We have plenty of events and exhibits that are some of the top things to do in Chicago this month. Celebrate American writing with us!
With Halloween behind us and the holidays coming soon, we have a whole new calendar of events this November! There’s something for everyone this month, including special tours, a movie night, book talks, and more. Plan your visit today!
Check out what we have lined up in November and subscribe to our e-newsletter below to stay up-to-date on all that’s happening. Also, AWM members get free admission to the AWM and most programs, so if you’re not already a member, become a member today!
1. Film Screening: Jumanji (November 10, 3:00 pm CT)
Prepare to be whisked away to the worlds of games! Stories are the heart and soul of any good game, and the Level Up Film Series honors that tradition as seen in filmmaking. Inspired by our special exhibit Level Up: Writers & Gamers, these films celebrate the art of storytelling in games and illustrative the immersive nature of playing them.
Next up, we head back to 1995 with the original Jumanji. Two kids discover an old board game and when they start playing it they are greeted by a man who has spent years trapped inside the game since playing it at age 12. His only hope for freedom involves finishing the dangerous game. Starring Robin Williams, this movie is a delightful, wild ride that is fun for the whole family. Tickets are just $5 for adults and free for children, and grant you access to all our exhibits. Get your tickets here!
2. Get Lit: ’60s Night (November 12, 5:30 pm CT)
Get ready to travel back in time to the era of peace, love, and rock ‘n’ roll. Join us for Get Lit: ’60s Night, where we’ll celebrate the vibrant and revolutionary decade that transformed literature, music, and culture. Put on your best ’60s outfits and dance along to the music of the decade, play a classic game of charades based on the writing of the ’60s, compete in the “That’s What I Call the ’60s” trivia hunt, or get groovy at the tie-dye bandana station! And, of course, enjoy beer, wine, and the night’s specialty cocktail, Jackie’s Party Punch, as refreshing to the eye as it is to the palate. Non-alcoholic options are available as well. Whether you’re a flower child or a mod, this event is sure to be a blast from the past. Don’t miss out on this chance to relive the magic of the ’60s with fellow enthusiasts. Get your tickets today!
Get Lit events take place the second Tuesday of every month from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Each month has a different theme, so check out upcoming Get Lit events here and be sure to check back regularly as we announce more Get Lit events throughout the year.
3. Free Museum Day + Writers Space (November 17, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm CT)
Enjoy free admission to the American Writers Museum and find writing inspiration! As the seasons change, November is a great time to tackle your writing project and we want to help you get across the finish line. Join your fellow writers and readers at the AWM’s Writers Space, where you can swap ideas, share tips, give feedback and, well, write. This get-together is open to writers of all levels and genres. Whether you’re a seasoned novelist or just starting your writing journey, the AWM is here to inspire and support you.
Free days include access to all of our exhibits, including our current special exhibit Level Up: Writers and Gamers. Free admission to the American Writers Museum is available on the third Sunday of each month.
4. Carson the Magnificent – Mike Thomas & Rick Kogan (November 19, 6:00 pm CT)
And now, ladies and gentlemen, heeeeeere’s Johnny! Join us for a celebration of Johnny Carson and the new book Carson the Magnificent, the much-anticipated biography—twenty years in the making—of the entertainer who redefined late-night television and reshaped American culture. Co-author Mike Thomas, who finished the project Bill Zehme started after Bill’s passing, sits down with Rick Kogan of the Chicago Tribune to discuss the book, Carson’s legacy, and the special nature of co-writing this biography. Books will be available for purchase and Thomas will sign them following the program. Reserve your spot today!
This is an in-person program at the American Writers Museum. This program will also be livestreamed, and you can register for the link to the online broadcast here.
5. ‘Twas the Night Before: A Holiday Tour (November 14 – December 31, Daily at 3:00 pm CT)
Step into a world of holiday magic during the American Writers Museum’s tour, ‘Twas the Night Before: A Holiday Tour. Immerse yourself in the timeless tales and cherished traditions that have shaped our holiday celebrations through the power of words. This 15-minute tour introduces you to all areas of the AWM, and following the tour you can explore all of our exhibits at your own pace.
‘Twas the Night Before: A Holiday Tour is offered daily at 3:00 pm when the AWM is open. We are open Thursday through Monday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. We are closed Tuesday and Wednesday. The tour is included with admission and advanced registration is not required. Tours begin at the front desk. Learn more here.
BONUS: AWM Highlights Tour (November 7-11; Daily at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm)
For one weekend only, the AWM Highlights Tour is free to join! Looking for a good place to start your American Writers Museum visit? This 15-minute tour introduces you to all areas of the AWM, and following the tour, you can explore all of our exhibits more in-depth. The Museum Highlights Tour is offered daily at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm the weekend of November 7-11. This tour is included with admission and advanced registration is not required. Tours begin at the museum front desk. Learn more here.