Celebrating its storied 50th anniversary, the annual University of Chicago Folk Festival moves into Mandel Hall, 1131 E. 57th, for three nights of concerts plus daytime workshops, dances and jam sessions tonight through Sunday, Feb. 12 to 14. Among this year's performers: Kim Wilson, Kurt Bjorling and Jim Stoynoff, the New Mules, Liz Carroll and friends, Aaron Moore and the James King Band. For a schedule of performances and other events, visit www.uofcfolk.org; to purchase tickets, visit the Mandel Hall box office or call (773) 702-7300.

Otherworldly music isn't just for Halloween, and Chicago's reigning Goth DJ Scary Lady Sarah will preside over two holiday events this weekend. Nocturna's "New Loves & Broken Hearts Valentine's Ball" takes place at Metro, 3730 N. Clark, starting at 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13 ($10 cover), and "Shimmer: A Shoegaze/Dreampop Valentine's Dance" starts at 10 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 14, at Darkroom, 2210 W. Chicago (admission is free). For more information, visit www.americangothicprod.com.