Plan Some Non-NATO Weekend Fun

Several events are full steam ahead on busy Chicago weekend

Many Chicago events were rescheduled because of NATO activities, but others are moving full steam ahead.

A few roadblocks and closures aren't nearly enough to stop beer drinkers from doing their thing. The Chicago Craft Beer Week is in full swing and runs through May 20th.

The city has been divided into nine neighborhoods, plus the suburbs, for the 3rd annual event, and more than 200 venues are participating by offering $4 tastings of rare beers and other special events. Click here for a full schedule of events.

Summer festival season kicks off this weekend with Mayfest -- thankfully in Lakeview, far away from the NATO Red Zone.

The festival runs May 18-20 at 3100 N. Ashland Avenue at Barry.

Local bands and DJs such as 16 Candles, Too White Crew and Hairbangers Ball will perform, along with an outdoor beer garden, arts and crafts vendors and special activities for the kids on Saturday.

Not all downtown business are running scared and closing during NATO. The Chicago Architecture Foundation will continue offering boat tours all weekend long. (Tickets)

If you didn't score tickets to this weekend's Crosstown Classic, don't let that stop you from heading to Wrigleyville. Rockit Burger Bar hosts the Crosstown Cookoff from 2:30-5:30 p.m. on May 19th. The $25 ticket gets you Northside or Southside sliders, a french fry buffet and two PBR or Old Style Tall Boys in limited edition Chicago Cubs & Chicago flag cans.

Bucktown hangout Lottie’s Pub celebrates its 78th anniversary on May 19th with an all day bash featuring live music and entertainment, culminating with karaoke at 8 p.m. Specials include 78-cent draft beers, $4 Jameson and $7.80 homemade 14-inch pizzas.

Stir up memories of summer camp at the Campfire Ball on May 19th at Venue One. The annual party benefits Children's Oncology Services, Inc. and includes gourmet twists on your favorite campfire good, top shelf cocktails, a photo booth and a rockin' DJ. The $85 advance ticket price helps send a kid with cancer to summer camp.

River North's Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar is celebrating its one-year anniversary all week, culminating with a big bash on the evening of May 20. They've partnered with Zagat for the Greatest Hits and Re-Mixes Dinner, a five-course meal and an open bar for $75. A different special is available each day leading up to Sunday's party. RSVP at www.eatatunion.com or 312-662-4888.

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