Friday, January 23, 2026   |   View in browser  

News and Updates 

It's hard to believe that January is almost over. Time to pick up the pace on the adventures we said we'd do this year.

Has the recent holiday season put a dent in your wallet?  We got you covered and have dedicated this newsletter on Evanston on a Budget.

There is much to enjoy in Evanston at varying price-points even if you find it necessary to tightened your proverbial belt and pursue frugal options. 

Fashion: Lightly Used

Many talk about the calamitous effect of the fast fashion industry and the increased inventory of clothing in circulation. However, you can still indulge in good conscience and pick out some fresh new looks for 2026 by choosing from the many thrift stores that dot Evanston. These are our favorites, for now.

Pace yourself and bring recyclable bags for your fashion haul. 

• Stepping out on Faith
• Crossroads Trading Co.
• YWCA Shop for Good Evanston: Women's Resale Boutique 
• Goodwill Store And Donation Center
• The Vintage Cat
• Skylight Vintage
• Classy Closet Consignment

The Secret is Out: Garden Grill Evanston Happy Hour Specials

owned by The Garden Grille & Bar

Evanston American Restaurant and Bar - The Garden Grille & Bar, just steps from Northwestern University campus, has enticing happy hour specials that will keep you there for a while.

Drinks and cocktails go for $4 - $5 and nibbles for $ 6. Unheard of right?

Take a peek at the happy hour menu here.

Experience exceptional American cuisine in downtown Evanston, from their famous Wings Your Way and Street Tacos to their signature NY Strip Steak and Wild Mushroom Ravioli, plus craft cocktails like our stunning Empress Gin Sour, Prickly Pear Paloma.

They serve the Evanston community and Northwestern students, faculty, and visitors.

Where: 1818 Maple Ave

Arts & Culture on the Cheap

The Northwestern University Jazz Orchestra pays tribute to Miles Davis during the centennial anniversary of his birth with the music from his 1957 Columbia Records release Miles Ahead. The album featured Davis on flugelhorn as the only soloist, and it was his first collaboration with arranger Gil Evans following the Birth of the Cool sessions.

Conductor, Derrick Gardner

When: February 5, 2026 | 7:30pm

Where:  Galvin Recital Hall | 70 Arts Circle Dr.

Tickets are $8

 FOOTLOOSE the Musical 

When Ren, the young protagonist, moves to a small town called Bomont, he is faced with an oppressive reality: the town has outlawed dancing. The story follows Ren as he dares to be different, inspiring his new friends and challenging the authority of minister Shaw Moore. Centering the themes of self-expression and change, The Dolphin Show’s production of Footloose explores what can happen when one person decides to take a stand.

When: Multiple dates | 7:30pm | 5 Performances only

Where:  Cahn Auditorium | 600 Emerson St.

Tickets as low as $25

JONDO: A Night of Flamenco and Dance featuring Michiyoshi Sato (Japan)

What do you have going on this Sunday at 4:00 pm? We suggest this afternoon adventure.

Experience the passionate and captivating art of flamenco and dance as JONDO: A Night of Flamenco and Dance featuring renowned Japanese dancer Michiyoshi Sato. Witness the fusion of traditional Spanish flamenco with contemporary dance styles in this mesmerizing performance.

Tickets as low as $20.63

Being Outside Now: Wintery Fun

Evanston Park & Recreation

The weather right now may be similar Siberia's over this weekend, but we want to put this on your radar for future moments and also to help you refrain from hibernating until April.

We suggest you embark on a few outdoor adventures while fully bundled up. It keeps us moving and active throughout winter with the added perk of placing you in a good mood. Did you know you could? :

• Ice Skate by Arrington Lake, Sip & Skate
• Try some indoor skating at the Robert Crown Center
• Go sledding in James Park

For more details on these winter activities 

Winter Comfort Food Spots

owed by Table to Stix Ramen

Colder weather brings on cravings for comfort food and Evanston is chock full of places to load up on delicious carb-laden yummy food that you can indulge on without breaking the bank. Pick any of these places and the suggested dishes:

• Table to Stix: try the spicy tonkotsu
• Celtic Knot: try the lamb stew
• Taste of Jamaica: try the oxtails
• Mensch's Deli: try the Matzo Ball soup with noodles
• Sher-Main Grill : Grilled Beef Liver with onions

McGaw YMCA is turning 140 and they’re throwing a party !

Join us for the Y140 Party presented by Northwestern University — a night of community, fun, and purpose. This 21+ fundraising event is the ultimate “night in the Town” experience, blending the sophistication and style of our Galas with the energy, nostalgia, and togetherness of the iconic Y Parties from years past. Enjoy music from across the decades, reconnect with familiar faces, and expect a packed dance floor, all while supporting an organization dedicated to creating brighter futures in Evanston.

Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026

Time: 7:00-10:00 PM  

Location: McGaw YMCA Sebring-Lewis Center

Parking: Complimentary valet available, plus free parking in YMCA lot

Attire: From red carpet glam to retro-casual, show off your favorite Y Party era-inspired looks — sneakers encouraged!

Age: 21+

More info

Have a upcoming event?

Help us add to our calendar! We encourage you to submit all your upcoming events through our website.

Please review the following submission guidelines:

• Only public events may be listed
• Cannot be solely retail in nature
• Cannot be solely religious or political in nature
• Cannot be solely fundraisers or networking events
• Should be leisure time or recreational activities

Event eligibility is also evaluated on a case-by-case basis. At this time, we are only able to accept event listings in English.

What do YOU enjoy about Evanston?

See below for local upcoming events!  In addition, you can find the full calendar of summer events on the Enjoy Evanston website.

Enjoy other Events around town