July 28--DO MORE!
Hot dog chewing gum? Hot dog tacos? Those were just two of the creations at last year's Gapers Block Hot Dog Cookoff for Charity, an event that challenges local chefs to create interpretations of the classic Vienna Beef dog. This year's bash takes place Aug. 1 in the parking lot of Schuba's, and you can expect just as much creativity from the competitors: chefs from Wiener and Still Champion, Harmony Grill, ThePizzle.net, Monti's and returning two-time champion ManBQue. For the $20 ticket price, sample tasting portions of all entries while enjoying live music and $3 Lagunitas on tap (along with Pils and Daytime). Proceeds from the event benefit Reach Out and Read of Illinois. Aug. 1. Noon to 5 p.m. $20 adults; $10 kids. 3159 N. Southport Ave., www.lh-st.com.
SPEND LESS!
Join Eli's Cheesecake in celebrating the big 3-5 at its annual cheesecake festival, where free admission gets you free cheesecake samples 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Also on tap: cheesecake bingo, a cheesecake walk and a costume contest with the grand prize of -- you guessed it -- cheesecake. Available for purchase: the new Birthday Cake Cheesecake Dipper, a slice of cheesecake baked on a layer of birthday cake, coated in chocolate and covered with a rainbow of sprinkles. Dig in while listening to live music or watching performances by the Jesse White Tumblers and more. Aug. 1-2. 6701 W. Forest Preserve Drive, Dunning, 773-308-7000, www.cheesecakefestival.com.
