Magnetic Fields @ Old Town School

The Magnetic Fields, that grand group of musicians headed by songwriting machine Stephin Merritt, plays for three nights at the Old Town School of Folk Music. If you are somehow able to rustle up a ticket for this performance, do not pass up the chance to see the show. Merritt and company always deliver a powerful show, and the performance space at the Old Town School is first-rate: small and intimate, each seat having an unobstructed view of the stage. Opening act: Andrew Bird. Show starts at 8:00. A highly recommended evening. Old Town School of Folk Music: 4544 N. Lincoln Avenue. (773) 728-6000. Also see the school's Website for further info.

35th annual Pride parade

The 2004 GLBT Pride parade makes its way through East Lakeview today. The parade kicks off at noon at Halsted and Belmont, proceeding north to Broadway, then back south on Broadway to Diversey, then east to Lincoln Park. Expect the usual eclectic mix of politicians, drag queens and kings, corporate floats, bar floats, topless boys and girls, marching PFLAG moms, and giant Jewel carts. This year's grand marshal is former NFL defensive tackle Esera Tuaolo. See the PRIDEChicago committee's official website for further info.

22nd Annual Strawberry Festival

Come on out to historic Long Grove, IL this weekend at Old McHenry and Robert Parker Coffin Roads for their 22nd Annual Strawberry Festival. Long Grove restaurants and outdoor booths will be offering a wide variety of strawberry treats, and the festival also includes live music and a classic car show. Admission is free so join the fun on June 25: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., June 26: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., and June 27: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.