In the wake of the deadliest mass shooting in the history of the United States, it comes as no surprise to see an outpouring of support around Oak Park the past several days. As a progressive village that sometimes receives flak for being permissive, there have been no negative words, no making fun, only empathy. This is what makes us human. This is what makes us Oak Park.
Despite the sorrowful feelings that correspond with this tragedy, let’s remember that weekends in the summer are meant to be filled with joy, so read on to see how you can help and have fun. There’s a lot of music, art and good times to be had with friends and family these next three days. And don’t forget to wish your Dad a happy Father’s Day on Sunday!
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“Dining with the Divas” at Hamburger Mary’s
Friday and Saturday
If you are curious as to how you might be able to help the victims from the Orlando shooting, Hamburger Mary’s is a great place to start. In an effort to raise money for these families, the restaurant is hosting a special “Dining with the Divas” event with shows on Friday and Saturday (7:30 and 9:30 p.m. both nights). The business will collect money all weekend and match the first $2,500 in donations to Equality Florida’s Pulse Victim Fund. Hamburger Mary’s is located at 155 S. Oak Park Avenue. It is one of the newest eateries in the village after opening its doors on April 29.
2016 Battle of the Bands
Saturday at 1 p.m.
Check out young local bands at the 2016 Battle of the Bands at Scoville Park, 800 W. Lake Street. This event is free and it’s a great way to see talented musicians from the OPRF area. According to the Park District of Oak Park, the 2016 winner will be given the chance to compete in the Regional competition in Forest Park on July 9 with a chance to earn a spot at the State competition in Springfield. The winning band will also earn the opportunity to headline the Park District’s final “Concert in the Park” on Aug. 7.
Third Friday Gallery Walk
Friday from 6 to 10 p.m.
It’s the third Friday of the month and that means the Oak Park Arts District will host the Third Friday Gallery Walk on Harrison Street. Head to Art Gecko for one-of-a-kind art and jewelry created with recycled materials, view the work of artists Linda Abrams, Bobbi Meier and Gina Lee Robbins at Gallery PINK, listen to live music at Buzz Café, and check out live entertainment at Open Door Theater. For more information, visit the Oak Park Arts District website.
Opening weekend for Pygmalion
All Weekend
In honor of George Bernard Shaw’s 160th birthday, the Oak Park Festival Theatre presents his immortal tale Pygmalion: a story of a phonetics professor who tutors a lower-class girl to speak proper English in order to pass for a “lady.” The play will be shown at Austin Gardens, 167 Forest Avenue, Oak Park. A free preview show is taking place Friday at 8 p.m. Opening night is Saturday at 8 p.m. There will be a third show Sunday at 7 p.m. Tickets are $29 for general admission, $26 for seniors, $15 for students, children under 12 and dogs are free. To purchase, visit oakparkfestival.com.
Summer Concert Series
Sunday from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Enjoy free concerts on Sundays throughout the summer at Scoville Park, 800 W. Lake Street. This week, Wild Daisy will grace the stage. This female-fronted country band is composed of some of Chicagoland’s most seasoned and talented musicians. Expect to hear modern, upbeat country with a few pop/rock songs here and there.
Oak Park Farmers Market
Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Oak Park Farmers Market is now in its 41st annual year. Items for sale include locally grown produce, flowers, bedding plants, honey, cheese, frozen meat, bread, and doughnuts. Cash is the preferred method of payment but credit and debit are available depending on the vendor. The Farmers Market is located in the Pilgrim Congregational Church parking lot, 460 Lake Street.
5th Annual Sculpture Walk
All Weekend
The 5th Annual Oak Park Sculpture Walk features 12 sculptures from various local artists. The sculptures can be viewed as a part of the outdoor exhibit in Mills Park near Pleasant and Home Avenues. The walking tour will be open for public viewing until Sept. 5.
