April showers Chicago with more events than any family could ever want. Here are three not to miss:
Star Wars Celebration
When: April 11-15
Where: McCormick Place, 2301 S. King Drive, Chicago
Cost: $35-$75
Were you showing your kids “Return of the Jedi” during late-night feedings at 3 months old? Did they learn their A-B-Cs as A is for Anakin, B is for BB-8, C is for Chewbacca? Does your 5-year-old already have his own Jedi uniform? Even if that family is your neighbor and not you, you’ll still find something to love at Star Wars Celebration. The four-day convention is an experience for fans of the movies and brings in families from even far, far away. Kids will love pin trading, the fan-produced game shows and more.
Prince at The Rock and Roll Playhouse
When: April 14
Where: Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., Chicago
Cost: $15, free under 1
Having kids doesn’t mean that the college CD collection has to head to the attic. The music of Phish, the Rolling Stones and Grateful Dead get a renovation for a new generation through The Rock and Roll Playhouse. Thalia Hall hosts events through June, with Prince taking the spotlight in April. Recommended for kids 10 and under, there are games, stories and rock-it-out moments based on the artist of the day.
Party for the Planet
When: April 14
Where: Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield
Cost: Free with zoo admission
Earth Day isn’t just a celebration for the planet, at Brookfield Zoo, it’s a party. Kids can help plant trees and flowers, learn about recycling and parents can pick up free stuff to make their homes more eco-friendly at Party for the Planet. Zoo residents are prepped for special zoo chats and kids can try their hands at green-themed crafts.
This article originally appeared in the April 2019 issue of Chicago Parent. Read the rest of the issue.
