Gapers Block has ceased publication.
Gapers Block published from April 22, 2003 to Jan. 1, 2016. The site will remain up in archive form. Please visit Third Coast Review, a new site by several GB alumni.
✶ Thank you for your readership and contributions. ✶
TODAY
Friday, April 19
Slowdown
BY DAY
Wednesday, July 04 2012
July 4 Celebration @ Chicago History Museum
The Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., hosts its 53rd annual "Star-Spangled Independence Day Celebration" today from 10am to noon on the Uihlein Plaza directly behind the Museum. This family friendly event includes lots of kids' activities, including face painting, crafts, musical performances and a parade. The event is free -- as is Museum admission for Illinois residents today.
International Festival of Life
If you get your fill of red, white and blue on the 3rd or if you're just looking for a more encompassing independence celebration, come to Hyde Park for the 20th annual African-Caribbean cultural celebration. Two stages of live music, nearly 200 vendors selling international food and crafts. 12pm-10pm, 5500 S. Cottage Grove, $10 before 5pm; $15 after; kids 6-12 $5; kids under 6 free (continues through July 8)
#WaterWar2012 @ Wicker Park
Gapers Block, RedEye and Do312 host #WaterWar2012, an epic water balloon fight, today at noon starting at the fountain in Wicker Park. Free; bring your own water balloons. RSVP on Do312. UPDATE: Due to objections by the Wicker Park gardening club, we're moving the fight to Churchill Park, 1825 N. Damen Ave. Still at noon!
Oak Street Beach BBQ
Oak Street Beach Food & Drink hosts a barbecue from 2pm to 6pm today. For $35 per person, you'll get a plate of pulled chicken, brisket and pork, plenty of sides, and two cocktails or other drinks. Call 312-988-4650 for more info.
Grant Park Music Festival: Independence Celebration
Celebrate our independence and give your ears a reprieve with classic pieces performed by the Grant Park Orchestra. Tonight at 6:30pm at Pritzker Pavillion, 201 E. Randolph, free.
