Celtic Culture

We will meet at the Cozy Cafe, 2113 N. Western Ave. We will meet there from 2-4 pm (14-16hrs)

**CALLING ALL WITCHES, PAGANS, & FOLLOWERS OF THE OLD WAYS** Join us for the ancient celebration of Lupercalia (with a modern twist)! Lupercalia is an ancient Roman festival of purification and fertility. The festival is so old that it was believed that even the Romans forgot from where the festival originated and to which gods it was affiliated, although many speculate. Given that Lupercalia falls on February 15, the holiday was often thought to coincide with Valentine’s Day. Festivities will begin at 7:00pm which will include refreshments, food, and music. We will discuss the historical Lupercalia rites before performing our own ritual. We will model our own ritual off the ancient rites performed to purify ourselves of curses, bad luck, misfortune, and other hardships before encouraging the fertile reawakening of our dormant powers. There's no charge for this event, but we ask that you buy local and support your local Witch Shop! :)

A wood-fired, social sauna seating 16 people, along the lake and inside Chicago's parks, with an Aufguss session to cap off every sauna day. What to bring: \- Water\, preferably with electrolytes/lemon to replenish\. \- Swimsuit/athletic clothes\. \- Towel\(s\) for sitting inside the sauna and for drying off\. There is a changing tent and a shower for rinsing off available. Looking forward to welcoming you! \- Maria Tkacz\, Founder of Harbor & Hoyage @harborandvoyage More info & booking at harborandyoyage.com

⛪✨ **Heaven in Brick & Gold: Inside St. Barbara Catholic Church** 🕯️🏛️ 🌿 *A Polish Cathedral Masterpiece:* *An Inspiring Morning Inside One of Chicago’s Grandest Historic Churches* ✨ Join us for a special guided visit to **St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church**, a spectacular and deeply historic Catholic landmark on Chicago’s South Side. Known for its monumental scale, ornate interior, and strong ties to the city’s Polish immigrant community, St. Barbara offers an unforgettable look at faith, artistry, and neighborhood history. This is a **stationary guided church visit — no walking tour** — allowing us to slow down and truly appreciate the church’s architecture, artwork, symbolism, and history in a peaceful and reflective setting. Expect soaring ceilings, dramatic altars, rich stained glass, devotional shrines, and stories that connect Catholic tradition with Chicago’s industrial and immigrant past. ✨ *** 🕰️ **Schedule, Meeting Info & Cost** 📅 **Saturday, February 14, 2026** ⏰ **10:00 AM – 12:00 PM** 📍 **St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church** 2859 S. Throop St., Chicago ⏱️ Visit length: \~90 minutes 💰 **$15 per person** 💵 Cash strongly preferred (Zelle / Venmo / PayPal accepted as I submit one group donation) ⚠️ All attendees must check in with me at the start and submit payment directly to me so I can provide **one group donation** to the church. 📸 Photography is allowed — please be respectful of the sacred space and follow any guidance from our hosts. 🎤 **Private guided experience arranged for our group.** *** 🌟 **What We’ll Experience** ⛪ A breathtaking historic sanctuary 🎨 Elaborate religious art, murals, and stained glass 🕯️ Side altars, candles, and devotional elements 📜 The story of the parish and Chicago’s Polish Catholic community 🏛️ Architectural details of the Polish Cathedral–style tradition This visit takes place entirely **inside the church and immediate grounds**. *** 📖 **About St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church** Founded in **1910**, **St. Barbara Parish** was established to serve Polish immigrants who settled near Chicago’s booming industrial corridor of rail yards, factories, and stockyards. Named for **St. Barbara**, patron saint of miners and workers in dangerous trades, the parish became a spiritual refuge for laboring families seeking faith, stability, and community. The current church building, completed in the **1910s**, is a stunning example of the **Polish Cathedral style** — a uniquely American expression of Catholic architecture characterized by monumental scale, classical influences, lavish ornamentation, and an emphasis on beauty as an act of devotion. Inside, the church is richly adorned with: * Grand altars * Painted ceilings and murals * Sculptural details * Stained glass honoring saints, sacraments, and Polish religious heritage Every element was designed to inspire awe, reinforce Catholic teaching, and reflect the pride and sacrifice of the immigrant community that built it. For generations, St. Barbara served as a cultural, spiritual, and social anchor — hosting baptisms, weddings, funerals, festivals, and daily worship that shaped neighborhood life. As demographics evolved, the parish continued to adapt while preserving its extraordinary artistic and architectural legacy. Today, St. Barbara remains an active parish and a treasured landmark — one of Chicago’s most impressive examples of early 20th-century Catholic church design. *** 🍽️ **Optional Coffee or Lunch After the Visit** Those interested are welcome to join me afterward for coffee or lunch at a nearby neighborhood spot. 🍽️ Options will be shared closer to the date. ⚠️ Please bring cash — some venues may not split checks. *** 👟 **What to Bring** • Camera • Respectful attire • $15 tour fee (exact change appreciated) *** 🚇 **Getting There** Public transportation is easy and encouraged. Use Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner: [https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/](https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/) *** 🚗 **Parking** • Street parking available nearby (check posted signs) • Metered parking on nearby main streets • Residential side streets often available • Area can be busy — arriving early is recommended • SpotHero or ParkWhiz may be helpful *** 📝 **RSVP & No-Show Policy** ✔️ Please keep your RSVP updated ✔️ Cancel promptly if plans change ❌ Repeated no-shows may affect future event participation *** ✨⛪ Join us for a meaningful Valentine’s weekend experience exploring Catholic faith, immigrant history, and sacred art — all inside one of Chicago’s most awe-inspiring neighborhood churches. ✨

💗 Let’s celebrate Valentine’s Day starting with a yummy breakfast. Yay! 💗 LOCATION Portage Park Breakfast Place 5040 W Montrose Ave, Chicago **meeting 915 for 930 seating** **It's cash only as we will have separate checks.** Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XnGCasE2Vr7BoBYE7?g_st=ic Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite holidays and getting people together to celebrate is the best. Come celebrate with us. After breakfast if anyone wants to continue with more spontaneous fun I’m a yes. Let’s bring ideas to breakfast. 🙂 Happy Valentine’s Day. We look forward to celebrating with you. 💗

Howdy, suburb friends!! For a more accurate head count: please look at Facebook: Saturday’s Sedentary Showdown Let’s get together and play some ultimate at Arrowhead Park!! All skill levels welcome! I’ve got cones and discs, so bring plenty of water, sunscreen and spirit! We DO play outside through the winter!! We can play until we’re exhausted 😊

*Before and After, an instant drama* **Fridays/Saturdays, 7:30 PM, January 30-February 21** Life is defined in moments. *Before and After* explores the story leading to a life-changing event and the impact of that instant on all that is to follow. Are we truly changed by the big moments in our lives, or are we only revealed? No two performances are ever the same, but every show is an instant drama created before your eyes. Theatre Momentum is the **only** theatre in Chicago dedicated to dramatic improvisation. Join us for a night of grounded instant theatre. Fridays/Saturdays, 7:30 PM (doors open at 7 PM) January 30-February 21 All tickets $5! Studio Momentum, 1541 W Belmont Ave ### **Get your tickets!** **[https://www.theatremomentum.com/shows](https://www.theatremomentum.com/shows)**

Well this is on the day after Valentine's day on Sunday for a change, come celebrate Galentine's Day with us at our favorite woman owned brewery in IL. It's currently the only woman owned brewery in IL but hey it's still our favorite and we women should support women making beer. Please update your RSVP if needed to keep our headcount accurate. Eris is named for the goddess of chaos and they make excellent cider. In Greek mythology, Eris, the goddess of discord, is associated with a golden apple that started the Trojan War. It was founded by two excellent brewers who happen to be women. Menu: https://www.erischicago.com/menu

⛪🔔 **Bells, Stone & Sky: Rockefeller Memorial Chapel Carillon Tower Tour** 🏛️✨ 🌿 *An extraordinary afternoon inside one of Chicago’s most iconic Gothic landmarks* ✨ Join us for a rare and unforgettable guided visit and **carillon tower tour** at **Rockefeller Memorial Chapel**, one of the most magnificent collegiate Gothic buildings in the world and a crown jewel of the University of Chicago campus. This special experience begins with an introduction to the chapel’s history and architecture before taking us **inside the tower itself** — offering an up-close look at the mighty carillon bells, the inner workings of the instrument, and breathtaking views from above. This is a **stationary guided visit and tower tour** (not a walking tour), but it *does* involve stair climbing — allowing us to focus deeply on **architecture, engineering, music, and vertical exploration** in a truly unique setting. Expect soaring stone vaults, massive bronze bells, mechanical marvels, a live music demonstration, and panoramic skyline and lake views. ✨ *** **🕰️ Schedule, Meeting Info & Cost** 📅 **Sunday, February 15, 2026** ⏰ **1:00–3:00 PM** 📍 **Rockefeller Memorial Chapel** 5850 S. Woodlawn Ave., Chicago ⏱️ **Visit length:** \~90 minutes 🎤 **Private guided chapel & carillon tower tour** 💰 **$15 per person** 💵 Cash strongly preferred (Zelle / Venmo / PayPal accepted) ⚠️ All attendees must **check in with me at the start** and submit payment directly so I can provide **one group donation** to the chapel. 📸 Photography is allowed — please be respectful and follow any guidance from our hosts. *** **🌟 What We’ll Experience** ⛪ Rockefeller Memorial Chapel’s awe-inspiring Gothic interior 🔔 Introduction to the chapel’s history, architecture, and musical legacy 🏗️ Behind-the-scenes access to the carillon tower 🕰️ The tower’s mechanical room and historic regulator clock 🔔 Up-close views of the **72-bell carillon** (over **100 tons of bronze**) 🎶 A live demonstration of how the carillon is played 🏛️ The playing cabin where the carillonist performs 🌆 Seasonal **360-degree views** from the top of tower *(weather/university permitting)* *** **🔔 Stair Climbing & Accessibility Note** This tour involves climbing **271 steps**, roughly equivalent to **20–22 stories**. The staircase is a **narrow spiral with no elevator**, and the experience may not be suitable for those who are afraid of heights or claustrophobic, or for anyone with knee issues, mobility concerns, or difficulty with stair climbing. We ascend at a **leisurely pace with multiple breaks**, and there is no pressure to reach the top. Participants are welcome to turn back at any point. Guests who choose not to climb (or who stop early) may remain on the main floor and still enjoy the **carillon playing demonstration via live video and audio feed**. *** **📖 About Rockefeller Memorial Chapel** Rockefeller Memorial Chapel was funded by **John D. Rockefeller Jr.** as a memorial to his father, **John D. Rockefeller Sr.**, the principal benefactor of the University of Chicago. Designed by renowned architect **Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue**, the chapel was completed in **1928** and stands as one of the finest examples of **collegiate Gothic Revival architecture** in the United States. Conceived as a **non-denominational sacred space**, the chapel reflects medieval English cathedral influences combined with early 20th-century American craftsmanship, serving as a symbolic and spiritual anchor of the university. *** **📖 About the Carillon Tower Tour** Rockefeller Memorial Chapel houses **one of the largest carillons in the world**, consisting of **72 massive bronze bells**. The largest bell weighs **36,926 pounds** and measures **117 inches in diameter**. The tour begins with a **10–15 minute introduction** on the main floor, covering the chapel’s history, architecture, and the role of the carillon. From there, participants ascend the tower via a **271-step spiral staircase**, taken at a relaxed pace with frequent stops. Along the way, we will: • Walk above the chapel’s false ceiling (attic catwalk) • Pass through the mechanical room housing the original regulator clock and pneumatic chime system • Stand beside the largest bells • Enter the playing cabin, where the carillonist performs using hands and feet Beyond the cabin, a short additional staircase leads to the top of the tower, where sweeping views of **Chicago’s skyline, Lake Michigan, northern Indiana, and the University of Chicago campus** are visible *in season and when permitted*. *** **🍽️ Optional Coffee or Late Lunch After the Visit** Those interested are welcome to join me afterward at a nearby Hyde Park favorite such as **Medici**, **Noodles Etc.**, or **Salonica Restaurant**. 🍽️ Options will be finalized closer to the date. ⚠️ Please bring cash — some venues may not split checks. *** **👟 What to Bring / Wear** • Camera • Comfortable shoes (stairs!) • Respectful attire • $15 tour fee (exact change appreciated) *** **🚇 Getting There** Public transportation is encouraged. Use Google Maps or CTA Trip Planner: [https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/](https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/) *** **🚗 Parking** • Limited street parking nearby (check posted signs) • University area can be busy — arriving early is recommended • SpotHero or ParkWhiz may be helpful *** **📝 RSVP & No-Show Policy** ✔️ Please keep your RSVP updated ✔️ Cancel promptly if plans change ❌ Repeated no-shows may affect future event participation *** ✨🔔 **Join us for a rare opportunity to explore sacred architecture, musical engineering, and sky-high views — all inside one of Chicago’s most extraordinary landmarks.**

Join Golden Glove Champ and Pro Judge Andrew for a fun and informative group boxing class at a real MMA gym. It takes a couple minutes to prep, so try to arrive no later than 8:45am sign-in! $20 for meetup members ($30 normally)

**🎟️ 🎶Theater Week Stop 3: $30 tix-Trial in the Delta: Murder of Emmett Till🎭** *Chicago Theater Week 2026 Play #3 - $30 Tix-* *Trial in the Delta: The Murder of Emmett Till @Kimball Arts Center* **Chicago Theater Week Play #3** 🎶 *Trial in the Delta: the Murder of Emmett Till* 📅 **Saturday Feb 14, 2025** ⏰ **7:30 PM** 📍 **The Kimball Arts Center \|** 1757 N. Kimball Ave, Chicago, **🎟️ General Admission Seating** Our **3rd & final stop** for Chicago Theater Week is **Trial in the Delta: The Murder of Emmett Till**, a powerful, award-winning live docu-drama presented by **Collaboraction** in their brand-new **House of Belonging** in Humboldt Park. This immersive production brings the **1955 murder trial of Emmett Till** to life using the **recently unearthed trial transcript**, placing audiences inside the courtroom for a **deeply human, radically honest** examination of a case that changed America forever. Actors sit among the audience, taking the stand as witnesses for both the defense and prosecution — including **Mamie Till-Bradley** — creating a stunning, immediate, and unforgettable experience. New this year! Tickets are available on Hottix, no special codes needed! 🎟 **Theater Week Deal via Hot Tix** • **$30 tickets + fees (normally $55.00)** — no special code • **Limited quantity — WILL sell out** 👉 Buy here: https://hottix.org/shows/collaboraction-in-the-kimball-arts-center/trial-in-the-delta-the-murder-of-emmett-till/ ✔️ Select **2/14/25 General Admission – 7:30 PM** \| **The Kimball Arts Center** **-reg price $55.00 for $30! so $25.00 savings!** Any issues calls Hot tix helpdesk at Phone: **(312) 977-9483 or** Email: **[[email protected]](mailto:[email protected])** ⚠️ **Important Ticket Rules** · You must buy your own ticket · **DO NOT RSVP YES until ticket is purchased** · GA seating — we’ll meet in the bar & sit together · High probability of value-priced tickets selling out!! - buy asap! I’ll arrive around **7:00 PM to grab seats as general admission.** *I may grab a meal nearby earlier & I will post a comment of where I will go for those who wish to meet & grab a bite. Check back for updates* 🍷 **Food & Drinks** • No food served and no outside food allowed • Full bar available (wine, spirits, non-alcoholic drinks allowed in theaters) • If you want to eat, plan to do so before the show — many nearby options • Some of us may grab a bite. I’ll post updates closer to the date **Trial in the Delta: the Murder of Emmett Till** 🎶 About the Production On September 20, 1955, testimony began in the murder trial of two members of Emmett Till’s lynch mob. What happened during that trial — and in the weeks and months surrounding it — would help ignite the Civil Rights Movement. Written by Willie Round & G. Riley Mills, directed by Anthony Moseley & Dana Anderson, this production is drawn directly from The State of Mississippi vs. Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam trial transcript. It plays as a live courtroom reenactment, featuring top Chicago actors seated among the audience. Join us as we witness this vital story — and stay to discuss its impact and legacy. **🏛️ About Collaboraction & the Kimball Arts Center** Collaboraction celebrates **30 years** of innovative, socially conscious theater and opens its new **House of Belonging** in Humboldt Park. The space includes: • 🎭 99-seat flexible studio theater • 🍷 50-seat cabaret with café/bar • 🏙️ Located next to the **606 Trail**, where Logan Square meets Humboldt Park Collaboraction’s work is grounded in **KEDA** — *Knowledge, Empathy, Dialogue, and Action* — theater for social change. **Kimball Arts Center** Kimball Arts Center is a hub of Chicago creativity located next to the 606 Trail, where Logan Square meets Humboldt Park. Home to a collection of independent businesses for over 15 years. Always inclusive. Always open-minded. 🚗 Parking: Metered street parking nearby; SpotHero/ParkWhiz recommended 🚇 CTA accessible https://www.transitchicago.com/planatrip/ ❗ **No-Show Policy** 3 no-shows without RSVP updates = 3-month event freeze. 🎭✨ **This is a true Theater Week steal — grab your ticket before it’s gone!**

**Valentine’s Sound Bath** Doors open at **7:30 PM** We’ll begin at **8:00 PM** with a light, playful connection ritual, followed by an **hour-long immersive sound bath** you can melt into. Skip the clichés and do Valentine’s Day differently. Come after dinner, get cozy, and sink into an experience designed for closeness, ease, and shared presence. Whether you arrive with a partner, partners, friends, or solo, this night is about slowing down, feeling good, and enjoying the moment. No fixing. No forcing intimacy. Just warmth, sound, and space to land. **Pricing:** **$45 per person** *Sliding scale available - [reach out](https://www.guideandseekchicago.com/contact) if cost is a barrier.* Bring **yoga mats, pillows, and blankets**\- the cozier\, the better\. **Space is limited**, so RSVP early. An evening for slowing down and being close, however that looks for you. .. Please **Dial #307** on the intercom when you arrive. Session will happen in suite 309

Hosted by the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Join us for a walk through the forest to hear stories from Celtic Mythology about humans' connection to nature. Meet at Grove 7.

**Do you know someone who is an AMAZING environmental advocate?** On the last day of Black History Month, we are celebrating some of our local **"Black Voices" who fights for the rights of ALL people to enjoy the great outdoors.** Weather permitting, we will Start with a **short memorial hike along the Major Taylor Trail** and explore the beautiful aqueducts built by Black American men during the Great Depression. **Located in the pavilion**, **a panel of local conservation and** **environmental heroes** will be discussing their projects and how we ALL can do our part to ensure our communities do not become environmental collateral damage. **Supplies will be available for creating environmental journaling and vision boards will be available to document your 2026 commitments.** Refreshments will be served. Come out and meet some of our local GREEN HEROES, In Our Nature! **\*\*\*If you know someone or YOU would like to be considered as a panel speaker or have a TABLE for your (nature-based) organization,** **please contact Claudia G.**

PAY NO ATTENTION TO THE WAITLIST. *Follow the link* **[HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/learning-the-runes-tickets-1982132379304?aff=oddtdtcreator)** *to get your tickets.* *Once you have a ticket then you we will see you there! We only have a certain amount, though so get one sooner rather than later. We'll be using eventbrite to keep track of who is joining us. But you are also free to pay in person. So if that is the case, just us a message or post on the meetup event page that you plan on attending.* *You can get a refund for your ticket any time up to 48 hours before the event.* *See you there!* The Runes are a fascinating Norse alphabet with deep wells of lore. They have many uses for the witch who wields them, one of the most practical being the art of divination. Like with tarot, bone reading, and necromancy, the runes can be used to attain answers to burning questions and gain knowledge of the future. In this class we will break down the meanings of the runes and different ways to interpret them in an easily digestible format. We will then work in groups to cast runes for each other.

People from other groups come also so we average about 10 people a week. Come be a rock star and sing with the band! Don't sing? That's okay, come out just for the band cuz they are awesome, with no cover charge! They also have terrific food, and it's Taco Tuesday. Three tacos and a shot of tequila for $16

Welcome to our February evening of open crafting and community building at Malliway Bros! Crafting Circle is now a paid/ticketed event: $10 per person, and we are capping the event at 10 spots. Purchase your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/crafting-circle-at-malliway-bros-tickets-1980788594006?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios We will roll out tables and chairs for all of the attendees to have space to craft starting at 8pm You must have a paid ticket in advance to be admitted. If the event is full, join the waitlist, and stay tuned should a ticket become available. BYOCraft and light snacks potluck style. The crafting circle is an intoxicant free gathering. Please do not bring alcohol to the event. If you seem intoxicated at crafting circle, you will be asked to leave the gathering immediately. We will connect and collectively craft on any individual projects that we are working on. Coloring, sewing, knitting, stitching, weaving, spell casting, gluing, what have you! We ask that you come with the purpose of crafting in a community. Your crafting circle is hosted every month by Malliway community members; Nora, and Aunt Linda.

Come on out for a fun night of singing, dancing, and meeting new people!

**This is a short campaign, we will keep the same group throughout.** Brindlewood Bay is a roleplaying game about a group of elderly women— members of the local Murder Mavens mystery book club—who frequently find themselves investigating (and solving!) real-life murder mysteries. They become increasingly aware that there are supernatural forces that connect the cases they are working on and, in particular, a cult dedicated to the dark, monstrous aspect of the goddess Persephone will come to vex them. The game is directly inspired by the television show Murder, She Wrote, but also takes inspiration from the works of H.P. Lovecraft, “cozy” crime dramas, and American TV shows from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s.