Eat outings

THU 12
At Stretch Run’s Fall Beer Festival, every vote counts: After sampling beers like Magic Hat, Fat Tire and Harpoon (all while filling up on pulled pork), attendees will vote for their favorite. The winner will be added to the bar’s drink list permanently, so choose carefully. And may the best beer win. 544 N LaSalle Dr (312-644-4477). 6–8pm, $10.

FRI 13
If you don’t know Bertha Mason, it’s time you became familiar with the pie-baking drag queen. Do so at Loaves and the Dishes—A Delicious Midwestern Church Supper, where Mason will serve the church potluck of your childhood—only better. Holy Trinity Church, 1218 W Addison St (312-239-8570). 7pm; $25–30.

SAT 14
Cue the “I’m not drinking any fucking merlot” jokes: Pinot Days Chicago has returned. The fest boasts 300 wines from regions like the Russian River and Willamette Valley. It also offers nibbles from local purveyors (though we think the most perfect pairing with pinot is more pinot). Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave (pinotdays.com). 1–5pm, $50.

SUN 15
No more showing up empty-handed at Grandma’s house on Turkey Day: Today, Marché chef Cory Peterson is teaching a class on Thanksgiving cooking. Learn how to roast the bird, mash the sweet potatoes and not screw up the wild rice stuffing and gravy—all with a mimosa in hand. 833 W Randolph St (312-226-8399). 11:30am–1pm, $30.

MON 16
Get hands-on with chef Paul Virant at Vie’s Thanksgiving cooking class. But don’t expect any roasted turkey—Virant is teaching duck and quail this year, as well as some root vegetable sides. Best part: After you cook the food, you sit down and eat it. 4471 Lawn Ave, Western Springs (708-246-2082). 9:45am–1:30pm, $120.

TUE 17
Whole Foods is hosting Cooking on a Budget —teaching the secrets to cooking and penny-pinching simultaneously. And what better way to start saving money than to attend a class that’s completely free? 3640 N Halsted St (Registration is necessary. Call: 773-472-0400). 7pm.

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