Chicago, Creativity, and Playboy

The Hyde Park Art Center presents "I Read it for the Art: Chicago, Creativity and Playboy." The show, which runs through April 24, brings together 20 Chicago artists from the Playboy collection. An opening reception begins at 4 p.m. at the center, 5307 S. Hyde Park Blvd. For more information, call 324-5520.

South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade

Considered the largest community St. Patrick's Day parade outside of Dublin, the 26th Anuual South Side Irish St. Patrick's Day Parade begins today at Noon. The parade route stretches up Western Avenue from 103rd to 114th Streets, but get there early as up to 300,000 spectators are expected to turn out for this annual event. Visit the official website for more information.

The Modernist Society @ Darkroom

Fans of The Modernist and photographer Richard Kern will want to be at Darkroom, 2210 W. Chicago, tonight between 8pm and 2am for the webzine's monthly shin-dig -- this one's theme is "Compromizing Positions." Kern will be present, and there will be an on-site Polaroid photo contest, the winner of which will receive a vintage Polaroid camera. 21 and over. More info may or may not be available here.

Melissa Thodos & Dancers

Melissa Thodos and Dancers perform at the Harold Washington Library Auditorium, 400 S. State St. 773-883-1487. March 12-13 at 8 pm, March 14 at 3 pm. $25, $20 for students -- purchase tickets here.

Women's History @ Willard House

March is Women's History Month, and the Frances Willard House, 1730 Chicago Ave. in Evanston, is having a celebration from 1pm to 4pm today to honor some of Evanston's most famous women. Highlights of the afternoon include old-fashioned family crafts, free refreshments and visits from temperance and women's rights crusader Frances Willard herself (portrayed by historical actor Leslie Goddard). Visitors will be able to explore the new exhibit, "Evanston Women at the Forefront of Reform," spotlighting the achievements of Willard and other celebrated Evanston activists including Elizabeth Marcy, Isabella Garnett and Elizabeth Boynton Harbert. Tour admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. For more information, call 847/328-7500 or email info@franceswillardhouse.org.