Be transported to Argentina: The San Telmo market is an iconic destination in Buenos Aires. El Che is bringing the vibe to Chicago in a monthly series of market days. Weather permitting, local vendors feature offerings both inside and outside of the restaurant. This weekend’s vendors include Big Mich, Vargo Brother Ferments, Soap Dev and more. “San Telmo Market” from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 10 at El Che Meat and Provisions, 845 W. Washington Blvd; free reservations at elchecihcago.com
Happiness is … a piano duo: Festival co-founders Claire Aebersold and Ralph Neiweem bring their 40 years of performing together to this year’s Chicago Duo Piano Festival. Friday evening they’ll perform the world premiere of “Cries and Whispers” by Robert Chumbley, co-commissioned by the Festival and the Dranoff Foundation; Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy” from Symphony No. 9, arranged by Franz Liszt; and works by Brahms and Ravel. 7:30 p.m. July 9 at Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston; Free reservations can be made at musicinst.org
Country music and barbecue: Dierks Bentley, Brett Eldredge and Darius Rucker are just a few of the big names in country music performing at this year’s Windy City Smokeout. Some of the world’s best pitmasters are serving up classic smoked meats while craft beer from American breweries flow. Through July 11 outside the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.; $35+; tickets available at windycitysmokeout.com
Ballet of the white stallions: Learn how Lipizzan stallions dance and view the Olympic sport of dressage live during this 38th annual event. Interactive and educational events are presented along with a one-of-a-kind performance filled with synchronized movement set to classical music. Guests are invited to learn about how Lipizzans are raised and trained. “Tempel Lipizzans’ White Stallions” at 1 p.m. July 11 at Tempel Farms, 17000 Wadsworth Road, Old Mill Creek; $25-$35; tickets are available at tempelfarms.com
Taste of Chicago with a twist: Taste of Chicago is a bit different this year with pop-up cooking demonstrations and special events. This weekend, support Chicago High School’s agricultural sciences’ college scholarship fund by swinging by Eli’s Cheesecake as they celebrate 36 years participating in Taste of Chicago. Choose from a variety of cheesecakes and dine on Eli’s classic BBQ while enjoying live music from Henry Johnson, Illville Vanguard and more. More than 40 other restaurants are participating. “Taste of Chicago To-Go” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 11 at Eli’s Cheesecake, 6701 W. Forest Preserve Drive; also 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the West Englewood community (6300 S. Wood St.) and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Hatchery (135 N. Kedzie Ave.); more at Chicago.gov
Celebrate Chicago’s young artists: Chicago’s young performing artists present their talent during a two-day fest featuring dance and musical performances. Styles include blues, classical, rock, jazz, and more. “Fresh Fest” from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 9 at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave; Free, more at navypier.org
A bit of Puerto Rico in the city: Celebrate the museum’s reopening with live music, authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, workshops, local artisans and more. Bring lawn chairs and dancing shoes and celebrate the culture of Puerto Rico. “Barrio Arts Fest” from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 10 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 11 at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, 3015 West Division St; free, more at humboldtparkportal.org
A visit from Black Bourbon Society: Jim Beam presents a Nationwide tour highlighting black-owned bars and restaurants and this weekend they’re in Chicago. The fun kicks off Friday with Highball Happy Hour. This welcoming event highlights black bartenders and their spin on highball cocktails. Saturday brings an afternoon of pairing Jim Beam varieties with traditional barbecue. The celebration concludes with live music and Sunday brunch. “Black Bourbon Society Jim Beam Open Door Tour” from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. July 9, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. July 10, and 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 11 at Taste 222, 222 N. Canal St; Free. Full details are available at bbsopendoor.com
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