Just when you think Chicago has reached peak summer, the city manages to squeeze in a few more parties. The Taylor Street Little Italy Festa just wrapped, the Air & Water Show had the lakefront roaring, and somehow the August/September calendars are still packed with festivals, concerts, art, food and enough neighborhood activity to make you wonder how anyone has time to sit down. Add in the America 250 celebrations and all the late-summer social happenings, and Chicago is making a pretty convincing case for not letting summer end anytime soon. So, before we start talking about fall coats and pumpkin spice, here’s what’s happening around town now.
But, before we get to all that, I have one little summer heartbreak. FIFA. I still think we fumbled that one.
As I watched jubilant fans from every corner of the globe singing in the streets of other host cities, I couldn’t help imagining what they would’ve thought of our town. They would’ve discovered pretty quickly that Chicago is so much more than the headlines. Sure, we have our challenges. Every big city does. But we also have heart, character and enough personality to fill Lake Michigan.
I would’ve loved to watch first-time visitors tackle a Portillo’s hot dog without asking for ketchup, experience the delight, confusion and mild terror of getting affectionately insulted at The Wieners Circle, cool off with a Rainbow Cone at Navy Pier, wander through Millennium Park, cruise the Chicago River or simply sit at an outdoor café and discover that Midwestern hospitality is alive and well.
That’s the Chicago I wish the world could’ve fallen in love with. The one we sometimes take for granted because we’re too busy living in it.
Oh well. There’s always the next bid. Until then, we’ll just keep throwing the best parties, serving the best food and reminding anyone who visits that Chicago has never needed a World Cup to prove it’s world-class.
More than 7,000 patriotic fans packed Cantigny Park in Wheaton July 11 for Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band‘s largest concert to date. Rockin’ For Our Vets: America 250 was a record-breaking benefit for the West Suburban Foundation for Disabled Veterans and the largest event ever held in DuPage County. The concert raised awareness and support for the nonprofit’s mission of serving disabled veterans and their families.
Guests began arriving early, filling the sprawling Parade Field as military displays, interactive exhibits, food vendors and the First Division Museum welcomed families throughout the day. The century-old Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band added another stirring patriotic touch to the afternoon’s ceremonies.
The festivities officially kicked off with an America 250 program featuring distinguished veterans and inspiring guest speakers before the evening’s musical performances. Among the evening’s special guests was Benjamin Patton, grandson of General George S. Patton and founder of the Patton Veterans Project. He shared his personal story and introduced a moving video about his family’s military legacy, which spans generations and dates back to the American Revolution.
Vietnam War hero and former Secret Service agent Captain William “Hawk” Albracht shared his remarkable journey as one of the most decorated veterans of the Vietnam War and former Army POW Jessica Lynch’s story captured the nation’s attention during the Iraq War. Lynch was just 19 years old when she was captured after her convoy was ambushed in 2003 and rescued by U.S. Special Operations.
Country star HunterGirl (Hunter Wolkonowski), a fan favorite from American Idol, kicked off the evening at 6 p.m. with a high-energy performance that had the crowd on its feet and set the perfect tone for the night’s festivities.
An hour later, the moment thousands had been waiting for arrived as Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band took the stage. Their signature blend of classic rock, country hits and patriotic favorites transformed Cantigny’s Parade Field into one giant celebration. Fans sang along, waved American flags and danced well into the evening as Sinise, who has spent decades supporting America’s military community, delivered a performance that celebrated service, sacrifice and patriotism as much as it did the music.
Leading the effort behind the event were Michelle Senatore, co-founder and president of the West Suburban Foundation for Disabled Veterans, U.S. Navy veteran and volunteer Staci Boyer, and a dedicated team of volunteers. Through programs that provide financial assistance, housing and transportation support, service dogs, mental health services and other essential resources, the nonprofit has become a vital lifeline for disabled veterans and their families. The organization’s mission is to ensure that those who have sacrificed for our country receive the support they deserve long after their military service has ended.
With another successful event in the books, the West Suburban Foundation for Disabled Veterans is already looking ahead. Planning has begun for the return of Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band to Cantigny in 2027, continuing what organizers hope will become one of the region’s signature annual tributes to veterans.
There was laughter through the tears as Hollywood, Chicago and some of entertainment’s biggest names came together to celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of legendary comedian Tom Dreesen during a moving memorial service at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Los Angeles, followed by a gathering at Lakeside Country Club.
The afternoon reflected everything that made Dreesen so beloved during a career that spanned decades. It wasn’t simply a farewell to a gifted comedian. It was a celebration of a loyal friend, devoted family man and generous soul whose kindness left as lasting an impression as his legendary storytelling.
The service was emceed by longtime friend David Letterman, whose admiration for Dreesen was evident as he guided guests through an emotional tribute filled with heartfelt memories, humor and gratitude.
Those paying tribute represented nearly every chapter of Dreesen’s remarkable life. Speakers included Jon Voight, Tiffany Haddish, Tim Reid, Joe Mantegna, Gary Sinise, Johnny Dark and Byron Allen, each sharing personal stories that painted a portrait of a man whose warmth extended far beyond the stage.
Many recalled Dreesen’s generosity toward young comics, his unwavering loyalty to friends and the genuine compassion that defined him both on and off camera. Between the laughter sparked by his unforgettable jokes and the tears inspired by stories of his kindness, one message remained constant: Tom Dreesen made everyone around him feel special.
The audience reflected the breadth of his influence across entertainment, sports and public life. Among those attending were Smokey Robinson, Laugh Factory founder Jamie Masada, former Chicago Bear Tim Wrightman, Joe Pesci, Gibsons Steakhouse principals Steve Lombardo and John Colletti, retired Illinois State Senator James DeLeo, Frankie Avalon, along with Dreesen’s family and countless longtime friends.
For many Chicagoans, Dreesen remained a hometown hero who never forgot his roots. Born and raised in Harvey, Illinois, he went from working-class beginnings to becoming one of America’s most respected stand-up comedians, opening for Frank Sinatra for more than a decade and appearing on countless television shows while earning the admiration of audiences and fellow performers alike.
Yet, as speaker after speaker emphasized, his greatest accomplishments couldn’t be measured by television appearances or standing ovations. They were measured by friendships that lasted a lifetime, acts of quiet generosity and an ability to bring comfort, laughter and hope to those fortunate enough to know him.
As guests gathered afterward at Lakeside Country Club, stories continued to flow, reminding everyone that although Tom Dreesen’s voice may have fallen silent, the joy he created will continue to echo through generations of comedians, entertainers and friends whose lives he forever changed.
A brand new “Candid Candace – The Podcast” is out now with my co-host/producer John St. Augustine. We catch up on all the Chicago buzz, from record-breaking celebrations to heartwarming causes and some seriously fun finds. We also chat about the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Chicagoland “Out of the Darkness Walk,” dish on delicious new treats from Schweet Foods, the hilarious and uber-talented Doorstep Divas, Christmas in July at the Griffin MSI, upcoming philanthropic fashion events, the WNBA All-Star takeover in Chicago, and even a tiny Seattle raccoon named Jimothy who has become a worldwide sensation and stolen our hearts. It’s a jam-packed episode filled with philanthropy, community, entertainment and plenty of Chicago-style surprises! Listen here! And for the most recent podcast,
Beloved hairdresser Charles Ifergan is laying down his golden scissors after decades in the business. His shop at 106 E. Oak has been a haven for me and other lucky clients for so long. You went to him, not only for a great haircut, but also witty, smart conversations and friendship. I will miss not knowing he’s there but am happy he will have his next chapters with his beautiful wife Susan and family. Long may you reign dear Charles
Aviation history and the future of flight came together Aug. 8 at DuPage Airport for the Tuskegee NEXT 2026 annual Red Tail Ball, an evening honoring the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen while raising support for young people pursuing careers in aviation.
Hosted by Tuskegee NEXT Founder and Chairman Stephen Davis and Tanya Davis, the sold-out fundraiser took place in the airport’s airplane hangar, with the cocktail reception later moving onto the tarmac. Guests received boarding passes with their seating assignments, setting the tone for an evening inspired by the golden era of aviation and Pan Am’s international travel.
Founded in 2015 by Stephen and Tanya Davis, Tuskegee NEXT was created to carry forward the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen by giving young people access to aviation education and career opportunities. The organization’s mission has grown from its original flight-training program into a broader initiative that includes flight training, life-skills development, mentorship and career pathways.
The organization has made significant progress since its founding. Tuskegee NEXT says that over its first decade, it has trained more than 97 pilots, with 85% of graduates employed in the aerospace industry. Its programs also expose students to opportunities beyond the cockpit, including drone technology and other areas of aviation and aerospace.
The evening also recognized three leaders for their contributions. Michael J. McMurray, commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation, received the Trailblazer Award. Fuquan Collins, senior vice president of Turner Construction Company, received the Legacy Award, while Gary McGrath of McGrath Automotive Group was honored as a Special Honoree.
After the formal program, guests headed onto the tarmac for cocktails, music and dancing alongside the aircraft, bringing the evening to a close. (Special thanks to Elyse Kennard for bringing this worthy nonprofit to my attention!)
First Chef Art Smith charmed Pope Leo with his goat cheese biscuits and now he has captured his heart with a peach pie! During the 90th annual Peach Festival recently in Castel Gandolfo, the 400 year-old summer home of the popes, Art and his executive chef Hector Guerrero presented the Pope with their special pie and participated in an exhibition during the special event.
Standing in line, with heads bowed, Art and Hector were among only a dozen special people chosen to present goods to the pope on this day. A few small children, gaily dressed, presented baked goods but Art and Hector were the last and, from what I could perceive on the video, most warmly received.
Since Sept. 5, 2005, when Art and Chef Phil Stefani opened a new restaurant – Borgo Laudato Si – on the grounds, the pope has become a special friend. (This was the first time a restaurant was opened inside the papal estate.)
This remarkable opportunity came about due to lifelong dream of Chef Art Smith’s, to cook for a pope and now, his heavenly dream has come true, and in spades (err peaches).
Art and prepared his signature dish, fried chicken and biscuits, for His Holiness Pope Leo but, at the time, he had no idea he was cooking for the future pope and that this dinner was an “audition.”
Chef Art has cooked for the Dalai Lama, political leaders, celebrities, kings and queens, but no one is a better catch than the Pope! Congrats to Art, Hector and Team. Those blessed peaches!
And in other Art news (he’s on fire!), this reporter shared the exciting Harpo Reunion party news which was held at Chef Art Smith’s Reunion Restaurant recently. Oprah surprised the group, along with Stedman Graham and Gayle King, for some loving camaraderie and, of course, fried chicken!
The Woman’s Board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital hosted its third incarnation of its annual Summer Soirée fundraiser, themed The Cabana Club. The event kicked off the summer season while raising $320,000 in support of The Woman’s Board mission to support the programs and services provided by Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
Over 300 guests joined co-chairs Schuyler Sweeney Saran, Courtney Grimes, Katie Hale, Tyler Neal Arnfelt, and Lindsay Amborski, at the Saddle & Cycle. The Cabana Club-themed evening transported guests to the pink sand beaches of Harbour Island in the Bahamas. Under striped cabanas with upbeat calypso tunes, supporters sipped Island Daiquiris and visited a shell bar by Vo Jewelry to create custom jewelry pieces, while a mermaid posed with guests dressed in chic summer fashions.
Following impactful comments by Woman’s Board president Lynne Hemmer, auctioneer Chris Hensley led the standing-only crowd in a spirited paddle raise to support the board’s $4.6 million pledge to fund comprehensive reproduction care across a woman’s lifetime. Pat McKillen Band, who is known for his work with the Trippin’ Billies, a Dave Matthews Band tribute band, got the guests dancing until well after the sunset.
The 126-year-old board has been responsible for bringing everything from electricity to the hospital to raising millions of dollars to fund cutting-edge research and support patient care initiatives at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
Fried chicken and Champagne might sound like an unlikely pairing, but at the inaugural Cluck ’N Bubble, the combination proved to be one very delicious match. Hosted by The Banchet Awards on Aug. 23 at The Alston, the lively afternoon brought together nine of Chicago’s top chefs for a fried chicken showdown, with guests sampling their signature creations and raising a glass of bubbly along the way. The event also kicked off the Banchet Awards’ countdown to its 25th anniversary.
The third floor setting at The Alston made for quite the backdrop, with sweeping city views adding a little extra sparkle to an afternoon already flowing with Champagne. Chefs were stationed throughout the space, cooking and serving their takes on fried chicken while guests mingled, tasted and cast their votes for the inaugural Fried Chicken Champion.
The fun was decidedly more playful than your typical culinary competition. The photo booth came complete with oversized chicken-themed props, while a lively chicken character strutted around the party, dancing, posing for photos and greeting guests. This was one bird that knew how to work a room!
VIP guests had their own special perch in the Hen House, where Rare Tea Cellar Caviar added a decidedly luxurious touch to the otherwise down-home theme. Premium Champagne, caviar and fried chicken anyone?
Among the competing chefs were Henry Cai of 3 LP and Fat Head Chicken; Christine Cikowski, Josh Kulp and Cam Waron of Honey Butter Fried Chicken; Lawrence Letrero of Bayan Ko and Bayan Ko Diner; Andrew Lim of Sir Chicken, Perilla Fare, Perilla Steakhouse and Noriko Handroll Bar; Ethan Lim of Hermosa; Charmaine Rickette of Uncle Remus Saucy Fried Chicken; Christopher De La Cueva of Chef Art Smith’s Reunion and Blue Door Kitchen & Garden; Jenner Tomaska of The Alston, Esmé and Petite Edith; and Lee Wolen of GG’s Chicken Shop, Alla Vita, Boka and Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna. Chef Pat Sang of Oki Sushi participated but did not compete.
Adding to the convivial atmosphere, Alston owners Tony and Nick Cuda were on hand greeting guests and soaking up the scene as chefs, restaurateurs and food lovers filled the room. Champagne continued to flow as plates of crispy chicken made their way around the party.
The event was designed around what The Banchet Awards calls one of the culinary world’s “unexpectedly perfect pairings,” bringing together the humble appeal of fried chicken with the high style of Champagne.
And judging by the packed room, plenty of Chicagoans were happy to get on board with the cluck-and-bubble concept. Guests voted by dropping a plastic egg in a basket next to their desired chef. In the end, Chefs Christine Cikowski, Josh Kulp and Cam Waron of Honey Butter Fried Chicken (honeybutter.com) walked away with the win.
The Banchet Awards, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the next generation of culinary talent through mentorship, education and job training, used the event as more than just an excuse to eat fried chicken and drink Champagne. It was also a celebration of Chicago’s culinary community and a spirited start to the organization’s milestone 25th anniversary year.
PAWS Chicago’s 23rd Annual Beach Party turned Offshore Rooftop at Navy Pier into one of the city’s most dog-friendly destinations on July 16 as supporters and their four-legged companions gathered for an evening of fundraising and fun.
The event featured dinner, dancing, silent and live auctions, pet portraits, caricature artists and a tropical-themed photo booth. Four-legged attendees weren’t left out either. Kismet sponsored a dog treat buffet featuring pup cups, food samples and slow-cooked treats, while guests later filled the dance floor wearing glow-in-the-dark leis and tropical accessories.
WGN Radio’s Lisa Dent and FOX 32’s Jake Hamilton emceed the event, with Heather and Troy Zimmerman serving as co-chairs.
One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of PAWS Chicago’s Community Engagement Award to Lindsay Hawkins, a PAWS Chicago board member, and Carter Hawkins, general manager of the Chicago Cubs. The couple was recognized for their leadership, advocacy and ongoing support of the organization’s mission through fostering, adopting and fundraising.
The Rachael Ray Foundation received the Community Engagement Award for its support of PAWS Chicago’s 360@CACC initiative. The partnership helps expand medical care for animals at Chicago Animal Care & Control through programs that provide spay and neuter surgeries, vaccinations, microchipping, diagnostic testing and other essential services before pets are transferred to rescue organizations.
Guests also had the opportunity to meet several adoptable dogs, including Asha, an 8-year-old dog that arrived at PAWS Chicago from Chicago Animal Care & Control with a severe eye injury. After receiving specialized treatment at the PAWS Chicago Kocourek Medical Center, she is now ready to find a forever home. Also making an appearance was Jerry, a former Ridglan Farms research beagle and PAWS Chicago alumnus, accompanied by his adopter, ABC 7 Chief Meteorologist Cheryl Scott.
By evening’s end, the fundraiser had raised $284,000 to support PAWS Chicago’s lifesaving programs. The funds will help the city’s largest No Kill humane organization continue providing medical care, adoption services and preventive services for homeless and at-risk pets.
The organization’s impact continues to grow. In 2025, PAWS Chicago served 27,364 homeless and at-risk animals, found homes for 4,918 dogs and cats, performed a record 21,327 free and low-cost spay/neuter surgeries, placed 2,268 animals in foster care and achieved a 97.83% save rate.
For anyone who has ever given too much, loved too hard or wondered why the people they helped didn’t always give the same energy back, Michael Perich has a new book that may hit close to home. Perich’s first book, “The Book of Remembrance (because it’s cheaper than years of therapy.),” ($19.99) is an intimate collection of lessons, observations and hard-earned wisdom about what happens when generous people spend too much time pouring into others and not enough time protecting themselves.
It is a theme that fits Perich’s longtime philosophy of living with intention and authenticity. A longtime beauty entrepreneur, Perich is also the owner of The Gnome Colony, Co. in downtown Glen Ellyn, a whimsical boutique at 485 N. Main St. that he opened in 2018. The shop is filled with jewelry, accessories, clothing, cosmetics, skin care, gifts and curios, and Perich describes it as a place filled with “love, whimsy and wishes.”
Legendary hairdresser and longtime friend Charles Ifergan is hanging up his golden scissors after decades in the business. His salon at 106 E. Oak was/is the place to be- entire staff so friendly and capable with his son Phillippe manning the helm now. I’ve known and loved Charles for over 50 years- he cut my hair for all that time and we always had a blast together. I will miss not knowing he’s there- always bringing a smile, jokes, advice and wisdom to his lucky clients. Happy he will be spending more time with his Susan and their beautiful family! God bless and God speed!
For more than three decades, Tom Kehoe has transformed ordinary spaces into unforgettable experiences. From elegant galas and lavish weddings to high-profile corporate events, his name has become synonymous with creativity and impeccable design. Now, the visionary behind Kehoe Designs is bringing that same expertise to Chicago’s northern suburbs with the launch of Geraghty North, a spectacular new luxury event venue in Northbrook.
Scheduled to open in June 2027, Geraghty North marks the latest expansion of the Kehoe Designs Family of Brands and is being built from the ground up as a destination for weddings, nonprofit galas, corporate gatherings, mitzvahs and milestone celebrations.
Giordano Dance Chicago will bring back the 19th annual Dancing With The Giordano Stars on Thursday, Oct. 8, at 7 p.m. at Park West. The lively fundraiser pairs Chicago A-listers with Giordano dancers for a chance to win the coveted disco ball, with awards for fundraising and audience favorite. Tickets include a four-hour open bar and light fare, with proceeds supporting Giordano’s youth arts education and other community programs.
Tickets & information: Dancing With The Giordano Stars tickets | Giordano Dance Chicago
Now open! Visitors can now explore Rosemont as the village unveils the Donald E. Stephens Rosemont History Museum, a permanent attraction celebrating seven decades of remarkable growth and transformation. The free museum is now officially opened to the public inside Rosemont Village Hall, 9501 Technology Blvd., coinciding with the village’s year-long 70th anniversary celebration. Spanning 4,300 square feet, the interactive museum tells the story of how Rosemont evolved from a tiny swampland community with fewer than 100 residents into one of the Midwest’s premier destinations for entertainment, conventions, business and hospitality.
Admission to the Museum is free. Timed-entry reservations are recommended and available online, although walk-in visitors will be accommodated as space permits. Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to schedule visits in advance. The museum will be open Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information or to reserve free admission, click here. Additional information about Rosemont’s 70th anniversary celebration can be found here.
Art, shopping and the Magnificent Mile? Amdur Productions‘ Magnificent Mile Art Festival returns Sept. 19-20 at 875 N. Michigan Ave., bringing more than 60 juried artists to the heart of the city. Browse everything from paintings and photography to jewelry, fashion and glass while discovering something fabulous to take home. Presented by Amdur Productions, the free festival runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. A perfect excuse to stroll, shop and soak up a little Chicago creativity.
Summer in Chicago is all about making memories, and Navy Pier is inviting everyone to simply say YES to the season. From Centennial Wheel skyline views and lakefront strolls to outdoor dining, live entertainment, boat cruises and spectacular fireworks over Lake Michigan, there’s something for everyone. The Pier’s free summer programming, family activities, cultural performances and seasonal events make it easy to enjoy a spontaneous Chicago day or night. This summer, the invitation is simple: YES to Navy Pier! (Sponsored)
Grab your walking shoes and join Chicago for a morning of community, connection and positivity at the 2026 Out of the Darkness Chicagoland Walk on Saturday, Oct. 3, at Montrose Harbor. Presented by Happiness Project and AFSP Illinois, the event brings together friends, families, survivors and supporters for a fun, meaningful day while raising money for suicide prevention and mental health programs. (2025 photo: AFSP Illinois)
And now let me share some fabulous upcoming events! Music of the Baroque will present its always exciting “Water Music” on the Chicago River on Wed., Sept. 9; tastemaker Janet Mandell presents Chicago Icons Fashion Show at Chicago Cut on Saturday, Sept. 12; Goldie Gala benefiting the Goldie Initiative will be held at Union Station on Thursday, Sept. 17; the Navy Seal Foundation Gala will be held at the Chicago Hilton Wed., Sept. 23; After School Matters Gala will be at the Obama Center on Thursday, Sept. 23; Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center will host “Night of Heroes” at RPM Events Thursday, Sept. 23; MS Strength & Style Gala will be held at the Four Seasons on Wed., Sept. 30; The Service Club “Bollywood” Gala will be held at the Palmer House, Sat., Oct. 17. Hope you can come to one or ALL!
And one more BIG event that is near and dear to my heart is The Chicago Lighthouse “FLAIR” event! This year, I’m honored to be a co-chair along with my fabulous friend Kathy Piccone. The show will be held Friday, Oct. 2 in Macy’s Walnut Room with Tracey DiBuono returning for her 13th year! We will be honoring longtime supporter Georgiann Pangere and showcasing beautiful fashions from Macy’s, Anne Fontaine, J. McLaughlin, Lauren Lein, SYLWIA, Mira Couture, Menotti Couture, Maria Pinto and Contessa Bottega. Please join us in raising funds for the Lighthouse’s programs for the blind, visually impaired, disabled and the Veteran community. For tickets and more info, please click here!
The Joffrey Ballet will launch its 2026-27 season with the Chicago premiere of John Neumeier’s Liliom, a rarely performed narrative ballet that explores love, loss and redemption through one of the most emotionally powerful stories in modern dance. The production will be presented for just 10 performances at the Lyric Opera House from Sept. 17 through Sept. 27. This marks the first time an American ballet company has staged Neumeier’s acclaimed production, offering Chicago audiences a rare opportunity to experience one of the legendary choreographer’s most celebrated works.
Performances of Liliom, at the Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Upper Wacker Drive, will include evening and matinee performances scheduled throughout the run. Tickets are available through The Joffrey Ballet, the production’s only official ticket seller, by calling 312-386-8905, visiting the Lyric Opera Box Office or online here.
So, there you have it! Summer is far from over with a lot more to look forward to as we move into fall. I hope you get a chance to enjoy some or all of these great events and fundraisers. I will be trying my best to see you there, too!
In the meantime, say a prayer for the poor people of Nepal. I’ve never seen anything so horrific. The videos look like a horror movie.
And, on another sad note, we sure will miss you Dolly. You were such a bright light in this sometimes dark world.
Hi Candace.
What a wonderful blog, jammed with fun times around our beautiful city. All that fried chicken left me drooling. I miss Chicago so much and your blog caught me up with all the good times.
By the way, how did you get that raccoon to sit so pretty?
I love that picture!
Love,
Joe