A Star Spangled Scene

With so much stuff going on this holiday weekend, I'm not going to overwhelm you, so here's The List for my top best bets:

WEDNESDAY

If you're planning a BBQ this weekend and need tips, head to the Green City Market for a demo by chef Kurt Chenier of Bonsoiree. That happens at 10:30am, but the market is open 7:30am-1:30pm for locally grown and sustainable produce. Free.

A Special Benefit for the Troops, taking place at Manor, honors those fighting for us in Iraq. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Heroes Foundation. 9-10pm cocktail reception. 9pm-2am. $10 donation.

The Made in the USA Sparkling Wine Festival at Pops for Champagne gives props to 15 of the country's top sippers, with tasting glass portions beginning at $6. Guests can enjoy wine from Domaine Carneros, Mumm Cuvee Napa, Roederer Estate and Schramsberg. Executive Chef Andrew Brochu is also whipping up Baby Back Ribs with peach barbecue sauce and coleslaw. 3pm-2am.

THURSDAY

Godfather of House Music Frankie Knuckles performs during his annual holiday party, The Gift, this time happening at Green Dolphin Street. Thank god it's here because his parties get steaming hot and GDS's outdoor patio is the perfect spot to cool off. 9pm-4am. Free.

Hot new River North eatery and lounge Hub 51 hosts a benefit for Starlight Midwest, which assists seriously ill children. $30 gets you an open bar all night long. Doors open at 10pm.

FRIDAY

It's time for the 8th Annual 4th of July DayRa Sunset Boat Party, hosted by Music 101 and Miguel Castro. Entertainment includes deejay Lady D, a live performance by FFM and fireworks on Navy Pier. Ticket includes three hours of premium open bar, hors d'oeuvres, transportation to and from the boat, and complimentary admission to Lumen for the after party. Guests must meet at Lumen between 5-7pm for bus transportation. $75 in advance; $95 the day of the event.

Super hot actor/model Boris Kodjoe hosts a holiday party and fashion show at Joe's. The event also includes a performance by legendary New York deejay Kid Capri. 9pm-4am. $20 and up.

SATURDAY

All week long, hip Wicker Park sushi lounge Blu Coral is offering red, white and blue sushi and drink specials. We're especially lovin' the Star Spangled Special of Alaskan, Unagi and exotic crunch signature makis and three pieces of oven-baked sake for $30.

SUNDAY

Reservations are still available at Singha's, the city's only authentic Brazilian brunch. Guests may settle in the lower-level dining room or on the spacious outdoor patio and indulge in homestyle Brazilian delights made all on premises. There's also a Brazilian Carnival show with dancers in traditional costumes and an Argentine Tango performance. 2-6pm. $30 for all you can eat.

And cheer on our Chicago Machine lacrosse team—who just won against Denver on Sunday!—as they take on the Los Angeles Riptide. Game starts at 3:30pm at Toyota Park (7100 S. Harlem Ave. in Bridgeview), but they've set it up so you can take a "booze cruiser" from Duffy's Tavern that includes food and beer. Bus leaves Duffy's at 2:30. $25.