Human Rights Campaign's summer gala "Beyond" is July 28 at McCormick Place Lakeside Center. Call 800-494-TIXS. See www.hrcillinois.org .
Northalsted Market Days, the largest street festival in the midwest, is Aug. 4-5. There will be more than 300 booths representing area businesses and organizations, food and entertainment with performances by Scott Free, Valerie James, Patty Elvis, Chicago Kings, Sean Wiggins, Judybats, Sophie B. Hawkins and many more. Along Halsted from Barry to West Sheridan, ( 773 ) 883-0500.
Chicago Black Lesbians and Gays hosts a planning meeting for Unity Conference 2001: Engage Embrace Togetherness. Saturday, July 28, 9:30 a.m., 4556 Broadway, ( 312 ) 409-4917.
HIVCO presents a benefit concert for the HIV Coalition with modern rock band Poundseven and special guests Sono and Ditch Farulla, July 28, 8 p.m., Beat Kitchen, 2100 W. Belmont.
The Anti-Cruelty Society sponsors Let's Pet Together, a series of casual social gatherings where humans who like animals can meet each other. Proceeds benefit spay/neuter programs. July 26, 5:30-7:30 p.m., The Erie Cafe, 536 W. Erie, ( 312 ) 644-8338.