Greetings from Chicago.com,

While strolling through O'Hare the other day (okay, sweating and running to my terminal to make my flight) I noticed the tagline "Chicago Candidate City. Let Friendship Shine." I don't know if Chicago will host Olympics in 2016, but I am keeping my fingers triple crossed. In the meantime as I wait, I will continue enjoying May, one of my favorite months in the city. The weather is warmer. The Cubbies and Sox are back. The beaches are open. So, grab a bunch of buddies, and as the City of Chicago says, "let friendship shine."

Music With Your Mates

What says friendship better than listening to Thunder Road? Hear the Boss sing at the United Center on the 12th. Later, grab your coolest cronies and listen to Ben Harper's soulful tunes at the Vic on the 16th. You can book a trip to Italy or see Il Divo on May 19-20th. They are totally fantastico.

Chicago.com Tickets

Munching with Mama

Mama has probably fed you (and your buddies) hundreds of meals. Now it's your time to reciprocate. Mother's Day is May 10th, and there are many hotels in the city preparing delicious brunches. If you want to treat her like a queen, check out the Trump International Hotel & Tower or the Ritz-Carlton. You can take her to Paris or stay local and eat crepes at The Sofitel instead. Fly to New Orleans or try Heaven on Seven's gumbo right here in Chicago.

TrumpChicagoHotel.com
FourSeasons.com
Sofitel.com
HeavenOnSeven.com

Cooking with the Crew

Making dinner with friends is the new dining out. This spring, meet a few buddies at the Daley Plaza Farmers Market and buy fresh fruits, veggies, (and some flowers to decorate the table). Every Thursday starting on May 14th, vendors set up from 7-3 in the Loop. Whether you are a foodie, ecotourist, health nut, or aspiring chef, you'll enjoy one of the best markets in the city.

TheDaleyCenter.com

Making Green Friends

What's a recipe for the perfect festival? Imagine workshops, green films, kids' activities, and live music. Toss in 125 renowned authors and educators. Mix with delicious organic cuisine (and organic beer). Add 350 eco-friendly businesses and you have the perfect green festival. Bring a few friends on May 16th-17th to Navy Pier and see how the Midwest is leading the way to make Chicago a healthier place to live. You can also volunteer and support a great cause. Be sure to check out the On-time Promotions booth, number 1517, for eco-friendly and eco-awesome promotional products.

GreenFestivals.com

Strolling in the Park

I love going on walks with my friends, especially since Uggs came out with a flip-flop. In the spring, the Magnificent Mile, a stretch of North Michigan, blooms with color as thousands of tulips decorate the famous avenue. And after walking, stop in Macy's, Bloomingdale's, or Saks to search for spring sales. If you haven't maxed out your plastic, keep walking to Millennium Park. Evening and day garden strolls in the Lurie Garden are a perfect way to see the beautiful garden and walk off an Oreo Blizzard.

TheMagnificentMile.com
MillenniumPark.org

Hanging With Your Posse

Marlene Dietrich once said, "It's the friends you call at 4:00am that matter." She could have said, "It's the friends you can meet at a bar at 4am that matter." Some nights (er, or mornings) you need to know which bars are open, especially after a bad breakup or a great date that you don't want to end. Luckily, we will let you know which bars are open and what specials they are offering.

Chicago.com Bars

Meeting Your Pals in Pilsen

Missed the Cinco de Mayo celebration this year? Want authentic Mexican food? Try visiting Nueva Leon in Pilsen. This neighborhood has transformed itself many times and has been a port of entry for many immigrants: Polish, Irish, Lithuanian, Bohemian, and Mexican. Now, this community is a fascinating mix of working-class, artists and a strong Latino community. The CTA Blue and Pink lines go right through the middle of Pilsen with stops at Western Avenue, Damen Avenue and 18th Street. And when you get there, discover the vivid murals that decorate the neighborhood.

NuevoleonRestaurant.com