Chicago's Best Kids' Concert Venues: Lincoln Hall, Schubas
By Bonnie Kenaz-Mara
Hours: FITL Brunch & Boogie 10:15 a.m.-12 p.m., other kids' shows vary
Cost: FITL Brunch & Boogie $8, other events vary by show
This great space is easy to find, even if your toddlers are flinging toys in the back seat, your mom-brain is multitasking, and your progeny are singing along at the top of their lungs to their favorite CD. I'll bet you the face on a fiver you guessed it. Lincoln Hall is on Lincoln Ave. in--wait for it--Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. Stick that in your stovepipe hat. Their address is even a simple and symmetrical repeated 24, even if your post preggo waistline isn't.
Lincoln Hall hosts Chicago Families in the Loop's hit series for the swing set, Brunch & Boogie, that runs once every several months. These big extravaganzas sell out fast and feature live bands, sweet swag bags, high-end raffles, and loads of sponsors with activities, info, and snacks. A special brunch menu is available at the bar, although not included in the event cost.
Lincoln Hall also hosts a regular free film series called The 3 Penny Was Here. Check ahead for kid appropriateness. Many films are all ages. Age limits are clearly listed.
Our favorite annual kids' event at Lincoln Hall is The Punkin' Prom. Every October, local TV icons, Miss Mia and Ratso, hosts of Chic-a-Go-Go, bring the party to Lincoln Hall. Admission is free and $5 will reserve a pumpkin and tools. The Punkin' Prom is a dance party, where your intrepid hosts will lead kids of all ages (even adult ages) through dances like the limb-oh, monster mash, and the zombie. For the competitive, there's a costume contest and pumpkin -carving contest. Everyone can join in the costume parade, raffles and give-aways. We're giving you this info now 'cause these events sell out early – so mark your calendars.
Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood is home to a neo-gothic landmark that's been around since 1903! In 1997, Schubas expanded to include the attached Harmony Grill, where they serve lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Skip the beignets. They're disappointing if you've ever been to New Orleans for the real thing. However, most of the rest of their offerings are tasty, comfort foods, and their mac and cheese is impressive enough to please the pickiest pasta purists. A full bar is available on the performance space side of the venue. Although it's location isn't as super simple as it's sister bar, Lincoln Hall, it's still quite easy to find, on the southwest corner of Belmont Ave. and Southport Ave.
Lincoln Hall and Schubas are both under the same ownership, and both host family friendly shows. Schubas draws national touring kiddie music acts, like the ever-popular lemon headed alien, Gustafer Yellowgold, from New York, who plays there annually. Schubas also hosts School of Rock showcases, Girls Rock!, Chicago Benefits, and excellent local bands where the musicians are still teens. Within the past year, Purple Apple, The Blisters, and When Flying Feels Like Falling, all rocked Schubas in the underage, over tween category.
CBS Chicago Insider's Tip: Subscribe to Schubas Family Series via RSS Feed to stay up to date on shows.
