If you think puppets are just for kids, head out to the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival and prepare to be amazed. The second bi-annual event will feature talented puppetry artists from Chicago, across the country and all over the globe, for 11 days of performances and workshops.

Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival: January 19–29

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Chicago will transform into the puppetry capital of the world with contemporary puppetry shows at cultural venues throughout the city. The fest will showcase 24 presenting partners, 25 artists from seven countries at 22 venues for a total of 90 performances.

In addition a free Neighborhood Festival Tour will supply 18 performances in six neighborhoods at venues that include Navy Pier, Chicago Cultural Center and Garfield Park Conservatory.

Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival: January 19–29

Visit chicagopuppetfest.org for the complete lineup, which also includes a number of kid-friendly performances such as “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” and “Plastique”.