Chicago Birthday Deals on a Budget

It’s almost the end of Aquarius season and as an Aquarius myself (along with City Cast Chicago’s Executive Producer Simone Alicea), I’m ready to celebrate ♒ If you have a birthday soon, don’t miss out on some great freebies and deals around the city!

Best Activities for Kids: AMC Large Popcorn (All Locations)

Unfortunately, Aquarius season falls during the most frigid time of the year. But that means it’s a perfect time to catch a movie to celebrate and AMC offers a free, large birthday popcorn for you to snack on. You just have to join the AMC Stubs Insider program to reap this delicious benefit.

Best Free Meal: Jiang Niu BBQ in Chinatown & Happy Lamb Hot Pot

Want to enjoy an all-you-can-eat barbecue on your birthday? Bring your ID and dive into the Korean–Chinese cuisine. Add-ons and drinks not included.

Happy Lamb Hot Pot offers a free buffet on your birthday. This is only valid on your birthday, so make sure to plan ahead!

Best Free Fitness Class: Barry’s Bootcamp (All Locations)

If you are a member of Barry’s Bootcamp, you get a free class on your special day! What better way to kick off your birthday than with a workout?

Best Free Cake: Portillo’s Chocolate Cake (All Locations)

Sign-up for the restaurant chain’s birthday club for yourself and up to three kids, and get a slice of the chocolatey goodness every year.

Best Membership Club: Lettuce Entertain You

Whether you’re smashing barbecue at Bub City or slurping noodles at Ramen-san, join Lettuce Entertain You’s frequent diner club for up to $15-$20 off your celebratory meal.

Best Free Ice Cream: Shawn Michelle’s in Bronzeville, Olympia Fields or Jeni’s (All Locations)

Join the South Side shop’s loyalty program for a free scoop of homemade ice cream on your special day: Text “homemade” to 40829. Then, join the chain’s rewards program for another birthday treat.

Best Discount: Goodwill’s 25%-off coupon

Save one day during your birth month as part of the thrift store chain’s rewards program.

Best Free Carwash: Zips Car Wash (All Locations)

Want your wheels to look good on your birthday, too? Download the Zips app for a complimentary wash on your special day.