Chicago Independents' Day Weekend

CHIRP Radio Presents: Chicago Independents’ Day Weekend, a two-day event celebrating Chicago's creative independent scenes, from music and food to comedy, visual art to film.

Programming includes panels with artists and industry professionals, a local independent label and vinyl market on Saturday, a crafter/artist/vintage market on Sunday, tours of independent music and arts spaces, and a Sunday night film screening at Gman Tavern.

Saturday, August 23

12pm - 5pm - Athenaeum Center, Paradiso

Independents’ Music Market: local labels + vinyl dealers

12:30pm - 5pm - Athenaeum Center, Black Box Theatre

Panels and Q&A - Seating first come, first served:

• The Next Generation: Chicago's New Venue Owners and Bookers (1-2pm)

• New Perspectives: Young Artists on the Scene (2:30-3:30pm)
• Unsung Heroes: Backup Singers, Session Musicians and Choreographers (4-5pm)

Food trucks in the front roundabout all day long, bar options inside.

List of offsite tours of cool cultural spaces coming soon.

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Sunday, August 24

12pm - 5pm - Athenaeum Center, Paradiso

Independents’ Makers Market: crafters, visual artists, arisans, vintage dealers

12:30pm - 5pm - Athenaeum Center, Black Box Theatre

Panels and Q&A - Seating first come, first served

• Good Taste: The Intersection of Chicago's Music, Art and Food Scenes (1:30-2:30pm)
• Chicago Independent Comedy Showcase (3-3:45pm)
• Laugh Tracks: Improv, Standup, and the Paths to a Successful Comedy Career (3:50-4:50pm)

Food trucks in the front roundabout all day long, bar options inside.

List of offsite tours of cool cultural spaces coming soon

7:30-9pm - GMan Tavern

The CHIRP Music Film Festival is proud to present a special screening of Wesley Willis: The Daddy of Rock 'N' Roll!

Directed by Daniel Bitton, this 2003 documentary chronicles the life and creative process of Wesley Willis and his eccentric punk-influenced music. The film highlights his unconventional musical talents, his struggles with mental health, and his rise in cult fame in the underground music scene, offering an honest and intimate look at his complex personality and unique artistry.

Check out the trailer here.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture, 2936 North Southport Avenue, Chicago, United States