Spring is just around the corner, and so are plenty of fun happenings to enjoy close to home. Discover what's blooming near you at one of these weekend events.
Savor delicious sips at the Winter Whiskey Tasting.
Spend an evening sipping whiskey and admiring the trees at the Arboretum's Firefly Pavilion. Sample a curated selection of whiskeys chosen by experts while enjoying live music and the cozy warmth of fire pits on the pavilion's open-air patios. Traditional Irish musicians Paul Kaye and Alec Synakowski will perform throughout the evening, and all ticket holders will receive a commemorative six-ounce snifter glass.
Date: Mar. 14
Time: 3:00–5:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m.
Spring is just around the corner, and so are plenty of fun happenings to enjoy close to home. Discover what's blooming near you at one of these weekend events.
Watch the world's best short films at 2026 Oscar Shorts.
With the Academy Awards happening this Sunday, this is the perfect opportunity to catch up on all of the Oscar-nominated short films at the Gorton Center in Lake Forest. The screenings are divided into three feature-length categories: animation, documentary, and live action. Tickets are $10 per screening, or $25 for all three.
Date: Mar. 14
Time: 1:00-9:30 p.m.
Cost: $10+
Spring is just around the corner, and so are plenty of fun happenings to enjoy close to home. Discover what's blooming near you at one of these weekend events.
Have a blast at the St. Patrick's Weekend Festival.
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day weekend at a massive outdoor street festival on Hubbard Street. Enjoy nonstop fun with 20+ DJs and live bands, a full festival stage, outdoor bars, food vendors, tented areas, merch, and access to River North favorites like Hubbard Inn, Joy District, Boss Bar, and Kitchen Karaoke. The fest is free and open to the public, with a suggested donation supporting local organizations.
Date: Mar. 14
Time: 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.
The promise of spring is in the air in Chicagoland. And while winter may not yet have fully released its grip, our real estate agents are excited to start spending more time out and about, exploring the city, and visiting our favorite spring markets and local boutiques.
From freshening up your wardrobe to shopping for art and vintage treasures, spring is a great time to shop in the Chicago area. These are some of the best local boutiques and spring markets in Chicagoland's unique neighborhoods.