With the dog days of summer now behind us, it’s soon to be October and mother nature will share with us once again dew-kissed mornings, crisp fall air, and vibrant reds and golds of autumn leaves. Although many see autumn as a time to slow down and adopt a more routine-like schedule, fall in Chicago offers a plethora of fun still to be had. According to Time Out Chicago, which offers the best Chicago happenings year-round, October is no exception.
Sports Fest
Interested in spectator sports? Then check out The Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 13. Now in its 42nd year, the marathon is an internationally acknowledged event that draws 45,000 runners from more than 100 countries and 50 states. With close to 2 million spectators that line the streets of 29 ethnically-diverse Chicago neighborhoods, you can experience a multitude of sub-events such as a specialized cheer zone to a charity block party. And if you’re a techy, you can also follow the marathon on the Bank of American Chicago Marathon app by TCS, found on the App Store or Google Play. Check out the spectator guide today!
Ale Fest
Featuring more than 60 of Chicago’s breweries, the 2nd annual Chicago Rare and Wild Beer Fest takes place at The Field Museum on Saturday, October 5. An event that blends the art of natural history and the skills of renowned beer masters, this event is sure to please! For tickets (which include 50 tasting vouchers and entrance to the museum), and more information, visit: https://www.rareandwildbeerfest.com/
Film Fest
A lover of arts? Spend some time at the 55th Chicago International Film Festival, presented by Cinema/Chicago. Running from October 16 – 27, attending the festival is described on its website “as easy as…going to a movie!” Download the Festival Schedule Book, which provides film descriptions, genre offerings, director bios, film showing locations, ticket sales, and more! General public ticket sales begin on September 27.
Apple Fest
Now in its 32nd year, the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest is the epitome of fall festival fun – and all things apple! From candy apples to apple cider and fresh, hot, apple pie – YUM – this event is surely not one to be missed. Held Saturday and Sunday, October 5 and 6 (check the website for the daily schedule of events), the Apple Fest offers entertainment, family-fun activities, a pooch parade, retail, promotional, and farm vendors, music, and of course, an all-American apple pie cook-off!