Concern over the number of coronavirus cases growing both in and around Chicago has prompted the cancellation or postponement of several events in the area.
And it's not just in Chicago. With major St. Patrick's Day events canceled in Dublin, the Coachella music festival rescheduled to October, South by Southwest canceled in Austin and major sporting events around the world coming to a halt, the list continues to grow. (Stay updated here)
Here's a look at what has been canceled in the Chicago area so far:
(Note: Don't see your event list? Email tips@nbcchicago.com to alert us about new cancellations. This list is being updated)
Public Sites at Cook County Forest Preserves: all public events, volunteer activities and permitted events and closing some locations (including all public restrooms, nature centers, campgrounds, nature play areas, permit offices and the Swallow Cliff Stairs) through May 11.
52nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Remembrance Dinner and Concert: The 52nd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Remembrance Dinner and Concert featuring the Blind Boys of Alabama has been rescheduled to October 24, 2020 at the Renaissance Hotel in Schaumburg.
"This was a difficult decision to make, the Annual Dinner is one of our favorite ways to celebrate the life and lessons of Dr. King, but we need to prioritize the health and safety of our friends, family, business partners and supporters. All ticket/table purchases /ads and donations for the April 11, 2020 date will be honored and transferred to the October 24, 2020 date."
Local
360 Chicago Observation Deck: To close starting at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 15. "All special events and classes scheduled in this timeframe have been cancelled," the statement read. "Updates will be posted to the website and to social media platforms @360Chicago."
2020 SheBelieves Summit: "U.S. Soccer, in consultation with partners, has indefinitely postponed the 2020 SheBelieves Summit that was scheduled to take place Saturday, March 14 in Chicago due to public health concerns regarding the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). This decision was made in order to cut travel requirements for speakers and attendees and limit personal interactions so as to best protect the health and well-being of those who had planned to attend."
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum Campus: To prevent the spread of coronavirus, it will close until further notice to the public as of Friday, March 13--this includes the library, museum and historic Union Station.
Ace Spring Convention: Ace Hardware canceled its spring convention in Chicago due to coronavirus.
Adler Planetarium: The Adler Planetarium will be temporarily closed to the public "until further notice." All programming events through May 1 will also be either rescheduled or canceled. Anyone who has tickets to an event can reach out to guestservices@adlerplanetarium.org.
Amtrak: National messaging regarding COVID-19, including refund information, is posted at Amtrak.com/Corornavirus. Information is subject to change as conditions warrant.
Amtrak MidwestSM service modifications due to reduced travel demand are in partnership with the Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan and Missouri state transportation departments:
Effective Thursday, March 19:
· Chicago-Milwaukee Hiawatha corridor service reduced to four daily round-trips. Friday evening Hiawatha Train 343 also temporarily suspended.
· Chicago-Detroit-Pontiac Wolverine corridor service reduced to two daily roundtrips.
· Chicago-Holland-Grand Rapids Pere Marquette daily roundtrips suspended. Amtrak Thruway Bus connections to and from Grand Rapids are available daily via Kalamazoo.
· Some Amtrak Thruway Bus routes will have service modifications.
Effective Saturday, March 21:
· Chicago-Milwaukee corridor service reduced to two daily round-trips, including Hiawatha and Empire Builder trains.
· Chicago-St. Louis corridor service reduced to three daily round-trips, including Lincoln Service and Texas Eagle trains.
· Chicago-Carbondale corridor service reduced to two daily round-trips, including Illini and City of New Orleans trains.
· Chicago-Macomb-Quincy corridor service reduced to one daily round-trip
· Chicago-Detroit-Pontiac Wolverine corridor service reduced to one daily round-trip.
No changes:
· Chicago-East Lansing-Port Huron Blue Water daily round-trips
· Kansas City-Jefferson City-St. Louis Missouri River Runner corridor services.
Annual Humanitarian Awards Dinner at Illinois Holocaust Museum: "Due to the uncertainties around COVID-19, Museum leadership has decided to cancel the event, which was scheduled for March 12. This was a difficult decision for our Museum, and ultimately the concern for our Survivors, speakers, and guests won out."
Apollo Chorus of Chicago: Performance of Bach’s St John Passion at St Luke’s Lutheran Church in Lakeview scheduled Saturday, March 14 is canceled (If you bought a ticket through our online system for the performance and provided an email address, they said they will contact you directly). Similarly, the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra canceled the combined performance at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church scheduled for Sunday afternoon and the Apollo Chorus is also postponing their annual benefit, Apollo After Hours, originally scheduled for April 4.
Archdiocese of Chicago Suspends Mass: Public mass will be suspended beginning on the evening of March 14, the Archdiocese of Chicago announced. The churches will remain open for prayer "during a timeframe best determined by each pastor." Weddings and funerals scheduled for March 14 can continue as long as they have fewer than 250 people. Televised and online masses will be broadcast by parishes able to do so.
Art Institute of Chicago: "The Art Institute of Chicago will close for two weeks on March 14 so that we can thoroughly and thoughtfully respond to the escalating impact of COVID-19. We plan to reopen the museum on Saturday, March 28."
Aurora Zoo, Golf Course, Museums and Airport: "Effective, Saturday, March 14, general public visits and tours will be suspended for 30 days at the Phillips Park Zoo, the Phillips Park Golf Course, the Aurora Municipal Airport and City-run museums, including the Aurora GAR Memorial Hall and the David L. Pierce Art and History Center. In collaboration with the City of Aurora, both the SciTech Hands On Museum and the Aurora Regional Fire Museum in downtown Aurora, will also be closed to the public for the next 30 days."
Baby Talks lecture, perinatal classes at Franciscan Health: "The opening seminar in the Franciscan Health Family Birth Center’s 'Baby Talks' OB/GYN lecture series has been canceled after recommendations to limit gatherings to avoid exposure to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus). The seminar was scheduled for Wednesday, March 11 at the Health Resource Center in Franciscan Health Hammond. Registration for the seminar was required, and those who registered have been notified."
Bacon Fest and Da Best Fest: In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s editions of Baconfest Chicago & Da Best Fest are canceled. Ticket purchasers for both events will receive full refunds. Baconfest will resume in 2021 on April 10. Da Best Fest will be rescheduled to a date to be determined.
Bank of America Shamrock Shuffle Canceled: Registered runners will receive a refund for their entry fee, will receive an update within 7 to 10 business days. Plans are already being made for the upcoming annual race expected to take place Sunday, March 21, 2021.
BMO Harris Bank: BMO Harris Bank has temporarily closed 43 Chicago-area branches. The bank will also suspended lobby access at 151 Chicago-area branches. "Twenty-three Chicago-area branches will remain fully open," said spokesman Patrick O’Herlihy. For branch closures, visit the BMO Harris branch locator. The changes will remain in place until further notice.
Chicago Botanic Garden: The entire Chicago Botanic Garden has temporarily closed effective at 5 p.m. March 17 through April 30. All programs, classes, and events scheduled through April 30 are canceled.
"The health and safety of our community of visitors, staff, and volunteers—as well as our community at large—remains our top priority. We weighed this matter carefully and do not feel confident that we can adequately limit gatherings to 10 or fewer people, as recommended by federal authorities."
Additional details and information for ticket holders and class participants can be found on the website.
Chicago's Iconic Bean: Cloud Gate Plaza at Millennium Park, which includes "the Bean," is closed while Millennium Park itself remains open, according to the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
Cinemark Theatres: Each of our theatres will be closed beginning Wednesday, March 18, until we believe it is safe to once again welcome moviegoers to our auditoriums."
The company has increased the flexibility of its Cinemark Movie Rewards programs by:
- Extending the expiration date for all Cinemark Movie Rewards points to June 30, 2020, providing you the opportunity to redeem the rewards you earned; and
- Pausing your Movie Club membership while our theatres are closed. During this challenging time, we are looking out for you and will not bill you your monthly fee. Don’t worry, active members will never lose unused movie credits, even while your membership is paused.
"We will, of course, refund all tickets that were purchased in advance. Online purchases will be automatically refunded in five to seven business days. Tickets purchased at a Cinemark box office can be refunded by filling out a request at www.cinemark.com/contact-us."
Biden Cancels In-Person Event in Illinois: Joe Biden will no longer hold "large crowd events" in Illinois and Florida, his campaign announced Wednesday. Instead, the events will become "virtual events."
Big 10 Men's Basketball Tournament: The Big Ten Conference announced March 12 that it will be "canceling the remainder of the Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament, effective immediately. The Big Ten Conference will use this time to work with the appropriate medical experts and institutional leadership to determine next steps for moving forward in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic."
Black Women's Expo: "The largest multi-city exposition in the country for African American women' has been postponed until further notice. "While we are greatly disappointed, we understand the importance of keeping our attendees, exhibitors, sponsors, participants and organizers of the Expo safe from potential exposure to the Coronavirus," said BWE founder Merry Green."
Broadway in Chicago: All Broadway in Chicago shows were canceled Thursday evening and the group said it is "reviewing our upcoming schedule."
Brookfield Zoo: Brookfield Zoo is closing all public spaces indoors through April 1. Public restrooms will be open and outdoor spaces will remain available for guests. All events are canceled.
Casinos: All of Illinois' 10 casinos will be closed for 14 days starting Monday, according to the state gaming board.
Census Community Night: Woodland has made the decision to cancel its Census Community Night that was scheduled for 7 p.m. on March 12. "With the rapidly changing information regarding coronavirus, we have decided to take this preventive measure in an effort to reduce visitors to the school. The health and safety of our students and staff is our number one priority."
Chicago Bears: The 2020 Miller Lite Chicago Bears Draft Party is canceled for Friday, April 24, at Soldier Field due to the State of Illinois’ mandate this evening that all large-scale events exceeding 1,000 people be cancelled. All fans who purchased tickets for this event will receive an email for a full refund.
Chicago Blackhawks Cancel Practice: The Chicago Blackhawks will not hold practice on March 12.
Chicago Children's Museum: The Chicago Children's Museum will temporarily close through the end of March. School visits and events will be canceled and potentially rescheduled.
Chicago Cubs: The Cubs have closed the Nike Performance Center March 13 to "deep clean the facility." The facility will remain closed to the public, including fans and media. All team activities are also canceled through March 16.
Chicago Flower & Garden Show: "After careful evaluation, Show producers announce the cancellation of this year's event. The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19, the Coronavirus, to be a global pandemic. The City of Chicago has canceled the St. Patrick's Day Parade. The City's health officials are encouraging people to avoid large groups at indoor events. We cannot ignore the advice of city leaders or the global health community. It would be irresponsible and dangerous.
The risk to our most vulnerable populations is real. As the proud stewards of a tradition that dates back more than a century, every spring is ushered in with the arrival of the Chicago Flower & Garden Show. It is the harbinger of spring, brighter days, and a renewal of life. Each year the team works incredibly hard to make sure the show is a safe, family-friendly event. Nothing is more important than the safety of our visitors and guests.This is not an easy decision, or one taken lightly.
Like other canceled events in recent days, there will be an adverse impact on many people. The hardship this decision will create for our valued vendors, sponsors, and visitors is the sad reality of what is happening in the world. We are heeding Mayor Lightfoot's call to come together as a city and do all we can to protect one another.
Watch www.chicagoflower.com for 2021 show dates."
Chicago History Museum: The museum will be closed to the public on Sunday, March 15 and " review this decision on a week-by-week basis and reopen when we feel it is appropriate to do so," their statement read.
Chicago Production of 'Be More Chill': The production announced a three-month postponement, originally slated to begin rehearsals on March 17 with the first performance on April 17, Be More Chill will now begin performances at the Apollo Theater on July 7 and will open on July 17, 2020.
Chicago Public Libraries: Chicago Public Library is closing 61 of its locations starting next week amid the coronavirus outbreak. Only 17 branches will remain open starting Monday, as well as the Harold Washington Library Center, Sulzer Regional Library and Woodson Regional Library, Chicago Public Library officials announced Wednesday.
Chicago Ridge Mall: "While mass gatherings have been canceled, spaces, where people are constantly moving such as airports, shopping malls and centers, grocery stores or similar spaces, remain open per public guidelines. However, with the support of our local health department, Chicago Ridge Mall will reduce its hours beginning tomorrow, Tuesday, March 17, until further notice."
The temporary hours are:
- Monday - Saturday: 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Sunday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Chicago Roboto Conference: The Chicago Roboto Conference—a tech event for android developers from around the world—canceled its downtown event due to the virus. The conference was set to take place in September.
Chicago Steel games: The USHL Board of Directors voted unanimously to suspend game play until further notice. Additionally, all hockey activities, including practices, workouts and meetings have been suspended.
Chicago's St. Patrick's Day parades, Chicago River dyeing: The downtown Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade, which was set for Saturday, as well as Sunday's South Side Irish Parade and the Northwest Side parades will not step off as a coronavirus outbreak continues to bring more cases in Chicago and surrounding suburbs. The annual dyeing of the Chicago River will also be rescheduled "to a later date," city officials said.
Chicago Theatres Suspend Productions: Patrons with tickets for performances during this time are encouraged to contact individual theatres directly for more information.
Chicago Wolves Home Games: The Chicago Wolves announced they are postponing their final eight home games of the American Hockey League's 2019-20 regular season.
Chicagoland Family Pet Expo Show: The Chicagoland Family Pet Expo scheduled for March 20-22 will be rescheduled for October 2020 at the Arlington Park Racecourse.
Children's Museum in Oak Park: "In the interest of our community, museum visitors, members, volunteers and staff, the Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn will be temporarily closed to the public beginning today, March 13, 2020."
CME Group's Chicago Trading Floor: "CME Group today announced it will close its Chicago trading floor as of the close of business Friday, March 13, 2020, as a precaution to reduce large gatherings that can contribute to the spread of coronavirus in line with the advice of medical professionals. All products will continue to trade on CME Globex as they do today."
Common Threads Chef Takeover: Both the Chicago and LA Chef takeover events have been canceled but the group is "working to identify a new date and will announce information once it is confirmed."
Cook County Assessor's Office: The Cook County Assessor’s Office announced March 13 that its downtown and suburban branch offices will be closed to the public until further notice.
Cook County Jail Visits: All visits to detainees at the Cook County Department of Corrections will be suspended as of Sunday.
Cook County Treasurer's Office: The office closed at noon March 13 and will remain closed indefinitely, Treasurer Maria Pappas announced.
Deerfield Public Schools District 109 nonessential large group events: The district is "postponing or canceling all nonessential large group events—including in-district athletic competitions, musicals, music shows, art shows, etc.—that gather large groups of visitors into our school buildings. This will take effect immediately and last until at least Friday, March 27. We are also canceling all rentals in our buildings between March 12 and March 27."
Den Theatre: The Den Theatre will close its doors March 13 and cancel all performances through April 12. The Den Theatre box office has begun the process of refunding tickets for all performances.
DICK'S Sporting Goods: DICK'S Sporting Goods will temporarily close all retail locations for two weeks, starting at the close of business on March 18. The business plans to reopen Thursday, April 2. This includes all DICK'S Sporting Goods, Golf Galaxy and Field & Stream stores.
"We will remain open and ready to serve our customers via our mobile apps and online, and through our new Curbside Contactless Pickup service at our DICK'S and Golf Galaxy stores. During this time, our curbside pick-up option will be available 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m, seven days a week."
Diocese of Gary: The Diocese of Gary in Indiana said all parish and school gatherings, including Catholic schools and Faith Formation are suspended through April 3. The parish and diocesan offices will remain open. In addition, some churches may change their liturgical schedule.
DuPage Children's Museum: The museum will close at 5 p.m. March 13 and remain closed through March 30.
DuSable Museum: the museum will close at 5 p.m. March 13 and remain closed through March 31. All public events will be rescheduled.
East Dundee St. Patrick's Day Parade and 5K: The East Dundee St. Patrick's Day Parade, 5K and other events for March 14 are all canceled in the village. Organizers said they are working on a plan to reschedule.
Evanston Announces Postponement of State of the City Address, Robert Crown Center Open House: "The March 13 State of the City Luncheon and March 14 Robert Crown Community Center and Library Open House will be postponed to future dates. In addition, to limit the potential spread of COVID-19 to the senior population, all senior classes at the Levy Senior Center will be canceled beginning Thursday, March 12 until further notice."
Evanston parks: "As a precautionary measure, we are making the difficult decision to cancel all City of Evanston Parks, Recreation and Community Services programs, including those at the Levy Senior Center, through Sunday, April 12."
Eyes to the Skies Festival: "It is with great sadness that we are announcing that the 2020 Eyes to the Skies Festival and Carnival will not be held this year. While this decision comes at a time of universal uncertainty, we take the safety and health of our attendees, volunteers, artists, vendors, sponsors and community very seriously. We will be back in 2021 on July 2nd, 3rd and 4th."
Field Museum: The Field Museum will be closed from March 14 through March 29. All programs are also postponed.
Fight for Air Climb at Presidential Towers: The American Lung Association in Greater Chicago's Fight for Air Climb at the Presidential Towers was also canceled.
Fox Lake Village Hall: The village of Fox Lake is closing all village buildings beginning March 13 and continuing through March 27.
Fox Valley Mall Easter Bunny Breakfast: "Because the health and well-being of our visitors and employees is our top priority, out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to cancel the event... At this time, this event has not been rescheduled; if we do reschedule this for a future date, we will be sure to inform you."
Genesee Theatre: The Genesee Theatre has postponed events for the next 30 days. The theater is working to reschedule those dates and tickets will be eligible for the rescheduled dates. Refunds are available at the point of purchase, according to the theater.
Goodman Theatre: Performances of School GIrls, the African Mean Girls Play will be suspended starting Friday March 13 until further notice.
Great Wolf Lodge: "While we’ve had no reported cases of COVID-19 and the CDC states there is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread through the use of pools or hot tubs, after carefully reviewing the large gathering guidelines from government officials we believe it is in the best interest of our guests and pack members to close all of our resorts starting at 2 p.m. on March 15 with plans to re-open on April 2. We will continue to monitor the ongoing situation and stay connected with federal and state health officials for updates. We are offering a full refund to those guests affected by the closure and providing pay to all pack members during this period."
Griffin Theatre Company: All remaining performances of its Midwest premiere of Lynn Nottage's Mlima's Tale (originally scheduled to play through March 21, 2020 on Raven Theatre's Schwartz Stage) to be canceled.
Highland Park High School Cancels Orchestra Concert Thursday: Districts 106, 109, 112 and 113 are canceling after-school public gatherings as of Thursday. This includes events such as tonight’s Orchestra Concert at HPHS and the Spring Orchestra concert at DHS on March 18.
Highland Park Public Library: As a proactive measure, the library will close at 9 p.m. Thursday, March 12 and will remain closed until further notice.
Highland Park Municipal Buildings: All Highland Park municipal buildings are closed to the public beginning March 16.
Horseshoe Hammond: Temporary closure for at least 14 days starting on Monday, March 16.
Illinois Department of Natural Resources: "To further prevent the spread of COVID-19, and in accordance with the Gubernatorial Disaster Proclamation issued on March 9, 2020, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) today announced the closure of all state parks, fish and wildlife areas, recreational areas, and historic sites as well as the cancellation of upcoming scheduled events."
Illinois Governor's Mansion: All Governor’s Mansion events and individual and group tours are canceled until further notice.
Illinois Holocaust Museum: The museum will be closed from March 14 through March 29.
IHSA Winter State Tournaments: The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) announced that it has canceled its remaining winter State Series postseason tournaments, which include Boys Basketball, Scholastic Bowl, Drama & Group Interpretation, Music, Debate and Journalism, over concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Illinois Lottery Claim Centers : The Illinois Lottery announced that beginning Tuesday, March 17, 2020, all of its claim centers will be closed to the public until further notice. Winning players are encouraged to mail in their claims. If your claim is $600 or less, you can still visit your local Lottery retailer. Please visit the Lottery’s website to download a claim form and for more information on how to submit a claim through the mail. Winning tickets can also be claimed for up to 12 months after purchase. The Lottery will continue to post the most up-to-date information regarding its claim centers on its website.
Illinois State Museum Events: The Illinois State Museum announced the suspension of all programs, events and school group visits beginning March 12 and continuing through April 10 at its headquarters in Springfield and branch facilities.
Illinois State Museum: The museum announced the suspension of all programs, events and school group visits beginning Thursday, March 12, through Friday, April 10, 2020, at its headquarters in Springfield and branch facilities, Research and Collections Center, Dickson Mounds Museum, and Lockport Gallery.
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center: The National Park Service closed the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center until further notice. "At this time, the National Park Service, representing the Indiana Dunes National Park, has suspended all events from March 14 through March 22 and has closed the Paul H. Douglas Center. Events have also been canceled at the Porter County Museum, Memorial Opera House, Porter County Parks and the Porter County Expo Center until April 8."
Inspired Home Show: The Inspired Home Show, which was scheduled to take place March 14-17 at the McCormick Place in Chicago, was canceled. The show is one of the large annual events at McCormick Place and brings around 60,000 people from around the world to Chicago, said Danny Ecker with Crain's Chicago Business.
Inter-American Magnet School: School Gallery Walk and Student Talent Show Friday canceled.
Interrobang Theatre Project: The Remaining performances (March 14-28) of Here Lies Henry are canceled. "If you purchased tickets to shows beyond tonight’s performance, we will do our best to get you a refund as soon as possible," the statement issued Saturday said. "All of us at ITP are sending positivity and healing wishes to you all.”
James Beard Foundation: Annual awards (originally scheduled for Friday, April 24, in New York City) to be postponed until the summer, while other events are also being postponed such as the Leadership Awards (Sunday, May 3, in Chicago), and the Restaurant & Chef Awards (Monday, May 4, in Chicago). As of now, the nominee announcement will be made on March 25 from Philadelphia as scheduled.
Jasper County Airport: "Unfortunately, out of an abundance of caution and with a heavy heart, we have decided to cancel a few of our events, including the Rusty Pilot Seminar (scheduled for 3/28) and Aviation Career Day and Open House (scheduled for May 8th) this year. We strive to serve the needs of the community and the potential risk of spreading Covid-19 Corona Virus at one of our outreach events is not something we could bear. Any school or class that wants to learn more about aviation can reach out to me directly and I will go to the school to discuss aviation with the students."
Lake Bluff Government Agencies: The Park District and the Library will close their facilities and offices to the public Friday, March 13, until further notice. Lake Bluff School District 65 and Lake Forest High School District 115 have announced three-week closures affecting all Lake Bluff area students. The Village and the City of Lake Forest previously announced that Dickinson Hall, the area’s senior center, will suspend all programming until the end of March. Village offices will accept visitors only by prior appointment.
Lake County Forest Preserves: All programming at Lake County Forest Preserves has been canceled beginning at 5 p.m. March 13 and continuing through March 31. Educational facilities will be closed and volunteer restoration workdays canceled. Bathrooms in the Ryerson Welcome Center will remain open.
Latino Film Festival: The International Latino Cultural Center of Chicago will postpone the 36th Chicago Latino Film Festival to "a later date this year."
Lincoln Park Zoo: Closed through April 10. This includes programs and events scheduled. If you purchased a ticket/ registered for a program, look for an email. More info, here.
Logan Theatre: The Logan Theatre is closed until further notice.
Lyric Opera Chicago: On Friday, the venue informed that all three Ring cycles and the preceding two performances of Gotterdammerung are canceled. "Please bear with us as we work to provide you with the highest level of customer service and look towards a time in the near future when we can all come together to enjoy performances again," the statement read on their website.
Major League Soccer in United States: MLS, including the Chicago Fire, has suspended match play for 30 days.
Marriott Theatre-: As of Friday March 13 remaining performances of GREASE and THE PRINCESS & THE PEA are canceled. According to a Marriott statement, the box office will be reaching out to all customers on the manner.
McDonald's: McDonald’s is closing seating areas and playgrounds in an effort to stem the spread of coronavirus. Drive through and take-out orders will still be available. Self-service kiosk areas will also be closed, the company said.
McHenry County Correction Facility: "For the next 30 days while the front lobby of the McHenry County Corrections facility is closed to the public due to the precautions related to COVID-19, we have directed our video visitation vendor (ICSolutions), to let friends and family of those incarcerated in our facility, the ability to have one free video visitation, for 25 minutes, once per week. For instructions on how to accomplish a video visitation go to our website."
Metra: "Metra will begin operating an alternate weekday schedule on Monday, March 23, to adjust for the reduced number of riders due to school closures, work-from-home mandates and other consequences of the coronavirus pandemic. The alternate schedules can be viewed here. There will be changes for every line except the Heritage Corridor, which will operate its normal schedule."
On a line-by-line basis, Metra is monitoring ridership and may further reduce service to meet the ridership demands. The reduced schedules will remain in effect until health officials deem the crisis has passed and/or ridership begins to return to normal. Metra will operate on regular weekend schedules this weekend.
MLB Spring Training Games, Start of Season: Major League Baseball canceled the rest of its spring training game schedule due to the coronavirus on Thursday and delayed the start of the season by at least two weeks. This decision affects both the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox.
Millennium Park: All tours and events are canceled at Millennium Park until April 12.
Museum of Contemporary Photography: The museum will close "In Reel Life" early, beginning March 14. The building plans to reopen on April 9 with its next exhibition "Temporal: Puerto Rican Resistance."
Museum of Science and Industry: The Museum of Science and Industry announced a temporary closure beginning March 14 and continuing through April 6. “As an institution rooted in science, we are proactively taking this step based upon the facts,” David Mosena, president and CEO of the Museum, said in a statement. “While we have no known cases connected to MSI, we are closing to minimize the spread of this virus and to help ensure the safety and health of our students, guests, employees and their families."
Naperville St. Patrick's Day Parade and 5K: "Out of an abundance of caution for the health of our community and to eliminate unnecessary risk for the public, the City of Naperville is canceling the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and 5K run scheduled for this Saturday, March 14. The City will work with the organizers to find a possible date to hold these events in the future."
National Museum of Mexican Art: The museum will be closed from March 14 through March 29. Any programs during that time are postponed.
Naval Station Great Lakes suspends in-person graduation ceremony: Amid coronavirus concerns, the Navy’s boot camp in north suburban Chicago will prohibit guests from attending graduation ceremonies.
Navy Pier: To close to the public from Monday, March 16, through Thursday, April 2, "out of an abundance of precaution," pier officials said.
Navy Pier Holi Celebration: "Due to rising concerns related to the potential community spread of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) at high-volume events, and out of an abundance of precaution, Navy Pier has cancelled this Saturday’s [March 14] Holi celebration, which typically expects around 3,000 guests"
NBA Suspends Season: The NBA has suspended its season "until further notice" after a Utah Jazz player tested positive Wednesday for the coronavirus, a move that came only hours after the majority of the league's owners were leaning toward playing games without fans in arenas. Now there will be no games at all, at least for the time being. A person with knowledge of the situation said the Jazz player who tested positive was center Rudy Gobert. On Thursday ESPN reported that a second Jazz star, Donovan Mitchell also tested positive for the coronavirus.
NHL, Chicago Blackhawks: NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman announced the pause of the season amid concerns about the new coronavirus.
Northfield Village Facilities: The Village of Northfield will limit access to public buildings beginning March 16. No general walk-in traffic will be allowed.
Old St. Pat's Church cancels weekend events: This includes the Civic Celebration Mass and Brunch. Ticket holders will be contacted within the next week. The Shamrock'n the Block will also be postponed and tickets will be honored at the rescheduled event. To request a refund contact shamrockn@oldstpats.org."Like all of you, we are sorry that the world community is in this unique situation and we hope it will be resolved soon," the church said in a statement.
Oracle conference: Oracle canceled its upcoming conference in Chicago, set to be held at McCormick Place at March 24-26, according to the Chicago Tribune.
One of a Kind Show: The One of a Kind Show at theMART, scheduled for April 24-26, has been canceled.
Park Place Senior Center: On Saturday, a statement was issued saying the center is closed until further notice.
Due to the increased uncertainty, it is in the best interest of Waukegan Township to not have large gatherings or programs. The following events are canceled:
-Saturday's Expungement Summit in Mundelein, IL. - March 14
-Coalition to Reduce Recidivism Public Meeting Monday - March 16
-Eddie Washington Center Graduation Saturday - March 21
-The Artis Yancey HBCU tour March 22 - 29
PAWS Chicago' Animal Magnetism fundraising event: The March 13 event, which was scheduled to be held at Morgan manufacturing in the West Loop, has been canceled. “As an organization dedicated to saving lives, we place the health and safety of our animals, staff, volunteers, and supporters and community as the highest priority. It’s disappointing to cancel an event that historically means so much to our ability to save vulnerable animals,” said Paula Fasseas, founder and chair of PAWS Chicago.
Pride in the Park: The June 27-28 Pride In The Park is canceled due to concerns over the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
"This decision was not easy but after much consideration, we have decided to postpone Pride in the Park until June 26th and 27th 2021," organizer Dusty Carpenter.
Purdue University Northwest: Institution cancels Preview PNW events at both campuses for Saturday, March 28 and at our Hammond campus on Saturday, April 18.
Ramenfest: Cornerstone Restaurant Group announced that Ramenfest will be postponed after it was set to take place at the Time Out Market on MArch 29. A rescheduled date has not yet been announced.
Rainbow Push Coalition: The Rainbow Push Coalition building will be sloed March 14 and a Rev. Jesse Jackson will tape his Saturday broadcast. The building is expected to reopen on March 16.
Rivers Casino Des Plaines: Rivers Casino in Des Plaines will suspend its operations Sunday, March 15, for 14 days amid the coronavirus outbreak, casino officials announced in a news release Friday.
The decision to suspend operations was made out of an abundance of caution and in line with the recommendation of health officials. The casino will continue normal payroll for its team members during the 14-day suspension, officials said.
Schaumburg Township District Library programming: Schaumburg Township District Library is closing all locations beginning March 13 at 5 p.m. The Library anticipates reopening on March 30 for regularly scheduled hours. The library has also canceled all programs, meeting room reservations and Outreach Services, including home deliveries and visits to senior living facilities, through March 31.
Second City Theatre: All Chicago performances will be suspended starting Friday until March 26. Ticket holders for all Second City Chicago performances scheduled during that time are invited to contact the box office at 312-337-3992 or via live chat at secondcity.com.
Sephora: "We have made the difficult decision to close all of our retail stores in the US and Canada and implement remote working for employees in our corporate offices from 5:00 p.m. local time Tuesday, March 17 through Friday, April 3. During this time, we remain committed to serving our clients. Visit the website for more details. "
Shedd Aquarium: Shedd Aquarium will continue to remain closed to the public through April 20 as part of city and statewide preventative measures to limit the additional spread and transmission of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). During this period, all scheduled events and programs will be cancelled but may be rescheduled.
“We have a responsibility to communities, schoolchildren, staff, volunteers and more to do our part to help protect the public’s health by temporarily supporting the effort for social distancing,” Dr. Bridget Coughlin, president and CEO of Shedd Aquarium, said in a statement. “We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the aquarium soon to continue to spark compassion, curiosity and conservation for the aquatic animal world.”
Social Security Services: "All local Social Security offices are closed to the public for in-person service as of Tuesday, March 17, 2020. This decision protects the populations we serve—older Americans and people with underlying medical conditions—and our employees during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. However, we are still able to provide critical services."
Please visit the Social Security & Coronavirus webpage to get updates on the latest, including how to get help from the Social Security Administration by phone and online.
Starbucks Reserve: Roasteries in Seattle, Chicago and New York City are temporarily closed starting Tuesday, March 17. "We do not have a reopening date to share at this time. As we all know, the situation with COVID-19 is extremely dynamic and we will continue to review the facts and science and work with local authorities to make the proactive decisions necessary to protect our partners, customers and communities."
St. Charles' St. Patrick's Day Parade: "Following the news of the Chicago & Southside St. Patrick's Parade cancellation, the St. Charles St. Patrick's Parade is CANCELLED. All parade entries & participants will be contacted by the Alliance staff."
Stern Pinball's Pro Circuit Championship, Arcade and Beer Fest: The festival, set to take place at Lagunitas Brewery on March 21, will be postponed to a later date. Tickets will be valid for the rescheduled date.
Suburban Chicago National College Fair: "In light of growing concerns about the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) has cancelled eight of its spring National College Fairs."
Susan G. Komen® Chicago Race for the Cure: "Komen Chicago has made the difficult decision in partnership with our event management team, the City of Chicago, and local public health authorities to postpone our Race for the Cure in Chicago. We are working with the City to determine future event dates and will share updates as we learn more. We encourage you to visit these FAQs for the most up-to-date information."
Susan G. Komen® Chicago Metastatic Breast Cancer Conference: Komen Chicago has decided to reschedule the 3rd Annual Metastatic Breast Cancer Conference to August 21-22, 2020 due to the current coronavirus/COVID-19 developments and emerging outbreaks. "We apologize for the inconvenience, however, protecting the health and safety of the attendees, speakers, volunteers and staff are priority. Please continue to check this page for the most up to date information."
The Gift Theatre: The Pillowman performances are suspended effective immediately Saturday, the statement said the revival was scheduled to tun through March 29.
The Peninsula Hotel: "On March 17, we made the difficult decision to temporarily suspend services at The Peninsula Chicago due to public health concerns over the COVID-19 coronavirus. The safety and security of our guests and employees remains our highest priority. No reservations will be available until further notice. We will keep our guests updated as soon as we are able to welcome them back to enjoy The Peninsula’s warm hospitality and service."
Time Out Market Chicago: The market will be closed Monday morning and will remain shutdown as long as required to support the efforts to contain the spread of the coronavirus, according to a news release.
University of Chicago events: All speaker series events through April 15, a D.C. Spring Break Trek and the Detroit-Flint Trek, both scheduled for March 22-25, and the Bridging the Divide Trek, scheduled for April 3-5, have all been canceled. In additional, "non-essential travel is prohibited and events where more than 100 people are expected to gather are canceled effective immediately through April 15," the university said.
University of Chicago Medicine: No visitors allowed due to coronavirus pandemic. "Parents/guardians of our pediatric patients and partners of patients in our Family Birth Center will still be allowed," the statement said Saturday. "Patients with outpatient appointments and procedures can have one adult accompany them. No visitors under 18 will be allowed. Limited exceptions may be granted. In all cases, visitors will be required to undergo a health screening. Anyone with a fever, cough, or flu-like illness will not be allowed."
Village of Deerfield: Deerfield is closing all Village buildings, except for its police station, through April 1. All public meetings will also be canceled during that time.
Woodridge Census Events: Canceled events include the Census STEM Family Fun Day on March 21, the Senior Census Lunch at the Library on April 1 and the Census Breakfast at the Park District on April 10.
Woodstock Opera House & Stage Left Cafe: All public performances and activities will close beginning March 16 and continuing through April 13. Performances of "Matilda the Musical" will go on as planned on March 13, 14 and 15, however.
World Kidney Day event: "Out of an abundance of caution to protect our constituents' health, the [National Kidney Foundation of Illinois] and Chicago State University have made the decision to postpone our World Kidney Day event originally scheduled for March 12th."
