If you're like us, you've been planning for the weekend since, oh, Monday morning. Now we're knocking on the weekend's door and it's time to decide what to do. Of course, festival season is in full swing and we couldn't be happier, especially since it coincides with our summer warm-up (finally!). This weekend's weather looks hit-or-miss with the rain, but at least it'll be warm, so it's as good a time as ever to get outside and hit one or more of the fests. more ›

It's that time of year again, summer is officially starting, regardless of what the weather says. And one of our favorite early summer festivals, the Printers Row Book Fair, is this weekend! Touted as the Midwest's largest literary event, Printers Row features nearly 150 vendors from Women and Children First bookstore to Featherproof press to the Art Institute of Chicago's museum store. 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 ›

It's a less cumbersome title than "Your Friday Food Buffet," don't you think? Good, because that's what we're calling "YFFB" from now on. On to business: - "What is Understood Need Not Be Discussed": That about describes our opinion of Ribfest Chicago 2007 this weekend. We'll leave it at that. - Practical Applications: Printers Row Book Fair is also happening this weekend. Presenting sponsor the Tribune has a full slate of demonstrations and discussions related... more ›

We’re gearing up for the weekend and to see some of our favorite authors at the Printers Row Book Fair. We thought we’d tell you who we’re planning on seeing, but remember there are a gajillion more events; so make sure you check the schedule; there’s much too much to even fathom. more ›

It’s always hard to come back after a three-day weekend and be hopeful. But here are a few things that let us know the world is going to be okay: more ›

Chicagoist's friend Rachel Kramer Bussel is doing a reading for her book, Up All Night: Adventures in Lesbian Sex, on June 6th at 6 p.m at Early to Bed. Join Rachel, along with Heidi Cowgirl, for some very naughty and very true bedtime stories from this anthology recently published by Alyson. more ›

Chicago's busy festival season kicks off this weekend with the Milwaukee Avenue Block Party in Wicker Park on Saturday and the Windy City Hemp Fest in Montrose Park on Saturday & Sunday. Chicagoist has tickets to the Ravinia Festival and is also looking forward to the Printers Row Book Fair, Taste of Chicago, the Outdoor Film Festival, the 21st Annual Chicago Blues Festival and the 26th Annual Chicago Jazz Fest. more ›

The Printers Row Book Fair is the largest free outdoor literary event in the Midwest and is taking place in June 5 - 6 in Chicago's historic Printers Row neighborhood. The list of over 100 authors scheduled to appear include Chuck Palahniuk, Dave Eggers, Gish Jen, James Atlas, and Oprah's personal chef, Art Smith. Each of these authors are asked to remain at the fair at least one hour after their event to sign copies of their books. more ›