Ballet Folklorico de Chicago Tradiciones y Fiesta
2026-05-02 14:00 (America/Chicago)
► DATE: Saturday, May 2nd, 2026: Start: 02:00 p.m.
► Copernicus Center Doors Open: 01:00 p.m.
► All ages welcome

Tickets: $15–$20

Ballet Folklórico de Chicago presents a powerful and moving dance production inspired by the Mexican Revolution, a defining moment in Mexico’s history that reshaped the nation’s identity and spirit. Through vibrant choreography, traditional music, and regional ensembles, this performance brings to life the struggles, hopes, and resilience of a people fighting for justice, land, and freedom.
The Mexican Revolution (1910–1920) was more than a political uprising. It was a cultural awakening. This production traces the emotional journey of the era, from the oppression of rural communities and the call to arms, to the courage of revolutionaries and the enduring strength of everyday people. Each dance captures a chapter of history, blending folkloric traditions with dramatic storytelling to honor the voices of campesinos, soldaderas, and visionaries who shaped the nation.
Audiences will experience the energy of battle, the sorrow of loss, and the joy of unity through dynamic footwork, sweeping skirts, and live or recorded regional music. The performance highlights how dance served, and continues to serve, as a form of resistance, remembrance, and celebration within Mexican culture.
Rooted in tradition yet resonant today, this production also reflects the legacy of the Revolution within Mexican and Mexican American communities, including those in Chicago. It reminds us that the fight for dignity, equality, and cultural pride transcends borders and generations.
This event is both an artistic spectacle and an educational experience, inviting audiences of all ages to connect with history through movement. Ballet Folklórico de Chicago honors the past while inspiring reflection on the enduring power of community, identity, and freedom, told through the universal language of dance.
About Ballet Folklorico de Chicago: Ballet Folklorico de Chicago is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating Mexican culture through dance. We provide affordable, high-quality artistic instruction rooted in the diverse Indigenous, African, and European influences that shape Mexican folkloric dance. Our mission is to promote Mexican culture, support youth education, and invest in our community’s future. Each year, we award college scholarships, create leadership opportunities for our students, and offer accessible performances and tuition so that everyone can participate. Through the arts, we uplift our community and inspire future generations to embrace their heritage with pride.

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Ballet Folklorico de Chicago – Epocas de Mexico
2026-05-02 19:00
► DATE: Saturday, May 2nd, 2026: Start: 07:00 p.m.
► Copernicus Center Doors Open: 06:00 p.m.
► All ages welcome

Tickets: $15–$35

Ballet Folklórico de Chicago presents a powerful and moving dance production inspired by the Mexican Revolution, a defining moment in Mexico’s history that reshaped the nation’s identity and spirit. Through vibrant choreography, traditional music, and regional ensembles, this performance brings to life the struggles, hopes, and resilience of a people fighting for justice, land, and freedom.
The Mexican Revolution (1910–1920) was more than a political uprising. It was a cultural awakening. This production traces the emotional journey of the era, from the oppression of rural communities and the call to arms, to the courage of revolutionaries and the enduring strength of everyday people. Each dance captures a chapter of history, blending folkloric traditions with dramatic storytelling to honor the voices of campesinos, soldaderas, and visionaries who shaped the nation.
Audiences will experience the energy of battle, the sorrow of loss, and the joy of unity through dynamic footwork, sweeping skirts, and live or recorded regional music. The performance highlights how dance served, and continues to serve, as a form of resistance, remembrance, and celebration within Mexican culture.
Rooted in tradition yet resonant today, this production also reflects the legacy of the Revolution within Mexican and Mexican American communities, including those in Chicago. It reminds us that the fight for dignity, equality, and cultural pride transcends borders and generations.
This event is both an artistic spectacle and an educational experience, inviting audiences of all ages to connect with history through movement. Ballet Folklórico de Chicago honors the past while inspiring reflection on the enduring power of community, identity, and freedom, told through the universal language of dance.
About Ballet Folklorico de Chicago: Ballet Folklorico de Chicago is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating Mexican culture through dance. We provide affordable, high-quality artistic instruction rooted in the diverse Indigenous, African, and European influences that shape Mexican folkloric dance. Our mission is to promote Mexican culture, support youth education, and invest in our community’s future. Each year, we award college scholarships, create leadership opportunities for our students, and offer accessible performances and tuition so that everyone can participate. Through the arts, we uplift our community and inspire future generations to embrace their heritage with pride.

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Jefferson Park Winter Market
2026-05-03 10:00 - 14:00
Sunday, May 3, 2026
► Hours: 10am to 2pm • Free entry & Free Parking

The WINTER market features Produce, Crafts, Ready to eat food, & so much more. The Copernicus Center bar will be open for coffee, tea, Bloody Marries and more.
For more information & a regular vendor lists. Click Here
Visit Sunday Market on FACEBOOK. Click Here
RSVP to the Facebook Event (button above) and see updated vendor information in the “Discussion” tab.
The Jefferson Park Sunday Market – winter version, is held at the Copernicus Center Annex (5214 W Lawrence Ave); only 0.2 miles from the Summer Sunday Market location. Use the separate Annex entrance toward Avondale Ave.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: The Copernicus Center is located two blocks from the Jefferson Park CTA Bus terminal, Blue Line and Metra. The Lawrence Avenue Bus # 81 stops in front of the building.

Is your Business interested in Becoming a Sunday Market Vendor?
Vendors Wanted. This is a great opportunity for you to sell your products and to gain additional exposure for your business, hand made crafts, or products. Please review the vendor information on the Jefferson Park Sunday Market website. Click on the TAB → Becoming a Vendor.
About the JP Sunday Market
We started out as the merger of a crew of people wanting to have a Jeff Park market that started a discussion on Everyblock, plus a couple of us from JPNA with some connections to help get year one off to the quick start it needed, considering that original discussion was in March—after when many submissions, etc. are usually already in.
With the help of our friends at the Copernicus Foundation who gave us space that first couple of years, we started a tradition. But that black asphalt in the parking lot made it rough to be out there. So with that experience under our belt, and some new friends over at the park in the form of the Jefferson Memorial Park Advisory Council, we renewed our start by moving into the park, where we got welcome shade and added foot traffic. We been noted by some of our vendors the friendliest market they’ve participated in. That’s something that we love to hear as organizers.
We are a 501c3, and are staffed exclusively by volunteers.
[ Source: JPSM Website ]

Copernicus Center Event Patrons:
“An inherent risk of exposure to COVID exists in any place where people gather. COVID is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. You assume all risks, hazards, and dangers arising from or relating in any way to the risk of contracting COVID or any other communicable disease or illness, or a virus, bacteria, or other pathogen capable of causing a communicable disease or illness, while attending the event or otherwise utilizing Copernicus Foundation’s services and/or entering onto its premises, whether occurring before, during, or after the event. You further voluntarily release and waive all claims and potential claims against etix, Copernicus Foundation and their respective affiliates, subsidiaries, sponsors, successors and assigns and their respective officers, employees, contractors, consultants and agents, Event Organizers, the Venue, the Presenter, the Event, the Event Producers, and their respective affiliates, subsidiaries, sponsors, successors and assigns and their respective officers, employees, contractors, consultants and agents, in connection with exposure, infection, and/or spread of COVID or another communicable disease or illness, bacteria, virus, or pathogen related to your attendance at the event and/or utilization of Copernicus Foundation’s services and premises. We reserve the right to unilaterally make changes to health protocols according to updated public health guidance and law. By continuing, you agree to these terms.”

Jefferson Park Sunday Market – Mother’s Day and Spring Prep
2026-05-03 10:00 - 14:00
► DATE: Sunday, May 3rd, TIME: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
► Free Entry & Free Parking • All ages welcome
Join us May 3, 2026 in the lobby of the historic Gateway Theater at Copernicus Center, 5216 W Lawrence Ave, Chicago, IL 60630, where we’ll help you get ready for your Mother’s Day and Spring. 25+ vendors including fun foods, gifts, bar service and ready to eat food too, plus live music. And summer schedule cards! Hours:10-2 & there’s free parking!
For more info and merchant list: www.JeffersonParkSundayMarket.com.

GATEWAY LOUNGE | Strings and Keys
2026-05-03 15:00
Doors Open: 2:30 pm
Start: 3:00 pm

The Lincolnwood Chamber Orchestra returns to the Copernicus Center Annex for “Strings and Keys” a program featuring acclaimed keyboard soloist David Schrader, music of Jaroslaw Golembiowski, and students from the Chicago Area Music Teachers Association. Philip Simmons will conduct this spring concert for all ages.
“Strings and Keys” is the latest collaboration between the Lincolnwood Chamber Orchestra and Chicago Chopin Society. Previous concerts at Copernicus have included programs at Taste of Polonia, Christmas Spectaculars, and events honoring Polish culture and heritage. The May 3 concert, celebrating Polish Constitution Day, is presented by the Chicago Chopin Society and American Music Festivals.
Special thanks to Principal Sponsor the Polish National Alliance.

GATEWAY LOUNGE | GATEWAY SOCIAL DANCERS
2026-05-05 18:30 - 22:00, 2026-05-13 18:30 - 22:00, 2026-05-20 18:30, 2026-05-27 18:30, 2026-06-03 18:30, 2026-06-10 18:30, 2026-06-17 18:30, 2026-06-24 18:30 and 4 more dates
Gateway Social Dancers | $10 at the Door
Join us every weekly (days subject to change) at the Gateway Lounge for an open, welcoming night of social dancing for everyone. The Gateway Social Dancers (Formerly the White Eagle Dancers) bring together a fun mix of oldies, line dancing, country, swing, and more, all spun by a DJ to keep the floor moving all night.
Whether you’re an experienced dancer or just looking to have fun, this is a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where all are welcome—come solo or bring friends.
No pressure. No lessons required. Just great music, good people, and a full dance floor.

GATEWAY LOUNGE | Songwriters Night in Chicago
2026-05-06 19:00
► DATE: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 TIME: 7:00 p.m.
► Copernicus Center Doors Open 6:00 p.m.
► 15 and under with an adult
In collaboration with Recording Academy – Chicago Chapter, we’re thrilled to present Songwriters Night in Chicago!
This is a free event. Click here to RSVP and for more information.
Eventbrite link for registration: SCL SongArts & The Recording Academy Present: SONGWRITERS NIGHT IN CHICAGO Tickets, Wednesday, May 6 • 7 PM – 10 PM | Eventbrite

NPC Illinois State Championships (BODY BUILDING)
2026-05-09 09:00 - 22:00
Register to compete in the NPC Illinois State Championships by visiting the NPC Illinois website.
https://www.npcillinoisbodybuilding.com/npc-illinois-state-championships
Eligibility:
Register to compete in the NPC Illinois State Championships by visiting the NPC Illinois website. VISIT SITE
Eligibility:
– Each competitor must be registered with the NPC and must present a current NPC membership card, current NPC membership payment receipt or purchase an NPC card at this competition.
– Competitor’s competing in the Master’s Divisions must have reached their 35th/40th/50th/60th or 70th birthday by date of show and must provide proof of age with a birth certificate, driver’s license or state ID. Those competing in the Teen Men category must have reached their 18th birthday, but not their 20th birthday by date of show. Those competing in the Junior Men category must be 18 years old and no older than 23 on the day of the contest.
– To compete in the Novice Men & Women categories, athletes cannot have won their class at a previous NPC contest. NPC athletes competing the Men’s Classic Physique category must meet the NPC specific height and weight requirements. Visit the NPC National site, for Official NPC Division rules.
Please note that if you do not make weight for this class, then you will either be placed into physique or bodybuilding. No refunds will be given.
Entry Fees:
Register online CLICK HERE Each entry is $135.00. Entry fees are NON-REFUNDABLE. All entries must be submitted online by Wednesday, May 6, 9 PM CST, or a late fee of $75.00 will be charged when registering at check-in.
Rules and Regulations:
Athletes who compete in pre-judging must participate in evening show. Solid color posing suits for Men’s Bodybuilding and Men’s Classic Physique only. No T-back suits permitted. No jewelry is permitted at prejudging for Men’s Bodybuilding and Men’s Classic Physique (except wedding rings). Athletes must always exhibit good sportsmanship. Only competitors and officials are allowed backstage or in the pump-up room. Current NPC rules apply. No Hot Stuff or Analgesic sprays are allowed (no exceptions). No bottled tanning lotion allowed in building. Please have your tanning preparation done before you arrive. You will be disqualified for putting tanning color on in the building.
No entries are allowed or accepted the day of the show. Last chance to register is the day before the show and in person during Check-in at USA Gym, 7620 West 100th Place, Bridgeview, Illinois, 60455. Check-in on Friday, May 8, 2025, begins at 11 AM and ends at 5 PM CST.
This is the place in the Midwest for aspiring athletes to compete and qualify to turn pro!

GATEWAY LOUNGE | Cry Me a River: The Music of Julie London
2026-05-14 19:00 - 22:30
May 14, 2026 7:00 PM
Doors Open: 6:00 PM

Julie London was an American singer, a film and TV actress, and a pinup model, whose career spanned five decades. She released over 30 albums of pop and jazz standards, including her signature song, Cry Me a River. She married songwriter and pianist Bobby Troup (“Route 66”) and later starred with him in the television series Emergency! Billboard named her the most popular female vocalist for 1955, 1956, and 1957.Featuring Anne Burnell, Marck Burnell, and Henry Johnson.
This show is part of Chicago Cabaret Week 2026
The Gateway Lounge at Copernicus Center
All proceeds from our events directly support the nonprofit Copernicus Foundation and its mission to fund performing arts and cultural education across Chicagoland.NOTE: FEES & TAXES INCLUDED AT CHECKOUT:
10% – CITY OF CHICAGO & COOK COUNTY AMUSEMENT TAX | BMI, ASCP MUSIC LICENSING | SECURE CHECKOUT | 3% CREDIT CARD PROCESSING
$30 G/A tickets only include the 3% processing fee.
“$30 GA, $40 Premium, $45 VIP

DZIDZIO Charity Concert by Revived Soldiers Ukraine
2026-05-15 19:00
Doors: 5:30 pm
Show: 7 pm

IMPORTANT:
Tickets are exclusively available online.
Description in English and Ukrainian (in Ukrainian only on the ticketing website…thanks Google Translate!):
Revived Soldiers Ukraine invites everyone to a charity concert by the band DZIDZIO – Mykhailo Khoma
Charity tour of the band DZIDZIO in the USA with Revived Soldiers Ukraine – already in May! Cleveland, Detroit, New York, Chicago and Connecticut
Revived Soldiers Ukraine invites everyone to a charity concert by the band DZIDZIO – Mykhailo Khoma
The funds raised will be used to purchase a da Vinci, Intuitive Surgical medical device and components for the Kyiv Military Hospital.
DZIDZIO Mykhailo Khoma is our friend and one of the most famous Ukrainian artists, a singer, composer, actor and producer, whose work unites millions of Ukrainians around the world. His concerts are always powerful energy, sincerity, humor and real emotions. And it is especially valuable for us that he is not the first time supporting the Revived Soldiers Ukraine mission!
This time, all funds raised from the concerts will be used to purchase medical equipment for the Kyiv Military Hospital – to save lives and strengthen the capabilities of Ukrainian doctors who fight for our soldiers every day.
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Revived Soldiers Ukraine запрошує вісх бажаючих на благодійний концерт гурту DZIDZIO – Михайло Хома
Благодійний тур гурту DZIDZIO у США з Revived Soldiers Ukraine — вже у травні! Clevelend, Detroit, New York, Chicago та Connecticut
Revived Soldiers Ukraine запрошує вісх бажаючих на благодійний концерт гурту DZIDZIO – Михайло Хома
Зібрані кошти будуть спрямовані на закупівлю медичного девайсу і комплектуючих da Vinchi, Intuitive Surgical для Киівського Військового Шпиталю.
DZIDZIO Михайло Хома — наш друг та один із найвідоміших українських артистів, співак, композитор, актор і продюсер, чия творчість об’єднує мільйони українців по всьому світу. Його концерти — це завжди потужна енергія, щирість, гумор і справжні емоції. І для нас особливо цінно, що він уже не вперше підтримує місію Revived Soldiers Ukraine!
Цього разу всі зібрані кошти з концертів будуть спрямовані на придбання медичного обладнання для Київського військового шпиталю — аби рятувати життя та підсилювати можливості українських лікарів, які щодня борються за наших воїнів.

GATEWAY LOUNGE | James Sanders & Conjunto Latin Jazz Performance
2026-05-15 19:30
Date: May 15, 2026, at 7:30 PM
Doors: 6:30 PM

Conjunto is James Sanders’ long running project to unite his classical training and theory with the freedom of jazz improvisation, all grounded in the lively rhythms of the Caribbean: rumba, son, danzón, bolero and more. The result are performances that move audiences figuratively and literally, where moments of hushed intimacy are followed by joyous dancing. From Afro-roots to salsa to jazz, Conjunto is equally at home at a dance party, jazz club or festival stage.

Richard Clayderman en vivo en Chicago
2026-05-16 20:30
Richard Clayderman in the Gateway Theater
► DATE: Saturday , May 16, 2026 TIME: | 8:30 p.m.
► Gateway Theater Doors Open: 7:00 p.m.
• All ages welcome

IMPORTANT:
Tickets are exclusively available online.
🎹✨ NOCHE ROMÁNTICA CON Richard Clayderman ✨🎶
Disfruta una velada inolvidable llena de elegancia y emoción con uno de los pianistas más reconocidos del mundo. 🌟
📅 Fecha: May 16, 2026
📍 Venue: Gateway Theater
🎼 Género: Instrumental / Clásico contemporáneo / Piano romántico
💎 Éxitos más conocidos:

Ballade pour Adeline
Mariage d’Amour
A Comme Amour

🎟️ Boletos disponibles en: TICKERI
👉 https://www.tickeri.com
Sumérgete en una experiencia única con melodías que han conquistado generaciones. Ideal para amantes del piano, música instrumental y conciertos románticos en vivo. 💫

GRADUATION
2026-05-21, 2026-05-27, 2026-05-28
Graduation Ceremony – Class of 2026
The Gateway Theater at Copernicus Center is proud to partner with schools throughout the Chicagoland area to host graduation ceremonies celebrating the Class of 2026. These special events bring together graduates, families, and faculty to recognize years of dedication, achievement, and hard work.
Set in the historic Gateway Theater, the ceremony provides a memorable setting to honor this important milestone and celebrate the next chapter for the graduating class.

YVES TOUR 2026: THE AMERICAS
2026-05-23 19:30
Sat • May 23, 2026 • 7:30 PM
Doors open at 6:00 PM
Yves is a South Korean singer and songwriter. She first gained international recognition as a member of the K-pop group LOONA, building a global fanbase through the group’s releases and tours. Following the launch of her solo career, Yves has released music that blends pop production with personal songwriting. Her solo work has expanded her international audience and established the next chapter of her career as an independent artist.
IMPORTANT:
Tickets are exclusively available online
.

GATEWAY LOUNGE | Life Line Screening
2026-06-10 09:00 - 17:00
Life Line Screening
► DATE: Wednesday, June 10, 2026 | TIME: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
► Gateway Lounge
We have great news! Copernicus Center will be hosting a Life Line Screening event on 3/11/2026. Life Line Screening is the premier provider of stroke and cardiovascular disease risk screenings since 1993. Life Line Screening is extending a discounted offer to members which will identify your risk level for the following diseases:
1. Carotid Artery Disease
2. Peripheral Arterial Disease
3. Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
4. Atrial Fibrillation
Go to Life Line Screening or call 800-324-9458 to schedule your appointment! A simple screening can be worth a lifetime.

Los Acosta
2026-06-13 21:00
Los Acosta in the Gateway Theater
► DATE: Saturday, June 13th, 2026
► Doors Open: 7:00 p.m. | Show: 9:00 p.m.
► Age 21+

IMPORTANT:
Tickets are exclusively available online.

GATEWAY LOUNGE | Teresa Trull and Barbara Higbie: Reunion, Pride & CD Release. Opening act Jeannie Tanner.
2026-06-24 18:00
DATE: Wednesday, June 24th, 2026
TIME: 6:00 p.m.
Doors Open 5:00 p.m.
All ages welcome

IMPORTANT:
Tickets are exclusively available online.

Tickets $35 for early bird, $40 after May 1

Two national legends of women’s music return to Chicago for a rare concert. Teresa Trull & Barbara Higbie have been entertaining with their passionate and spirited music for many decades. They will celebrate Reunion, Pride & their new CD release in time for Pride Week in Chicago. They will be joined by opening act, Chicago’s own musical legend, Jeannie Tanner. All at the beautiful and intimate Gateway Lounge at Copernicus Center on Chicago’s Northwest Side. The venue is wheelchair accessible. There will be sign language interpreters. Tickets $35 for early bird, $40 after May 1. A limited number of higher-priced tickets available to include a post-show dinner with the artists. Tickets at Goldenrod Records https: tinyurl.com/HigbieTrull. All proceeds benefit Trull’s family medical expenses.
