Chicago Horror Film Festival
September 24 - September 26, 2010

4050 N Milwaukee Ave, Portage Theater, Chicago, IL 60641

Description: From humble beginnings (just one night of short films), Chicago Horror Film Festival has expanded to include three days of programming and several features. Previous screenings have included Albert Fish, Fallen Angels, Risen, Magus, Ghost Month, and The Tripper. It also featured concerts by Cripple Ewe and Setonas. In between flicks, get autographs from some of your favorite stars ­ Reggie Bannister (Phantasm) and Edwin Neal (Texas Chainsaw Massacre) ­ directors, and effects artists.
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Eli's Cheesecake Festival
September 25 - September 26, 2010

6701 W Forest Preserve Dr, Chicago, IL 60634 773-308-7000

Description: Vienna beef hot dogs and deep dish pizza tend proudly represent Chicago's culinary staples; however, cheesecake is the city's dessert. Sure it may spawn a fight with New Yorkers, but Eli's is THE home of cheesecake, and there's no better way to indulge in the sinful pleasure than by attending their festival. Eat for a cause too - the festival benefits the New Horizon Center for the Developmentally Disabled. Aside from delicious cheesecake, take in the live music while the kids rock out in the children's activity area.
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Hyde Park Arts & Crafts Adventure
September 25 - September 26, 2010

1526 E 55th St, University of Chicago Hyde Park Shopping Center, Chicago, IL

Description: Running annually, Hyde Park Arts & Crafts Adventure may be lesser-known and a little farther out than fairs held in Lincoln Park, but that's all the more reason to enjoy it! The event takes place in President Obama's old neighborhood, where you'll find paintings, photography, jewelry ,and much more on display and for sale. You can also chat with the artists and check out various live demonstrations at the shopping center courtyard. If you work up an appetite, don't miss local fave Ribs 'n Bibs at 5300 South Dorchester Avenue (between 53rd & 54th).
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Hyde Park Jazz Festival
September 25, 2010

5020 S Cornell Ave, Chicago, IL 60615 773-834-4122

Description: With only one year in existence, the Hyde Park Jazz Festival is definitely lesser-known ­ all the more reason to take advantage. In a city that pulses to the beat of swirling jazz, count on hearing quality music that will stick with you well after you've left. Family friendly and even providing local trolleys to get you there, the festival includes good eats and a host of interesting participators from the Frank Lloyd Wright Robie House to the DuSable Museum of African American History.
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Independent Film Gala
September 24, 2010

201 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601 312-467-0200

Description: Who says that movie galas are restricted to the two coasts? Honoring the films and filmmakers of the Midwest, this fundraiser pays special tribute to Towers Productions, a locally-based company that's been turning out good work for 20 years. Guests will enjoy food, drinks, and entertainment, and they can partake in both live and silent auctions as well. The event is a great place for people-watching, mingling, and boosting your morale since all proceeds benefit the arts, including an Emmy award-winning mentorship program for under-served youth.
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St. Alphonsus' Oktoberfest
September 24 - September 26, 2010

3000 N Lincoln Ave, St. Alphonsus Church Outdoor Festhalle, Chicago, IL 60657

Description: Chicago's melting pot is home to thousands of pure Germans which means the city hosts an authentic Oktoberfest. Whether or not you've got the German liver to support enormous steins of foaming beer, the fest is full of great live music from polka to rock and, of course, mouth-watering brats. The biergarten is where it's at for the adults, but kids can have their fun too at the "kinderfest."
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Viva! Chicago Latin Music Festival
September 17 - September 18, 2010

331 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

Description: Featuring the best of Chicago's Latin music scene, this two-day festival is full of life, music, and color. Best of all, it's free! All types of Latin music are celebrated here ­ from traditional Mexican to Brazilian samba to Argentinean tango. Expect to see people dressed in all sorts of costumes (even if they're not performing). As for dancing, it will be on stage, on the sidewalks, and everywhere else in between.
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Wells Street Fall Fest
September 11 - September 12, 2010

N Wells St, between North Ave and Schiller St, Chicago, IL 60610

Description: What was once solely the Wine Crush of Old Town has now been transformed to highlight all that Old Town has to offer: wine, fine art, food and live music! Wine stomping will still take place, but plenty of art & crafts booths will be added as well.
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World Music Festival
September 21 - September 30, 2010

201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601 312-742-1168

Description: Loading up a summer calendar full of incredible talent from around the globe, World Music Festival isn't only just fun, it's free! Do it like the locals and pack an over-the-top picnic, grab a soft blanket, and arrive early. Each show highlights a different band from around the world, from Italian drummers and Brazilian samba groups to DJs from India.
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