Jazz, comedy, DJs, ethnic dishes and lowriders usher in the long holiday weekend. Here are a dozen things to do in and around Chicago.

One thing you realize from the very start of “Nightmares and Nightcaps: The Stories of John Collier” is that its narrator – a dissipated, devilishly twisted writer – is not going to sugarcoat things. 

The Chicago Jazz Fest is expanding its scope and reach. We discuss what’s new – and what to expect this weekend – with Mark Kelly, commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.

Nothing more concisely captures the impressive scope of the work done on Chicago-area stages than this annual list of nominations.

Qui Nguyen’s play, now receiving its Chicago premiere at Writers Theatre, is a second generation, rap-era kid’s flashy, sexually charged version of a story about the pain and rage that come with being a refugee, and the difficult process of assimilation. 

Remembering the tumultuous 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, as captured by two local photographers.

With the stated mission of providing low-income housing, an Ohio-based nonprofit received millions in loans and tax breaks. But a Chicago Tribune investigation has uncovered a pattern of mismanagement and broken promises.

An urban farming program that started barely two years ago with 7 acres of land near a former steel mill celebrated a milestone Wednesday.

“Each garden, we’re finding, is its own microcosm this year,” said organic gardener Jeanne Nolan. “Some are bountiful and others are delayed. That weather stressed out the plants some, and we’re seeing the results of it.”

In honor of her late son, Elizabeth Gerlach wrote a children’s book featuring a protagonist who uses a wheelchair. “I would like to be able to reduce the stigma of kids with disabilities,” she said.

Witty women, global fare, sweet treats and art fairs usher in the weekend. Here are 10 things to do in and around Chicago.

An exhibition conveys the role of the publishers of Ebony and Jet magazines in spreading the word on black culture from their onetime offices at 820 S. Michigan Ave.

A march planned for Saturday commemorating the 1968 anti-war protests held during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago will not just be a “nostalgia event,” says organizer Andy Thayer.

Two certified organic gardens on opposite sides of the city provide benefits to the environment and nearby communities.

As always, the annual benefit concert served up a rich smorgasbord of styles Saturday. It also offered a subtle suggestion of Chicago’s dance history.

As difficult as it may be to believe, the summer of 2018 is winding down. One significant marker: the Grant Park Music Festival will give the final performances of its 84th season on Saturday.