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Claw It, a new claw machine arcade, opened in Chinatown with 40 machines offering various plush toys, including the sought-after Labubu doll. The store, which opened in June, aims to fill a gap in Chicago's entertainment scene, attracting visitors for casual fun rather than just the collectible dolls. Owner Jackie Xu imported all machines from China, responding to local demand for claw machine experiences.
Yeti has closed its flagship store in Wicker Park after six years, marking the end of its presence in a location once occupied by the iconic Double Door concert venue. The closure was confirmed by an employee and reflected on Google as "permanently closed." Yeti still sells its products through local retailers.
A$AP Rocky and Sabrina Carpenter headlined the final day of Lollapalooza, attracting large crowds with their high-energy performances. Rocky, marking his first appearance in a decade, captivated fans with pyrotechnics, while Carpenter celebrated her rise to fame by bringing out Earth, Wind & Fire. Safety concerns emerged as security escorted fans away from the stage due to the packed conditions.
Logan Square's restaurant crawl will showcase 18 dining spots along Milwaukee Avenue on August 4, 2025. This event aims to promote local eateries and enhance community engagement in the food industry.
Yader "Yak" Castaneda, an 18-year-old cyclist, died after being struck by a Hummer while riding Downtown on May 26. His family and bicycle safety advocates held a vigil to honor him and raise awareness about cyclist safety. The driver received a ticket for failure to reduce speed as the investigation continues.
Ferris, a piping plover chick hatched at Montrose Beach, was killed by a red-tailed hawk on Saturday. The Chicago Piping Plovers group announced the loss, marking the first plover death in over a year amid efforts to restore the area’s piping plover population.
The Chicago Housing Authority plans to redevelop a historic vacant home in Pullman, sold for $15,000 to Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives. This initiative aims to address the affordable housing shortage in the area, with renovations expected to start this fall.
Nicole Makowski, known as the Sausage Queen of Chicago, will relocate her family business, Makowski’s Real Sausage Company, from Bridgeport to Lansing in November. The company produces over 100 sausage varieties and supplies several Chicago restaurants and grocery stores. Makowski aims to maintain her Chicago roots despite the move, emphasizing her commitment to the city and its culinary scene.
Barrett Homes proposes a five-story mixed-use apartment building with 57 units at 2652 W. Chicago Ave., sparking skepticism among local residents over parking and density issues. The development includes affordable units and aims to enhance the local commercial corridor.
Chance the Rapper surprised fans with a 15-minute set at Lollapalooza on Saturday, performing hits and new songs. Grammy-winner Doechii also captivated the audience, featuring a special guest, City Girls’ JT, during her performance. The Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra made history as the first teen ensemble to perform on the festival's main stage.