Where to go, what to do in March: Chicago Star's top picks

The month of March is jam-packed with exciting events and Chicago Star has got you covered. Here are some of our top picks to fill your days with experiences that will make you smile and also lift you up during the "dog days" of winter. (Send your event info to [email protected])

March 1

Human/Nature Exhibit at Weinberg/Newton Gallery

Weinberg/Newton Gallery, in partner­ship with the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, presents Human/Nature, a stunning exhibition that explores the phenomenon of climate change and its impact on our world. The exhibition combines visual imagery and scientific interviews to present the progression of climate change in a world in which human activity maintains the status quo compared to one in which people take more aggressive action. Free admission, through April 16, Weinberg/Newton Gallery, 688 N. Milwaukee Ave., #101, (312) 529-5090, weinbergnewton­gallery.com

Together at Last at Second City

Second City is open again after two years, and the legendary improvisation­al comedy troupe, theater and school returns in classic fashion with “Together at Last,” a raucous, non-stop celebra­tion of our tenacity in the midst of the unprecedented adversity of the last two years. Second City invites you to come and laugh at the absurdity that’s been a part of our daily lives and cheer the little wins. The show is on now through April 1. Tickets start at $35, 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays, 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, The Second City Mainstage Theater, 1616 N. Wells St., (312) 337-3992, sec­ondcity.com

Knock-Knock Spring Flower Show at Garfield Park Conservatory

Support the Garfield Park Conservatory by attending its refreshing spring flower show. You’ll enjoy “Knock Knock,” a fun, playful reprieve from the long Chi­cago winter. This year features a pallet of beautiful blooming flowers, includ­ing tulips, hydrangeas, daffodils and hyacinth. The amazing display of color is punctuated by a series of knock knock jokes sprinkled throughout the Show House. Reservations are recommended. Free to see, now through May 8, Gar­field Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave. (773) 638-1766, garfieldcon­servatory.org

Evita at Drury Lane Theatre

Based on true events, Evita tells the story of Eva Perón’s rags-to-riches life as she goes from poor provincial child to First Lady of Argentina. A champion of the working-class, she uses popularity and politics to serve her people—and herself. Featuring some of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s most iconic songs, includ­ing “Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina,” this musical masterpiece won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musi­cal and Best Original Score. Tickets start at $64, now through March 20, Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, (630) 530-0111, drurylanetheatre.com

Learn CPR and Save a Life

Ever thought about taking CPR les­sons? One of the most valuable skills you can learn, it can literally be the difference between life and death. Take Action CPR offers emergency training programs throughout the Chicago area. Staffed by firefighters, paramedics and nurses, the organiza­tion provides lifesaving skills through onsite group training, online and same day certifications. Classes are ongo­ing. Prices vary depending on pro­gram selected, 444 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1200, (312) 761-4859, takeac­tioncpr.com

March 4

CSO’s Symphonie Fantastique

Estonian conductor Paavo Järvi leads a program of passionate and colorful works featuring Berlioz’s Symphonie fantastique, a five-movement portrait of romantic obsession. Chopin’s dazzling First Piano Concerto features Benja­min Grosvenor, hailed by Gramophone magazine as possibly “the most remark­able young pianist of our time.” Ticket holders are invited to a free 30-minute conversation featuring Max Raimi in Orchestra Hall 75 minutes before the performance. Tickets start at $38, 8 p.m. March 4 and 5, 7:30 p.m. March 8, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, 220 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 294-3000, cso.org

March 5

International Carnivale at Navy Pier

Celebrate the international tradition of Carnivale, Chicago style, at Navy Pier. Pre­sented by ComEd, the festival atmosphere will feature an afternoon of music, food, dance and art from across the globe. Lose yourself in a melting pot of spicy music and dance traditions representing Brazil, Italy, Puerto Rico and North America. Bands will include Chicago Samba, Plena Project presented by Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center and Four Star Brass Band. Free admission, M-Th 10 am to 8 pm; Sat 10 am to 10 pm; Sun 10 am to 7 pm; Navy Pier Aon Grand Ballroom, 600 E. Grand Ave., (800) 595-7437, navypier.org

Newport Peek-Easy: Burlesque & Variety Show

Newport Theater is showcasing an unfor­gettable run of its Peek-Easy Burlesque & Variety Show. You’ll see some of Chicago’s finest burlesque, belly dance, drag, and va­riety entertainers. The specialty cocktails, intimate tables and authentic speakeasy atmosphere will make it a night you can’t forget—perfect for a date night, bachelor­ette party or the first stop of many. Bring your tipping dollars. Tickets are $20-30, 7 p.m., now through March 26, The Newport Theater, 956 West Newport Ave., (773) 270-3440, newporttheater.com

Jin Lee: Views & Scenes at Chicago Cultural Center

This one-person exhibition by highly respected Chicago photographer, Jin Lee, examines landscapes and built environments around Chicago. The exhibition brings together four bodies of work: Train Views, Great Water, Salt Mountains and Weeds, that deliver stark fragments of a city —sometimes intimate, sometimes bold—that will make even long-time residents feel like they’re seeing it for the first time. Free to see, through Aug. 7, Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St., (312) 744-6630, chicago.gov

March 6

Feed Your Soul Jazz Brunch

Time Out Market Chicago is offering Chicagoans the perfect trifecta every Sunday. Feed your appetite from an amazing menu of scrumptious selec­tions while you feed your soul with the soothing live sounds of Chicago Soul Jazz Collective from 1-3 p.m. Throw in a dash of lively conversation with some good friends and you’ll have all the bases covered. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Sundays through July 31, Time Out Market, 916 W. Fulton Market, (312) 637-3888, time­outmarket.com

March 11

PAWS Chicago's Animal Magnetism

Animal Magnetism, presented by Tito’s Handmade Vodka and hosted by the PAWS Chicago, is the celebration that helps save lives. You’ll enjoy a night of food and drinks, dancing, entertainment, a silent auction and more. The dog-friend­ly celebration is vital to ensuring PAWS Chicago continues to care for thousands of homeless pets each year. If you’re unable to attend, but still interested in contrib­uting, you can donate or register for the auction online. Prices increase as the event approaches. Ticket prices start at $125, 7 p.m., Morgan Manufacturing, 401 N. Mor­gan St., (773) 475-3307, pawschicago.org

March 12

St. Patrick’s Day Dyeing of the Chicago River

It wouldn’t be St. Patrick’s Day without the Chicago River rippling with green. One of the most unique celebrations in the world, legend has it that leprechauns toil mischievously under the dark of night to amaze the people of Chicago in the morning with the river’s magical green hue. Find a spot along the Chica­go Riverwalk and the bridges between State and Columbus. The earlier the better. The event begins at 9 a.m. and the color only lasts about five hours. Children and visitors will be amazed. Free to see, Chicago River between State and Columbus, (877) 300-6746, choosechicago.com

One Tail at a Time hosts Houndstooth Ball

One Tail at a Time presents its 13th annual Houndstooth Ball, a dog-friend­ly gala. The fundraiser features an open bar, full vegan dinner (plus late-night snacks) and both silent and live auc­tions. VIP tickets are limited and pro­vide access to exclusive perks. If you’re unable to attend, but still interested in contributing to this important event, you can donate to the cause or register for the auction online. Proceeds go to saving homeless pets. Tickets start at $75, 7-11 p.m., 401 N. Morgan St., (312) 763-3317, onetail.org

March 20

Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle

Runners of all levels anxiously antic­ipate the Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle—now in its fourth decade—as a healthy way to kick-off the spring sea­son. The event offers a variety of options for runners and walkers including an 8K Run, 2-Mile Walk, The Mile, Virtual 8K and team competition. Registration fees vary depending on the event and prices will increase as the event approaches. Chicago’s Loop, starting and finishing in Grant Park, (312) 904-9814, shamrock­shuffle.com

March 30

Prospective Member Reception at The Mid-America Club

The Mid-America Club invites Chi­cago Star readers to come learn about membership and the Community in the Sky. Expand your local network, make valuable connections and enjoy the amazing views from the 80th floor of the Aon Center. Reservations are re­quired and space is limited. RSVP to the Membership Director at (312) 856-9484 or email [email protected]. Business-casual attire, 6-7:30 p.m., Aon Center, 200 E. Randolph St., 80th floor, clubcorp.com

March 31

Chicago White Sox Opening Day

There’s nothing like the rush you get hearing the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd as you watch your hometown baseball team kick off the season. Join your Chicago White Sox as they play their season opener against the Minnesota Twins. Grab a hotdog and a cold one and cheer on your favorite players. The boys of summer are back. Tickets start at $29, 3:10 p.m., Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35th St., (312) 674-1000, mlb.com/whitesox

April 1

River North Design District Pup Crawl and Cat Walk benefiting PAWS Chicago

The River North Design District (RNDD) announces the inaugural River North Pup Crawl & Cat Walk April 1 from 5-8pm. The walk is comprised of 9 locations featuring 9 designers who will be creating unique auction items for pets—think dog beds, pet clothes, cat condos and more! The walk’s philanthropic partner is PAWS Chicago, the city’s largest No Kill animal shelter, which will receive a portion of proceeds.  The walk is $35 and open to the public. (e.givesmart.com/events/pQN/)