City Cast Chicago
⚠️ Warning: CTA fare hikes approaching
October 15, 2025 · — Emmi Mack
Hey guys. Before we get into the news today, let’s appreciate the work of Chicago artist Tony Fitzpatrick, who passed away over the weekend. Fitzpatrick’s signature style celebrated the nature of Chicago, full of birds, dogs, and busy colors. But really, especially birds.
In addition to being an artist, Fitzpatrick was an all-around local legend.
What's CITY Talking About
CTA Raising Fares by 25 Cents
As Illinois transit agencies struggle with looming budget gaps, the CTA has announced upcoming fare hikes. Bus and train rides will cost an additional 25 cents starting Feb. 1, 2026. Different passes will also cost more. [WGN]
- Related: What is the CTA’s fiscal cliff? [Hey Chicago 💻]
More Tear Gas. This Time in Albany Park
Last week, immigration agents fired tear gas on a busy street in Logan Square. On Sunday, they deployed the chemical weapon in Albany Park after a crowd amassed to disrupt ongoing arrests. In the end, at least one man was taken away by agents. [Sun-Times]
- Related: Feds can’t use tear gas on reporters. [Hey Chicago 💻]
Do Tourists Care What Trump Says About Chicago?
Despite federal agents detaining and harming residents — and President Donald Trump’s calling the city a “hellhole” — Chicago was named Best Big City in the country for the ninth year in a row. Choose Chicago’s CEO and president, Kristen Reynolds, joins today’s podcast to discuss what it’s like marketing Chicago tourism during this charged time. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
The Promontory in Hyde Park is Closing
The beloved music and events venue in Hyde Park is closing after 11 years. Its final bash will be New Year's Eve. In 2026, Sanders BBQ Prime will move into the venue’s former restaurant space. Until then, check our events section for upcoming Promontory parties and shows 👇 [Block Club]
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In two hours, this could be you.
Time to unwind is at a premium. That’s why your next getaway should be to somewhere affordable, easy to reach, and packed with fresh-air fun. Madison, Wisconsin checks every box. This road trip guide includes a packing list, restaurant picks, and even a playlist for your journey.
What To Do
Wednesday, Oct. 15
- 🌖 Night At The Museum | Chicago History Museum | Lincoln Park
- 🎥 Chicago International Film Festival | Various locations
- 🧙 “Hocus Pocus” | Gallagher Way | Wrigleyville
- 🕺🏻 Pisco Disco | Tanta Cocina Peruana | Streeterville
- 🥂 Cocktails & Conscious Fashion Tour | Mata Traders | Ravenswood
- 👠 Rewoven Runway | mHUB | Fulton Market
Thursday, Oct. 16
- 🌸 Fleurotica | Garfield Park Conservatory
- 👑 14th Pharaoh Apparel R.A.W. | The DuSable Black History Museum | Washington Park
- 🎥 Chicago International Film Festival | Various locations
- 👠 INITIATION | Zhou B Art Center | Bridgeport
- 👗 The Stylist Symposium | Columbia College Chicago | Loop
- 🧵 Mend with Friends | Chicago Fair Trade Museum | Uptown
- 🍸 Cocktail & Styling Party | Production Mode | North Center
- 🎻 Symphonie Fantastique | Chicago Symphony Orchestra | Loop
🌹 Till tomorrow, Chicago!
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