Hit the Road

This weekend marks the beginning of Taste of Chicago (Grant Park, Jackson Blvd. and Columbus Drive), the largest food and music festival in the U.S. The 10-day event is free to the public, but if deep-dish isn't your forte, the Windy City's live music offerings are sure to satisfy your hunger for nostalgia. Friday night, the Go-Go's take the stage at the House of Blues (329 North Dearborn Street, 312-923-2000), or check out Huey Lewis and the News and Chicagoat the Charter One Pavilion (1300 South Lynn White Drive, 312-540-2667) Saturday night. Come on — see Chicago, in Chicago. Admit it, you're compelled. Then, what's the Fourth of July week without some fireworks? The massive pyrotechnics and local music acts on Tuesday at the Navy Pier (600 East Grand) are reason enough to squander those sick days you've been hoarding.