Chicago Weekend Guide: Last minute Valentine's plans and final days of Chicago Theatre Week
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.

Illustration: Maura Losch/Axios
Whether you're a fan of Valentine's Day or not, love will warm the cold Chicago air this weekend.
The big picture: It's not just about snagging a dinner reservation at a cozy, romantic restaurant.
- Here are some alternative ways to feel the love.
Reality check: On a budget? We get it! The most romantic spot in Chicago, according to Axios readers, is free!
๐ท Valentine's Day Smooth Jazz Friday
- Enjoy an evening of live Jazz with Chicago native Darrell Wilson, aka "Sax Preacher".
- Friday 6-9pm in Greater Grand Crossing.
Cost: Tickets start at $25
๐ Valentine's Day Fireworks
- Bundle up and catch fireworks illuminating the city's skyline.
- Friday at 9pm at Navy Pier's Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park.
Cost: Free
๐ Cupid's Love Lounge
- Stop by this pop-up bar for photo ops, sweet treats, themed drinks and more.
- Open now through March 1.
Cost: Free, but you need to reserve tickets
๐ค Love Uncovered
- Listen to live storytelling about the many different kinds of love.
- Saturday at 7:30pm at Davis Theater in Lincoln Square.
Cost: Tickets start at $25
More things to do this weekend in Chicago:
๐ค Justin Timberlake
- Treat your valentine to tickets to the Grammy winner's "The Forget Tomorrow" tour.
- Friday at 7:30pm at the United Center.
Cost: Tickets start at $75ย
๐ฟ Chicago Theatre Week
- Don't miss the final days of performances at discounted prices.
- Through Feb. 16. Times and theaters vary.
Cost: Tickets start at $15
- Catch "Policy: Running Numbers a Family Business," which spotlights the South Side during the early 20th century.
- Friday and Saturday at 7pm and Sunday at 4pm at the Harold Washington Cultural Center in Bronzeville.
Cost: $15
๐ The Orchid Show
- Dream of springย with the vibrant colors and plants at "India Blooms."
- Through March 23. Daily 10am-4pm at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe.
Cost: Tickets start at $22
๐จ Indigenous Artist Pop-up Market
- Shop this market that spotlights local Indigenous artists.
- Monday 10am-5pm at Gichigamiin Indigenous Nations Museum in Evanston.
Cost: Free
- Embark on a journey through the art of dance, music, acrobatics and theater.
- Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7pm, Saturday at 3pm and Sunday at 1 and 5pm at NOW Arena in Hoffman Estates.
Cost: Tickets start at $65
