By Ron Augustine
You don't have to go to the same old bar every Friday.
Chicago has more to offer. If you need to try something different this weekend, check out one of these creative alternatives to the status quo. It doesn't matter what part of the month it is, Chicago makes sure that you'll never be bored on a Friday night.
First Fridays
The Museum of Contemporary Art hosts the classiest party in Chicago every first Friday of the month. You don't have to be an art-snob for this party, but you should still dress to impress. Admission ranges between $10 and $20. With live DJs and new modern art every month, it's an avant-garde environment for party-goers who are tired of the typical bar scene.
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 E Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60611-2644
(312) 280-2660
www.mcachicago.org
Second Fridays
This is the Friday for art-lovers. Pilsen is actually known as the Chicago Arts District, and you'll see why if you swing by 18th and Halsted streets. The galleries' admission prices are free. You'll find wine and interesting conversation. Most galleries are open until 10 p.m.
Chicago Arts District
1821 S. Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60608
Chicagoartsdistrict.org
Third Fridays
Streetside is a hidden gem located on the south edge of Logan Square. Even when this neighborhood bar has DJs on the first and third Fridays of the month, it's never too crowded or stuffy. If you're looking for a casual Friday night out and you don't want to pay a cover charge, Streetside still throws a great party.
Streetside Cafe
3201 W Armitage Ave
Chicago, IL 60647-3772
(773) 252-9700
www.streetsidecafe.net
Last Fridays
The fourth Friday of the month is when you need to get some exercise for your weekend activity. Critical Mass meets at Daley Plaza on the last Friday of the month at 5:30 p.m. Critical Mass sees hundreds and sometimes thousands of eclectic bicyclists clogging the streets of the city in protest of motor vehicles. Everyone is welcome to join in on this massive, free, fun ride through the various neighborhoods of Chicago.
Daley Plaza
W. Washington St
Chicago, Illinois 60602
Chicagocriticalmass.org
Resources
About the Author:
Ron Augustine is a rookie freelance writer and producer who has worked primarily in radio and print media for Chicago Public Radio's Sound Opinions, Relevant Magazine, WMBI Chicago and the Burnside Writers Collective. He graduated Moody College in 2007 with a degree in Communications.
