Two Way Street Coffee House is Chicagoland’s most beloved folk and acoustic music venue, presenting weekly concerts and community events for over 50 years!
On Friday, October 2, 2026 Two Way Street Coffee House Friday Night Concert Series presents an Open Mic.
Some of the most memorable nights at the Two Way Street Coffee House are Open Mic nights. For more than 55 years, musicians and music lovers have gathered at Two Way Street to share songs, discover new talent, and celebrate live acoustic music.
You never know who will walk through the door—seasoned performers, first-time songwriters, touring artists trying out new material, or community favorites returning to share a song. Every Open Mic offers an evening of music, surprises, and community in one of Chicagoland’s most welcoming listening rooms.
Whether you’re performing or simply coming to listen, all are welcome. Join us for an evening that celebrates creativity, connection, and the spirit of live acoustic music.
MORE INFO HERE
Heritage Matinee Series - October 4, 2026
Join us Sunday, October 4 at 3:00 PM for the next Heritage Matinee at Two Way Street Coffee House, featuring Mark Dvorak, Ashley & Simpson, James Curley, and Tom Orland. Settle in for an afternoon of songs, stories, harmonies, humor, and the folk traditions that continue to inspire new music today.
The Heritage Matinee Series is a benefit for Two Way Street: 100% of free-will donations support our programming and operations. Doors open at 2:30 PM, and the concert will also be livestreamed on twowaystreet.org, Facebook, and YouTube.
MORE INFO HERE
Fifth Saturdays with Fox Valley Folklore Society Storytellers
A Halloween 5th Saturday: Murder Ballads
There are stories hidden inside songs—and songs waiting to be discovered inside stories. Join us on Halloween afternoon, Saturday, October 31, for Murder Ballads: From Song to Story or Story to Song, a hands-on creative writing workshop presented with the Fox Valley Folklore Society.
Led by Carolyn Thomas-Daviodoff, Ursa Miles, and Pamela Schumacher, participants will explore the history and traditions of murder ballads and experiment with turning a traditional ballad into an original story—or a story into a ballad. No previous writing, storytelling, songwriting, or singing experience is required.
Saturday, October 31 | 1:00–3:30 p.m. | $25
Barn Dances are Back! Join us October 18, 2026!
The Plank Road Folk Music Society and the Two Way Street Coffee House invite you to join us for an old time barn dance on October 18, 2026 at 2pm CT.
The Plank Road String Band celebrates a form of music and dance that has endured for centuries. These dances, and the music that accompanies them, bring people together in a family-friendly environment. The simple joy of joining together and sharing this old-time tradition will bring a smile to your face — while providing a welcome break from the routines of our busy lives.
ENJOY a fun-filled evening of music and dancing for the entire family! The Plank Road String Band will provide lively music, and a caller will walk you through all the dances at our No Experience Necessary Old Time Barn Dance–squares, lines, reels, waltzes, and more! Tables will be set up around the edge of the room for visiting with friends and enjoying music between dances. Our dances are informal, with no costumes needed—in fact, you don’t even have to bring a partner!
Come watch. Come listen. Come dance!
Nordic Jams and Dances Return!
Join Our Nordic Music Jam!
Learn and share tunes from the Nordic countries in a warm, welcoming setting, first Thursday of each month! This is a teaching jam where we’ll teach, review, and play tunes in the aural tradition—by ear. All instruments, ages, and experience levels are welcome, and recording is encouraged.
The jam is facilitated by Mary Allsopp of Chicago Spelmanslag. Many of the tunes will be featured at our Nordic Dance nights, and musicians are invited to join in for an extra review and to learn about playing for dance.
Join Us for Nordic Dance and Music!
Come experience the joy of Scandinavian dance and live music on October 18, 2026 at the Two Way Street Coffee House, 1047 Curtiss Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515.
We’ll begin the evening at 6 pm with an hour of easy, welcoming community dances, and no partner is needed—just bring your enthusiasm! Soon after 7 pm, we’ll move to an advanced format to support those already experienced in pols, polska and springar type turning dances. $5 donation. Thank you for bringing your water bottle.
Dancing is led by Roo Lester, a knowledgeable and engaging teacher known for her clear, upbeat style. Whether you’re new to Nordic dance or have experience, Roo makes everyone feel welcome with her fun and easy-to-follow instruction, blending technique, styling, and cultural background.
Enjoy live music coordinated by Mary Allsopp and friends, bringing the spirit of Scandinavian folk traditions to life.
Last Thursday Open Mic - October 294, 2026
Attention High School & College-Age Musicians, Poets, and Performance Artists!
It’s Your Turn to Shine—Every Last Thursday of the Month!
On October 4, 2026 at 7pm, step into the spotlight at Two Way Street Coffee House, one of the best-loved acoustic venues in the Chicago area. Whether you’re a singer-songwriter, poet, guitarist, or spoken word performer, this is your space to be heard.
MORE INFO HERE
Conveniently located in Downers Grove, Two Way Street Coffee House is Chicagoland’s most beloved folk and acoustic music venue, presenting weekly concerts and community events since 1970!
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