Going out in Chicago can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There’s plenty of fun to be had every week without putting a dent in your wallet. We’re making it easier for you by providing a weekly guide to free things to do throughout the city.
THURSDAY, AUG. 22
National Bao Day at Wow Bao
Multiple locations
Pick up a free lunch (up to $10) featuring the sweet and savory buns at any of the chain’s locations. 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
FRIDAY, AUG. 23
Taste of Greektown
Halsted Street between Van Buren Street and Jackson Boulevard
The 30th annual West Loop fest features food and drink from neighborhood restaurants, Greek dance troupe performances, and a set from Dave Matthews tribute band Trippin Billies. 4-11 p.m. $5 suggested donation.
SATURDAY, AUG. 24
A talk with chef and author Musa Dagdeviren at Read It & Eat for baiduhai Food Bowl
2142 N. Halsted St., 773-661-6158
The Istanbul-based chef featured on Netflix’s “Chef’s Table” discusses and signs copies of “The Turkish Cookbook,” which features 550 recipes showcasing the country’s culinary heritage. 2-4 p.m. RSVP required: eventbrite.com
SUNDAY, AUG. 25
Wicker Park Bucktown End of Summer Sale
Damen, North and Milwaukee avenues; Division Street
Dozens of businesses offer discounts and promotions on art, shoes, clothing, jewelry and more.
MONDAY, AUG. 26
Bechdel Fest 7: Momentum at Steppenwolf’s 1700 Theatre
More Top Picks Best Snow Shovels
1700 N. Halsted St., 312-335-1650
Broken Nose Theatre’s annual showcase of new short plays featuring woman and non-binary performers features works about a wide variety of subjects that aren’t men, including a horny teenager’s fantasies, a clairvoyant confronted by nonbelievers and the world of stand-up comedy. 7 p.m. Tickets are pay-what-you-can at steppenwolf.org
