Diane Pathieu's Weekender Report - ABC7 Chicago

CHICAGO (WLS) — Here’s what’s happening around the Chicago area this weekend.

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Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival

The Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival, now in its 7th edition, will be coming to a close this Sunday. Talented artists from all corners of the world have been showcasing their groundbreaking works at various locations throughout the city.

The Chicago Beefsteak – DANK Haus German Cultural Center

Don’t miss out on the 18th annual Chicago Beefsteak event, a longstanding tradition that promises an evening of opulence and entertainment at the Dank Haus. This exclusive affair will feature an abundance of premium meats, a generous open bar serving refreshing German beer, live musical performances, and the honoring of Hall of Fame inductees. Dress to impress in formal attire and revel in an evening filled with decadent delights and fellowship. Ensure your attendance at this lavish feast by securing your reservation early!

Young Playwrights Festival – Pegasus Theatre Chicago

Meanwhile, the 38th edition of the Young Playwrights Festival is currently underway, representing the oldest event of its kind in the nation. This festival plays a crucial role in nurturing the creativity of high school students throughout the city, guiding them in the creation of one-act plays. As a culmination of their hard work, three talented high school students will have the opportunity to see their plays brought to life on stage by Pegasus Theatre Chicago. Join in on the celebration of emerging talent before the festival draws to a close this coming Sunday.

Jaja’s African Hair Braiding – Chicago Shakespeare Theater

Chicago Shakespeare Theater presents the Midwest premiere of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, a vibrant comedy exploring the lives of West African immigrant women finding community in a Harlem salon. The play blends humor and heartfelt moments as it delves into themes of identity, love, and resilience.

Disney On Ice Let’s Dance! – Allstate Arena

Now open at the Allstate Arena: Disney On Ice presents Let’s Dance! Bringing an unforgettable party to audiences with a star-studded cast of Disney favorites like Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy remixing iconic tunes into vibrant ice stories. Featuring stunning figure skating, dazzling special effects, acrobatics, and so much more! The production runs at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, and at the United Center in Chicago.

Architecture & Design Film Festival Chicago

The Architecture & Design Film Festival along with the Chicago Architecture Center and the Gene Siskel Film Center, present this international celebration of architecture and design through film. Showcasing 13 feature-length films that blend design-focused storytelling with human narratives, the festival caters to industry professionals, design enthusiasts, and fans of nonfiction storytelling. Taking place across two downtown Chicago venues, the event includes engaging Q&A sessions with filmmakers, it begins Wednesday, January 29.

Live ice sculpting – West Lakeview

Head to Lakeview this weekend for two live ice sculpting events! On Saturday afternoon at the CTA Paulina Brown Line Station, and on Sunday afternoon at St. Alphonsus Church! Watch Master Ice Carvers transform blocks of ice into stunning creations based on audience suggestions. Enjoy complimentary beverages and bites from food trucks while staying warm. Enjoy this free, family-friendly event!

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