Black Bone
2025-06-28 15:00 - 17:00, 2025-06-29 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Definition Theatre, 1160 E. 55th Street, Chicago, IL, 60615, United States
Black Bone
About
An Amplify World Premiere by Tina Fakhrid-Deen, an Amplify Series Three winner, is a satirical fantasy blending a game show and real life. This uproarious story centers a cohort of Black academics at a predominantly white institution (PWI) who discover one amongst them is “passing” as Black. What follows is a chaotic unraveling: mutiny breaks out, panic ensues, and ultimately, fatal consequences—but not before some resort to a well-timed shuck and jive in a desperate bid for survival. How is Blackness defined or performed, and who holds the power to grant a ‘Black pass’?
by Tina Fakhrid-Deen
directed by Carla Stillwell
Get tickets HERE.

An Iliad
2025-06-28 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-06-29 14:00 - 16:00, 2025-06-29 19:30 - 21:30 | Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, United States
An Iliad
A timely and gripping retelling of Homer’s epic poem, An Iliad returns to Court’s stage, illuminating the human cost of conflict with breathtaking urgency. Timothy Edward Kane reprises his role as The Poet – the sole character in this one-person saga – who recounts a tale of war, hubris, and destruction that spirals across millennia and crashes into our present day. Experience the raw power of Kane’s performance in Court Theatre’s intimate Abelson Auditorium, and confront the necessity of the classics head-on.
Jason Huysman understudies the role of The Poet and will be featured in evening performances on Sunday, June 15 and Sunday, June 22; all other performances will feature Timothy Edward Kane.
Click HERE to buy tickets now.

Knitting - German Short Rows
2025-06-29 13:00 - 17:00 | Fiber Friends Studios, Inc., 1744 E 55th Street, Chicago, 60615
Knitting – German Short Rows
Join Avery Erb for an exciting class on Woolly Wormhead’s Rhinebeck Hat and the theory behind German short rows. You will learn about the anatomy of German short rows, their uses, how to knit a German short row sock heel, and how to fix mistakes. Together, you’ll begin the Rhinebeck Hat, incorporating a crochet provisional cast-on demo and a chart reading refresher. If time permits, there will also be a demonstration of grafting in garter stitch.
Purchase the Rhinebeck Hat kit with the class and receive 10% off the kit for $50, regular price $56. Students will pick one of five colorways available in the shop. The kit includes one full skein and one mini skein of Polka Dot Sheep’s Stumptown DK in coordinating colors and print pattern packaged in a resealable plastic project bag.
When: Sunday, June 29, 1:00 – 5:00 with a break.
The class is limited to 8 students, with a minimum of 2 students.
Prerequisites: This is an intermediate-level class. Students should be able to read a written knitting pattern confidently. Prior experience grafting stitches and reading charts is helpful but not strictly necessary.
You will need to bring:

2 colors of smooth, light-colored DK- or worsted-weight yarn for knitting a swatch
US 6 (for DK-weight) or US 8 (for worsted-weight) needles for working small circumferences in the round (DPNs, magic loop, or 9″ circulars)
US 3 24″ circular knitting needles or straight needles, or size needed to obtain gauge: 24 sts x 44 rows in 4×4 in. in garter stitch in DK weight yarn. *Row gauge, not stitch gauge, determines the circumference of the hat
D/3.25mm crochet hook (or similar size, provisional cast-on). * Some crochet hooks will be available to borrow
Approx. 3 yds smooth waste yarn
Rhinebeck Hat pattern and yarn (see information about kits)
Tapestry needle
3 interlocking stitch markers
Notepaper and pencil

About the instructor: Avery Erb (she/her) is a knitwear designer and knitting instructor based in Chicago, IL. Originally from Wisconsin, she draws inspiration from distinctive colors, invigorating textures, and a lifetime of frigid winters.

Six Dollar Tuesdays at ACX Harper Theater
2025-07-01, 2025-07-08 | Harper Theater, 5238 S. Harper Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60615, United States
Six Dollar Tuesdays at ACX Harper Theater
Don’t miss $6 Tuesdays at the ACX Harper Theater in Hyde Park!
Movie tickets are just $6/person and a small soft drink, small popcorn, or hotdog are just $3 each.
Visit the ACX Harper Theater at 5238 S. Harper Avenue. Check showtimes HERE.

the undercommons : New Work by Brandon Carlton
2025-07-03 13:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-04 13:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-05 13:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-10 13:00 - 17:00, 2025-07-11 13:00 - 17:00 | UChicago Arts Incubator, 301 E. Garfield Boulevard, Chicago, IL, 60637, United States
Arts + Public Life presents the undercommons, the first solo exhibition by painter Brandon Carlton. The exhibition explores the complexities of contemporary Black life through Carlton’s distinct approach to stylized figuration. Drawing influence from Alex Katz, David Hockney, and Jordan Casteel, his work engages with portraiture and spatial composition to evoke intimacy, distance, presence, and longing.
Carlton’s paintings consider the undercommons as a site of fugitive sociality—an ungovernable space where collective life unfolds beyond dominant structures. His figures occupy liminal environments, neither fully contained nor entirely free, reflecting a continuous negotiation of belonging, agency, and historical memory. Inspired by Casteel’s attention to everyday Black life and the layered surfaces of Katz and Hockney, Carlton’s work reimagines the aesthetics of presence, using gesture, color, and space to suggest ways of seeing and being that resist fixed narratives.

4th on 53rd Parade and Free Festival
2025-07-04 11:00 - 15:00 | 53rd Street
Don’t miss the 33rd Annual 4th on 53rd Parade, starting at 11 a.m.

Join us after the parade for the neighborhood free festival from 12-3 p.m. at Nichols Park. We’ll have games, music, and fun!

For more information go to www.4thon53rdparade.com.

• Chicago’s Largest 4th of July Parade
• 30+ year Tradition
• Over 5,000 Attendees
• March from 55th Street to 53rd Street
• FREE Post-Parade Festival in Nichols Park
• FREE Sunday Concert Series July-August
• Made possible by the generous contributions of Hyde Park organizations, businesses, and volunteers
THE 4TH ON 53RD PARADE – started in 1992, organized by a group of Hyde Parkers. Little did they know their march around Hyde Park would continue for 30 years and grow into one of Hyde Park’s most anticipated events. It has grown from a parade to include a Free Festival and Sunday Summer Concert Series that attract over 5,000 people.
The parade begins promptly at 11 a.m. with the sound of the fire truck’s siren. It has been called the parade where “Everyone Marches,” as the whole community is involved. It features floats sponsored by local businesses, over 75 community groups, two marching bands, and the “bike brigade” – with over 100 kids and families decorating bikes, strollers, and wagons to set off down the parade route. It is truly a unique and special experience to see the excitement on peoples’ faces as they make their way around the 1.3-mile route.
FESTIVAL – After the parade, everyone is invited to participate in FREE activities at Nichols Park. At the music stage, we have a patriotic sing-along followed by two bands. Kids enjoy old fashioned lawn games, two free bounce houses, and magician. The community stage showcases local youth group music and dance performances, cheering, and martial arts demonstrations.
SUNDAY SUMMER CONCERT SERIES – is a series of six FREE concerts in Nichols Park on Sunday afternoons throughout July and August. We book performers from around the Chicago area with musical genres that range from Chicago blues to country and everything in between. It is a delight to see everyone from young families with kids, to college students, to older couples dancing and relaxing in the park.
The activities in Nichols Park continue through fall and winter with Pumpkins in the Park in October and our New Year’s Eve celebration. Last year our programming engaged 7,000 people and we anticipate that number will continue to grow. In addition to exposure at our events and on our social media, our sponsors receive year-round exposure on two large banners displayed at the north and south entrances to Nichols Park. We estimate that 1,400 adults pass the banners each day as they trek to the 53rd street commercial corridor.
Our sponsors receive exposure on both our digital platforms and on in-park banners and signage. Our digital reach alone is estimated to be 10,000 viewers. Previous attendees to our events have gone on to become mayor, governor, county board president, state senator, and even a U.S. president!

The Hyde Park Kenwood Food Pantry
2025-07-05 10:00 - 13:00, 2025-07-12 10:00 - 13:00 | Hyde Park Union Church, 5600 S. Woodlawn Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637
The Hyde Park Kenwood Food Pantry
The food pantry, located at Hyde Park Union Church, provides nonperishable groceries and limited refrigerated and frozen foods to 500 to 800 people every month on Saturdays from 10 am to 1 pm.
We serve the area of 39th – 63rd St., Cottage Grove east to Lake Michigan, and patrons can come twice a month. All will be served on their first visit, regardless of residency. If you are looking for food outside of our service area or hours, you can visit the website of the Greater Chicago Food depository to find additional services.
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Volunteers order food, unload deliveries, pre-pack bags and distribute food. ​If you would like to volunteer, please contact the Church Office or Margy Mitchell, the Food Pantry coordinator.
Time and Location
Every Saturday (including Christmas, New Year’s Day, and July 4th) from 10 am to 1 pm;
Hyde Park Union Church
5600 S. Woodlawn — enter by the side door at 1169 E. 56th St.
Chicago, IL 60637

Ja' Grill Sunday Brunch
2025-07-05 11:00 - 16:00, 2025-07-12 11:00 - 16:00 | Ja’ Grill, 1510 E. Harper Court, Chicago, IL, 60615, United States
Ja’ Grill Sunday Brunch
Hyde Park’s Ja’ Grill, located at 1510 E. Harper Court, began a new Sunday brunch service on Sunday, January 26.
The weekly Sunday brunch hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with all-you-can-eat options served family-style for $30 per person. Cocktail options include carafes of everyone’s favorite Ja’ Rum Punch, a Ja’ Mimosa, and Ja’ Bloody Mary.
Brunch menu items will rotate periodically, but diners can look forward to Jerk Chicken & Waffles, Ackee & Saltfish, Scrambled Eggs & Jerk Chicken Sausage, and more.
Ja’ Grill owner Tony Coates celebrated the restaurant’s 10th anniversary in August 2024, reflecting to the Hyde Park Herald, “We were well received well beyond what I would imagine. We opened the doors and, I say this without any hesitation, the Hyde Park community really embraced us and that’s why we’re open today.”
Coates commented, “Our regular customers have asked about adding a brunch menu many times, and we’re very excited to try out this new offering. Ja’ Grill is the perfect place to enjoy your Sunday morning and afternoon with our authentic Jamaican cuisine and extensive drink menu.”
Ja’ Grill is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. There’s a Tropical Happy Hour Monday through Thursday from 4-6 p.m. During NFL season fans can enjoy an Extended Happy Hour from 4 p.m. until closing time on Sunday, Monday, and Thursday. Don’t miss Wine Down Wednesday with 1/2 price bottles of white, red, and sparkling wines.
Visit the Ja’ Grill website and follow on Instagram for more information about specials and events.

Crafter-noons: Knit, Crochet, Embroidery
2025-07-06 13:00 - 17:00 | Fiber Friends Studios, Inc., 1744 E 55th Street, Chicago, 60615
Crafter-noons: Knit, Crochet, Embroidery
Is the heat making your stitches resemble a melted popsicle? Don’t sweat it! Come chill with us in the A/C, where you can escape the heat. Bring your project along, and let’s enjoy some time crafting together.

First Monday Jazz: The South Side Big Band
2025-07-07 19:00 - 21:00 | The Arts Lawn, 335 E. Garfield Blvd, Chicago, 60637
First Monday Jazz: The South Side Big Band
Launched in 2013, First Monday Jazz is APL’s longest-running program, featuring emerging and established Chicago musicians and vocalists on the first Monday of every month.
This year, First Monday Jazz 2025: Big Band Summer takes us on a journey back to the golden age of big band jazz in Chicago. As the 1920s exploded with musical energy from the South mixed with a growing nightlife culture, our city became an epicenter where the raw spirit of early jazz blossomed into the power of larger ensembles. Imagine the scene: bustling cabarets, elegant ballrooms like the Savoy (on 47th and King Drive), and grand theaters such as the Regal hosting musical forces that would define an era. In this electric atmosphere, bandleaders like the legendary Earl Hines helped shape the big band sound, known for its tight arrangements, bold horn sections, and driving rhythm perfect for dancing.
Our July artist is The South Side Big Band
In the early 1990s, arranger/producer Tom “Tom Tom” Washington established the South Side Big Band to retain the “hip-ly” played music of the 50s, 60s, and 70s, inviting young musicians into the ranks with fully experienced musicians who performed music from that era.
The band features legendary musicians Art Hoyle, Gene “Daddy G” Barge, Willie Henderson, Willie “Big Willie” Woods, and vocalists Teddy Thomas, Curtis Prince, and Dr. Odies Williams. Together, they bring over 400 years of combined professional music experience.
The South Side Big Band also includes Tyrone Hines, Robyn Sutton, Marvin Davis, Steven Berry, Pharez Whitted, Miguel Delacerna, Philip Castleberry, Bernard Reed, Edward House, Jarrad Harris, Ron Griffin, Studio & Show Musicians Tracey Kirk, Kenny Anderson, Al Smith, Jess Williams, Wayne Johnson, Sam Walton, Bill Farland, Theodis Rogers and Bernard Reed Jazz Historian & Liaison Melvin Williams.
Check out our mention in the Chicago Reader
“The South Side Big Band isn’t just a collection of seasoned session musicians, though—Washington often invites younger or up-and-coming players to join the band at its regular Monday-night rehearsals. In recent years its performances have featured around 20 members, including trombonist Tracy Kirk (Chicago Jazz Philharmonic) and trumpeter Pharez Whitted. This outdoor concert is part of a series presented by the University of Chicago’s Arts + Public Life organization as part of a summer tribute to big bands. Fans can expect a diverse program of swing, contemporary soul, and more played by some of Chicago’s best.”

Tipsy Trivia at Daisy's Po-Boy and Tavern
2025-07-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Daisy’s Po-Boy and Tavern, 5215 S. Harper Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60615, United States
Tipsy Trivia at Daisy’s Po-Boy and Tavern
Join us at Daisy’s Po-Boy and Tavern every Tuesday starting July 8th for an exciting evening of interactive trivia hosted by Ben! Experience six engaging rounds where all questions and answers are presented on TVs via PowerPoint, making it easy for everyone to follow along and participate. Each round features picture clues to help your team crack the answers, adding a fun visual twist to the challenge.
Enjoy food and drink specials throughout the evening!

Committed Knitters
2025-07-09 11:00 - 15:00 | UChicago Arts Incubator, 301 E. Garfield Boulevard, Chicago, IL, 60637, United States
Committed Knitters
Arts Incubator: flex space (second floor)
Wednesdays 12:00-3:00 pm
Committed Knitters welcomes you to our bi-weekly gatherings at the Arts Incubator Flex Space! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just picking up needles for the first time, there’s a spot for you. Share ideas, make progress on your projects, and enjoy a cozy, creative time with us!
We’ve got supplies ready for you.
Just drop in—no registration needed!

Movies on the Midway - Despicable Me 4
2025-07-09 19:00 - 21:30 | Midway Plaisance
Movies on the Midway – Despicable Me 4
The UChicago Office of Civic Engagement is teaming up with the Chicago Park District again this summer for the annual Movies on the Midway summer movie series. On Wednesdays beginning July 9, attendees will enjoy a slate of family-friendly films and themed activities at 1130 Midway Plaisance, between Ellis and University Avenues. Activities take place beginning at 7 p.m., and movies start at sunset.
This year’s series has five blockbuster hits you won’t want to miss. Grab a friend, grab some chairs, and come enjoy this summer classic. The series is set to run through August 9, with August 16 held as a rain date.
July 9: Despicable Me 4
Calling all mini masterminds! Before the movie begins, invent your very own gadget using foil, pipe cleaners, and all kinds of wacky materials. Bring your creation to life with the Hyde Park Art Center—and put it to use during the film!
July 16: Moana 2
Ready to ride the waves? Aloha Chicago brings the islands to you with an interactive hula show! Learn traditional dances, snap photos with dazzling performers, and get swept away by the rhythm of the Pacific.
July 23: Inside Out 2
How are you feeling today? Express your emotions by using colorful beads that reflect your mood to create a custom-made bracelet with the Hyde Park Art Center. Wear it proudly during the movie—your feelings deserve the spotlight!
July 30: Minecraft
Craft your character—IRL—with the Hyde Park Art Center! Create your own pixel-perfect cardboard face using mini squares of colored paper. Whether it’s you or your favorite Minecraft avatar, your masterpiece becomes a mask to wear as you wait for the adventure to begin!
August 6: Wicked
Get swept up in the magic before the movie even starts! Enjoy a dazzling dance performance by the Hyde Park School of Dance and then jump into a mini-musical theater workshop. It’s your chance to sing, move, and feel a little “Popular” before the lights go down.

VACCINE CLINIC - St.Thomas the Apostle School
2025-07-10 10:00 - 14:00 | St. Thomas the Apostle School, 5467 S. Woodlawn Avenue, Chicago, 60615, United States
💉 Back-to-School Vaccines Made Easy! 🏫
We’ve partnered with CDPH and the BCBS CareVan to help our families get ready for the new school year! See the flyer for more information on how to register your student(s)—this event is open to everyone!
🚶‍♀️ Walk-ins will be accepted as time permits, but appointments are strongly encouraged.
Let’s start the school year healthy and strong! 💪📚

DuSummer Thursdays Outdoor Music Series
2025-07-10 18:00 - 20:00 | The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago, IL, 60637, United States
DuSummer Thursdays Outdoor Music Series
Join us for a summer of unforgettable sounds at the DuSummer Thursdays Outdoor Music Series at the DuSable Museum! From jazz to soul and everything in between, enjoy an exciting lineup of Chicago’s finest talent—live and outdoors on the Roundhouse Plaza.
Doors open at 5:00 PM
Show starts at 6:00 PM
Free Admission Register Here
Performance Lineup:

June 26 – Josiah Maddox, Ox Jam, and Vince Adams
July 10 – Thaddeus Tukes
July 24 – Hector Silveira
August 7 – Joyce Hurley with Park and Ride
August 21 – Simone Green
September 7 – Marqueal Jordan
September 18 – The J Grant Experience

Let the music move you this summer at DuSable!

Harper Court Summer Music Series - Midnight Sun
2025-07-10 18:00 - 21:00 | 5235 S. Harper Court, 5235 S Harper Ct, Chicago, IL, 60615, United States
Harper Court Summer Music Series – Midnight Sun
FREE OUTDOOR CONCERTS SPONSORED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE SILVER ROOM
Thursday, July 10MIDNIGHT SUN from 7-8 p.m.DJ SHAZAM BANGLES from 6-7 and 8-9 p.m.
Harper Court, 5235 S. Harper Court, Hyde Park (53rd Street and S. Lake Park Avenue).www.harpercourtmusic.com.

ParkingPaid parking is available in the Harper Court garage (entrance on S. Lake Park Avenue just south of McDonald’s) or in the surface lot on S. Harper Avenue. Paid street parking is also available. We encourage you to take public transportation or carpool.

SeatingSeating is not provided – please bring folding chairs, but remember to leave lots of room from dancing!

DiningEnjoy Bob’s Pizza, Chipotle, Daisy’s Po’ Boy & Tavern, Deep Purpl, Ja’ Grill, Roti Modern Mediterranean, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee, and Strugglebeard Bakery – all in Harper Court. Or sample one of the many great eateries on 53rd Street. For a complete list of restaurants go to welcometohydepark.com.

Shop LocalSupport our neighborhood businesses by shopping local. Recycled Modern and Suuri Design are in Harper Court, and The Silver Room and other shops are right around the corner. For a complete list of stores go to welcometohydepark.com.

What's Good - A Birthday Block Party for the Culture
2025-07-10 18:00 - 22:00 | Recycled Modern, 5231 S. Harper Court, Chicago, 60615, United States
What’s Good – A Birthday Block Party for the Culture
Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Harper Court Music Series, What’s Good is a celebration of life, legacy, and the cultural heartbeat of Chicago. Join us as we celebrate two culture-forward women, Shari Currie and Naja Morris, with art, music, cocktails by Michael Lavelle, Uncle Nearest, Curious Elixirs, and Hoste Cocktails, curated activations throughout the block, and shopping from local favorites.
Click HERE to RSVP.

Jazz in Harper Court - Bethany Pickens
2025-07-11 12:00 - 14:30 | 5235 S. Harper Court, 5235 S Harper Ct, Chicago, IL, 60615, United States
Jazz in Harper Court – Bethany Pickens
FREE OUTDOOR JAZZ PERFORMANCES SPONSORED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO

Friday, July 11 – BETHANY PICKENSFriday, August 8 – DEE ALEXANDERFriday, September 5 – TIM GANT PROJECT
Harper Court, 5235 S. Harper Court, Hyde Park (53rd Street and S. Lake Park Avenue).www.hpjazz.com

ParkingThe Harper Court parking structure will offer limited free parking between 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Standard parking rates will apply for those entering the garage before 10 a.m. or exiting after 4 p.m. Enter on S. Lake Park Avenue just south of McDonald’s.

SeatingPlease bring your favorite chair. Limited seating will be available, but we cannot guarantee seats. Please, no seat saving.

DiningEnjoy Bob’s Pizza, Chipotle, Daisy’s Po-Boy & Tavern, Deep Purpl, Ja’ Grill, Roti Modern Mediterranean, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee, and Strugglebeard Bakery – all in Harper Court. Or sample one of the many great eateries on 53rd Street. For a complete list of restaurants go to welcometohydepark.com.

Shop LocalSupport our neighborhood businesses by shopping local. Recycled Modern and Suuri Design are in Harper Court, and The Silver Room and other shops are right around the corner. For a complete list of stores go to welcometohydepark.com.

Ja' Grill Patio Beats & Cocktails
2025-07-11 16:00 - 21:00 | Ja’ Grill, 1510 E. Harper Court, Chicago, IL, 60615, United States
Ja’ Grill Patio Beats & Cocktails
Ja’ Grill is the place to be for Patio Beats & Cocktails with DJ Mark Flava on Friday, July 11 from 4-9 p.m. Vibe to reggae, afro beats, R&B, and house music on the outdoor patio.
Tropical Hour specials from 4-6 p.m.
1510 E. Harper Court

Outdoor Meditation in the Garden of the Phoenix
2025-07-12 08:00 - 11:00 | Garden of the Phoenix, 6401 South Stony Island Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, United States
Outdoor Meditation in the Garden of the Phoenix
Join us for summer outdoor Introduction to Zen Meditation sessions at the historic Garden of the Phoenix located on Wooden Island in Jackson Park in Hyde Park. These sessions are held every other Saturday and are open to anyone interested in learning the basics of Zen meditation (zazen).
Each session covers basic information about Zen, including posture, breathing, and the mental aspects of meditation. There will also be time for questions and discussion. No experience is required. A limited number of cushions will be provided—participants are encouraged to bring their own if possible.
A signed waiver is required to participate. Click here to complete the waiver.
Additional info: Always be respectful of the space, the practice, and other practitioners. Wear plain, dark-colored, loose clothing so you can sit for the entire period of teaching and practice without discomfort; most jeans are unsuitable. Shorts, short skirts, and revealing clothes are not allowed. Silence cell phones so as not to disturb others. Move around the space mindfully, and do not make unnecessary noise. Participants should expect to sit cross-legged for extended periods. Please arrive at the event start time or slightly before it so as not to disturb others.
We look forward to practicing with you.
