This year’s theme for World AIDS Day is “Stop AIDS. Keep the promise.” Progress is being made, but there’s a long way to go before this worldwide epidemic is knocked out. The theme’s message is aimed at government and policy makers, but there is a host of activities in Chicago commemorating this global day of awareness.
World of Chocolate
5:30-9:30 p.m.; $60-$75, proceeds benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. The Fairmont Hotel, 200 N. Columbus Drive; 312-922-2322. Sample treats from more than 20 restaurants, caterers and chocolatiers. Need something more to sweeten the deal? How about an open bar, appetizers, live music, a raffle and a holiday bazaar?
Annual Purse Bazaar
6:30 p.m.; $20, proceeds benefit Pediatric AIDS Chicago. Mystic Celt, 3443 N. Southport Ave.; 773-350-8209. Handbag designers are putting their fineries on sale, so snap up a new discounted find for the cause. Beer, wine and light appetizers are included.
Gospel Shout Out
6-10 p.m.; free. Marshall Metro High School, 3520 W. Adams St.; 773-826-0164. Sen. Obama is scheduled to check out this gospel choir concert with U.S. Rep. Danny Davis and State Sen. James Meeks. The Chicago Children’s Choir, the Tommies, the Voices of Quinn Chapel, Greater Galilee and Greater Holy Temple will be featured.
Candlelight Vigil
8-9 p.m.; free. Lake View Lutheran Church, 945 W. Addison Ave.; 773-728-7098. Set a stick aglow in remembrance of those lost to AIDS and in hope for an AIDS-free future. Hot tip: Visit www.afterPhive.com, or call 311 in Chicago, for free HIV test locations.
———-
Compiled by Fauzia Arain
