Carillonathon!

The University of Chicago's Rockefeller Chapel is home to a giant musical instrument known as a carillon. Every Sunday this summer the chapel is hosting a series of free recitals featuring University Carillonneur Wylie Crawford along with guest artists from across the United States and Europe. The concerts start at 6 pm, but come at 5:30 pm to climb the stairs of the bell tower and get a look at the giant bells of the carillon-- not to mention a breathtaking view of the downtown skyline.

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Lollapalooza in Grant Park

What's more convenient than a great big music festival in your backyard? Tickets are still available for the venerable summer rock-a-thon, Lollapalooza, taking place this weekend in Grant Park. There are over 60 bands and DJs on the bill, including the Pixies, Dinosaur Jr., Weezer, Billy Idol, and Liz Phair, as well as special programming just for the kids. A two-day pass ($115) gets you a wristband and the ability to stay or go as you please each day. One-day passes ($60) don't allow re-entry. You can buy tickets online, or at the box office in Grant Park, open starting Wednesday, July 20th.

GB staff member Anne will be in attendance, wearing lots of sunscreen.

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Northwestern Summer Writers' Conference

Northwestern is sponsoring their first Summer Writers' Conference this weekend. Taking place on the Chicago campus, the conference will feature programs for writers of all levels, taught by local writers, teachers and publishers. Some of those instructors include big names such as Elizabeth Crane, Joe Meno and Bill Savage. There will be readings and panel discussions with Alesksander Hemon, Kevin Guilfoile and Audrey Niffenegger, and there will be a local book and journal fair. While the conference itself is not free -- $525 for three days or $190 per day with discounts given to Northwestern staff -- the readings and performances are. Go here for a schedule of programs and here to register for the sessions.

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Sheffield Garden Walk & Festival

This year marks the 37th year of the annual Sheffield Garden Walk & Festival, celebrating food, fun, and gardens. In addition to tours of the North Side gardens, the festival will include architectural tours, gardening workshops, a kids' center and eats and drinks from local restaurants. There is also a schedule of performing bands. Suggested donation is $6 ($8 after 5pm on Saturday) with proceeds benefitting the Sheffield Neighborhood Association. 12-9:30pm at the intersection of Webster St. and Sheffield Ave (one block south of the Fullerton El stop).

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