Essay Fiesta @ Book Cellar

Get your back-to-school Essay Fiesta on tonight with readings by: actor, Playwright and former Neo-Futurist Andy Bayiates; founder of Here's the Story Jana Sobel; 2nd Story contributor Amye Day; RedEye reporter Tricia Parker; and writer and blogger Mike Smolarek. The series is produced and hosted by comedian/writers Keith Ecker and Alyson Lyon, and includes a raffle with all proceeds going to the youth literacy organization 826 Chicago. Show starts at 7pm at the Book Cellar (4736 N. Lincoln), and is free. For more information visit Essay Fiesta.

Spirit Dinner @ Mercadito

Mercadito (108 West Kinzie Street) is opening up their Mexican sauna-esque private room downstairs for a series of Spirit Dinners. Four course sharing menus are developed by infusing the "spirit of the evening" into each dish, then pairing it with a cocktail using the same spirit. Get the walk through of the spirit's development from a local rep and sip yourself to better knowledge of Belvedere Vodka tonight.

Tickets are $55 each. For reservations call: (312) 329-9555.

Secret Colours @ The Whistler

It's a Chicago-centric night at the Whistler with shoegazing Secret Colours headlining a CHIRP benefit. It's 21+ and starts at 9pm. It's free, and The Whistler's at 2421 N Milwaukee.

Talk Like a Pirate Day "Booty Crawl"

Today is International Talk Like a Pirate Day, and the Booty Crawl pub crawl will have ye in high spirits, don'tcha know. From 8pm to 11pm, The crawl hits McGee's, Wrightwood Tap, Durkin's, Duffy's, Redmond's and Maeve, with trolly service between bars. Drinks and libations include a pirate's booty buffet, rum punch and domestic drafts. The crawl costs $15; call 773-868-8073 for more information. 21+

Deadline for Proposals to MDW Fair

Today is the deadline for proposals to the likable MDW Fair, formed in protest over the treatment of small and not-for-profit art groups in the city by its more commercial brethren, such as Art Chicago. This breakaway-spirited Fair returns in October to Bridgeport's Geolofts.