WED 7/2
Get grilled
Is it really a barbecue without a few cases of beer? Make up your own mind at Just Grapes’ fourth annual Grill Out. The bash pairs burgers and brats with wines such as a Robert Foley Charbono and a Klinker Brick Zinfandel. Watch the grilling action outside; head inside for wine tastings. Reservations recommended. 5:30 p.m. $35-$45. 560 W. Washington Blvd. 312-627-9463.
Pride, the sequel
Didn’t squeeze in enough Prideful partying last weekend? You’ve got another chance to celebrate at the Windy City Black Pride Festival, which starts Wednesday at Shadow Bar (811 W. Lake St.) with a champagne reception (8-9 p.m.) and tunes from DJs Snooze and Macvaughn. Other events include a welcome reception, a poetry slam and more. 8 p.m. Through Monday. Free-$10 per event. More info: windycitychicagoblackpride.org. 773-268-5678.
THU 7/3
Spin-tastic
Rodrigo Vega (or DJ Schnell, as he’s known to club crowds) has spun his fair share in Costa Rica, England, Switzerland and Venezuela. Hear the Colombia-born DJ incorporate international flavors into his house beats at Spin*Dependence, a preview of his new monthly residency set to kick off in late August. Drink specials include $5 select mixed drinks. 9 p.m. $8. Sonotheque,
1444 W. Chicago Ave. 312-226-7600.
Go overboard
If the thought of jockeying for a fireworks-viewing position with fanny pack-clad tourists already has your blood pressure rising, escape to the Fireworks Paddle. Hop in a kayak for a six-mile jaunt along the Chicago River, starting at North Avenue and heading downtown for a prime (and peaceful) view of the city’s fireworks display (Thursday) or Navy Pier’s show (Friday). No experience (but some athleticism) is required. 7:15 p.m. Thursday and Friday. $50. Reservations required: kayakchicago.com. Kayak Chicago, 1501 N. Magnolia Ave. 630-336-7245.
Bottoms up
The juicy storytelling at the latest installment of 2nd Story would make Mother Goose blush. Tune in for tales of sex, drugs and rock ‘n’ roll from writer-performers Bobby Biedrzycki, Deb R. Lewis, C.P. Chang and Metromix contributor Julia Borcherts. Savor a flight of bourbon, scotch or tequila for an extra $15. 7 p.m. $10. The Spot, 4437 N. Broadway. 773-728-8934.
FRI 7/4
House special
Not one to wave the American flag? Then show your patriotism by celebrating homegrown house music at the third installment of Juke of July. Sip $5 Effen and Jack Daniel’s cocktails while DJ Scottie B of Baltimore and Chicago DJs Mike Dunn, Nehpets and Zebo spin everything from ghetto house to juke. 10 p.m. $10 after 11 p.m. Smart Bar, 3730 N. Clark St. 773-549-0203.
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metromix@tribune.com
