Gomez
The British are coming! Er, yeah. Gomez, winners of the Mercury Music Prize (that’s a big deal across the pond), are doing a whirlwind U.S. tour. Australian band Augie March (yes, named after that Saul Bellow novel set in Chicago) open. 7:30 p.m. Friday. $22.50 (18+). Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield Ave. 773-472-0449.
Chicago Marathon
You said you’d run the marathon, but getting off the couch is about all the exercise you can handle. Hey, it’s OK. We’re claiming weak knees. But get out and cheer on the sporty peeps who are running. The race kicks off in Grant Park (500 S. Columbus Drive) when 40,000 runners hit a 26.2-mile course, winding through 15 ‘hoods. What’s the best spot to catch the action? The “L” platform at the Cermak/Chinatown stop provides a great view! Then hit the marathon postparty at 6 p.m. at Navy Pier (600 E. Grand Ave.). 7:55 a.m. (wheelchair race starts); 8 a.m. (marathon starts) Sunday. Spectators free. 312-904-9800.
Double 10 Parade
This bash celebrates the 93rd anniversary of China becoming a republic. Floats, marching bands and, yes, a 100-foot-long dragon! 12:30 p.m. Saturday. Free. Wentworth and Cermak Avenues, 312-225-0303.
Presidential debates
So the last debate made you scream–and drink heavily. And while you’re planning to catch the next round, do you really want to sit at home on a Friday night? Luckily, you can hoist a brew to your candidate at Crew. They’ll be screening the matchup at 8 p.m. with PBR specials ($2.50) in “honor of the middle-class vote.” 4804 N. Broadway, 773-784-2739.
Chicago Art Open
Soon enough, we’ll be spending all our time indoors, hiding from the winter. So now is the time to gussy up our digs with some new art! This seventh annual blitz features works by 300 local artists in painting, photography, sculpture and way more. Swing by the benefit preview to schmooze while you shop. Benefit preview: 6-10 p.m. Saturday. $35. Art showcase: Noon-5 p.m. Sunday. $5-$6. Vietnam Veterans Art Museum, 1801 S. Indiana Ave. 312-670-2060.
Play Chess with Death
Can you beat your computer at chess? OK, hot shot, what about beating death at chess? Sure it looked easy in “Bill & Ted’s Bogus Journey,” but think you’ve got what it takes? If so, grab your board and give the Reaper a run for his money. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday. Free. Thompson Center outdoor plaza, 100 W. Randolph St. 312-266-1944.
West Fest and East Village Arts Walk
Hit this self-guided tour of artists’ studios and galleries and stick around to catch natives Urge Overkill sing a few. We’ve got a secret crush on Nash Kato, so we’ll be there with bells on. Chi Town Reggae and DJ Red Lox will also be there on Saturday, and Califone and Local H play Sunday. Noon-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. $5; Arts Walk is free. Chicago and Damen Avenues, 312-850-9390.
October Blaze
It’s officially fall. Yup, leaves are dropping, the wind is chilly and there are hayrides in Lakeview. Carve pumpkins, adopt a pooch and listen to live bands. And, of course, dig into munchies. Noon-10 p.m. Saturday. $5. Lincoln Avenue and Melrose Street, 773-472-7171.
Dank-Niedersachsen Oktoberfest
The Niedersachsen Club of Chicago and the German-American National Congress (whew, now there’s a mouthful!) are hosting a beer bash featuring live tunes. Break out the lederhosen and dance, eat, drink and be merry. 6 p.m.-midnight. Saturday. $10. DANK Haus, 4740 N. Western Ave. 773-561-9181.
Efferfest
Oh, how we love bubbly. Put on your best “Ab Fab” accent and stumble over to this wine fest at Pops for Champagne to sample sparkling wines from the U.S. and abroad. If weather permits, it will be held on the outdoor patio. Wine reps will be on hand to give you the lowdown on the vino–always useful when you’re trying to impress that hot date. Plus, nibble on pate, cheese and bruschetta while listening to live music. 4-7 p.m. Sunday. $32. 2934 N. Sheffield Ave. 773-472-1000.
