The Village Chicago

Opera Arias at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park
2025-09-07 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Great Lawn at the Pritzker Pavilion, 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL, 60602, United States
Online registration for this event is now closed. Please email info@thevillagechicago.org to register.

Join Village member, David Baker for a wonderful free evening of opera arias at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park on Sunday, September 7th, starting at 7 pm.
Every September, Lyric opera presents “Sunday in the Park with Lyric”, featuring the voices of the artists of the Ryan Center Ensemble. This group will include at least one performer from our 2024 Fundraiser.
Bring your food, drink, blanket and lawn chair. David will be there by 6 pm to anchor a spot on the lawn. Look for his blue shirt!

Conversational Spanish
2025-09-08 11:00 - 12:00, 2025-09-22 11:00 - 12:00 | Village Office, 2502 N. Clark, Chicago, IL, 60614, United States
Location: The Village Chicago office (2502 N Clark St)

Members & guests: free

Join member Ray Enriquez for a welcoming and informal Spanish conversation class. Various levels are welcome – this is a place to practice your spoken Spanish whether you are just beginning or more advanced. Space is limited – register now!

Monthly Intergenerational Trivia at D'Agostino's
2025-09-08 19:30 | D’Agostino’s Wrigleyville, 1351 W Addison St, Chicago, 60613, United States
Presented by the Bridging Generations Board

Members & guests: free; food & drink self-hosted
Please note that trivia is a week later this month due to labor day

Test your trivia skills at this new monthly event! The first Monday of the month, BGB and Village members will be meeting at D’Agostino’s in Wrigleyville for a few rounds of trivia. All 21+ are welcome but RSVPs are required.

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Launched in 2019, The Bridging Generations Professionals Board is a group of young adults who firmly believe in the importance of multigenerational relationships at work and in the community. The events they have organized include book, short story and documentary discussion groups; intimate multigenerational dinners, community volunteerism, Trivia nights and more.

Happy Hour with the Life 3.0 Committee
2025-09-09 17:00 - 18:00 | Bad Apple Lincoln Park, 658 W Belden, Chicago, IL
Members and guests: free.
This month the group is meeting at The Bad Apple Lincoln Park (658 W Belden)
Join us for a casual, member-organized happy hour at a different location each month, with no agenda other than great conversation.
This is a recurring, in person event; once you sign up, you will continue to receive emails for upcoming events.
Life 3.0 is a lively, welcoming group who are exploring together how we want to live and work as we move into retirement and beyond. But mostly, we like getting together for some really good times!

The Men's Group Presents, "How can we feed 10 billion people a healthy diet without destroying the planet?"
2025-09-10 11:00 - 12:30 | Belmont Village Lincoln Park, 700 West Fullerton, Chicago, IL, 60614, United States
Online registration is now closed for this event. Please call 773-248-8700 to reserve your spot. Thank you.

The science is unequivocal — Carbon dioxide in the air is the primary cause of climate change, and climate change will make large parts of the planet unsafe or unlivable by 2050 or before if we don’t change our ways.

Join the Men’s Group on September 10 to talk about the highest impact actions we can each take to reduce CO2 in the air. They are not what you might expect.

Two actions together that each of us can take to fight climate change are 18 times more effective than recycling, or car pooling, more than 21 times more effective than driving an electric car or using a heat pump, and 70 times more effective than composting. Not that we should stop making these other changes, but there are other actions we should be taking that are less expensive and will have a greater impact on the climate and our health and longevity.

Together, the individual and household actions we will talk about have the potential to produce roughly 25 – 30 percent of the total emissions reductions needed to avoid climate change temperature increases of over 1.5ºC.

Please join The Men’s Group and our guest speaker, Al Tilley, for a discussion that could change your life.

Medical Aid in Dying
2025-09-10 16:00 - 17:00
Members & guests- free! Virtual, via Zoom.
Registration for this event has closed. Please use the Zoom information below to attend this program, and feel free to reach out to brooke@thevillagechicago.org if you have any questions or concerns.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87915097583?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 879 1509 7583
Passcode: CAV
*This program is brought to you by the Chicago Area Villages Collaborative, as the third session of our End-of-Life Series. Stay posted for information about our October session in this series.
Illinois lawmakers are actively weighing SB 9 and its companion HB 1328—the End-of-Life Options for Terminally Ill Patients Act—which would let a mentally capable adult with a prognosis of six months or less request a prescription for medication they could choose to self-administer to end unbearable suffering.
The bill cleared the House in May and the Senate Executive Committee in April and now awaits a full Senate vote, making this a pivotal moment to understand what medical aid in dying (MAID) would mean for individuals and families across our state.
During our session we’ll examine how MAID works in the eleven states and the District of Columbia where it is already legal, outline the proposed safeguards and eligibility criteria, and honestly explore the hopes and concerns voiced by advocates, physicians, disability-rights groups, and faith communities—so that every attendee can form an informed opinion, whatever their values.

About the Presenter: Tiffany Noelle Johnson began walking alongside people at the end of life from a young age, first while helping care for her father after a stroke, and later as part of his home hospice journey. These early experiences shaped her deep respect for the dying process and the importance of thoughtful, compassionate support.
Now serving as a certified Death Doula for more than 8yrs, Tiffany draws on a background in clinical massage therapy and art therapy to provide holistic, grounded guidance. She works with families, caregivers, and care teams to help navigate the emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of dying—especially when cognitive decline or complex needs are involved. She is also certified as a Dementia Death Doula and has experience supporting both people and pets through the end of life.
Tiffany lives in Oak Park, IL and is passionate about educating others on end-of-life options, empowering families to make informed, values-aligned choices. Her approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and deeply rooted in the belief that death—when supported well—can be peaceful, meaningful, and even beautiful.

What is the Chicago Area Villages Collaborative?

There are eight “Villages” in the Chicago area, all part of the International Village Movement—grassroots organizations of older adults designed to help people age and thrive in their communities. Each Village reflects its community and leadership.

We invite you to contact a Village in your area to learn more about what we do and how you can join.

South Loop, Bronzeville: South Loop Village, https://www.southloopvillage.org/

Oak Park/ River Forest: Arbor West Neighbors, https://www.arborwestneighbors.org/join

South Side/Hyde Park: Hyde Park Village, https://www.chpv.org/

Far North Side: Edgewater Village Chicago https://www.evchicago.org/

North Shore suburbs: North Shore Village https://www.nsvnetwork.org/

Edgewater Beach Apartments: LiveAgeWell, https://www.liveagewell.com/

Streeterville, River North, Gold Coast, Loop: Skyline Village Chicago https://www.skylinevillagechicago.org/

Lincoln Park, Near North side: The Village Chicago https://www.thevillagechicago.org/

Weekly Walks around North Pond
2025-09-11 10:00 - 11:00, 2025-09-18 10:00 - 11:00 | Meet in front of North Pond Restaurant, 2610 N. Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL, United States
Enjoy some exercise and conversation every Thursday morning with new and established friends. Registrants receive ongoing reminders, including cancellation notices for inclement weather – no need to register each time. Path is paved and accessible for those using mobility aids.

Coffee Chat BYOC
2025-09-11 10:30 - 11:30
Location: via Zoom

Members only–free. To RSVP, please scroll down. The day before the discussion, a confirmation email will be sent to registered attendees with additional details to join via Zoom.
An informal ’round table’ morning coffee chat via Zoom with fellow Villagers to catch up on local issues, share your opinions, ideas, memories, have some laughs and increase your ‘people connections’ through laughter and fellowship. All are welcome!
OPEN TOPIC
Instead of selecting a predetermined topic, we invite members to pour yourself a cup, and let the conversation flow naturally! Registration required and space is limited.

Short Story Intergenerational Discussions
2025-09-11 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-09-18 17:00 - 18:00, 2025-09-25 17:00 - 18:00
Members & guests–free. To RSVP, please scroll down. The day before each discussion, registered attendees will receive a confirmation email with a link to join via Zoom.
RSVP to Join! This is an ongoing discussion group. After you register, you will receive weekly emails with Zoom details and a link to that week’s story. While the group meets weekly, members and guests are welcome to drop in for one or all discussions.

Short Story Intergenerational Discussions
2025-09-11 17:00 - 18:00
Members & guests–free. To RSVP, please scroll down. The day before each discussion, registered attendees will receive a confirmation email with a link to join via Zoom.
This is an ongoing discussion group. After you register, you will receive weekly emails with Zoom details and a link to that week’s story. While the group meets weekly, members and guests are welcome to drop in for one or all discussions.
This week the group is reading A very old man with enormous wings by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Conversational French
2025-09-12 11:00 - 12:00 | Chicago Public Library – Lincoln Park Branch, 1150 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL, 60614, United States
Online registration for this event is now closed. Please called 773-248-8700 to register. Thank you.
Members & guests: free

Join member Beverly Livingston for a welcoming and informal French conversation class. This is a place to practice your speaking skills and learn some colloquial French. Various levels are welcome, but some experience is suggested. This event is accessible.

Supporting the Journey: Moving a Loved One to Memory Care
2025-09-13 10:30 - 12:00 | Lincoln Belmont Branch, Chicago Public Library, 1659 W Melrose St, Chicago, IL, United States
Members & guests- free.

Online registration for this event is now closed. Please call 773-248-8700 to register.
Location: Lincoln Belmont Library (1659 W Melrose St, 60657)
Are you a care partner, supporting a loved one with dementia, wondering what comes next? As dementia progresses, many will be faced with the decision of whether memory care is the right next step. Some of our Village members have agreed to share their experiences of moving their loved ones into memory care facilities. This program intends to provide guidance for those care partners who have not yet been faced with this difficult decision, but may be faced with it soon. Attendees will hear from the speakers about their experiences with the transition of moving their partner to a facility. This discussion will cover important topics like cost, location, when to make the move, the type of facility selected, as well as the amenities made available. There will also be ample time built in for questions, comments and discussion.
*This event can be made available virtually via Zoom as well, if requested.

Saturday Afternoon at the Movies
2025-09-13 15:00 - 16:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Members & guests–free
Available to rent for $4.19 or buy for $4.99 on Amazon. Included in some subscription services.
Every Saturday afternoon, join fellow film aficionados of the Village for an in-depth, organic discussion of films new and old. Watch the selected film any time–or enjoy the discussion and be persuaded to view it after!
McFarland USA: 129min, Rotten Tomatoes 80%, on Amazon & others

Kevin Costner plays the new coach of a predominantly Latino high-school in central California. He and his new students have much to learn about each other, including that the boys are exceptionally talented, but more than just raw talent, their strong family ties, incredible work ethic, and commitment to the team all drive them to success. A great sports/highschool film based on a true story. Some Village members said they cried when watching.

Brain Spa
2025-09-16 11:00 - 12:00
Members & guests–free. RSVP below!
This is a virtual Zoom session held every other week, open to anyone who would like to get connected to others, practice skills and exercise their brain. Join us for puzzles and challenges, storytelling and reminiscing in a comfortable and casual environment. These sessions will be an hour long and are meant to be fun and interactive. You don’t need to attend all sessions to participate, feel free to drop in whenever you would like!

Crossing the Bridge
2025-09-17 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Location: via Zoom
Members & guests: free.

Death Cafe has evolved! Crossing the Bridge is a safe space to share personal feelings about death as we support and learn from each other. In addition to exploring our own thoughts, we talk about books, films, legislative developments, organizations, and other topics related to death and dying. All are welcome!

Short Story Intergenerational Discussions
2025-09-18 17:00 - 18:00
Members & guests–free. To RSVP, please scroll down. The day before each discussion, registered attendees will receive a confirmation email with a link to join via Zoom.
RSVP to Join! This is an ongoing discussion group. After you register, you will receive weekly emails with Zoom details and a link to that week’s story. While the group meets weekly, members and guests are welcome to drop in for one or all discussions.

This week the group is reading Sol Painting Inc. by Meg Medina

Private Tour of the Winging It Exhibit at The Newberry Library
2025-09-20 12:00 | The Newberry Library, 60 W Walton St, Chicago, IL, 60610, United States
Members & guests: Free. The library does not charge a fee for private tours of the exhibitions but instead asks that members of the group consider a suggested, optional donation of $10 to the Newberry.

Fresh on the heels of an incredible series of Bird Walks with David Baker, the Village invites you to a private tour of the Winging It Exhibit at the Newberry Library.

About the Exhibit:
For centuries, humanity has had a complex relationship with birds, which have often been seen as pests or resources to be exploited, impediments to progress and threats to well-being. At the same time, Enlightenment thinkers made great efforts to study, depict, and classify birds as a means toward better understanding the cosmos. And birds have been a source of inspiration and meaning across eras and cultures.
Winging It: A Brief History of Humanity’s Relationship with Birds, shares examples from the Newberry’s collection and how birds persist today oftentimes in spite of encroachment on their land, water, and air.
This experience is limited to 12 people, so be sure to register early and we kindly ask that you update us if you can no longer attend.

Saturday Afternoon at the Movies
2025-09-20 15:00 - 16:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Members & guests–free
Streaming on Amazon & others
Every Saturday afternoon, join fellow film aficionados of the Village for an in-depth, organic discussion of films new and old.. Watch the selected film any time–or enjoy the discussion and be persuaded to view it after!
This week’s film is:
The Big Chill (1983), 103min

Such a fun film about seven college friends reuniting 10+ years later for a weekend. The cast and the energy they create are amazing: Kevin Kline, Glenn Close, Tom Berenger, William Hurt, Jeff Goldblum, Mary Kay Place, JoBeth Williams. The film and its soundtrack (mainly 1960s Motown) were a phenomenon when it came out in 1983 and was Oscar nominated for best picture, best supporting actress, and best screenplay. Written/directed by Lawrence Kasden (Body Heat, Accidental Tourist, Grand Canyon).

Weekly Walks around North Pond
2025-09-25 10:00 - 11:00 | Meet in front of North Pond Restaurant, 2610 N. Cannon Dr, Chicago, IL, United States
Online registration for this event is now closed. Please email info@thevillagechicago.org or call 773-248-8700 to register.
Enjoy some exercise and conversation every Thursday morning with new and established friends. Registrants receive ongoing reminders, including cancellation notices for inclement weather – no need to register each time. Path is paved and accessible for those using mobility aids.

Coffee Chat BYOC
2025-09-25 10:30 - 11:30
Online registration for this event is now closed. Please email info@thevillagechicago.org or call 773-248-8700 to register.
Location: via Zoom

Members only–free. To RSVP, please scroll down. The day before the discussion, a confirmation email will be sent to registered attendees with additional details to join via Zoom.
An informal ’round table’ morning coffee chat via Zoom with fellow Villagers to catch up on local issues, share your opinions, ideas, memories, have some laughs and increase your ‘people connections’ through laughter and fellowship. All are welcome!
OPEN TOPIC
Instead of selecting a predetermined topic, we invite members to pour yourself a cup, and let the conversation flow naturally! Registration required and space is limited.

Short Story Intergenerational Discussions
2025-09-25 17:00 - 18:00
Online registration for this event is now closed. Please email info@thevillagechicago.org or call 773-248-8700 to register.
Members & guests–free. To RSVP, please scroll down. The day before each discussion, registered attendees will receive a confirmation email with a link to join via Zoom.
RSVP to Join! This is an ongoing discussion group. After you register, you will receive weekly emails with Zoom details and a link to that week’s story. While the group meets weekly, members and guests are welcome to drop in for one or all discussions.
This week the group is reading American history by Judith Ortiz Coffer

Conversational French
2025-09-26 11:00 - 12:00 | Chicago Public Library – Lincoln Park Branch, 1150 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL, 60614, United States
Members & guests: free

Join member Beverly Livingston for a welcoming and informal French conversation class. This is a place to practice your speaking skills and learn some colloquial French. Various levels are welcome, but some experience is suggested. This event is accessible.

Memory Cafe
2025-09-26 12:00 - 14:00 | Chicago Public Library – Lincoln Park Branch, 1150 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL, 60614, United States
We are excited to invite you to attend this new program offering, in partnership with our local Lincoln Park Branch Library (1150 W Fullerton).
This monthly Memory Café offers a comfortable and supportive environment for individuals with memory loss and their care partners. Make friends, have lunch and have fun!
Activities at this event will be thematic and will include games, arts and crafts, music, and more. Friends, family members, and community allies also are welcome.

Saturday Afternoon at the Movies
2025-09-27 15:00 - 16:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Members & guests–free
Available on Amazon to rent for $4.29
Every Saturday afternoon, join fellow film aficionados of the Village for an in-depth organic discussion of films new and old. Watch the selected film any time–or enjoy the discussion and be persuaded to view it after!
Three Days of the Condor: 1975, 117min, 87% on Rotten Tomatoes

Celebrating Robert Redford. Here’s one from 1975. A CIA researcher (“I’m just a reader”) in Manhattan finds all his co-workers dead, and must outwit those responsible until he figures out who he can really trust. Also with Faye Dunnaway (what a sexy pairing), Cliff Robertson and directed by Sydney Pollack (The Way We Were, They Shoot Horses Don’t They, Tootsie, Out of Africa)

The Village Chicago Annual Fundraiser
2025-09-30 17:00 - 19:30
Click here to purchase tickets, raffles and sponsorships!
Get your Early Bird Tickets now – discount ends September 12!

Great Books, Great Conversations
2025-10-01 19:00 - 20:00 | Zoom, Chicago, IL, United States
Location: via Zoom

Members and guests – Free!
The Village’s Great Books Great Conversations program has been going strong for over 14 years! Our conversations are modeled after the shared inquiry of and uses short readings published by the Great Books Foundation.
October Readings:

“The Subjective Necessity of Social Settlements” by Jane Addams
“The Drum Major Instinct” by Martin Luther King Jr.
“The Book of Ruth” Selection from “Specimen Days” by Walt Whitman
“The Lovers of the Poor” by Gwendolyn Brooks”
“What We Don’t Talk About When We Don’t Talk About Service” by Adam Davis

Readings are in “The Civically Engaged Reader” published by the Great Books Foundation and available at its website store.
