New Events
Upcoming Programs
Each year, we present four to six public programs, in-person or by video format.
The topics and presenters are appealing and diverse. Recent presenters have offered insights about community pioneers and early leaders; immigration patterns and neighborhood changes; the old synagogues of Chicago’s West and South Sides, along with newer ones of the North Side and suburbs; Jews and organized crime; Jewish accomplishments in art, music, literature, science, sports, and politics; and many more fascinating subjects.
Upcoming ProgramS
A Joint CJHS – Jewish Genealogical Society of Illinois Program
“From the Basement of the Shul to the Basement of City Hall: Uncovering the Records of Oak Park’s Jewish Community”
With Michael Zmora
Temple Beth-El, 3610 Dundee Road, Northbrook
Sunday, August 30, 2026
1 p.m. social hour, 2 p.m. program
Offered in-person and online
“Jewish Builders of Chicago”
in conjunction with the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC)
This new tour explores how Jewish architects, developers, and civic leaders shaped Chicago’s iconic landmarks and its commercial and cultural landscape across generations. The 1.5-hour walking tour includes London House Chicago, Marina City, the Nederlander Theatre, Chicago Loop Synagogue, and many other significant sites.
Thursday, October 8, 2026, 11:30 a.m.
Place: The tour begins at the Chicago Architecture Center,
111 East Wacker Drive, and ends at Millenium Park.
Fee: $30/person
To register:
Go to CJHS Donor page. Select “Other” and pay $30 for one person, $60 for two, and so on.
In the Notes section, please indicate that payment is for the October 8 CAC tour, as well as the names of tour participants. CJHS will confirm your registration within one week of your payment. Deadline for registration is September 23. Read more about it here.
“Jewish Chicago 1833 to 1948 and Jewish Chicago 1948 and Beyond”
Journalist and producer Dan Protess will provide updates to his eponymous WTTW program, screen a segment from the original broadcast, and discuss recent developments in Chicago’s Jewish community.
Sunday, November 1, 2026, 2 p.m.
Place: Evanston Public Library, 1703 Orrington Avenue, Evanston.
No registration necessary. Those planning to attend are encouraged to arrive by 1:45 p.m. There is ample metered parking, free on Sundays, on streets surrounding the library and at nearby garages.
Fee: Free
Virtual and hybrid programs, via Zoom, are free to all participants. In-person programs are free for members – another membership benefit. (Non-members pay an entrance fee for in-person programs, when specified.)
Our virtual and hybrid programs are recorded and archived for free viewing.