The much-touted first Chicago Gourmet kicks off tonight with a gala reception from 6:30 to 10 PM on the Harris Theater rooftop. The “Grand Tastings” main event at Pritzker Pavilion takes place from 11 AM to 6 PM Saturday and 11:15 AM to 5 PM Sunday, offering food and wine tastings as well as cooking demos by chefs including Carrie Nahabedian, Mindy Segal, Kendal Duque, and Gale Gand. There are also food and wine seminars and “Grand Cru” wine tastings both days, plus the Whole Foods Village for families (tickets are sold separately for all these events). Tickets to the main event are $150/day, $250/weekend; the opening night gala is $250; seminars range from $30-$90, Grand Cru wine tastings are $175, and the Whole Foods Family Village is $30 for adults, free for kids under 12.
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Murphy’s Bleachers hosts an Oktoberfest Pig Roast that also features grilled chicken, vegetables, and brats; wine, vodka punch, soft drinks, and Oktoberfest beer are included in the ticket price. A silent auction will benefit local charities, schools, and community-improvement projects, with Oprah tickets and rooftop Cubs seats among the items on the block. 3-7 PM, 3655 N. Sheffield, 773-281-1222, $25.
