Writing Matters
Sunday, March 24 at 3 p.m., 19th Century Club, first floor
Novelist Elizabeth Berg will introduce poet and anthologist James Crews for a reading on Sunday, March 24, at the 19th Century Club. After the presentation, there will be a reception with many delicious treats and an opportunity to get a signed copy of one or more of James’ books. In addition to his own books of poetry, he has edited anthologies focusing on kindness and connection that include poets such as Ted Kooser and Mary Oliver. The event is free and open to the public, but donations are encouraged. 19th Century Charitable Association, 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park.
Green Cleaning: Sustainability at Home
Thursday, March 21, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Oak Park Public Library
Learn how to properly recycle household hazardous waste materials and make your own green cleaning alternatives that are safer for both humans and the environment. After a brief presentation and Q&A with the Cook County Department of Environment and Sustainability’s Community Outreach Coordinator Kate Carney, there will be an opportunity for participants to make their own green cleaning mix to bring home just in time for Spring Cleaning. Register: https://oakpark.librarycalendar.com/event/sustainability-home-green-cleaning-63106. 834 Lake St.,Oak Park.
Oak Park Artisan Market
Saturday, March 23, 12 – 4 p.m., Sugarbeet Co-op
Lots of yummy goodies including The Vulgar Vegan, All Love Fermented Hot Sauces, Insanely Awesome Bakery, Maly’s Foods, and Linner Bakery. Discover a world of creativity and craftsmanship at our monthly curated fair, where local artists, makers, and producers come together to showcase their creations. From delectable food and beverages to fine art, crafts, ceramics, sculpture, photography, jewelry, cosmetics, wellness products, housewares, decor, and beyond. 812 Madison St., Oak Park.
Bowmanville Duo at Encore
Friday, March 22, 7:30 – 11:30 p.m., Encore! by Little Gem
Bowmanville draws jazz inspiration from legendary artists like Louis Armstrong, Django Reinhardt, Toots Thielemans, and Stephane Grappelli, infusing their compositions with a sense of nostalgia, while imparting a distinct and edgy modern flair. 187 N Marion St.,Oak Park.
Blithe Spirit
Friday, March 22, 7:30 p.m., Dominican University, Martin Recital Hall
This 1940s comedy by Noël Coward has seen stages around the world and has been made into films, radio and television programs, musicals and a novel. Purchase tickets: https://dom.universitytickets.com/w/event.aspx?id=1532. 7900 Division St.,River Forest.
Come Thru N Chill
Saturday, March 23, 6 – 9 p.m., Creative Minds – Center of the Arts
A fun night of painting, music, and good vibes. No experience necessary, just bring your positive energy and you will be provided with all the materials you need to create your masterpiece. 803 Van Buren St.,Oak Park.
Family Bingo
Sunday, March 24, 4 – 6 p.m., One Lake Brewing
Join us for an early evening of fun for all ages. Prizes will be awarded to the winners. Jump in any time as we play continuous rounds. Walk-ins always welcome but this event does fill up. Reserve your spot via link https://linktr.ee/OneLakeBrewing. 1 Lake St., Oak Park.
“Manet/Degas” New Works by Gary Cannone
Opening Saturday, March 23, 3 – 6 p.m., Compound Yellow
Gary Cannone was diagnosed with a neurological illness in 2013 that affected his cognitive function. His counter-intuitive response has been to convert this into a boon to his art practice, converting his daily stumbling blocks into a generative force. Cannone employs substitution, parody, props, and slapstick to create an art that embraces physical and conceptual deflection. Some of his early work included customer surveys, subliminal messaging, how-to-books, libraries within libraries, conversion charts and phone trees. 244 Lake St.,Oak Park.