"Dumpling experts and novices can celebrate the impending Year of the Rat at the Chicago Chinese Cultural Institute’s 16th annual dumpling making dinner at 3:30 p.m. on January 18 and February 1, according to a news release. Diners can also expect a full meal that includes Kung Pao chicken, Mongolian beef, and braised bean curd with black mushroom, and more. Tickets ($45 per adult, $40 per child) are available online for the celebratory dinner." - Naomi Waxman