How to celebrate Women's History Month in Chicago

March is dedicated to honoring the remarkable contributions of women throughout history, and Chicago is the perfect place to celebrate. From engaging events to delicious dining experiences, the city offers a variety of opportunities to learn, honor, and uplift women in the community. Whether your interest lies in art, history, or activism, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Women’s History Month events

International Women’s Day Market at Artifact Events: Shop pop-up shops curated by local, women-owned businesses selling unique products from jewelry, beauty products, home goods, food, drinks, and more on Saturday, March 8 and Sunday, March 9.

The Chicago Public Library event series: Throughout the month, the Chicago Public Library will spotlight the contributions of women through literacy, education, and performing arts. Exploring women’s achievement and creativity, these festivities will include workshops, arts and crafts, book clubs, film screenings, and more!

Chingona Comedy Hour – Women’s History Month: Head to Laugh Factory on Thursday, March 6, for a night of laughs in celebration of Women’s History Month as Chicagoland’s top Latina/e/x, BIPOC and honorary local comedians and special guests take the stage.

Women’s History Month Closing Concert: Pianist and composer Amy Wurtz will spotlight women composers from the past and today at Epiphany Center for the Art on Sunday, March 6.

Meet a Scientist at the Field Museum: Join the Field Museum on Friday, March 7, to meet Rebecca Banasiak, Field Museum Collections Assistant and Chief Mammals Preparator. She will provide insights into the Florida panther and explain how the Field Museum’s supports conservation initiatives for this endangered species.

On Saturday, March 8, meet scientist Shannon O’Brian to hear about her research as she showcases fascinating real items from the museum’s extensive collection of nearly 40 million objects.

Chicago History Museum panel series: There are several opportunities to engage in panel talks at the Chicago Museum of History. Mark your calendar for talks around B-Girls Breaking Barriers on Thursday, March 6, and Chicago Latina Trailblazers on Tuesday, March 11.

Giving Her Her Flowers Exhibition at Navy Pier: This month-long fine art portrait exhibition, curated by Dana Todd Pope, celebrates the contributions of women in fine art. It highlights fourteen notable figures from the Chicago arts community who have made tremendous strides in creating opportunities for artists to thrive.

Struggle & Resilience at Kehrein Center for the Arts: The Kehrein Center for the Arts in Austin will host this groundbreaking festival honoring Black and Latina women in the arts on March 1. The event will include Ballet 5:8, Overshadowed, and a host of Chicago artists.

International Women’s Night Out at Tata’s Tacos: Celebrate women and the community with a special night out on Monday, March 3. Tickets include a five-minute meditation, engaging conversation, a trivia game, Q&A, a drink, and a goodie bag of items from women-owned businesses.

Women-focused culinary events

Let’s Talk Womxn Shimmer and Shine: Kick off Women’s History Month with Let’s Talk Womxn on Sunday, March 2. The “More Than March” celebration will showcase over 30 womxn restauranteurs and entrepreneurs for a night of unforgettable bites, wine, cocktails, and entertainment. It’ll be a night to remember!

Le Sud women wine makers tasting: Explore the inspiring stories of women trailblazers in the wine industry who are redefining what it means to be a modern winemaker. You’ll have the opportunity to sample four wines paired with hors d’oeuvres, and even take home a bottle.

Women in Wine at Bronzeville Winery: Engage in a curated experience on Monday, March 25, featuring an expertly orchestrated wine-tasting event that celebrates the remarkable women in the wine industry. This special occasion will include an exclusive book signing with Chasity Cooper, a renowned writer and wine culture expert. Indulge in delightful small bites expertly paired with each wine prepared by chef Lamar Moore.

Women in Wine tasting class at Uvae: The women of Uvae Kitchen and Wine Bar in the Andersonville neighborhood will each spotlight a female winemaker during this tasting class on Saturday, March 8.

Eris Brewery Sip and Paint: Join Eris, a woman-owned brewery and cider house, on March 5 for an enjoyable evening of craft beer and guided painting focused on Women’s History Month.

Women-owned businesses in Chicago

A neon sign at Soul Veg City in Greater Grand Crossing — Soul Veg City in Greater Grand Crossing

14 Parish in Hyde Park; photo by Abel Arciniega :: @tequilagraphics

Women’s History Month is an excellent opportunity to seek out women-owned establishments across Chicago, including restaurants and shops. These businesses enrich the city’s landscape by offering unique flavors, products, and services while fostering inclusivity, making them vital to the local economy and community.

Women-owned restaurants in Chicago

2d Restaurant
Anelya
The Dearborn Tavern
Demera Ethiopian Restaurant
Honeybear Cafe
Bronzeville Soul
Bixi Brewery
Soul Prime
MFK
Ceiba
Watta Potato
Khmai Cambodian Fine Dining
Vermilion
Tacotlan
Bistronomic
Soule
14 Parish
Two-Fish Crab Shack
Brown Sugar Bakery
Kinzie Chophouse
Monteverde
Soul Prime
Nobody’s Darling
Cedar Palace
Oda Mediterranean
Crema Coffee Shop
DaNang Kitchen
First Sip Cafe
El Fogon De Elena
Carver 47
Tweet Let’s Eat
Dawn A.M. Eatery
Monster Ramen
The Dandy Crown
Monarch & Lion
Classic Cobbler
Sinha Elegant Cuisine
Soul Veg City