TUE 2/12
Top dog
Looking for the latest celebutante smackdown? Watch doggie divas compete in the Westminster Kennel Club Show on TV during the Third Annual “Best in Show” Benefit. Treats include an open bar, appetizers, games, prizes and a silent auction. The feel-good factor: Proceeds benefit Sit Stay Read’s literacy programs, which aim to make reading fun for low-income kids, with the help of canines. 7 p.m. $50-$60. Fat Cat, 4840 N. Broadway. 773-545-6629.
Leap for cheap
Think time is money? Savor this month’s extra hours and save some bucks during the Leap Year Celebration at Vong’s Thai Kitchen. In honor of Feb. 29, the restaurant offers specially priced four-course lunch and dinner menus throughout the month ($29.08). Dinner is priced per person; lunch serves two. Menu choices include chili shrimp noodles, chicken pad Thai and warm passion fruit souffle. 11:30 a.m. Through Feb. 29. 6 W. Hubbard St. 312-644-8664.
Double bubble
Valentine’s Day is synonymous with champagne, but you don’t have to wait for Cupid’s cue to uncork the bubbly. Chaise Lounge rewards early diners with a complimentary glass of the stuff (and a 15 percent meal discount to boot), every weekday (Monday-Thursday) in February. Make reservations between 4 and 7 p.m. to take advantage of the deal. Cheers! 1840 W. North Ave. 773-342-1840.
WED 2/13
Sin city
Feel good about being bad at Sinfest, a benefit bash for theater group the Sinnerman Ensemble. The valentine-themed party includes food, cocktails and draft beer (7-9 p.m.), a giant game of Twister, a love confessional booth, a raffle for “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” tickets and more. Wear a sinner or saint costume for the chance to win a prize. 7 p.m. $20 Goodbar, 2512 N. Halsted St. 773-728-3361.
THU 2/14
Ghost world
Had it with Hallmark? Hear tales about the dark side of love during Guns and Roses: The Bloody Valentine Ghost Tour and pub crawl led by Ursula Bielski, author of the “Chicago Haunts” series. Allegedly haunted stops include the site of the 1929 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre and the Biograph Theater, where bank robber John Dillinger met his demise. Pub stops include Gold Star Bar (1755 W. Division St.) and Richard’s Bar (725 W. Grand Ave.). 7 p.m. $30. Tickets: chicago hauntings.com. Bus departs from next door to The Original Rock ‘n’ Roll McDonald’s, 610 N. Clark St. 888-446-7891.
Single minded
Are you “flying solo and seeking same”? Play The Dating Game and sing karaoke with live musical accompaniment (duets are encouraged) at Piece’s Valentine’s Day Party for Singles. Includes prizes and $3.50 Piece Bitburger pints. 9 p.m. No cover. 1927 W. North Ave. 773-772-4422.
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metromix@tribune.com
