Wednesday morning, hours before sunrise, I happened upon this WKQX promotion called “Epic 48” on PD Troy Hanson’s Facebook page:

The promotion, which begins on 8/6, is a 48-hour “Chicago bucket list” promotion—kind of an updated Ferris Bueller’s Day Off—offers the Grand Prize winner and guest the following experiences, all within 48 hours:

1. A visit to an escape room with Rise Against
2. Two Harley Davidson motorcycles (which the winner can keep beyond the 48 hours)
3. An hour on-air as a guest DJ with Tim Virgin
4. A culinary experience with Iron Chef’s Stephanie Izard (my favorite chef in Chicago)
5. A boat cruise on Lake Michigan
6. VIP and on-field experience with Fall Out Boy at Wrigley Field
7. A flight to Nashville that night for a private tour of Third Man Records
8. $1,000 cash

All that’s missing is a lunch reservation under the name Abe Froman (the Sausage King of Chicago) and chance to serenade Mia Sara on a parade float.

This promotion especially impressed me because it pays homage to Chicago and truly offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I emailed Troy to ask him how it came to be; here’s his response:

“This promotion, like many others in radio, is the product of stealing someone else’s strong idea. Props to the crew at Z90.3 in San Diego, who set a huge bar on this phat concept. We’ve put our Chicago & Alternative format spin on it to create a unique set of experiences and personal touches to leave both the winners and non-winners with an “Oh wow” that sets our brand apart from everyone in town. Plus, I like chicken and beer.”