5 Things to Do: November 2 - 4
From that post-Halloween sugar high straight into election angst—this is the weekend where you’ll be looking for anything—ANYTHING—to get you out of the house and away from pundit TV.
From that post-Halloween sugar high straight into election angst—this is the weekend where you’ll be looking for anything—ANYTHING—to get you out of the house and away from pundit TV.

Saturday, Aug. 10 Papeete (Tahiti): Begin your journey in the capital of Tahiti, the largest and most populated of the French Polynesian islands. Embark the Paul Gauguin with its endless choices of things to do, from relaxing poolside with a book to playing the slots in the casino.
Sunday, Aug. 11 Raiatea: Explore the island that was once the cultural, religious, royal and political heart of Polynesia, Be sure to visit Taputapuatea, a national monument before setting sail for Motu Mahana.
Monday, Aug. 12 Taha’a (Motu Mahana): This islet adjacent to Taha’a is a private South Seas paradise featuring white sand beaches with swaying palms, crystal-clear waters and gentle breezes. As an exclusive event, guests will spend a full day exploring this idyllic, isolated island. Relax with a delicious barbecue lunch and Polynesian entertainment featuring strolling musicians and singers.
Tuesday, Aug. 13 Bora Bora: Immediately recognizable by the basalt tombstone of Mount Otemanu rising from the ocean, this half-atoll, half-mountain is surrounded by a spectacular lagoon and a series of smaller islands.
Wednesday, Aug. 14 Bora Bora: Explore more of this magical isle on your own or on a choice of optional shore excursions. Choose from several including a jitney tour on “Le Truck,” a 4-wheel drive safari or a glass-bottom boat ride.
Thursday, Aug. 15 Moorea: Covered in an abundance of fresh fruits and flowers, spectacular mountain peaks, peaceful multi-hued lagoons and palm-fringed beaches, Moorea’s awesome beauty is unsurpassed. Shop for local crafts, embark on a dolphin-watching expedition with a marine biologist or try out some of the local pineapples.
Friday, Aug. 16 Moorea/Papeete (Tahiti): Explore more of this peaceful oasis. Choose to trek on the “Trails of the Ancients” or snorkel one of the world’s most beautiful lagoons. At the end of the afternoon, cruise to the home port in Papeete and docking for the night.
Saturday, Aug. 17 Papeete (Tahiti): Disembark, capping off your epic journey where it all began.
For details or reservations, contact Jeanne Fosco
jqfosco@aaachicago.com
It’s a spooktacular weekend … which is code for “Like Halloween? Then you’ll be busy for the next few days!”
With trick-or-treating still another week away, there’s plenty of time left in October to play. Outdoors, indoors, shopping, theater and more are all on the to-do list this weekend:
Highwood Pumpkin Fest
October 18 - 20
Downtown Highwood
It’s pumpkin fun for everyone! Try your hand at pumpkin carving, run a 5K or 10K, kick back and enjoy live music, and of course, don’t miss the world record-breaking attempt at lighting the most jack-o-lanterns—more than 30,000 of them.
Antiques + Modernism Winnetka
October 19 - 21
Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Ave.
Three days jam-packed with design from the 17th century straight through to the modern era. Furniture, ceramics, jewelry, rugs, fine and folk art … it’s just a slice of what you’ll be able to find this weekend.
Modern Vintage Show
October 20 - 21
Plumbers Hall, 1340 W. Washington, Chicago
It may be you need something crazy cool, or maybe just plain crazy. In either case, you are sure to find it here. Explore row after row of vintage design and eclectic finds this weekend.
LEGO Experience: The Farnsworth
Saturday, October 20
Gorton Community Center, 400 E. Illinois Rd., Lake Forest
LEGO fans—Bring the kids to Gorton Center for an afternoon of model-making with a historical twist. You’ll have a chance to recreate the Farnsworth House and even get judged on your architectural acumen.
“The Verona Project”
Ongoing
Josephine Loius Theater, 20 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston
Ready to give your culture bug a kick in the kiester? Head to Evanston for “an electric hybrid of theatre and live concert infused with original indie-folk-rock music. Great new theater, right here on the North Shore.
A meal delivery service for new mothers, Moment for Mom provides the hardest of workers with fresh, delicious meals and snacks.
If you’ve taken a career break and are considering returning to the workplace, starting your own business, or moving to a new industry, join us for a one day seminar full of tips, tools and practical advice to get you started!
You’re starving, on the road and have only seen fast food restaurants for miles. In other words, you are desperate. We can help!
At 4 p.m. on Sat., Oct. 27, North Shore residents can get a rare glimpse inside the life of a local legend who seldom speaks about his charitable work.
Sconces fill the gap between table lamp and chandelier, and if done right, accent a room’s personality and design. Here are our picks for the best sconces no matter what your decorating style—from classic to kids to modern.