THU 9/13
Here to Serb you
Looking to impress your cinefile friends with your knowledge of foreign films? The inaugural Serbian Film Festival spotlights nearly 15 features, docs and shorts — including 2006 Academy Award nominee “Tomorrow Morning.” Vlada Nikolic’s “Love” opens the fest at 7 p.m Thursday. Afterward, head to Adobo Grill (1610 N. Wells St.) for a reception. Through Sunday. $10; $55-$100 for all-fest pass. AMC Pipers Alley, 1608 N. Wells St. 312-642-7500. Full schedule: serbianfilmfestival.com.
Hocus pocus
If your grandfather’s magic repertoire was limited to pulling quarters out of your ear, you’ll be mightily impressed by “The Magnificents.” The new play by magician Dennis Watkins is a tribute to his own grandfather, his mentor in magic. Part magic show and part musical drama, it tells the story of an ancient magician and his wife as they try to start a family. 8 p.m. Through Nov. 3. $10-$22. The Viaduct, 3111 N. Western Ave. 773-251-2195.
Feast on this
Sure, you make it to the gym five times a week for ab crunches. But when was the last time you gave your senses a good workout? Head to Sensory Overload to get your fill of appetizers, massages ($1 per minute), bellydance performances, DJ sets and more. 7 p.m. $10. Lumen, 839 W. Fulton Market. 773-841-0705. RSVP required for VIP reception with apps and cocktails (7-8 p.m.): rsvp@fashioninchicago.com.
FRI 9/14
Against the ropes
Looking for some knockout entertainment? Hit Pride professional boxing on Friday when fighters face off in honor of Mexican Independence Day. Watch as former Golden Gloves national champ Francisco Rodriguez takes on Chicago champ Ivan Rodriguez for the Illinois State Super Bantamweight title. Also packing punches: Andrzej Fonfara, Eric Estrada in his pro debut and others. 6:30 p.m. $30-$100. Congress Theater, 2135 N. Milwaukee Ave. 312-226-5800.
Mex it up
Little Village does it up big this weekend for Festival de La Villita. The 18th annual fest, which celebrates Mexican independence from Spanish rule, kicks off with carnival rides and live music on Friday. Festivities continue Saturday and Sunday with more rides and music, food and craft vendors, dance performances and more. 6 p.m. Free. 26th Street and Kostner Avenue, 2600 S. Kostner Ave. 773-868-3010.
SAT 9/15
Doggin’ it
There’s nothing a pooch loves more than a walk (well, except maybe a nap after a walk) so grab your four-legged friend and take a stroll for charity at the Fourth Annual Mutt Strut. The 1.5-mile walk and festival includes T-shirts, live music, canine adoptions, pooch contests, refreshments and more. Proceeds benefit the Chicago Canine Rescue Foundation. 8:30 a.m. registration; walk and festival at 9:30 a.m. $25-$35; dogs free. Lincoln Park Savings Bank Parking Lot, 3234 N. Damen Ave. 952-200-4168.
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metromix@tribune.com
