NaNoWriMo

National Novel Writing Month is a fun, seat-of-your-pants approach to novel writing. Participants begin writing November 1. The goal is to write a 175-page (50,000-word) novel by midnight, November 30. Chicago participants will be having a kick-off party at 6 p.m. at the Ten Cat, 3931 N. Ashland.

Traitors, et al. @ Fireside Bowl

Come see the Traitors for one of their final performances ever. The Mashers, The Dutchmen, The Groadies and BridgeOnFire open -- and there's a rumor of a surprise guest. Doors open at 7pm; $7 admission. Fireside Bowl, 2646 W. Fullerton. Call 773/486-2700 for more info.

Bike Winter expo

Not even a Chicago winter should be an excuse to stop commuting by bicycle. The good people at Bike Winter have the tips to keep you warm, clean and safe on two wheels while everyone else is shivering on the El platform. Nov. 1 at 1 there will be an educational expo in the field house at Daley Bicentennial Plaza, 337 E. Randolph Drive.