Blue Skies Ahead: Furry Raves, Bacon Fest and Holi Celebrations

As midterms wrap up the quarter, the great week of rest — spring break — is upon us. Besides the usual bed rotting, binge watching shows and regathering oneself mentally, Chicago has a plethora of events spring breakers can attend at leisure. 

Start your week off on a tasty note at the Chicago Bacon Fest at Old Crow Smokehouse, or snack on some cinnamon rolls at Ann Sather on Belmont while supporting a good cause for Kiwanis Club of Lake View. Let loose and tap into your furry side at the Chicago Ravfurrest Mar. 7, or take the train to Navy Pier to celebrate the powder-filled day of Holi.

Irish Film Festival: Feb. 26- Mar. 1

The 27th annual Chicago Irish Film Festival is back, offering the best features, shorts and documentaries from The Land of Storytelling. Screenings will take place at AMC NEWCITY Feb. 26-March 1, along with virtual programming Feb. 26-Mar. 8. The films will explore themes of identity and migration and celebrate Irish history throughout. Tickets are $15 dollars per showing. 

Chicago Bacon Fest: Feb. 28

What’s shakin in Chicago this weekend? Well, bacon. The Old Crow Smokehouse will be hosting an all things bacon event Feb. 28 at 12 p.m., where foodies can indulge in the best breakfast side with their best friends. For those 21+, the bar offers bacon whiskey shots, bacon cocktails and bacon dishes galore. Live performances and a bacon photo-op will be available to guests. Don’t forget to grab a Bacon Fest t-shirt which will be available to all visitors.

Black Makers Market: Feb 28

In honor of Black History Month, Navy Pier will host their final Blacker Makers Market of the month Feb. 28 from noon-6 p.m. From books and candles to food and jewelry, visitors can celebrate the rich history and creativity of Black Chicago artists. Vendors and products change each weekend, providing new treasures from over three dozen artisans across the city. Product demos, presentations and giveaways are included, making for an interactive experience for shoppers.

Kiwanis Club of Lake View St. Patrick’s Day Fundraiser: Mar. 3

The Kiwanis Club of Lake View will be hosting a fundraising event at Ann Sather on West Belmont Ave. March 3. From 6-9 p.m., the Club will commemorate over 105 years of work in Chicago’s Lake View neighborhoods and local areas through a celebration and raffle. Proceeds will go toward support of students, families and neighbors in need. Donations of gift cards, hotel packages, restaurant certificates and giveaways are encouraged

Ravfurrest x 000bpm: Mar. 7

Shake that tail and put those paws up high Mar. 7 during the Ravefurrest at Outset music venue. The Nashville-based furry rave series will feature passengerprincess, Mailpup, kittenhouse and more underground artists in their night-long lineup. Tickets are $20 dollars.

Holi Celebration at Navy Pier: Mar. 7

Head down to Navy Pier for the nation’s largest free Holi celebration Mar. 7. From 12-5 p.m., visitors can celebrate the festival of color through DJs, dance performances, live music and the iconic powder-throwing experience. Color powder will be available for purchase on-site while supplies last.