Open House Chicago will be slight less, well, open, in 2020, but still plenty of spectacular architecture on view. (Chicago Architecture Center / Facebook)
Now in its 10th year, Open House Chicago has become much loved by architecture fans and lookie-loos alike, who queue up one weekend every fall for rare glimpses inside buildings often closed to the public.
But this year, to limit the spread of COVID-19 during the festival’s expanded run, from Oct. 16 to Oct. 25, all activities and programs will be held outdoors or online.
According to a statement from the center: “Unless and until otherwise noted, OHC 2020 will not include access to or tours of any building interiors or convene any groups.”
Rather, the retooled concept will highlight specific areas for individuals or members of “COVID bubbles” to visit, with a focus on South and West side neighborhoods: Auburn Gresham, Austin, Back of the Yards, Bronzeville, Englewood, Humboldt Park, North Lawndale, Pullman, Roseland and South Shore.
Other featured communities confirmed to date are: the Loop, Near North Side, Near West Side, Beverly, Chinatown, Evanston, Hyde Park, Lincoln Park, Logan Square, Oak Park, Pilsen, Rogers Park, Wicker Park and Woodlawn.
Participants will be encouraged to wear masks and to social distance from people outside their bubble when visiting sites in person. Online events may include classes, discussions and lectures, music and performance presentations, and virtual tours, among other offerings.
The complete schedule for Open House Chicago’s online programs and details regarding the forthcoming free OHC app will be announced at a later date.
Contact Patty Wetli: @pattywetli | (773) 509-5623 | [email protected]
