TUE 5/2
Be independent
You prefer duct-taped Chucks to new Nikes and vintage T’s to jewel-encrusted tanks. Ride that indie wave to the Midwest Independent Film Festival. Chicago actor John Cabrera (“Gilmore Girls”) introduces his short comedy “The Man Who Invented the Moon.” Also, Chicago ScriptWorks presents readings of two original screenplays. 6 p.m. doors; 7:30 p.m. screening. $7-$10. Landmark Century Centre Cinema, 2828 N. Clark St. 773-509-4949.
Green machine
Remember that spring you whipped up an indoor veggie garden? The idea was to save money; the reality was an organic carpet; and the only thing to grow has been your appreciation for folks who really reap what they sow (and eat it). Fete Growing Home at the organic farming group’s Annual Benefit. Includes dinner by chefs from Bistro Campagne, Green Zebra, First Slice and Vie, plus auctions and more. 6 p.m. $80. RSVP recommended. Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave. 312-435-8601.
WED 5/3
Dressing room with a view
Time’s running out for that spring cleaning-out-the-fat diet. Even those cute Isaac Mizrahi two-pieces leave us dreading the view of our backsides under harsh fluorescent lights. Don’t hide in the less-threatening shoe section all season. Get tips on low-fat cooking at Girls’ Night: Back to Bikinis Cooking Class, a females-only demo and tasting of dishes like shrimp with watercress dip and more. Includes recipes. 7 p.m. $35. Reservations required. The Chopping Block, 4747 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-472-6700.
Looking vine!
Prefer to gain knowledge in lieu of losing weight? Soaking up a lesson on small-production wines may not be on your list of recommended cardio activities, but a little wine’s good for the heart. Meet Susan Ridley of Hendry Vineyards at BIN 36’s Table Hop and pair dishes from chef John Caputo’s seasonal menu with featured wines. 6 p.m. Prices vary. RSVP recommended. 339 N. Dearborn St. 312-755-9463.
THU 5/4
Terrible twos
Tired of being the third or fifth wheel? Enduring singledom amid joined-at-the-hip couples is enough to drive us to drink. But you don’t have to spend Friday with Don (Julio) and Jose (Cuervo); head to The Single Gourmet Dining and Travel Club’s Singles Pre-Cinco de Mayo Dinner at Cuatro. Fete the holiday with other unattached folks during a reception and three-course meal. Cash bar. 6 p.m. $49. Advance registration required. 2030 S. Wabash Ave. 773-772-3535.
FRI 5/5
Five alive
Whether you scored one set of digits after Thursday’s singles bash or 10, the only number we’re concerned with is cinco, as in Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Casey Moran’s. Includes Miller Lite bottles, cocktails, wine, margaritas, giveaways, DJ entertainment and a Mexican food buffet. 7 p.m. $25. 3660 N. Clark St. 773-755-4444. Plus, vote now for your fave margaritas at metromix.com, and check back Thursday for our top picks.
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rkpalmore@tribune.com
