We could all use a good laugh. Or two. Actually, just keep ‘em coming.
Best place to do that? The Onion‘s five-day live comedy festival, the lynchpin of a most perfect night out we’ve put together for you, your date and the rest of our fair city.
On your itinerary: a new barbecue joint that just opened on the down-low and a live version of ClickHole that will be anything but ordinary.
Step One: Look the Part
Our city has a few tricks up its sleeve when it comes to denim, but this year we got one more: Current/Elliott. The L.A. brand chose Chicago as the first place to set down roots outside their home state. In their Bucktown digs, you’ll find fresh takes on classic American denim, like their slim selvedge fit jean with an ‘80s vibe. On top, light colors are out (you’ll understand why below). So layer their standard fit pocket tee over the Aztec plaid shirt. If you go for the full-on Canadian tuxedo, get ready for an earful at the festival.
Current/Elliott, 1723 N. Damen Ave. (map), www.currentelliott.com
Step Two: The Dinner
One thing about good barbecue is that it’s in your face — and on your face, and potentially on your clothes (thus the darker colors). But that’s what makes Chicago’s new joint so surprising: it opened on the DL. Lockdown Smoked, The Joint Next Door comes via, you guessed it, Ukrainian Village’s beer-and-burger spot Lockdown Bar & Grill. Pitmaster Paul Samojluk takes his inspiration from Myron Mixon in his initial crowd pleasers: ribs, brisket, pulled pork, as well as a few sandwiches and sides. They’re only open on weekends, but Saturdays they start at 3 p.m. so you have plenty of time to compose yourself after chowing down.
Lockdown Smoked Meats, The Joint Next Door, 1022 N. Western Ave. (map) www.facebook.com/jointnextdoor/
Step Three: The Laughter
There’s so much comedy gold waiting to be binged online that it’s tempting to stay in. But when the tag-team of The Onion, A.V. Club and ClickHole curate five days of comedy, the only response is: “Where do I get tickets?” The 4th Annual 26th Annual Comedy Festival brings together Patton Oswalt, Nathan For You, a kickoff party with Nikki Glaser and much more. But you’ll be headed to Lincoln Hall on Saturday, June 3rd for ClickHole Live! A bunch of the writers behind your favorite fast-paced satire will take the stage to tell stories, do some standup and hit you with weird multimedia presentations. What the world needs now is laughs, sweet laughs.
ClickHole Live!, Lincoln Hall, 2424 N. Lincoln Ave. (map) www.lh-st.com
Main photo by Clayton Hauck
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