Snoop Dogg has a definite following consisting of straight thugs, prep school boys and weed smokers alike, and they will all be gathering for a night of gettin' low. Method Man and Redman, of Wu Tang Clan, are going to be there to support their East Coast brother in neutral territory: the Midwest. 'Devin the Dude' will also be there throwing hits street-style. Each one of these artists has a marijuana leaf or joint in their photos or logos, so be prepared to probably get some sort of contact high, but that'll be just fine because it works perfectly with the scene. Also, Devin the Dude is part of the marijuana legalization movement, and in a time like this, he is the most trend-forward. This night proves to be ear-ringing, bass thumpin', and yet totally chill.

Insider Info: If you get a chance to run by Devin the Dude's merch table, you will probably be able to ask about current news or just information about the legalization of marijuana in the US. Otherwise, I say go to El Cid afterward because even a contact high and a bunch of knee-dropping music will make you want an amazing chorizo burrito (full of cheese and beans and sour cream!). Also, the margaritas at El Cid are cheap and delicious. There are also a few bars around the area, and I would suggest walking up Milwaukee Ave. to Fullerton and looking for the Budweiser sign--the only thing which indicates a lovely little dive bar (with beers for $1.50!)

Basement Jaxx's ADD-inflicted, booming dance-pop defined the popular electronica sound that exploded in the late 90s. MSTRKRFT, with their slick, sexualized rock-disco, define much of current electro. Seeing both groups perform together will surely make for one unforgettable dance party! Both MSTRKRFT and Basement Jaxx have perfected a pop sound, which is no easy feat. Each attract large audiences, appealing to both dance music snobs and anyone who digs a song with a good beat. Come expecting to hear the hits from Basement Jaxx but also amazing remixes of radio hits. Their Glastonbury set this year was filled with remixes of everyone from Snoop Dogg to Gwen Stefani.

Insider Info: Tickets are available for $26.50 on "limited discount." This party includes lots of performances from local DJ's that will be sure to get your gams warmed up with some dancing. It is also hosted by a large group of different promoters, making sure this party brings out everyone in Chicago nightlife!

With a distinctive homemade, low-fi recording style, at a first listen The Mountain Goats may sound like music made in a basement by a crew of bored teenagers. However, their lyrics present a mastery of language and literary device. This, coupled with their folk-style guitar, banjo, and fiddle playing, make for a unique concert experience well worth seeing.

Insider Info: Listen for tracks off their newest biblically-laced album, "The Life Of The World To Come." Their lyrics are so honest, they almost seem like the words of the next prophet. Opening for The Mountain Goats will be Owen Pallett, under the name Final Fantasy. Former member of baroque Canadian band, Arcade Fire, Pallett's current project uses a range of foot pedals to create a myriad of sounds with his violin.

SOFA (Sculpture Objects & Functional Art Fair) returns to overwhelm fair-goers with a trip to Navy Pier and tons of shiny objects under a single roof. Among the things guests can expect are artistic feats from 68 international galleries, as well as 5 special exhibits by museums and arts groups, and 33 stellar lectures.  But what can be overwhelming is also conveniently in one place. And here’s a tip: the bling you like at Tiffany & Cartier pales in comparison to the arty jewelry here: one-of-a-kind pieces made from unconventional materials with unique techniques.

Insider Info: The popular preview party takes place Thursday, November 5 from 7-9pm for $50. This is a good chance to see the art (and who’s who of the sculpture world) without weekend crowds.  And for the rest of the weekend, FREE shuttles run between the Fair, the MCA, and the River North gallery district. The River North bit is particularly handy if you want to take the Brown Line to the Chicago Ave. stop and then board the shuttle to the fair, or if you want to get to the bunch of gallery openings taking place Friday, November 6.

The Chicago Humanities Festival is an annual series of lecturers, concerts and films throughout Chicago to create opportunities for Chicagoans to explore the humanities. The theme of the festival's 20th year is “Laughter,” with events inviting authors, scholars, poets, policy-makers, artists and performers to explore the different shadings and institutions around humor and how it's imagined in the classics and in today's culture. The November festival will feature more than 90 programs in 19 venues, with many special guests, including Matt Groening, Harold Ramis, Second City and New Yorker Cartoonists.

Insider Info: Although the theme of the festival is laughter, you'll find that this is no comedy festival. Rather than stand-up comedians and improv groups, the festival will include such events as a panel of legal professionals led by First Amendment scholar Geoffrey Stone, discussing how far a comedian can take his or her act and still be protected by free speech. Creator of “The Simpsons” Matt Groeing will also lead a lecture about his relationship with fellow graphic comic creator Lynda Barry and how they have influenced each other's work.

Marwen, an organization committed to bringing the visual arts to Chicago-area youngsters, is hosting its annual Art Fair this Friday. This event allows art aficionados the chance to check out the latest work that the program has to offer and also gives students the ability to showcase their artistic endeavors. Take this great opportunity to socialize, sip cocktails and support a great local cause!

Insider Info: Since 1987, Marwen has been providing Chicago students with a top-notch arts education and creative career resources. The Art Fair will feature work from current students and alumni, in addition to faculty members. A $20 donation is also suggested. For those looking to get some holiday shopping accomplished, most items range from $50 -$1000. The program’s 2009 Holiday Card collection is also an affordable way to show some support.

The Five Star Bar is teaming up with various businesses, including Office Depot and Quartino's, to feed and educate you on testicular cancer! The 'Brunch' will include a raffle contest and guest speakers, Jonny Imerman and Rick Miller - both of whom are survivors of testicular cancer. Imerman is also the founder of the 'Imerman Angels', a not-for-profit organization that provides one-on-one support for cancer patients. This event aims to help further educate the public on testicular cancer as well as provide a warm, friendly atmosphere to raise awareness and support the Rockford Memorial Hospital. For more information on the Imerman Angels, you can visit their webpage or call 312-274-5529.

Insider Info: A $5 donation will be requested at the door, but 100% of the proceeds are to benefit the Rockford Memorial Development Foundation. Also, the event includes $2 PBR and Highball specials as well as $1 Old Crow shots, so don't miss out!

'The Art of the Cocktail' is presented to you by (ri)1 whiskey, the newest addition to your top-shelf booze collection! They are making their grand entrance by offering complimentary cocktails at the C-House restaurant in the Affinia Hotel. (ri)1 takes your taste buds for a ride with their new, imaginative cocktails. Hors d'oeuvres and cocktails are available at no cost to those who RSVP, but RSVP ASAP to get a spot - free whiskey is a popular thing and the event might fill up.

Insider Info: E-mail info@outfitevents.com to get comp'd admission. You can also gain entry by visiting the going.com website and searching for the event. Sober up afterward with a nice carriage ride through the city easily found over by Chicago and Michigan Ave!

Are you ready for an unforgettable evening? Gary Vaynerchuk’s in Chicago, bringing Thunder to our fine city as he blows into town for a whirlwind book tour promoting his new book “Crush It”.  Hang out with Gary, learn about social media and personal branding, drink some amazing wines, enjoy fabulous food, and then top it off with delectable desserts and way too much chocolate. (Is there such a thing?)  Also, expect some FABULOUS prize giveaways. Like, a Cruise for two, Gourmet Coffee Basket, Spa Package, Flip-Cams, Some fabulous Hustle Swag and MORE!

Insider Info: Register before Wednesday, November 4th at Noon and save an amazing $14 off the $39 ticket price when you use code “WINDY” during the registration process. Gary has another engagement prior to this event, so he’ll likely make his arrival around 8:00. This event will be off the charts amazing!

What could be better than supporting a good cause by drinking and dancing? You’ll be able to do just that at the Sixth Annual 'Drink for Hunger' Benefit. This event is pretty much summed up by its slogan: “We drink, they eat” and supports the Greater Chicago Food Depository. The benefit has raised enough money over the past five years to supply more than 25,000 meals. In addition to supporting a good cause, this event is also a great deal: tickets are $30, but it’s an all-you-can-drink event!

Insider Info: An open bar for all attendees isn’t the only thing that guests at this event will be able to experience. There will also be DJs so guests can attempt to dance off all the alcohol that they consume at the open bar. The benefit has also gotten some great donations, so there will also be a raffle with great prizes in store, some of which include: an Ozzie Guillen signed batting helmet, $100 gift certificate to Jonathan Breitung Salon & Spa, and Town Hall Pub Drink Packages.

Electro-heavyweights Simian Mobile Disco are playing Metro this weekend. But why not save some cash by going to the more dance-able, cheaper after-party at SmartBar? SMD will be playing a DJ set after their live set along with local electro DJ's. Simian Mobile Disco was originally formed as a DJ duo, created from the ashes of their former band, Simian. And it was their noisy, synthy, looping remixes of Klaxons, Air, Muse and others that first got them noticed. However, it was with their huge underground hit, "Hustler", that their production skills were recognized, having them hailed as the "Justice of 2009."

Insider Info: If you are up for it, get tickets for the Simian Mobile Disco live show. Tickets are $25 and they are playing with the Phenomenal Handclap Band. If you are going to both, the after-party price is included in your ticket. If you are just hittin' up the after-party, check out the text message special which gets you into SmartBar for only $5 before 11 p.m.!

When all other nightclubs like to give you old and tired dance songs, this place gives you something new for your ears to feast on. This creative event is comprised of local hip hop artists and their fans. The hottest new artists can be seen here giving their music to the DJ and watching people bounce to their beats The artists will also be able to perform live, which is always an exciting experience. And guess what? Even though there is a cover, Jamaican Rum Punch is served every day for a mere $3! If you are one of the budding artists for which they are searching, go play your music because recording executives and managers are always listening!

Insider Info: If you visit here and print out the coupon, you get in, no cover prior to 10:30 (this allows you to buy an extra drink with the money you saved!) Artists: they are paying up to $300 weekly for you to perform.  If you’re interested in this, email mixtapemondayz@gmail.com.

Being the exteme sports junkie that I am, I had to recommend this extravaganza for my event pick this week!  All the best ski and snowboard brands, all the best local shops and all the best resorts will be there, along with other equipment, apparel and entertaining surprises for the 51st anniversary of this Expo!  It's getting cold in here in Chicago, so why not embrace it and get back into the winter mood!  You can expect to find gear up to 70% off and your admission cost also includes a $50 lift ticket voucher to Shanty Creek Resorts in Michigan!

Insider Info:  If you have any old snowboards or skis collecting dust somewhere, the Expo is a great place to get rid of them and make some bucks at the same time.  They will sell your old skis or snowboards for you and only charge you a small fee and a small commission from the sale.  Best of all, if they don't sell, you get your stuff back!  Price it right, and it's sure to go. I've successfully sold 2 of my old boards at this Expo! From the city, your best bet is the Blue Line right to the Rosemont stop!

This fitness group describes itself as "fitness to survive the zombie apocalypse." Surviving Z-Day, they say, is simple. You need to Be able to lift and throw heavy things, run fast and long and navigate obstacles efficiently. In this class you'll learn the tools to navigating the urban jungle through the teachings of parkour. Parkour is a fitness revolution, where participants run as if in an emergency situation, jumping over obstacles and climbing barriers. The philosophy behind the movement states that it is about overcoming emotional and mental obstacles as well as physical ones.

Insider Info: Excel Gymnastics hosts a parkour open gym and instruction class. The class begins with a warm-up, then 40 minutes of instructed parkour movements, followed by 25 minutes of conditioning exercise. Be sure to let someone know you are there for a class rather than open gym, as they happen simultaneously. Once you've familiarized yourself with the movements, check out the aero-jams which are held out in the urban jungle, putting those zombie-moves to use!

Taking a bike ride through the city alone can be an unfortunately intense experience, but riding to and from Chicago landmarks with a group can be enthralling.  You'll get a bike fit for your height and a comprehensive guide to the lakefront treasures. The guides at Bobby's Bike Hike will take you to Soldier Field, Navy Pier, and beyond. Even though many Chicagoans know the sights already, they probably haven't seen them from the view of a bike. Chicagoans can also enjoy the history that accompanies the tour, because a lot of what you hear on the streets may not be true.

Insider Info: The tours take off every Saturday and Sunday at 10am and last for two hours. If you've got the kids along, you can go on the Tike Hike which includes stops at the Lincoln Park Zoo, history and trivia, and prizes to make it complete.  You can reserve your spot here and if you reserve online rather than simply showing up, there is a 10% discount!

Find that perfect outfit for any occasion this weekend, whether it be a hot date, dinner with the parents, or just a night out on the town. Join Veruca Salt and GO Green Management for an event to showcase Veruca Salt’s fabulous autumn line-up. There will not only be tons of great clothes and accessories at this event, but Veruca Salt will also be providing champagne for the guests as well. Champagne and the possibility to purchase designer clothes can definitely be a dangerous combination, so be sure to watch out at this exciting event!

Insider Info: In addition to providing complimentary champagne, Steve's Deli will be catering the event. If you like what you see at the event and want to have the opportunity to continue shopping afterward, be sure to check out http://www.shopverucasalt.com to browse through all the different great stuff that Veruca Salt has to offer. This event will not only showcase clothes for women but also for men, so ladies can feel free to bring a date and/or friends along! Though, I defy any of them to hold your attention once the clothes come out.

Dance Chicago is one of the biggest and most unique dance experiences in the city. For three months, theaters around Chicago will host every type of dance performance and company, giving Chicagoans a true taste of the diversity of this art form. The three-month festival will showcase 130 dance troupes and 300 works, from ballroom dancing and ballet to tap and hip-hop. The festival will end December 12 with a family “Nutcracker” performance in Evanston and a “Grande Finale” at 8:00 P.M. that evening. For a complete list of performances and to purchase tickets, visit www.dancechicago.com.

Insider Info: The biggest change this year is that Dance Chicago will not showcase at the classic Athenaeum Theatre, the festival's 14-year home. Instead, the festival is branching out into four locations: the Theatre Building (1125 W Belmont, Chicago), the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie), the Sang Theatre of Wheeling High School (900 S Elmhurst Rd, Wheeling) and the Music Institute of Chicago Nichols Concert Hall (1490 Chicago Ave, Evanston).

In the same vein as Post Secret and Six Word Memoirs, Cassette From My Ex tells tales from loves past and the countless hours of music that can be shared between two people. The feeling you get from writing down your most secret feelings about someone might be channeled from these stories. Sixty stories of love, loss, and mixtapes are edited by Jason Bitner. According to its official website, contributing writers include Claudia Gonson of indie pop band 'The Magnetic Fields', This American LIfe’s Starlee Kine, The New Yorker’s Ben Greenman, Blender Magazine’s Joe Levy, and Charlie Todd of Improv Everywhere’s. Rob Sheffield, who's considered a "godfather" of the genre, also has a new story in the book.

Insider Info: Quimby's Books will be a vendor at the event, but the event itself is being held and The Hideout. If you don't want to pay the $5 to get in (even though it will be great), you can pick up the book on Amazon for about 15 bucks. If you want to put your own story out there, submit it here!