Get free tickets to The Vampire Diaries Official Convention on April 6th at the Westin O’Hare Convention Center in Rosemont.

In its fourth season, The Vampire Diaries continues to captivate viewers with mysterious creatures and supernatural drama. The town of Mystic Falls lands in Chicago on April 6. Spend the day seeing some of the show’s biggest, most popular stars. Be charmed by all of your favorite Vampire Diaries characters, from Steven R. McQueen (Jeremy) to Nathaniel Buzolic (Kol) and Charlie Bewley (Vaughn, member of The Five). Plus, Candice Accola will be making her first appearance on the official convention tour. You’ll also have the opportunity to buy and bring home souvenirs from the hit show that’s scored 30 Teen Choice Award nominations.

Free tickets to the International Gem and Jewelry Show at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont on May 10, 11 and 12.

This is the most dazzling display of gems, jewelry, beads, accessories and minerals you’ll ever see under one roof. Since the 1960s, the acclaimed International Gem and Jewelry Show has been bringing the largest selection of jewelry at the lowest prices to locations across the country — and now the show is back in town. You can expect to find colored gemstones, exquisite fine jewelry, gold and silver earrings, necklaces and bracelets, beads and crystals, ethnic jewelry, classic pearls, vintage estate jewelry, engagement rings and wedding bands, designer watches and one-of-a-kind seasonal pieces. With a huge selection and special show pricing direct from worldwide designers and manufacturers, this show is perfect for gem enthusiasts, jewelry lovers and those of us looking for unique new accessories at a great price.

Meditate for Non-Violence With Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on March 28th at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont.

He’s not the famed Indian sitar musician, but this award-winning spiritual leader, humanitarian and founder of the Art of Living Foundation is an important figure in his home country and across the globe. In fact, Forbes named Sri Sri Ravi Shankar as one of the five most influential people in India in 2010. Now he visits Chicago to kick off an important non-violence initiative with this event, where he’ll also lead a guided meditation and participate in an audience Q&A. The evening is set to include musical performances and students sharing inspirational stories about what non-violence means to them.