Join diverse community events and cultural celebrations in Tinley Park, IL. Find festivals, networking events, religious celebrations, educational workshops, and gatherings from communities worldwide. Experience the rich cultural tapestry of your area through events that celebrate heritage, foster understanding, and bring people together across cultures."
A FREE 2-day Chicago symposium celebrating Katherine Dunham & the Diaspora through a keynote address, performances, panels & workshops!!
Old Town School of Folk Music is hosting its 3rd annual Black History Future Folk Symposium. Produced by our Community Ventures Department, each year this symposium draws inspiration from the definition of folk music provided by Folk Alliance International: “Folk is the music of the people, reflective of any community where they are from.” The theme for 2026 is Katherine Dunham and the African Diaspora.
Focusing on the prolific Chicago legacy of Katherine Dunham, this free two-day Symposium will invite participants of all ages to participate in open, accessible, and rigorous discussions about the intersections of Black history, liberated futures, and folk practices. Through presentations, panel discussions, participatory workshops, and performances, 2026’s Symposium will cultivate fertile ground for deep theoretical and embodied understandings of afro-diasporic dance and music.
SCHEDULE
Friday, April 17, 2026 • 6:00 - 8:30 PM
📍 Old Town School Lincoln Square Campus – Myron R. Szold Concert Hall | 4545 N Lincoln Ave. Chicago, IL 60625
6:00–7:15 PM • Opening Keynote Speaker: Heather Beal
7:30–8:30 PM • Dunham from Haiti to New Orleans Opening Performance: Featuring Tamboula & the Windy City Ramblers with choreography by Stacy “Jukeboxx” Letrice & Daniel Desir
Friday, 17, 18.00 -
Friday, 17, 20.30
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Transatlantic trio Dave Curley, Tadhg Ó Meachair & Joanna Hyde join to perform an exciting blend of Irish and American folk music.
Northeastern Illinois University's Jewel Box Series presents One for the Foxes - Irish and American Folk Music
Come join us for a lively evening with One for the Foxes at 3701 W Bryn Mawr Ave! The group is made up of Dublin’s Tadhg Ó Meachair (Goitse), Galway’s Dave Curley (SLIDE) and Denver, Colorado’s Joanna Hyde (The Hydes), and features a mix of Irish and American folk music and song – both traditional and newly- composed – presented in an energetic and engaging manner. Award-winning instrumentalists each in their own right, Dave, Tadhg & Joanna take a unique twist on the diverse strengths of their individual backgrounds, weaving between traditional melodies, their own compositions, and songs from the broader folk canon. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the rich musical heritage of both cultures in one unforgettable night. See you there!
Enter campus at 3701 W Bryn Mawr Avenue in Chicago, turn in on the Access Road and then turn left at the first stop sign and park in Lot F. Complimentary parking.
Friday, 10, 19.30 -
Friday, 10, 21.30
Chicago,
IL
_$25
LIVE & DINE AT TURQUOISE! Ticket Includes: Fried Calamari, Cheese Flatbread, Hummus,Eggplant Salad, Carrot Dip + Live Music with Yazz!
LIVE & DINE AT TURQUOISE!
Join us for an intimate evening of Turkish live music, flatbreads and appetizers! Enjoy an authentic and casual Mediterranean night!
Ticket Includes:
Fried Calamari
Cheese Flatbread
Hummus
Eggplant Salad
Carrot Dip
Live music with Sinem & Alp from Yazz, Turkish Rock Band.
Get your tickets now for a warm, authentic Mediterranean night in Roscoe Village! We are a woman-owned Mediterranean restaurant, and for one night only we're collaborating with vocalist Sinem & guitarist Alp from Yazz; expect good music, good food, good people!
Seats are limited. Your ticket includes a spread of appetizers made to pair with our cocktails and wine list - full menu available to order too.
Friday, 03, 21.30 -
Saturday, 04, 01.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
BUFI Bikes the Shore for UJIMA is an eight-mile, two-hour community bicycle ride is to symbolize economic unity.
BUFI Bikes the Shore for Ujima is an eight-mile, two-hour community bicycle ride to symbolize healthy awareness and action for ourselves and our community.
About this event:
In its efforts to build economic unity in the South Shore community, the Black United Fund of Illinois (BUFI) will be hosting its 8th Annual BUFI Bikes the Shore for Ujima on Saturday, September12th from 9am – 1pm at 1809 East 71st Street COURTYARD, Chicago Presented by The Black United Fund of Illinois, Equiticity, and Divvy.
The goal of BUFI Bikes the Shore for UJIMA eight-mile, two-hour community bicycle ride is to symbolize unity and commitment to health and healing within the South Shore community and Chicagoland areas. This is not simply a demonstration of unity; it is designed to inspire the community, while embracing the human spirit with empowerment and resources.
This ride also serves as the formal kick off for BUFI's workplace giving campaign, inspiring our communities to donate to BUFI via their payroll deductions. Federal employees should use code #37269. State, County, and City employees should use code #950-0010.
BUFI Bikes the Shore for UJIMA is for community members, advocates, activists, and bicycle enthusiasts. All are welcome to ride!
Among the activities will be a warm-up for cyclists, free refreshments, and information about BUFI’s workplace giving campaign as well as community resources information distribution. The eight-mile cooperative economics journey will conclude with a community call to action in the courtyard adjacent to BUFI’s headquarters, 1809 East 71st Street.
Bike the Shore for UJIMA is planned in partnership with the Black United Fund of Illinois, Equiticity and Divvy.
Masks and social distancing are encouraged and expected throughout this event for the comfort and safety of all. Those who are feeling ill or have any COVID-19 symptoms should stay home. We are stronger together (even when safely apart)!
For more information, email or call 773.324.0494.
Divvy Bikes will be provided to individuals 18+
Saturday, 12, 09.00 -
Saturday, 12, 13.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Join us at the 2026 IHCC Annual Business Conference and Expo for networking, insights, and cool business trends!
Get Ready for the 2026 IHCC Annual Business Conference and Expo!
📍 Navy Pier | October 9
The IHCC Annual Business Conference & Expo is back at Navy Pier on October 9, and it’s more than just a business event. This single day event brings together corporate leaders, public agencies, industry professionals, and entrepreneurs under one roof.
With 90+ exhibitors, tailored workshops, and thousands of attendees from across industries, this is where connections turn into real opportunities. Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling your business, or looking to connect with diverse suppliers and partners, this is the place to be.
Come ready to connect, learn, and leave with more than business cards. Leave with momentum.
What to Expect
🍽️ Opening Breakfast (Ticket Required)
Hear from industry leaders and visionaries as they share insights, experiences, and inspiration to kick off the day.
🤝 Networking Opportunities (Free)
Meet entrepreneurs, executives, mentors, and potential partners who can help you move your business forward.
🏢 Exhibitor Floor (Free)
Explore a wide range of businesses and organizations showcasing products, services, resources, and opportunities.
🎓 Workshops & Conferences (Free)
Gain practical tools and strategies through expert-led sessions on entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation, and more.
Event Agenda
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM
Opening Breakfast Registration (Ticket Required)
8:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Opening Breakfast (Ticket Required)
11:00 AM
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
General Admission (Free)
• Exhibitor Hall
• Workshops & Conferences
• Professional Headshots
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Exhibitor Hall
👉 Become an Exhibitor Today!
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Workshops & Conferences (Included with General Admission)
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Matchmaking One-on-One Sessions (By Invitation Only)
4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Cocktails & Networking at Bar Sol (Ticket Required)
Thursday, 27, 07.00 -
Thursday, 27, 18.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Come celebrate Black Men's health and wellness with us in Chicago! It's the most fun you'll ever have at a doctor's appointment!
Black Men's Wellness Day isn’t just an event – it's a movement. It's about understanding the health disparities that exist, taking actionable steps towards better health, and celebrating the strength and resilience of our community. Whether you've been a part of our journey from the start or are just getting to know us, this day is for you.
What to Expect:
Free Health Screenings: Prioritize your health. From blood pressure checks to more comprehensive screenings, our team of healthcare professionals are here to make sure that this is the most fun that you will ever have at a doctor's appointment.
Kids Zone: A day for the entire family! There's something for everyone at the walk! Let your little ones engage in fun, interactive, and educational activities centered around health and wellness.
Senior Pavilion: It's critical to the mission of Black Men's Wellness Day to promote wellness for the entire Black community. That's why we have a special pavilion with activities just for our Golden citizens.
Entertainment: Celebrate with us! From live music to performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
This event is free and open to the public. Come, be a part of a day filled with knowledge, celebration, and unity.
Saturday, 20, 07.00 -
Saturday, 20, 12.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
✈️ CHI bound! Join us at Da Book Joint for a Dear Black Writers screening and networking.
Black Writers Weekend Pop-Up is an intimate creative gathering designed to celebrate and connect Black storytellers across disciplines. This special event features an exclusive screening of Dear Black Writers, a dynamic artist panel with creatives from books, film, and media, and a curated creative mixer for meaningful networking. The pop-up creates space for conversation, collaboration, and community—bringing writers and creatives together to share insights, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Saturday, 23, 17.00 -
Saturday, 23, 21.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Join us for a 2-day conference focused on fostering a diverse, inclusive, and empowering environment where everyone can thrive and lead.
2026 HACE National Leadership Summit
Breaking Barreras: Cultivating the Power of Líderes
At HACE, we believe everyone has the right to realize dreams bigger than their circumstances. Our mission is simple yet transformative: to unlock the full potential of Latinos and diverse individuals for themselves and their communities.
This year’s Summit theme, “Breaking Barreras: Cultivating the Power of Líderes,” celebrates the courage to challenge the status quo and create new possibilities. Over two powerful days, barrier-breakers from across our community will come together for transformative sessions led by thought leaders and industry experts. Together, we’ll explore new pathways to growth, dismantle what holds us back, and transform the trajectory for the next generation of leaders.
By Cultivating the Power of Líderes, we honor our commitment to nurturing leadership potential across all communities—because when one person’s potential is ignited, it creates a ripple effect that strengthens organizations, families, and the broader economy.
Our HACE alumni don’t just break barriers—they create pathways. From teachers inspiring students to business owners and CEOs generating jobs, they represent what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. Join us in building a future where leaders rise, barriers fall, and communities thrive. Because we can be Más.
Explore Our Three Leadership Tracks
Join us for two transformative days of learning, connection, and growth as we explore HACE’s three core leadership pillars — Thought Leadership, Talent Acquisition, and Professional Development — through a dynamic lineup of sessions designed to inspire action and elevate leadership at every stage.
Track 1: Inspira — Inspiring Transformative Change
Pillar: Thought Leadership
Explore how Latino leaders are reshaping the future through courage, innovation, and purpose. This track centers on the personal and collective power of transformation — from financial wellness and cultural identity to resilience, caregiving, and the evolving role of humanity in an AI-driven world.
Sessions include:
Wealth con Propósito: From Money Mindset to Financial Momentum
Resilient Leadership: Bienestar & Healing en Acción
Invisible Barreras Navigating Immigration Issues in the Workforce
Caught in the Middle: Navigating Career, Caregiving y Cultura
Staying Relevant en un Mundo Powered by AI, Workforce y Inclusive Innovation
Track 2: Conecta — Pathways of Talent & Opportunity
Pillar: Talent Acquisition
This track focuses on opening doors, breaking barriers, and redefining what inclusive hiring and advancement look like. Through panels, data-driven insights, and interactive workshops, participants will gain strategies to expand opportunity and drive equitable workforce change.
Sessions include:
Breaking Barreras in Talent Acquisition: Opening Pathways to Opportunity
From Culture Fit to Culture Add: Reimagining Organizational Growth
Equity by Design: How Decades of Data Reveal Bias in Career Pathways
The Mobility Mindset: Navigating Job Hopping and Career Growth
Networks that Open Doors: Career Growth in the War Room
Track 3: Crece — Rising to Our Leadership Potential
Pillar: Professional Development
Designed for emerging and established leaders alike, this track helps participants embrace their authentic leadership style, strengthen resilience, and chart intentional career paths. Each session offers actionable tools and inspiring insights to elevate your impact and influence.
Sessions include:
Trailblazing with Resilience: Leading Without a Roadmap
Owning Your Power: Leading with Culture, Confidence, and Authenticity
Network to Lead: Building Connections that Count
Bridging Generations: From Management to Mentorship
Strategic Career Mapping: Designing Your Leadership Journey
Early Bird Pricing (Ends Dec 31 at 9:00 p.m. CST)
Lock in discounted rates now—apply the promo codes at checkout.
2026 National Leadership Summit (In-Person Ticket Only) — $550
Save $100 with code EARLYSUMMIT26
2026 Awards Celebration (In-Person Ticket Only) — $325
Save $50 with code EARLYAWARDS26
Summit & Awards Celebration Bundle (In-Person Ticket Only) — $900
Save $100 with code EARLYCOMBO26
Early bird discounts valid through December 31 at 9:00 p.m. CST.
Ready to Grow, Connect, and Lead?
Choose the track that aligns with your goals—or mix sessions across all three to design your own leadership journey.
** For more details on the full agenda, list of speakers, hotel & parking accommodations, and additional event information, visit HACE’s website to learn more about the 2026 Summit & Awards Celebration. **
Hotel Accommodations – Summit 2026
We are excited to offer a special room block for Summit 2026 attendees at the JW Marriott Chicago, located in the heart of downtown and just minutes from the Summit venue.
Room Block Details:
Discounted group rate available for Summit attendees
Rooms available on a first-come, first-served basis
Reservation deadline: March 31, 2026
After this date, the discounted rate cannot be guaranteed
We encourage guests to book early to secure their stay at the preferred Summit hotel.
Wednesday, 29, 08.00 -
Thursday, 30, 17.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
The most exclusive private business gala is back! This events features some of the most influential minds of CEO's & Entrepreneurs.
Welcome to Blacktopia! The Most exclusive business gala in illinois, this will be the 5th installment. Blacktopia is a formal elegant event created to celebrate the achievement of philanthropist, non for profit foundations, ceo's and entrepreneurs in illinois. Blacktopia is a platform and opportunity to create lucrative business relationships. Blacktopia is full of resource sharing, networking, referrals, live entertainment and honorary presentations. This event features a exclusive guest list, luxurious dress code, a formal reception, dinner, entertainment including speeches and a award ceremony. The most exclusive private business gala is back with it's 5th installment. if you found this page you are one of our exclusive Guest. This events features some of the most influential minds of CEO's & Entrepreneurs in illinois. "IT'S TIME TO GET DRESSED"
General Terms
All items are non-refundable, all sales are final. By completing your purchase, you agree that all ticket sales are final and non-refundable. Tickets cannot be returned, exchanged or transferred unless specifically stated otherwise. Refund Policy All items are non-refundable under any circumstances. You agree to contact the event organizer directly to resolve any issues before initiating a chargeback or dispute with your payment provider. Cancellation Policy In the event the Gala is Cancelled a Full Refund will be issued to guest
Sunday, 19, 18.00 -
Sunday, 19, 23.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
A circle for Latino Men Reenvisioning their role in Community
A monthly circle for Latino Men Reenvisioning their role in Community
February 22nd – Why are we here?
March 29 – Understanding Masculinity and Femininity
April 26 – Exploring Self-Love
May 31st – Compassion as a Practice
Facilitated by Ruben Gerena and Jupiter García
Rubén Gerena is currently an Assistant Professor and Department Chair of the Human Services department at National Louis University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Phoenix University and his master’s degree in Nonprofit Management from Spertus College. Rubén has spent over 25 years working with youth in Chicago. While mentoring youth in the Alternative school system, he helped to establish initiatives that have led to a large array of youth-focused programs across the city of Chicago that are still impacting communities. Some of these programs focused on addressing the trauma that has been experienced through gun violence and domestic violence. In addition, Ruben has been a part of city-wide initiatives in helping to address recidivism rates primarily in the south and southwest sides of the city, through increasing job readiness programs and life skills training that have been proven to decrease the number of individuals returning to prison. Ruben is also an advocate for Restorative Justice practices and is a circle keeper.
Rubén is also a Lucumí priest (Olorisha) and is ordained in the secrets of Obàtálá. Rubén is a drummer and has been studying Afro-Puerto Rican Bomba and Plena music and Dance since his teenage years. In addition, Rubén is a Drum maker and has taught youth and adults throughout the city to make their drums as a method of helping people reaffirm their own cultural identity. Currently, Ruben is the Board President of La Escuelita Bombera de Corazón, a leader in Afro-Puerto Rican arts.
Jupiter Garcia, a seasoned practitioner from Chicago, brings over 17 years of diverse healing experience. Coming from a lineage of curanderas, Jupiter's extensive background, rooted in Buddhism and Ifa, encompasses Reiki practice and teaching, chakra balancing, and access to the Akashic Records, providing multi-dimensional healing opportunities.
With a profound commitment to trauma healing, Jupiter has dedicated years to facilitating healing groups for survivors of childhood abuse and guiding ancestral healing work. This experience informs Jupiter's compassionate, trauma-sensitive approach to wellness and personal transformation.
As an experienced meditation guide, Jupiter leads bilingual meditation sessions that help participants cultivate present-moment awareness and inner peace. These group experiences are complemented by Jupiter's one-on-one coaching, where individualized guidance helps clients develop sustainable practices for emotional regulation, stress management, and enhanced well-being.
Jupiter creates safe, supportive spaces where healing can naturally unfold, anchored in ancient wisdom. Clients benefit from Jupiter's holistic methodology that addresses mind, body, and spirit connections, offering pathways to profound healing and personal growth.
Sunday, 29, 13.00 -
Sunday, 29, 15.00
Chicago,
IL
_$25
Attorney Kamran Memon has been practicing law in the Chicagoland area since 1997. He has successfully represented many clients in a variety of legal matters. Kamran works with a trusted network of attorneys who are experienced and skilled in a variety of legal areas.
Kamran graduated from the University of Chicago Law School, where he was a student of Professor Barack Obama.
Kamran is a co-founder of the Muslim Bar Association of Chicago and CAIR-Chicago. He is a member of the Muslim Bar Association of Chicago, the South Asian Bar Association of Chicago, the National Association of Muslim Lawyers, the Chicago chapter of the Organization of Pakistani Entrepreneurs, and the Illinois chapter of the National Employment Lawyers Association. He previously served as a member of the Illinois Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.
Kamran is a former host of Radio Islam on WCEV 1450 AM in Chicago. He is a co-founder of the Annual Chicagoland Muslim Community Thanksgiving Turkey Drive.
Established in 1996, the Law Offices of Kameli & Associates, P.C. is a full-service law firm with correspondent and satellite offices throughout the Chicagoland area. We have significant experience and a proven track record of success in immigration, Primarily focusing on EB-5 and E2 Visa. The firm also handles civil, criminal, and regulatory matters, and advises clients on a vast array of legal matters. Our clients include domestic and international corporations, foreign governments and entities, entrepreneurs, and private individuals.
Kameli & Associates is committed to offering the highest quality representation to our clients, while providing cost-effective and pragmatic advice and counsel. Our experienced attorneys and personnel are known for the quality relationships they establish with our clients, which, in turn, allows us to more fully understand and meet their goals and objectives. The ability to meet and exceed the goals of our clients has resulted in numerous referrals from past clients as well as referrals from other attorneys in the area and across the country.
We always welcome new clients and will strive to provide them with the same diligent, aggressive, yet cost-efficient representation that we have been offering for over a decade.
The Law Offices of Azita M. Mojarad, P.C. is a multi-service law firm established in 2000 in Chicago, Illinois. Our Chicago-based attorneys focus their practice in Immigration &; Naturalization Law, Divorce & Family Law, Business Law, and Criminal Law.
Founded in fall 2015, PFLAG Tinley Park has grown into a vital community resource serving LGBTQ+ individuals and their families in the Tinley Park, IL area. As part of PFLAG's national network of nearly 400 chapters with 250,000 members and supporters, the local chapter is committed to creating a world where diversity is celebrated and all people are respected, valued, and affirmed regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. The organization operates on three core pillars: providing compassionate support to help individuals and families navigate societal challenges, offering education to enlighten the public and foster understanding, and engaging in advocacy to end discrimination and secure equal civil rights. What distinguishes PFLAG Tinley Park is its emphasis on building lasting community connections and trust. The chapter has developed meaningful partnerships with local organizations and recently joined the Tinley Park Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating its commitment to civic engagement. Members and participants find more than just meetings—they discover a place of genuine acceptance, resources, and advocates who understand their experiences. The organization honors confidentiality and respects all persons, creating an environment where individuals can share openly and build authentic connections. Through its various support groups, educational programs, and community outreach efforts, PFLAG Tinley Park continues to transform lives and foster a more inclusive, equitable society for the LGBTQ+ community and their loved ones.
