LIGHT IT UP: The 19th annual Magnificent Mile Lights Festival kicks off Saturday along Michigan Avenue. The festivities kick off with live music at 11 a.m. and the party continues until 6:55 p.m. with fireworks, and extended shopping until 10 p.m. In between, there'll be plenty of Disney characters and a performance by American Idol finalist Crystal Bowersox.
PEPPERMINT PARTY: The Lincoln Park Young Professionals host the Peppermint Holiday Bash Friday from 6 - 9 p.m. at the Grossinger City Autoplex (1560 North Dayton St). Twenty bucks gets you apps, desserts, and open bar and a fashion show. That's not a misprint.
ICY HOT: Continue the holiday feeling by gliding over to the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink, which officially opens on Friday. Skating is free but skate rentals are $10. Try not to fall, but if you do, we'll try not to laugh. (View Schedule)
SHOW YOUR CANS: Uncle Fatty’s Rum Resort hosts its food drive event this weekend benefiting the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Enjoy live music from cover bands Wedding Banned on Friday night and Mike & Joe on Saturday night. Bring in a canned food item and the $10 cover is reduced to $5.
CHICAGO TOY & GAME FAIR: Your kids will love you forever if you take them to this event at Navy Pier this weekend. It includes live entertainment and the opportunity to sample the hottest new toys and games, some of which will be for sale. Tickets $5-$10
GLITTER GOODNESS: Head over to Wicker Park's Debonair Social Club for the Rosina~Mae fashion show, featuring looks from local designer Rose Mae Turner. The inspiration for the show is "stopping traffic on the way to the party," which should make for some interesting looks on the runway. GiltterGuts will be in the house with a live photobooth, along with confetti, balloons and go-go dancers. The fun starts at 10 p.m. with free entry if you're wearing glitter.
