PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Ah yes, the Cubby Bear, where the party is sure to continue whether the Cubs win or lose, the Miller runs $5 a can (though no one complains out loud), and it seems that everybody in there needs to have their ID's double checked, due to the overwhelmingly young crowd. Even with its frat boy and trixie flaws, this bar is a must do after the game and has been a local institution for decades, even way back in the day when Wrigleyville was far from a hip place to see and be seen. Nice big tvs dot the overhead landscape, so no matter where you are, you can be sure you can see the game, just in case you left the bleachers a couple innings early. The bar staff knows a thing or two about mixing a decent drink, but don't expect the service to be exceedingly swift. Even so, it still is a pretty cool sports bar overall.

The Cubby Bear is also legendary as hosting some great underground bands of all genres and calipers. The intimate stage allows folks to get up close and personal with their favorites. Now while I personally find it to be a badge of honor, it can get pretty loud in there, so be prepared to have that after show ringing going on in your ears after a show.

If you want to actually feel your legs and hold a decent conversation with your buds, stop by on an off season weekday. The food is nothing special, but the people in there will be a little more mature (on all levels!) and it really is a great sports bar. This is also one of the places in town that hosts live band karaoke on Wednesday nights, which really knocks up the rock star status a few notches for the daring few, and it tends to make mediocre singers sound a whole lot better.

So yes, make no mistake, they're definitely open year round, because the Cubby Bear does not believe in waiting 'til next year to have a good time.