Stop into Sully's on Sunday to cheer on the Bears and play some Wii.
On the weekend before Thanksgiving, all you're likely thinking about is the major feast—and the short work week—ahead of you. We hear you, but sitting home salivating won't make it come any sooner. So get out there and enjoy.
Dig in
5 Loaves Eatery
As anyone who's tried it can attest, starving yourself before Thanksgiving only leads to pain on the big day. At 5 Loaves (which reopens on Saturday), you'll find plenty of fare to build up your tolerance. Like the big bowl o' oatmeal, served with a heaping spoonful of brown sugar, a hefty pour of cream, a fistful of raisins and a side of toast. Or the popular Turkey Cristo, filled with American and Swiss cheeses, battered and fried, topped with powdered sugar and served with a side of honey. Sundays will really test the strength of your belt with an all-you-can-eat, family-style meal including candied yams and homemade cornbread.
If that turkey sandwich sounds a lot better than the bird you were planning to make, you'd better take a cooking class before the big day. Or, if you think there's no hope, think about leaving it to the pros.
Imbibe away
Sully's House Tap Room & Grill
Need to practice your bar-hopping before Black Wednesday, the biggest going-out night of the year? You can do it all in one place at Old Town's newest neighborhood bar, which includes a casual front room (packed with football fans on Sundays for $15 all-you-can-eat Bears brunch), a loungy back room (complete with pillow-laden couch) and plenty of Wii games to keep you busy. Oh yeah, did we mention there are around 50 beers to choose from?
Still searching for something to be thankful for? These racy cabaret bars should give you some ideas.
Listen here, now
Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival
Noon, Saturday at Congress Theater; $31
As much as you're looking forward to the holidays, we're sure a small part of you is missing summer already. This multi-genre music fest should bring back the spirit—if not the weather—of the season with a talented lineup including Lil Ed & The Blues Imperials, Ha Ha Tonka, the Avett Brothers and The Giving Tree Band (who'll be popping up in the balcony all day). A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Saving Tiny Hearts Society, an organization that raises awareness and supports research about congenital heart defects in children.
Twang not your thang? Check out this weekend's other shows, including the G4 Fall Classic at Reggie's, one of many clubs that regularly hosts Under-18 shows.
Get cultured
Girls on the Run Gala
8 p.m.-midnight Friday at Park West; $120
If you've got a really big heart (and a decent-size wallet), consider helping others at this benefit for Girls on the Run, an organization which works to build the self-esteem of young girls through training for a 3.1-mile race. Don't worry, you get something out of the deal, too; the event includes an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, a silent auction and a live performance from local rockers Underwater People. Spring for the all-access package (an extra $30) and you'll enjoy a VIP reception beginning at 6:30, as well as several private gala lounges throughout the night.
This big event has you thinking about New Year's Eve, doesn't it? We've got you covered.
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