It’s time for another edition of weekend passport, where we help you find a way to experience another country without having to buy a plane ticket.

Today we’re heading to the Congo. Toussaint Kafahire Murhula, originally from the Congo, joins Worldview to tell us about three big events happening in Chicago this weekend. He’s one of the organizers of the festivities, which revolve around the theme, Reclaiming the Congo.

First up is a free cultural event at Alliance Francaise. From 6:30-9:30pm, join Toussaint and many others in a celebration of Congolese art. The event includes an original poetry reading (en Francais), music, and the reading of a play by a Congolese author. Presenters explore the art of healing and reclaimation of destiny through Congolese culture.

The second event explores Congo’s politics. On Saturday, University of Illinois-Chicago is hosting a day-long conference from 8:00-5:00. The event features four panels and explores many topics including geo-politics of natural resources, the region’s economy, the country’s history and it’s people. The event features a long list of accomplished guest speakers.

And finally, the celebration. After a long day of thinking about how to re-shape foreign policy, attendees get to know another side of Congo: the food. Le Duo Dynamique will cater a traditional Congolese dinner at Loyola University’s Ignatius House. Dinner starts at 7:00pm. You can register online and pay $15 in advance or $20 at the door.

Happy travels!