Diane Pathieu’s Weekender Report​on January 18, 2025 at 8:43 pm

CHICAGO (WLS) — We’re kicking off the weekend with a special event making a big impact in our community.

Two Men And A Truck – Northbrook

Two Men and A Truck are launching their first-ever Movers For Meals campaign. Their goal is to collect 1,000 pounds of food for local families.

The locations are

-YMCA Northbrook

-Painted Penguin (Hawthorn Mall)

-Northbrook Chamber of Commerce

-Sunset Foods Northbrook

-Two Men and a Truck Northbrook

For more information, visit https://twomenandatruck.com/movers/il/chicago/northbrook.

NA Day – Loft on Lake, 1366 W Lake St, Chicago

Participating in Dry January? Chicago AF, a non-profit organization promoting alcohol-free socializing, will host its third annual N-A Day at Loft on Lake. This premier non-alcoholic tasting event offers two two-hour sessions featuring tastings from 20+ innovative brands. NA Day invites the community to explore evolving alcohol-free options in a vibrant, sober-friendly atmosphere.

Lunar New Year – Community Arts Center Buffalo Grove

Celebrate the Lunar New Year in Buffalo Grove! Enjoy Asian cuisine, drinks and more, kids can enjoy crafts too – you’re asked to pre-register for this event.

Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival – Various locations

The 7th Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival is here! Showcasing over 120 puppetry activities across 12 days at venues throughout Chicago. Featuring a diverse range of traditional and contemporary puppet styles, intimate performances, adults-only late-night cabarets, and a Free Neighborhood Tour with family-friendly shows. Artists from around the globe will present their innovative works.

Viva La Vida – The National Museum of Mexican Art

There are still some space left to take a weaving course at the National Museum of Mexican Art this creative workshop is for all ages, create woven wall hangings inspired by Chicago artist Cecilia Beaven’s work. The free workshop features a gallery tour and weaving activity, with coffee and treats provided.

Call For Local Artists – 360 Chicago

360 Chicago invites local artists to submit designs for CloudWalk, the city’s highest outdoor art exhibit, showcasing a Chicago-themed concept that embodies the city’s spirit, community, and vibrancy. The selected artist will receive a $10,000 commission to create this inaugural installation, which will debut in May 2025 as part of CloudWalk’s rotating art gallery, celebrating Chicago’s diverse culture and unique perspectives. The submission deadline is next Friday January 24.

MLK Day 2025: Echoes of Freedom – Hyde Park Art Center

The Hyde Park Art Center, will host MLK Day 2025: Echoes of Freedom on Monday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This free public celebration honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through diverse programming, hands-on art-making, creative writing workshops and more. The event highlights art’s role in collective memory, liberation, and joy. Registration is recommended.

MLK Community Celebration Concert – Music Institute of Chicago

The 22nd Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration Concert, hosted by the Music Institute of Chicago in partnership with Evanston Interfaith Clergy and Leaders, will take place Sunday at Nichols Concert Hall in Evanston. This free event highlights the Music Institute’s mission to foster a lifelong engagement with music through teaching, performances, and community initiatives that promote access and excellence.

USA Volleyball Boys’ Junior National Championships National Qualifier – McCormick Place

The Boys Winter Volleyball Championship takes place at McCormick Place this weekend! This event is the national qualifier for the championship, watch players demonstrate their skills and group play – if you can’t be there, you can stream online.

Wedding Showcase -Naper Settlement, Naperville

Are you engaged? Explore wedding options at Naper Settlement’s Wedding Showcase! Over 75 local wedding professionals, including photographers, DJs, florists, and caterers will be in once place! You can tour unique ceremony and reception spaces, and eve participate in a raffle for prizes.