Blue skies ahead: movie night, Apple Fest and ghost tours

As we enter the cooler month of October, this week's edition of Blue Skies Ahead welcomes fall with all things cozy, tasty and spooky. Kick off fall with delicious fall treats at the Lincoln Square Apple Fest, explore the city's twisted history on a relaxing tour, or spend a relaxing Friday evening outside with a movie and dinner at Senn High School.

Film and Potluck at Senn High School: October 4th

To kick off the school year, Senn High School invites the community to a screening of the film “In the Heights” on Friday, Oct. 4, at 6:30 p.m. at Senn Lawn, 5900 N. Glenwood Ave. Organizers ask participants to bring lawn chairs, blankets and a plate to share.

The film starts at 7:30 p.m. Those interested can register online.

Apple Fest 2024: June 5-6 October

Die-hard apple and fall fans can kick off the season this weekend with the 37th annual Apple Fest in Lincoln Square.

According to the event website, the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce is hosting this exciting seasonal event along Lincoln Avenue on Saturday and Sunday, October 5th and 6th, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Additionally, a $5 donation is suggested to join other fall cider drinkers at the festival.

The event will feature a variety of delicious apple drinks and apple-related treats – including alcoholic and non-alcoholic apple cider, classic apple pie and cinnamon empanadas, the website says. Numerous vendors from Midwestern farms will also be in attendance, offering even more apple-themed foods and items such as butter, candles and jewelry.

The Gangster and Ghost Tour: Daily

Learn about Chicago's colorful criminal past, filled with tales of gangsters and whisperers from the 1920s and '30s, on this comprehensive tour of Chicago's Downtown Vice District. The tour is offered daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. by bus or on foot

The tour tells the story of famous gang murders and shootings and explores the haunted crime scenes. The walking tour begins at the Royal Sonesta Hotel, 71 E. Wacker Dr., and the bus tour departs from the Palmer House Hilton, 17 E. Monroe St. Tickets can be purchased on the website for $35, with discounts for children and seniors.

Andersonville Art Tour: June 4-6 October

This annual event features local artists from the Chicago area. It kicks off on October 4th with a series of Friday night parties hosted by participating galleries and businesses across the city.

The celebrations then extend over three days of artwork and creative exploration into the weekend. The works on display cover a variety of categories including theater, dance, music, film and culinary works, among others.
The tour is walk-through and begins at the Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark St. Admission to the event is free, more information can be found online at the website.