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!
Spooky season is officially here, and as the weather and the leaves continue to change, so does our calendar of programs and events! There’s something for everyone this month, including book talks, a magical dragon-themed happy hour, a movie night, and more. So plan your visit today!
Check out what we have lined up in October 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. Get Lit: Rise of the Dragons (October 8, 5:30 pm CT)
From ancient myths and legends to modern tales in books, movies, and TV shows, dragons have sparked the imagination of countless generations. At this happy hour event, we raise our chalices to these beautiful, mythical creatures. Compete to be crowned master of the dragons in a game of Dragon Trivia. Meet Andrew Wheeler, author of Puncheons & Flagons: The Official Dungeons & Dragons Cocktail Book, as he demonstrates how to make a cocktail from his book. You can also engage with our event partners by shopping with Bucket O’ Blood Books and Records, learning a new dragon-themed tabletop role-playing game with Rough Magic Games, and using dragon-inspired writing prompts from StoryStudio Chicago. And of course, experience our special exhibit, Level Up: Writers & Gamers, which explores how Americans use role-playing and video games to define and respond to our culture. (And also includes dragons).
Explore all of our exhibits as well as you enjoy beer, wine, and the night’s signature cocktail: The Dragon Scale. Non-alcoholic beverages are also available. 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. Get your tickets to Get Lit: Rise of the Dragons today!
2. Film Screening: Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (October 13, 3:00 pm CT)
Join us for a movie and a chat! Watch the hit blockbuster Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, followed by a lively conversation. This program is part of Chicago Public Library’s 2024 One Book, One Chicago initiative focused on Gabrielle Zevin’s bestselling novel Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow. Presented in conjunction with our special exhibit Level Up: Writers & Gamers, we’ll discuss how the themes explored in our exhibit relate to the film and the novel, as well as how roleplaying games like D&D connect to modern video games. This screening is free to attend. Register for your spot today!
3. Marilyn Sanders Mobley: Toni Morrison and Geopoetics (October 15, 6:00 pm CT)
Emerita Professor of English and African American Studies Marilyn Sanders Mobley visits the American Writers Museum to discuss her recent book Toni Morrison and the Geopoetics of Place, Race, and Be/longing, which Henry Louis Gates, Jr. calls a “powerful and learned meditation, and one that deserves a prominent place in the field of Morrison studies.” In the book, Mobley analyzes Morrison’s expressed narrative intention of providing “spaces for the reader” to help us understand the narrative strategies in her work. Mobley is joined by poet Parneshia Jones. Published by Temple University Press, books will be available for purchase and Mobley will sign them following the program. This is an in-person program at the American Writers Museum that will also be livestreamed. You can register to attend in person here, or register to watch the online broadcast here.
4. Halloween Free Museum Day (October 20, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm CT)
Enjoy free admission to the American Writers Museum, featuring special Halloween-themed activities and crafts that are fun for the whole family! Free days include access to all of our exhibits, including our current special exhibit Level Up: Writers and Gamers. Plus, in conjunction with Level Up, AWM staff will lead a book discussion at 3:00 pm about Gabrielle Zevin’s Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, as part of Chicago Public Library’s One Book, One Chicago initiative. Free admission to the American Writers Museum is available on the third Sunday of each month. Learn more about Halloween Free Museum Day here.
5. Nevermore: The Poe Tour (October 3 – November 4, Daily at 3:00 pm CT)
Discover the man behind the myths, from talking ravens to tell-tale hearts. In this special tour of the American Writers Museum, you’ll dive into the work of Edgar Allan Poe and see how his legacy continues to impact the world today. Learn about the writers who influenced Poe, as well as the countless writers who were influenced by him. 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.
Nevermore: The Poe 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. This tour is included with admission and advanced registration is not required. Tours begin at the museum front desk. Learn more here!
BONUS: The Pumpkin Hunt (October 17 – 21, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm CT)
We need your help…the pumpkins are loose again! Search the American Writers Museum to find the missing pumpkins hidden in their favorite works of American writing. Find all of the pumpkins and win a special prize! Fun for all ages, this activity is included with museum admission. Advanced registration is not required. Learn more here!