Big Wig Closing Party

After seven years, Wicker Park's Big Wig is closing its doors. To celebrate (that somehow doesn't seem like the right word), the nightclub is throwing a five-day bash, tonight through Sunday. Each night will feature an all-star DJ line-up -- tonight it's Diz, Justin Long, Lady D. and Dayhota -- and a raffle of the club's decorations -- including the hairdryer lamps and even the neon sign. Doors will open at 8pm each night, with a $5 cover kicking in at 10pm -- except Sunday, when it's free all night before the doors close for good. 21 and over.

Orphan Burn

SynchroniCityis hosting an Orphan Burn for all those midwesterners so unfortunate they won't be on the playa this year. The Orphan Burn is on Saturday September 4th at the Wild Life Refuge just across the border in Wisconsin (about 50 minutes north of Chicago). The event starts at 2pm and goes until noon the next day. We'll burn an effigy so get up there early to decorate it. Wear a costume if you have any class! There will be music, fire, and lots of bitching and moaning. Maybe hugs and beer too.

For more info, email chicago@burningman.com.

Hispanic Heritage Night @ Chicago Fire Game

Tonight is the Chicago Fire's night to host Hispanic Heritage Night during their match against D.C. United. A season-long feature, which is honored at each MLS stadium throughout the year, this evening's entertainment includes a special t-shirt giveaway, 50 honored Hispanic heros (nominate one here) as well as a special double-header match after the Fire/D.C. United game: America vs. Pachuca (a Mexican Football League team). Get your tickets here for one of the few last home Fire matches this season.

Chicago Jazz Festival

This year's Jazz Fest marks the centennial births of legendary jazz musicians Count Basie, Coleman Hawkins and Fats Waller, September 3–5 respectively. The full festival runs September 2-5 (yes, that's Labor Day weekend) so mark your calendars and head out for some great music. Here's the full schedule. Also, for a pretty great breakdown of the performances with artist bios, check out the WBEZ festival site here.

African Festival of the Arts

The African Festival of the Arts continues today, in Washington Park (at 51st and Cottage Grove). The festival runs all Labor Day weekend, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. Tickets are $10 and weekend and family passes are available. For more information, and a full schedule, check out the Africa International House Organization or call (773)955-ARTS (2787).