July 30–Aug 1, 2010

FRIDAY 30
New restaurant: Pork Shoppe Pork, barbecue, downscale, bourbon, beer, communal tables—it seems this Avondale restaurant, slated to open in late May, will hit on every dining trend. A 40-seat counter-service spot in an up-and-coming neighborhood is an unexpected move from the guys who brought us Tizi Melloul, but the menu of brisket, ribs, mac and cheese, and American bourbons and beers suggests it’ll be a smart one. 2755 W Belmont Ave (773-961-7654).—Julia Kramer

SATURDAY 31
Ravinia Festival Gala Ravinia wishes a happy 80th birthday to legendary theater composer Stephen Sondheim with a concert featuring Broadway stars Patti LuPone, Audra McDonald, George Hearn and Michael Cerveris, backed by the CSO. 7pm; pavilion $80–$125, lawn $20.—Kris Vire
Bughouse Square Debates
Ghana Fest
Wicker Park Fest (July 31, August 1)

SUNDAY 1
Rock ’n’ Roll Half-Marathon Every mile of this mostly lakeside course features live bands blasting motivating music, a boost you’ll need on a balmy August morning. Columbus Drive and Congress Parkway (chicago.competitor.com). 6:30am, registration $110.
Belize Day in the Park
Summer on Southport (July 31, August 1)

Perfect Summer Weekends: May 28–31 | June 4–6 | June 11–13 | June 18–20 | June 25–27 | July 2–4 | July 9–11 | July 16–18 | July 23–25 | July 30–Aug 1 | Aug 6–8 | Aug 13–15 | Aug 20–22 | Aug 27–29 | Sept 3–6

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Stars of Summer: Zooey Deschanel of She & Him | Greg Giraldo | Stephanie Izard | Sharlto Copley | B.o.B | Wanda Sykes | Lisa Cholodenko | Tony Tasset | Graham Elliot Bowles | Kate Arrington | Jay Franke | Bruce Sherman | Brenda Didier | Ben Goldwasser of MGMT

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PLUS: Best Summer Weekdays | Summer Festival Guide | Perfect family summer weekends