Early bird gets the vodka.

EAT
Brunch at Bangers & Lace
What: Wicker Park’s late-night haunt opens early to cure the hangover it probably caused.
Why: Sausage pancakes and bangers and hash soak up mixologist Matt Eggleston’s spicy Machete Bloody Marys.
When: Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 1670 W. Division St., at Paulina St. (773-252-6499).

HELP
Virtually Home’s Sexy Black Benefit
What: Drinks, sandwiches, tote bags, and a chance to help the local animal-rescue org.
Why: Black pups and cats have the lowest adoption rate and the highest euthanasia rate. Really.
When: Sat., 7-10 p.m.
Where: Gold Star Bar, 1755 W. Division St., b/t Wood St. & Hermitage Ave. (773-227-8700). Admission is $20.

APRES-SKI
Chalet Nights at Pierrot Gourmet
What: Just $19 gets you rich, three-cheese fondue with mountain bread and a petite salade.
Why: New look (Swiss lodge), new chef (Tony Schmidt), and brandy to end the eve.
When: Every Thurs. thru Mar. 31.
Where: The Peninsula Chicago, 108 E. Superior St., at Rush St. (312-573 6749). Reservations are not accepted. A minimum of two guests is required.

BARE IT
Save at Lustre Skin Boutique
What: Down-there waxing on the cheap at Bucktown’s organic day spa.
Why: Brazilians for $40 (reg. $60), bikinis for $25 (reg. $35).
When: Thru Feb. 28. Thurs. & Fri., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., noon-5 p.m.
Where: 1755 N. Damen Ave., at Willow St. To make an appt. (required), call 773-278-8777.

DRESS DOWN
Nana’s Pajama Brunch
What: Show up to Bridgeport’s organic resto in your pj’s for a free mimosa or hot chocolate. A $25 gift card goes to the best in show.
Why: Roasted apple gingerbread pancakes taste better in a nightie.
When: Sat., 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 3267 S. Halsted St., at 33rd St. (312-929-2486).

Photo: MookieLuv / Flickr