City Cast Chicago
💸 Free Chicago museum days!
January 15, 2026
Baby animal alert! Brookfield Zoo has just welcomed a baby male klipspringer (aka a dwarf antelope). And he’s too freakin’ cute.
You can visit the suburban zoo for free till Feb. 28. Some Chicago institutions are offering free admission, too. See the deets in today’s museum guide 👇
What's CITY Talking About
Trump To Strip Federal Funding From Sanctuary Cities
President Donald Trump said his administration will end federal funding to sanctuary cities and states effective Feb. 1. This includes Chicago and Illinois. Mayor Brandon Johnson response? “See you in court @realDonaldTrump.” [Politico]
Time Out Market Closing in Fulton Market
Time Out’s food hall, which currently houses 17 vendors, will close Jan. 23. Time Out Market opened in 2019, as the Fulton Market’s restaurant scene boomed. Now, the company says foot traffic is “low and inconsistent” while operating costs grow. [Block Club]
- In West Loop: Chains are reshaping the food culture. [Block Club]
What More Barnes & Nobles Means For the City
Barnes & Noble is growing its presence in Chicago. Fast. Greta Johnsen, the host of “Happy To Be Here” joins today’s podcast to discuss what the resurgence means for Chicago’s indie bookstores — plus her fave picks from Chicago authors. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
Edgewater Neighbors Sue City Over Zoning Changes
Edgewater residents and businesses are suing Chicago to prevent increasing density along Broadway Avenue. The group says the city’s zoning changes violate property owners’ due process rights. However, affordable housing and other advocates support the measure. [Sun-Times]
Sponsored Content
Chicago Restaurant Week (January 23 - February 8)
Experience Chicago’s award-winning dining scene during Chicago Restaurant Week. For 17 days, enjoy special prix-fixe menus at 500+ restaurants across the city and suburbs. Discover new favorites and local classics. Explore menus and book your tables today!
Sponsored Content
TimeLine Theatre’s Chicago Premiere of EUREKA DAY
EUREKA DAY depicts an ultra-progressive school where every decision is made by consensus. After a mumps outbreak hits, their curated culture of inclusiveness spirals into chaos as parents and board members clash over personal freedoms and viral misinformation, capturing the absurdity of modern discourse in intelligent, insightful and real ways.
Neighborhood Shoutouts
And now it’s time for a Neighborhood Shoutout! These recs come from City Cast Chicago Neighbors and highlight beloved businesses and organizations across the city.
Today, Nathalie R. is shouting out the new The People's Cafe in Avondale: “The People's Cafe is serving as a third-space for community meetings, as well as a chill hang with great coffee and music!”
Thanks, Nathalie! I will be checking it out.
What To Do
Thursday, Jan. 15
- 🎶 Tomorrow Never Knows | Various locations
- 🐠 Free admission | Shedd Aquarium | Museum Campus
- 🕺🏻 Alex Tatarsky, Sad Boys in Harpy Land | Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago | Streeterville
- 🏳️🌈 Queer Women's Group | Center on Halsted | Northalsted
- 🎥 "Ayse" | Facets | Lincoln Park
- 🎷 Free Jazz Orchestra | Agitator Artist Collective | Logan Square
Friday, Jan. 16
- 🎨 Third Friday Art Walk | Bridgeport Art Center
- 🖼️ Free admission | Heritage Museum of Asian Art | Bridgeport
- 🎶 Tomorrow Never Knows | Various locations
- 🐠 Free admission | Shedd Aquarium | Museum Campus
- 🕺🏻 Alex Tatarsky, Sad Boys in Harpy Land | Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago | Streeterville
- 🎤 femdot. | Ramova Theatre | Bridgeport
- 🎨 Vision Board Collage with Lovergirl Creates | Thalia Hall | Pilsen
🤠 Till tomorrow, Chicago!
Free · Daily