Chicago Like a Local blog

Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.

Latest blog posts

Special events

Where to celebrate Chinese New Year in Chicago

So long Year of the Dog. Hello Year of the Pig. This year’s Chinese New Year, which begins on Feb. 5 and ends Feb. 19,…

Published on January 3, 2019 by Timothy Inklebarger

Dining, Special events

10 new restaurants to try during Chicago Restaurant Week

Chicago Restaurant Week is a great excuse to stop by your favorite neighborhood spot, but don’t miss the opportunity to try something new. Out of…

Published on January 1, 2019 by Allana Mortell

Special events

A new fireworks show will light up the Chicago River this New Year’s Eve

Chicago will ring in the New Year with a bang this year. A midnight fireworks display will dazzle spectators along the Chicago river and lakefront…

Published on December 13, 2018 by Kelsey O'Connor

Arts, culture & entertainment, Special events, Tours & attractions

20 Chicago tours, attractions, and events to catch this winter

A little cold isn’t enough to keep Chicagoans indoors. The winter is packed with holiday festivities, raucous concerts, artisan markets, must-see shows and so much…

Published on December 3, 2018 by Kelsey O'Connor

Special events

Where to see Santa in Chicago

You can catch Santa all over Chicago during the holidays. He might be feeding hay to his reindeer at the Lincoln Park Zoo, sipping hot…

Published on November 29, 2018 by Amy Bizzarri

Special events

Celebrate the Day of the Dead in Chicago

The Day of the Dead is fast approaching, and Chicagoans are eagerly gearing up for the three-day Latin American holiday that honors the dearly departed.

Published on September 27, 2018 by Timothy Inklebarger

Dining, Festivals, Special events

Come “Rock the Fork” at two of Chicago Gourmet’s new events

Food and music – they’re a fabulous pair, and “two of Chicago’s most beloved cultural institutions,” says Sam Toia, president and CEO of the Illinois…

Published on September 10, 2018 by Judy Giannetto

Special events, Tours & attractions

10 of Chicago’s most haunted places

Halloween is hands down my favorite holiday. Which makes living in Chicago all the more fun. Chicago is a city with history — a whole lot…

Published on August 30, 2018 by Judy Giannetto

Arts, culture & entertainment, Nightlife, Special events

Chicago’s music legacy: 3 summer festivals celebrate house, gospel & blues

Chicago boasts a musical legacy that few cities can challenge. This is the Midwest Mecca, where urban blues, gospel and house music were born.

Published on April 23, 2018 by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

Dining, Special events

2018 James Beard Awards: Chicago welcomes America’s top chefs

For nearly three decades the James Beard Foundation has celebrated chefs and culinary professionals throughout the restaurant and food industry. It has also advanced “delicious, diverse, and…

Published on April 12, 2018 by Timothy Inklebarger