Bubba Ho-Tep.

The film event of the year for a certain portion of film fans will undoubtedly be tonight's Chicago premiere of Bubba Ho-Tep, the much talked-about instant cult classic that pits an aging Elvis Presley (played by cult film legend Bruce Campbell) and John F. Kennedy (played by Ossie Davis -- yes, Ossie Davis) against an ancient soul-sucking mummy that lurks in their retirement community. The movie has been playing the festival circuit since last year, slowly gaining word-of-mouth publicity and awards for the performances, and now it's finally getting an official release across the country. If all that isn't enough to make you want to show up for this flick, star Bruce Campbell will be putting in an appearance at tonight's premiere (schedule permitting). No word as to whether he'll be fighting any mummies at the appearance. The film is at Landmark's Century Centre Cinema (2828 N. Clark at Diversey). Check local listings for showtimes, as the kids say.

Original Sewing & Quilt Expo

The Original Sewing & Quilt Expo is coming to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL this weekend, October 16-18. Daily general admission is $10 at the door for access to the exhibit hall. Or, register for any one of the over 100 different classes and workshops being offered. View the full schedule at the website.

Chicago Art Open

Tonight is the artists' reception for the 6th annual Chicago Art Open, featuring works by 275 professional and 50 student artists. Meet nearly all 325 artists from 6-9pm in the 3rd Floor Gallery at 847 W. Jackson St. The show itself runs October 12-19. Sponsored by the Chicago Artists' Coalition; more info on their site.

SOFA Expo

The 10th annual SOFA Expo is at Navy Pier Oct. 17-19 -- go see the impressive array of "Sculpture Objects and Functional Art" in this gigantic show -- you will be tired by the end. Admission is $12 or $20 for a three-day pass, open 11am-8pm Friday and Saturday, 12-6pm Sunday.

Dita von Teese

Dita von Teese, renowned burlesque dancer and girlfriend of Marilyn Manson, will be performing tonight only at Vision DOME, 640 N. Dearborn. She'll be doing two performances between 10pm and 4am. (Mr. Manson will also be skulking around.) From 10 to 11, the bar will be "hosted by Effen Vodka," which probably means drink specials. Tickets are $20 at the door, and it's obviously 21 or over. More info at Black Market Chicago.

Neal Pollack

Former Reader and McSweeney's writer Neal Pollack returns to town to promote his latest book, "Never Mind the Pollacks." At 12:30 he'll read at Borders (150 N. State), then at 9 open with his band, The Neal Pollack Invasion, for comedy troupe Schadenfreude at the Athenaeum (2936 N. Southport; $20).