Clown Around Town

Clown Around Town, a new program from The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs, celebrates the circus arts all weekend long with acrobatic workshops, clown performances, and a circus museum exhibit.

Today's events include a circus exhibition all day at the Museum of Science and Industry, "Silliness 101" at the Chicago Children's Museum, and an Astro Beat Circus Dance Party from 7-9 pm at the Chicago Cultural Center.

Susan Jane Gilman @ Barbara's

Susan Jane Gilman, author of the snarky girls' guide Kiss My Tiara: How to Rule the World as a SmartMouth Goddess, reads from her new book at Barabara's Bookstore in Oak Park. The book, Hypocrite in a Pouffy White Dress, is a collection of coming-of-age non-fiction focused on becoming a woman in America. The reading, at 1100 Lake St, begins at 7:30pm. Call 708-848-9140 for more information.

Book Signing and Talk @ Evanston Historical Society

The Evanston Historical Society presents authors Stuart Cohen and Susan Benjamin for a discussion and signing of their book North Shore Chicago: Houses of the Lakefront Suburbs, 1890-1940, a look at the residences and noted owners who created the famous suburban residential area north of Chicago. Part of the Society's ongoing Under the Buffalo lecture series, the talk takes place at the Evanston Historical Society (225 Greenwood St). The event runs from 7-9 pm, and tickets are $5 per person, or free for EHS members. Reservations recommended. Call 847-475-3410 to reserve a spot or get more information.