucktown. Created by the Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber and the Special Service Area #33, the map features the “Vivan Maier Mural” by Eduardo Kobra; “I Am a Man” by Darius Dennis, Robin Alcantara, Jared Diaz and Ephraim Gebre; “Indigo Bunting Bird” by Becky Gourley; Lisa Wronski’s latest mural, and more. And if Wicker Park isn’t convenient for you, make your own map and go see some of the many other projects registered with the City of Chicago Mural Registry. 

Chicago Dogs Opening Weekend: The Chicago Dogs will face the Gary SouthShore Rail Cats during its opening weekend, kicking off a new season for the 6-year-old independent minor league team. Living up to its slogan of “baseball with everything,” Chicago Dogs will host “Barbie & Princess” Saturday, featuring fireworks. On Sunday, the team will don pink uniforms, and offer a slew of Mother’s Day promotions, including free pink hats, free hot dogs and (not free) mimosas. Pre-game catch and other family-oriented activities and discounts will be available. Home games May 10 to Aug. 29 at Impact Field, 9899 Balmoral Ave., Rosemont; tickets $9-$450 at thechicagodogs.com

“Nicole Eisenman: What Happened”: Block off a solid chunk of your weekend to linger over “What Happened,” the first major survey of Nicole Eisenman’s work, now on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The exhibition of some 100 works — paintings, drawing, murals and installations — from her entire career date from 1992 to today, work that makes sense of some of the least comprehensible periods of American political culture. Through Sept. 22 at the Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave.; tickets $10-$22 at mcachicago.org

“Mamma Mia!”: Yes, the ABBA musical just marked 25 years since its debut, but biggest the reason to go now is Christine Sherrill’s sublime performance as Donna: “When she sings ‘the gods may throw a dice, their minds as cold as ice,’ there’s a darn thunderclap inside the theater,” writes the Tribune’s Chris Jones. Through May 19, Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St.; tickets $52.50-$137.50 at www.broadwayinchicago.com

Chicago Cabaret Week: More than 70 performers will step up to the mic at 16 intimate venues across Chicago during Chicago Cabaret week. Featuring a range of music — R&B and jazz, Broadway and burlesque, American Songbook, French chanson and world music — the festival offers 16 shows worth of entertainment. Consider performances featuring the work of Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, Liza  Minnelli  and Frank Sinatra or Dolly Parton; musical tributes to Studs Terkel or Audrey Hepburn; drag options and more. May 10-19, various locations and ticket prices; more information at chicagocabaret.org

The Jacksons: The Jacksons, of Jackson Five fame with current members including Jackie and Tito, will return to their Gary roots to perform at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana. Fans take note: The casino, which modeled its 37-foot guitar marquee on Joe Jackson’s guitar, houses 30 pieces of Jackson memorabilia. 7 p.m. May 11 at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, 5400 W. 29th Ave., Gary; tickets $74.50-$124.50 (ages 21+) at thejacksons.live

Craig David: British singer-songwriter and rapper Craig David stops at the Chicago Theatre on his seven-city North American Commitment Tour. Known for blending pop, R&B and U.K. garage, David has been nominated twice for Grammy Awards for male vocal performance. 8 p.m. May 13 at Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St.; tickets $25-$50 at craigdavid.com

“Judgment Day”: You’ve seen Jason Alexander’s face plastered on buses all over town for weeks, and now word is in: “Judgment Day” is worth the trip to Navy Pier. In his Tribune review, critic Chris Jones called the show, which stars Alexander as a morally corrupt lawyer, a “gutsy and wickedly funny new satire. … Anyone with functioning arteries will laugh their socks off at some of the old-school gags.” Through May 26 in The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Navy Pier, 800 E. Grand Ave.; tickets $57-$135 at www.chicagoshakes.com

Have something to do around Chicago? Email events to day.chitribevents@gmail.com.

The Dragon spacecraft, which was briefly on display after MSI acquired it in 2022, ferried cargo to the International Space Station in 2017 and 2019. In addition to spacewalk equipment, vehicle hardware and computer resources, the Dragon carried NASA’s Cosmic-Ray Energetics and MASS (ISS-CREAM) — a refrigerator-sized experiment designed to examine particle acceleration mechanisms.

The Henry Crown Space Center first opened in 1986 and showcases the Apollo 8 Command Module and the Mercury Aurora 7 Capsule. Admission is included in the museum’s entry fee.

9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily beginning May 19 at the Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive; tickets $14.95-$25.95 at msichicago.org

Georgia O’Keeffe’s urban landscapes at Art Institute this summer

Georgia O’Keeffe’s early urban landscapes will be the subject of “My New Yorks,” an exhibit opening June 2 at the Art Institute. The New York skyline was the subject of a series of works created by the Modernist artist in the 1920s and ’30s.

“One can’t paint New York as it is,” O’Keeffe said, “but rather as it is felt.”

Featuring about 100 photographs, drawings, pastels and paintings, the exhibit offers a counterpoint for those who know O’Keeffe best for her depictions of flowers and the American Southwest — and provides context for how this work fits within her broader career. O’Keeffe’s New York paintings will be hung alongside examples of other periods of her work, demonstrating themes that echo, no matter the subject matter.

Curated by the Art Institute’s Sarah Kelly Oehler and Annelise K. Madsen, the show also features contemporaneous photographs by O’Keeffe’s husband, Alfred Stieglitz.

June 2 to Sept. 22 at the Art Institute, 111 S. Michigan Ave.; tickets up to $42 at artic.edu

A return for the American Writers Festival

With about 75 authors, the second installment of the American Writers Festival promises to pack a whole gamut of literature into the afternoon of May 19. The lineup includes novelists Lydia Millet and Michael Zapata; historians Kevin Boyle and Harold Holzer, literary critic Marie Arana; journalist Mark Bowden; comedian Jamie Loftus; and young-adult novelists Samira Ahmed and Claire Legrand.

Presented by the American Writers Museum and the Chicago Public Library, free panel discussions will be conducted alongside writing workshops, literary crafts and book signings. Although events will be held in the South Loop’s Harold Washington Library Center, the American Writers Museum, at 180 N. Michigan Ave., will waive admission fees on the day of the festival.

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 19 at Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St.; free, more information at americanwritersmuseum.org

National Museum of Mexican Art has a new space

The National Museum of Mexican Art has acquired a Little Village fire station to expand community arts programming for teens and young adults. Once home to Chicago Fire Department Engine Co. 109, the Whipple Street station will offer a second location to Yollocalli Arts Reach as well as a community gathering space.

The museum currently runs programming at the Little Village Boys and Girls Club. The new space could double the Yollocalli program’s capacity, from 300 students.

Wallin-Gomez Architects and Civic Projects Architecture will work on the renovation project, which is estimated to cost $4 million. The museum plans to pay for it with grants, donations and in-kind funding.

The building, which the City of Chicago sold for $1, will house recording facilities, a gallery, a ceramics studio, performance and meeting spaces as well as offices. The museum aims to open the facility early next year.

More information at nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org

The fossil was unveiled at an event Monday and will go on display to the public Tuesday, accompanied by a hologram-like projection showing how the Archaeopteryx would have looked in life.

It’s one of two Archaeopteryx specimens in the United States — and only a dozen others have been found. This fossil was discovered in southern Germany before 1990 and arrived at the museum in 2022. For those wondering if the fossil will be given a name, like Sue (maybe Archie?), the Field says it already has one: All Archaeopteryx specimens are named after the city in which they reside, so this one is called the Chicago Archaeopteryx.

This isn’t the first time an Archaeopteryx (pronounced ar-key-AHP-ter-icks, meaning “ancient wing”) has been on display at the Field Museum. In 1997, the museum hosted the first exhibit outside of Europe when there were only six such fossils. Now, however, the Field Museum can claim the fossil as part of its permanent collection, which will set the stage for a “journey of discovery” as the fossil aids research of the evolution of modern bird species, said Jingmai O’Connor, associate curator of fossil reptiles.

“This is without doubt one of the best specimens of an important species that has ever been found,” O’Connor said during Monday’s unveiling. “I am blown away by how much new information the Chicago Archaeopteryx has revealed in just the few months I’ve been able to study it.”

O’Connor said many of the questions to which scientists are seeking answers relate to the origins of bird species of today, such as how they are able to fly.

According to a museum statement, the Archaeopteryx lived about 150 million years ago, during the late Jurassic period, much earlier than the T. rex. Rather than being the ancestor of modern birds, it’s part of a group of species that includes birds. O’Connor says that it could fly, but not very well.

During the event, which was attended by Gov. J.B. Pritzker, Mayor Brandon Johnson, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Ald. Lamont Robinson, 4th, several of the politicians spoke about the importance of the new fossil not only for the development of new research in Chicago but also to inspire a new generation of learners to pursue careers in the sciences or education.

Johnson, a former history teacher who was introduced as “mayor of the best dinosaur city in the world,” said the Archaeopteryx will serve as “an important attraction for young people.”

“That’s how we ultimately build a better, stronger, safer Chicago — through these educational opportunities and investments,” Johnson added.

The sentiment was echoed by Preckwinkle and Robinson, who said they found inspiration in educational opportunities offered in the natural sciences.

“This remarkable fossil that bridges the ancient past with our modern understanding is a symbol of discovery and inspiration,” Robinson said, joking that the fossil was especially exciting to him as both an Indiana Jones and “Jurassic Park” fan.

“Coming here to the museum as a South Side kid and now representing the Field Museum in Chicago City Council, I know firsthand the transformative power of such experiences. That is why I’m committed to ensuring that our youth have ample opportunities to visit this new exhibit and the museum.”

The Archaeopteryx will be on view until the Museum’s Dinopalooza event June 8. It will at that time be removed to prepare for a permanent, immersive exhibition that is due to open in the fall.

Free Comic Book Day: Head to your favorite local comic book store to sample the 48 free titles available this year. And yes, given that the event falls on May 4 (“May the Fourth be with you”), the Star Wars franchise will be among the free comics offered. Several stores will also host signings, discussions and cosplay. At locations in the city and suburbs; free, store locator and more information at freecomicbookday.com

“Bluey’s Big Play”: Following fast on the heels of the beloved Emmy Award-winning TV show’s season finale, “Bluey’s Big Play” takes the stage in Chicago. The show, featuring a new story by series creator Joe Brumm and music by the show composer Joff Bush, uses puppets to bring the animated dogs to life. 11 a.m. May 4 at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive; tickets $43-$88 at bluey.tv

Mane in Heaven Miniature Therapy Horses Derby Party Fundraiser: Looking for the perfect Kentucky Derby watch party? Consider donning your best hat and heading out to Glenview to support Mane in Heaven, a non-profit organization that provides animal-assisted therapy to adults and children. The day’s lineup includes an opportunity to meet the horses, mint juleps and best-dressed contests. 3:30-7 p.m. May 4 at Oak at The Glen, 1811 Tower Drive, Glenview; tickets $135 at eventbrite.com

Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio: Billed as specialists in feel-good music, the Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio brings its blend of jazz, soul and funk to Evanston for two shows. 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., May 4 at Space, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston; tickets (all ages) at $25-$45 at evanstonspace.com.

 Cinco de Mayo Parade: Kick off Cinco de Mayo with a parade on Cermak. Then take your pick of the many celebrations including Bridgeview’s Cinco de Mayo Food Festival. Noon on Cermak Road between Damen Avenue and Marshall Boulevard; free; more information at www.chicago.gov and eventbrite.com

Cut to the Chase Short Play Festival: Watch seven 10-minute plays — drama, sci-fi, dark comedy — at this year’s installment of Artistic Home’s annual festival in Wicker Park. Work by Chicago playwrights Siah Berlatsky, Will Dunne and Lydia Moss will be featured. 8 p.m. May 2-4 and 3 p.m. May 5 at Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave.; tickets $26 at theartistichome.org

“Brooklyn Laundry”: Consider John Patrick Shanley’s romantic drama while you still can. The Tribune called it “a lovely little production that clearly was moving its audience and making a good few Northlight fans wipe their eyes.” Through May 12 at Northlight Theatre at North Shore Center for the Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie; tickets $49-$89 at northlight.org

“Ancient Huasteca Women — Goddesses, Warriors, and Governors”: A new exhibition featuring nearly 100 ancient Mesoamerican artifacts dating to 1500 BCE to 1400 CE considers the role of women in the Huasteca civilization. The sculptures and figures excavated from areas along the Gulf of Mexico portray women as deities, priestesses, governors and warriors. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through July 21 (closed Mondays) at the National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St.; free, more information at nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org

“Scav Hunt at UChicago: Seeking Fun — Finding Tradition”: A new exhibition chronicles the University of Chicago’s annual Scavenger Hunt with a collection of miscellany gathered over nearly 40 years. Read more about the tradition that engenders school pride and fierce competition in a Tribune profile of the “stupefyingling difficult” hunt. Through Aug. 9 at the Regenstein Library at University of Chicago, 1100 E. 57th St.; free, more information at lib.uchicago.edu

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Mike Birbiglia: The storyteller and comedian rolls into town with ruminations on childhood and parenting in “Please Stop the Ride.” The tour follows his critically acclaimed 2022 show, “The Old Man and the Pool,” a poignant take on death and middle age. April 26-27 at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St.; tickets $49-$69 at birbigs.com

Chicagoland Bookstore Crawl: Celebrate Independent Bookstore Day by exploring the area’s vibrant bookstore scene. From the stalwart Lake Forest Bookstore to Tinley Park’s romance-centered Love’s Sweet Arrows, 46 bookstores in Chicago and beyond are participating in this year’s crawl. Look for signed prints by Chicago poet Eve L. Ewing and artist Tony Fitzpatrick as well as discounts and other goodies. April 27 at various locations; more information at chilovebooks.com

25th Annual Poetry Fest: Chicago Public Library offers a full slate of poetry programming, featuring a keynote presentation by former U.S. Poet Laureate Ada Limón as well as a panel discussion on censorship, readings and more. Teens should consider the session hosted by avery r. young. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 27 at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St.; free, more information at chipublib.bibliocommons.com

Dia del Niño: The Museum of Contemporary Art moves beyond its campus to offer art-based activities and bounce-house fun in Little Village. Make kaleidoscopes, ‘zines, flags and more. White Sox mascot Southpaw will appear, and Los Comales will serve free food. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 27 at Saucedo Scholastic Academy, 2850 W. 24th Blvd.; free, register at visit.mcachicago.org

The Trashy Earth Market 2024: No Oscar the Grouch here: Instead, find eco-conscious artisans who transform trash to treasure. Browse their wares and participate in LOOM360, an art installation that encourages people to donate and weave scraps of unwearable clothing into a communal tapestry. Reduce Waste Chicago and Cradles to Crayons will be on hand to collect items for recycling and reuse. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 27 (rain date April 28) at Gallagher Way, 3635 N. Clark St.; free, more information at www.eventbrite.com

Trace Adkins: Head to Gary for country music star Trace Adkins’s Somewhere in America tour. 7 p.m. April 27 at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, 5400 W. 29th Ave., Gary, Indiana; tickets $69.50-$109.50 at casino.hardrock.com

The Swans of Harlem — Reclaiming the History of Black Ballet: Lydia Abarca, Sheila Rohan, Karlya Shelton and Marcia Sells will talk with author Karen Valby and “Chicago Tonight” co-anchor Brandis Friedman about their groundbreaking careers as Black artists during the civil rights movement. Following the talk, Chicago-based dance company Move Me Soul will perform a dance tribute. 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. April 27 at Francis W. Parker School, 330 W. Webster Ave.; tickets $15-$25 at chicagohumanities.org

Frankie Beverly & Maze: Chaka Khan and El DeBarge will join Frankie Beverly & Maze on a farewell tour. 8 p.m. April 27 at the United Center, 1901 W. Madison; tickets $59.50-$409.50 at unitedcenter.com

C2E2: Cosplayers, you’ve been waiting for this. Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo takes over McCormick Place this weekend. Go for the sights: Artist Alley and the homemade costumes are worth the cost of admission alone. And if celebrities and long lines are your thing, snag an autograph: Josh Brolin, Maya Hawke and Christopher Lloyd are on the roster. April 26-28 at McCormick Place, 2301 S. Martin Luther King Drive; c2e2.com

Have something to do around Chicago?  Send events to day.chitribevents@gmail.com