Our picks for events in and around Chicago this weekend.
WNBA All-Star Game + TOGETHXR House
Yes, the WNBA All-Star Game will be July 25 at United Center, but even if you don’t have a ticket, you can still get in on the fun. TOGETHXR — an organization dedicated to raising the profile of women’s sports — will host two days of related events, ranging from a morning run to panel discussions and appearances with such stars as Diana Taurasi, Chiney Ogwumike and gymnast Jordan Chiles. Expect an indoor half-court, photobooths and freebies. Or, head over to The Chicago Theatre on July 24 for a live taping of the new “Everyone Watches Women’s Sports” podcast. Maybe you’ve seen those T-shirts? Make it true this weekend. The game will be at 7:30 p.m. July 25 at United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.; tickets at unitedcenter.com. Everyone Watches Women’s Sports will be at 5 p.m. July 24 at The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St.; tickets from $25 at msg.com. Additional TOGETHXR House events will be July 24-25 in various locations; details at togethxr.com
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.Benson Boone
A month after the release of his latest single, “The Time of My Life,” Benson Boone returns to Chicago. If you missed his “American Heart” tour last summer, you have another chance to join the party. Backflips and magic are on the bill. 8 p.m. July 24-25 at Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont; tickets from $39.85 at rosemont.com
Daniel Caesar
When Daniel Caesar played his second NPR Tiny Desk concert in January, the R&B star had already set the bar high: His 2018 appearance was a standout, among the top 15 most viewed on YouTube. The Canadian singer-songwriter was back to promote “Son of Spergy,” his latest album, which NPR said “feels like the completion of a pilgrimage and a newfound sense of acceptance.” See him perform live this weekend at United Center with special guest Faye Webster. 7:30 p.m. July 26 at United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.; tickets from $194.60 at unitedcenter.com
Buddy Guy 90
Buddy Guy supposedly retired two years ago, and yet he’s still touring — and why not? His latest show, one marking his 90th birthday, is cause for celebration. Granted, this weekend’s show at The Chicago Theatre doesn’t pack the all-star punch of his forthcoming Radio City Music Hall appearance, when Eric Clapton and John Mayer are scheduled to appear. But you can see the legend live this weekend in a more intimate show, with daughter Carlise Guy & The Nu Blu Band. 7:30 p.m. July 25 at The Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St.; tickets at msg.com
Gospel Music Festival
Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Hezekiah Walker and Love Fellowship Choir, and Ricky Dillard and New G headline this year’s Gospel Music Festival. For two evenings, the festival will light up Millennium Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion. On Saturday, the show starts at noon with live music that’ll be broadcast on Inspiration 1390. 4-9 p.m. July 24 and noon-9 p.m. July 25 in Millennium Park, enter at Michigan Avenue and Washington Street; details on the free event at chicago.gov
Jack White
It’s impossible to attend a sporting event without hearing “Seven Nation Army” — witness last weekend’s World Cup half-time show — so Glide Magazine’s description of Jack White’s Boston stop on his latest tour is a solid endorsement: “Instead of a safe, nostalgic victory lap, the room was a sweaty, suffocating basement party of die-hard fans witnessing a guy who still plays every gig like his rent is past due.” See for yourself this weekend at The Salt Shed Fairgrounds — if you can score a ticket. Doors at 5:30 p.m. July 24 at The Salt Shed Fairgrounds, 1357 N. Elston Ave.; tickets at saltshedchicago.com
St. Vincent with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Whenever St. Vincent is involved, chances are, it’ll be something interesting. This weekend, the Grammy-winner collaborates with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to reimagine songs from such albums as “Marry Me” and “All Born Screaming.” Arooj Aftab opens, offering a blend of jazz, pop and South Asian music. Gates at 5 p.m. July 25 at Ravinia Festival, 201 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park; tickets from $60 at ravinia.org
Wicker Park Fest
Sure, Wicker Park Fest has two stages of music featuring a solid lineup of dozens of acts. But it also has a thrift fashion show, art installations, pro wrestling, Bollywood Groove and so much more. And that’s not even counting the dedicated Kid and Pet Fests. 5-10 p.m. July 24 and noon-10 p.m. July 25-26, along Milwaukee Avenue (south gate at 1346 N. Paulina St.); $10 suggested donation; details at wickerparkbucktown.com
Chinatown Summer Fair
From traditional lion dance processions to K-pop dance competitions, the 46th annual Chinatown Summer Fair will delight. Beyond folk dance and martial arts demonstrations, you’ll find arts and craft exhibits, kids’ activities and no shortage of good eats. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. July 25 and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. July 26 around 2200 S. Wentworth Ave.; details on the free event at ccc-foundation.org
Pullman Railroad Days
A hundred years ago, electrified rail came to Chicago — and this weekend, you can step aboard the historic, Pullman-built train cars that made it possible. Learn about how this technological leap reshaped Chicago history, spurring development across the South Side and southern suburbs. Bring the kids for hands-on STEAM activities, miniature train rides and transit exhibits. On July 26, WTTW’s Geoffrey Baer will reflect on his PBS special “Riding the Rails” and chat with former Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph C. Szabo. 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. July 25-26 at Pullman National Historical Park, 11141 S. Cottage Grove Ave.; tickets $25 (ages 12 and under free, but require children’s tickets) at friendsofpullman.com
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Have something to do around Chicago? Email events to [email protected].