Hot damn. Summer’s almost over. Get cooking, folks. Betty Crocker’s weekend plans were never half-baked.

GO
The Chopping Block Opening
What: Cooking school and gourmet store lands downtown.
Why: Blend culinary, social, and shopping skills.
When: Thurs., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: The Merchandise Mart, suite 107, at Wells & Kinzie Sts. (312-644-6360).

Chicago International Toy and Game Fair
What: Build an eight-foot-tall Jenga tower.
Why: Spoon in muscle power. Let stand.
When: Fri., 4-10 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Navy Pier, Festival Hall A, Second fl., Grand Ave. & Lake Shore Dr. (312-595-PIER).

BUY
Polo Ralph Lauren Northbrook
What: Classic clothier dresses up the North Shore.
Why: New store adds a dash of haberdashery.
When: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 2171 Northbrook Ct., #1158, at County Line Rd., Northbrook (847-205-9837).

EAT
Cork Wine Bar & Cafe
What: More than 150 bottles, most less than $50.
Why: Drain your glass, not your bank account.
When: Daily, 5 p.m.-midnight.
Where: 4343 N. Lincoln Ave., b/t Montrose & Pensacola Aves. (773-477-8820).

DO
Channel Your Inner Domestic Diva
What: Wilton’s Second Annual Your Take on Cake Decorating Contest.
Why: Decorate cake. Snap photo. Send pic.
When: The next rainy day (before Sept. 30).
Where: Your kitchen.

Today in DailyCandy Everywhere: how to help victims of Hurricane Katrina.