The Mountain Goats @ Empty Bottle

The Mountain Goats, the devilishly clever musical empire built upon the shoulders of a man (John Darnielle), a guitar, and a boombox, trundles its musical wares into the Empty Bottle tonight. If you see only one musical act this year, see The Mountain Goats, too. Empty Bottle: 1035 N. Western. (773) 276-3600.

Cake White Palace @ Texas Ballroom

Texas Ballroom cordially invites you to an evening of art, music and film inspired by the psychedelic, fantastic and magical. Entry is free between 7 and 9pm and $5 after.

Raeses Release Party @ Transmission Gallery

Raeses skateboarding magazine is have a release party at Transmission Gallery, a new art/music venue in the west loop (840 W. Washington). The event starts at 7pm and the cover is $5.

Back to the Future: Generations of Feminism Conference

The University of Chicago will be hosting a feminism conference with lots of 2nd and 3rd wave feminists present. The conference is free and takes place from 9:30 to 6 pm today at Ida Noyes Hall in the Max Palevsky Theater (1212 East 59th Street). You'll be able to see and hear Dorothy Allison, Sabrina Craig, Judith Halberstam, Sharon P. Holland, Nancy K. Miller, Kate Millett, Aihwa Ong, Lynn Spigel, Gayatri Spivak, and Michele Faith Wallace talk.

Open End Barn Dance

Have you ever wanted to kick up your heels at a good ol' barn dance? Regret the fact that those square dancing moves of yours have stayed hidden since 5th grade gym? Well, now is your chance to mosey on over to the Open End Barn Dance. You'll be kickin' up those heels and do-si-do-ing till the wee morning hours at Open End Gallery, located at 2000 W. Fulton (at Damen a few blocks south of Grand.) 7pm. $5 suggested donation. "Swing your partner round and round!"