Movieside Film Fest

Movieside film fest returns to the Biograph Theater (2433 N Lincoln Ave) Friday, June 18 and Saturday, June 19, with performances and screenings at 8 pm and midnight. Tickets are $8 pre-sale and $10 at the door.

Life of Brian @ Music Box

"People called Romani, they go the 'ouse?" Yes, yes they do, and the Music Box has them, as it hosts the Chicago engagement of Monty Python's Life of Brian. Inspired by the performance figures of a certain other religion-themed movie a couple of months ago, the Pythons thought it would be time to dust off the old film and give it a tour through the US. (A mere coincidence that it's the 25th anniversary of the film.) So head on over to the Music Box tonight, and ask them to welease Woger. (Don't really do it.) Music Box Theatre: 3733 N. Southport. (773) 871-6604.

Blithe House Quarterly Reading

Blithe House Quarterly, an online journal of queer short fiction, celebrates its Summer 2004 all-Chicago issue with a reading by four local writers: Dave Awl, Kurt Heintz, Karen Lee Osborne, and K. R. Randen. Hosted by BHQ founder/publisher Aldo Alvarez, Friday, June 18 at 7:00 p.m. at Quimby's Bookstore (1854 W. North Ave). This event is open to all ages, and admission is free.

Venus Magazine Party

Join the gang from locally produced, nationally enjoyed Venus Magazine on June 18 at the Empty Bottle for some good music and great company. Performing will be Terror At the Opera, Pit er Pat, and DJ Jim Magas. Venus Magazine, focused on women in music, arts, and culture, is currently celebrating its 20th issue, featuring Janeane Garofalo, now on stands.

Taste of Randolph Street

This annual event includes live bands, cooking demonstrations, tasty treats from local restaurants, arts and crafts, and much more. The festival takes place near 1200 W. Randolph St. at Racine Avenue. Bands this year include Fountains of Wayne and Galactic. A suggested donation of $6 before 5 p.m. and $10 after 5 p.m. is "requested." Festival hours are June 18: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m., June 19: Noon - 10 p.m., and June 20: Noon - 10 p.m.

Jefferson Park Community Festival

The Jefferson Park Community Festival is taking place this weekend at the intersection of Higgins and Milwaukee Avenue. The festival, which includes arts and crafts, live music and food, runs June 18 from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. and June 19: 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. A $5 donation is requested.