Now that everyone is settling nicely into the new year, it’s time to make fun plans to get out in the months ahead. Locals and visitors to Chicago will be glad to know that 2020 entices with exciting new experiences, so be sure to keep these events and attractions on your radar the next time you want to explore the city.
Food Finds: Time Out Market Chicago
When it comes to eating and entertainment, food lovers will want to make their way to the West Loop to experience the newly opened Time Out Market Chicago at 916 W. Fulton Market. Curated by Time Out editors, the 50,000 square foot tri-level space features the best of the city under one roof including eats from the city’s outstanding chefs and restaurateurs such as the Band of Bohemia brewpub and Chef Thai Dang of HaiSous’s modern Vietnamese creations, three bars, and impressive skyline views. On the second floor, is where to find interesting experiences year-round from wellness workshops to craft markets.
Lunar New Year: Year of the Rat
Gong xi fa cai! Lunar New Year is upon us and Chicago will host a citywide celebration from January 24 through February 9, 2020, to showcase the Year of the Rat. From concerts to cultural performances and culinary, there will be lively festivities all around including the Official Chinese New Year Kickoff Event at Chicago Cultural Center with lions, dragons, and martial arts, oh my!
Traditional Chinese music and theater will be on dramatic display during the Sixth Annual Chinese New Year Celebration Concert at Chicago Symphony Center on Sunday, January 26 at 3 p.m.Organized in collaboration with the Consulate of the People’s Republic of China, the afternoon program will feature the Shanghai Chinese Orchestra led by Yao Shenshen who will perform original and classic pieces such as “Dancing Birds” and “The Silk Road,” and the Zhejiang Shaoju Opera Theatre with a repertoire of instrumental music, vocals, dance, acrobatics and more.
On Sunday, February 2, the Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade is not one to miss with colorful floats, marching bands and special guests making their way up Wentworth Avenue to Cermak Road, A week later, the Lunar New Year Lantern Procession and Celebration will illuminate the city from Millennium Park to Maggie Daley Park and feature artmaking and other activities from 5 to 7:30 p.m.
Hoop Dreams: NBA All-Star Weekend 2020
No big deal, but basketball’s biggest players are coming to town for NBA All-Star Game taking place on Sunday, February 16, 2020, at the United Center, home of the six-time NBA champion, the Chicago Bulls. Plenty is happening all weekend, including the NBA Crossover at Navy Pier February 14-16 featuring a showcase of basketball, culture, art, and technology with player appearances, performances, and other cool stuff.
Marveling at Masterpieces
The Chicago Institute of Art hosts two blockbuster exhibitions in 2020. On view March 7-June 21, El Greco: Ambition and Defiance features 55 works from the legendary painter, sculptor and architect including one of his final creations, “The Adoration of the Shepherds.” The second show not to miss is Monet and Chicago. Happening May 10-September 7, the major exhibit delves into the pioneering connection between the Father of Impressionism and the great Midwestern city, and features 65 paintings from still life to luscious landscapes in his signature style.
Music for the Masses: Year of Chicago Music
Get ready for awesome concerts and live shows because 2020 is the Year of Chicago Music. The celebration showcases a variety of homegrown music styles from blues to gospel and house. This summer watch out for a 17-day music festival starting Memorial Day weekend.
As you can see, there is a lot to look forward to in 2020!