Fast Forward Film Festival

Come to open-end gallery at 2000 W. Fulton, just south of Grand/Damen, to watch the results of the 11th episode of Fast Forward Film Festival. As many as 30 film-making teams will have created 3-minute films based on a common theme -- this time it's "at the drive-in" -- in just 24 hours, having recieved their assignments the night before. The show starts at 8pm. $5 donation & BYOB.

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.

Andersonville Arts Smorgasbord

Andersonville has been filling up with galleries and artist studios over recent years. Here's a chance to see what kind of art is being produced in the area, presented at more than 20 venues throughout the neighborhood. It's free, and it runs from 11am to 9pm Saturday and Sunday. Check Andersonville.org for the full schedule.

Chicago Printmakers Collaborative

Throughout October, works by the Chicago Printmakers Collaborative will be shown in restaurants and businesses all over Lincoln Square. On October 18 from noon-5pm, visit the CPC's workshop at 4642 N. Western and see a printmaking demonstration before going on a guided tour of the neighborhood and the prints.

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.

The Tomato Lady Talks

The Tomato Lady, a local expert and cultivator of 75 heirloom tomatoes in her small backyard, is giving a talk Saturday morning. At the Culinary Historians of Chicago meeting, Aggie Nehmzow will discuss organic farming of heirloom varieties of produce, biodiversity, community gardens, and teaching children about the importance of organic gardening. Saturday, October 18, 10-noon, at the Chicago Historical Society, 1601 N. Clark St. $10 for the public, $5 for students, free for Culinary Historians. To reserve a spot in the lecture, email rsvpchc[at]yahoo.com.