Today's listings include a Wisconsin brewery's Chicago debut, rosé wine pairings from Piccolo Sogno and an Erik Larson book signing. more ›

Since its publication in 2003, Erik Larson's The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic and Madness at the Fair That Changed America may just win the prize as the book most often seen in the hands of CTA riders. Its the 1893 Chicago World's Fair setting, visionary Daniel Burnham, and a charming serial killer have proven an irresistible mix to more than just commuters, propelling the book from regional phenomenon to bestseller status. more ›

“I promise you, this story is going some place. I’m not simply blogging,” said author Erik Larson at the Printers Row Book Fair, which was in full swing today. more ›

Today’s your last chance to visit ARTropolis. It’s “Student Day” at Art Chicago, where students, professors, and professionals discuss the basics of an arts career. A pass admitting two people to five fairs is $15. The Illinois Bureau of Tourism has announced its Seven Wonders of Illinois, the top regional attractions selected by popular vote. Cubs fans hit the polls early and often, naming Wrigley Field Chicago’s top attraction. Wilmette’s gorgeous Baha'i Temple represents... more ›

Uniquely Chicago Gifts? more ›

Erik Larson is back, and we couldn’t be happier. His new historical fiction novel “Thunderstruck” refashions the story of murderer Hawley Crippen, while alternately telling the story of the invention of wireless communication by Guglielmo Marconi. Set in England in the early 1900’s, “Thunderstruck” follows the gruesome murder of Crippen’s flamboyant, eccentric wife and his rapid, oceanic escape with his new mistress. Through the wireless technology recently discovered, the world can follow the messages being passed from ship to ship that detail the mad chase for Crippen. One review called “Thunderstruck” the “O.J. Simpson car chase of its time.” more ›

Holy son of a gun, there is a lot going on in Chicago this weekend. And it is going to be HOT. And if you're anything like Chicagoist--lacking A/C in the ay pee tee--you may be thinking: "hmmm, McCormick Place may not be such a bad place to spend my weekend." In that case, lucky you, because the American Library Association will be there, hosting its 2005 Annual Conference. more ›

Chicagoist has been pouring over all of the local media sites trying to decide what we want to do this weekend to celebrate Halloween. There's so much going on. Last week we posted on some city-sponsored events and things going on at the big museums. This week we're trying to highlight other happenings around town. I'm sure we'll miss some, so feel free to add or make suggestions in the comments, but here are some things that looked interesting to us: more ›

more ›