Diane Pathieu’s Weekender Report​on January 31, 2025 at 11:00 pm

CHICAGO (WLS) — It’s time for the weekender! and what better way to kick things off than with some cool creations!

The Ice Festival – Downtown Downers Grove

The Ice Festival in downtown Downers Grove is back! Watch live ice carving demonstrations and enjoy the stunning ice sculptures displayed outside local businesses and venues.

The event kicks off on Friday, January 31, with an evening carving demonstration from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Main and Curtiss Streets, followed by additional demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. near the Main Street Train Station.

Bite Nite- Oak Park

The popular Bite Nite is coming back at the nineteenth Century Club in Oak Park! It’s the 8th year for the event where the best of Oak Park and River Forest’s vibrant dining scene comes together in one incredible night! Bite Nite showcases the area’s top restaurants, chefs, and mixologists, offering you a chance to indulge in signature dishes, creative cocktails, and delightful desserts-all in one place.

Fika Fest – Various locations in Andersonville

The Swedish-inspired Fika Fest is back! Celebrating the cozy tradition of “fika,” which means more than just a coffee break – The event features A Coffee & Cocoa Crawl with two routes offering coffee, hot chocolate, and treats from local businesses, starting at the Swedish American Museum. On Sunday the annual Great Andersonville Puzzle Exchange invites participants to swap gently used puzzles at the Swedish American Museum, the event also includes a Puzzle competition.

Lego Creativity Academy – Legoland Discovery Center Schaumburg

Join the LEGO Creativity Academy at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago Enhance your creativity with unique activities like meeting a Master Model Builder, joining the LEGO Fact Finder Hunt, mastering LEGO circle building, and contributing to a giant LEGO mosaic. Don’t miss this hands-on experience where imagination and LEGO building skills come to life! Now open.

Galentine’s Market – Lincolnshire Marriott Resort

Celebrate female friendships at the Galentine’s Market AT the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort in Lincolnshire. This indoor event features 70 talented artisans offering jewelry, fashion, home goods, and art, along with creative activities! Sip on martinis and hot cocoa as you browse for the perfect gift or treat yourself. $2 from each ticket supports WINGS Program, Inc., a nonprofit aiding domestic violence survivors.

Black Child Book Fair – James Jordan Boys & Girls Club 2102 W. Monroe

It’s the Sixth Annual Black Child Book Fair taking place at the James Jordan Boys & Girls Club. This event STARTED IN Chicago in 2019 and now travels nationwide by promoting literacy among students. Featuring dozens of African American authors, the fair includes readings, giveaways, and other activities… hundreds of Chicago-area students invited to participate.

Global Connections Series & Lunar New Year Celebration – Navy Pier

Navy Pier’s 2025 Global Connection Series will kick off with a free Lunar New Year celebration in the Aon Grand Ballroom, honoring the Year of the Snake with performances, music, art, and family-friendly activities. The event highlights rich traditions celebrated across Asia and the Middle East, symbolizing wisdom, transformation, and resilience. Enjoy your chance to experience a cultural festival that fosters unity and joy.

West Loop Wedding Walk – various venues

The 6th Annual West Loop Wedding Walk is back this Sunday, offering couples and wedding enthusiasts the chance to the city’s vibrant wedding scene. This unique event features tours of 11 premier venues, over 200 vendors, and exciting activities, plus transportation is provided between locations for convenience. The day kicks off with a VIP brunch followed by self-paced venue tours and vendor showcases and concludes with an after-party. Registration is required.