March 4: Steppenwolf Salutes Women in the Arts Luncheon Award-winning actress Mary-Louise Parker (“Weeds,” “The West Wing”) is the guest of honor at this annual fundraiser, where she’ll participate in a question-and-answer session with Steppenwolf Artistic Director Martha Lavey. Time: Noon Place: JW Marriott Chicago, 151 W. Adams Cost: $200. Call (312) 654-5632 or visit Steppenwolf.org. 

What’s going on this week: The Art Institute’s “They Seek a City”, a toast to Harry Caray, Jim Belushi’s latest endeavor and plenty of dancing.

It’s almost spring-break season, and there’s nothing more appealing than the idea of skipping town and recharging with a stylish sabbatical. From road trips to cross-country flights, Amy Tara Koch — style expert, “Windy Cindy Live” and “Today” contributor and acclaimed author — shares her favorite weekend escapes, chock full of the hottest shopping, dining, cultural activities and even some time at the spa. 

This week: The Women’s Innovation Network (WIN) Black History Month Innovation Panel, G-EAZY, Field of Dreams Anniversary Gala and more.

This week: ‘American Legends’ at the Joffrey Ballet, ‘Wine Lovers’ Soiree’, ‘Crazy in Love’ and more.

More than a million people will devour the cornucopia of mechanical delights at this year’s Chicago Auto Show. The exposition, which runs from Feb. 9 to 18, is the largest of its kind in North America and, at 105 editions and counting, it’s also the longest running. The bazaar boasts extreme indoor test tracks, charity drives, vehicle giveaways, celebrity appearances and even its own smartphone app. But for all the hoopla, at the core it’s still all about the cars. And for attendees, it’s the first opportunity to see exotic new features that will soon be standard elements of the driving experience.With the help of Dave Sloan, the show’s general manager and the president of the Chicago Auto Trade Association, we’ve zeroed in on the trends that will define the cars of the next few years. Buckle up — driving has changed for good.

Where to be and what to see this week: a Driehaus Museum concert, a “Sugar Rush,” Bright Pink’s pink carpet and the Chicago Auto Show’s first look.

Our city has always been lauded for its diverse array of cultural events — and this spring is no exception. Here you’ll find our picks for the season’s can’t-miss events, ranging from classic plays to dance troupes to live music. Make sure to snap up your tickets before they’re sold out.

Where to be and what to see this week: New openings at Lookingglass Theatre and American Theatre Company, ‘Cocktails & Cacti’ at the Goodman and the Hamburg Ballet at Harris Theater, a fundraiser at the MCA, an appearance by architect Jeanne Gang and a fun family event at the Cultural Center.

Any bride can tell you that planning even the simplest wedding can be overwhelming. Planning a big day that stands out from the crowd? Now that’s a Herculean challenge. But in a city as eclectic as Chicago, brides-to-be have a wealth of resources with which to create a unique union. Thanks to some innovative local vendors, we have six tips that will ensure your big day is one of a kind.