CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Happy November Chicago! Although it feels more like January. This weekend offers quiet the variety of things to do from beer and cider tastings to food fests and craft shows, there is plenty to keep you busy - and warm.
It is also a busy weekend for Chicago sports with the Chicago Bears, Chicago Blackhawks, and Chicago Bulls playing at home this weekend.
More commonly known as FoBAB, the Festival of Wood and Barrel-Aged Beers offers a stacked lineup of wood- and barrel-aged concoctions that are sought after by beer nerds. More than 200 craft brewers come to Chicago for the annual event, where attendees can sample stouts, sours, ciders and mead during three tasting sessions. Throughout the weekend, judges evaluate all of the beers being poured and award medals in various categories—it's like the Olympics of high-ABV brews. Make sure to take a look at the beer lineup and plan your drinking accordingly, because the most popular beers tend to disappear fairly quickly.
Where: UIC Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Rd.
When: Friday, 6-10 p.m.; Saturday, 1-5 p.m.; Saturday, 6-10 p.m.
Sample Roots Handmade Pizza's mozzarella sticks, lamb meatballs with goat cheese from Tuscan Hen Market, dutch waffles with fresh fruit, bites from from Band of Bohemia and more delicious things from Ravenswood restaurants, bars and brewers at this annual event. Tickets include samples throughout the evening and access to drinks from Dovetail Brewery, Half Acre and Spiteful Brewing.
Where: Ravenswood Event Center, 4043 N. Ravenswood Ave.
When: Friday, 6:30-10p.m.
Sample different ciders and cocktails at the Wrigleyville Cider Fest at Rizzo's Bar & Inn. There will also be a buffet and a chance to win different prizes.
Where: Rizzo's Bar & Inn, 3658 N. Clark St.
When: Saturday, 1-5 p.m.
WPNA 103.1 FM is thrilled to organize for the second time the Polish Independence Run/Walk (Bieg Niepodległości)! Polish Independence 10K/5K Run/Walk is a race commemorating the anniversary of Poland's resurgence as an independent country on November 11th, 1918. This year, there are two distances to choose: a 10K run or a 5K run or walk. All participants will receive an event t-shirt, a custom medal and there will be trophies for winners in different age and gender divisions. Post-race activities will include Polish food and drinks.
Where: Montrose Harbor Grove 16, 601 W. Montrose Ave.
When: Sunday, 11 a.m.
If you love animals, check out the Chicago Pet Show at the Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles. Everything is pet related with the focus on helping local rescues. There will be dogs and cats and other animals available for adoption and volunteer opportunities.
Where: Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Rd., St. Charles
When: Saturday & Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Fashion Outlets of Chicago will get guests in the holiday spirit with the return of its immersive visit with Santa at "Santa HQ," from Nov. 8 through Dec. 24. Throughout their visit, guests can use the workshop's magic mirror to transform into one of Santa's elves, virtually change their elf's outfits, receive customized "Magic Mirror" collector cards, and find out where they land on Santa's list with the Naughty or Nice O'Meter.
Where: Fashhion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont
When: Friday, Nov. 8 through Dec. 24
Get in the holiday spirit as you walk through the halls of Resurrection College Prep High School. Shop at over 180 craft displays and vendors for unique, hand-crafted gifts, seasonal items, housewares, jewelry, tasty treats and more.
Where: Resurrection College Prep High School, 7500 W. Talcott
When: Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cheer on the Chicago Bulls this weekend when they take to the court to play the Houston Rockets at the United Center on Saturday!
Where: United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.
When: Saturday, 7 p.m.
The Chicago Blackhawks hit the ice on Sunday to take on the Toronto Maple Leafs at the United Center!
Where: United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.
When: Sunday, 6 p.m.
Watch the Chicago Bears take on the Detroit Lions at home on Sunday at noon.
Where: Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Dr.
When: Sunday, noon
Cost: Varies
