Cookie Policy
Last updated: June 2026
What Are Cookies
Cookies are small text files that a website stores on your device when you visit. They're used to remember information about you — like whether you're logged in — so the site works correctly on your next visit. Cookies can be “session cookies” that disappear when you close your browser, or “persistent cookies” that remain until they expire or you delete them.
Cookies We Use
We keep our cookie usage minimal and purposeful. ChicagoAfterFive sets only two cookies:
caf5-session— An httpOnly session cookie used for authentication. This cookie is essential for keeping you logged in while you navigate the platform. It cannot be read by JavaScript and is never used for tracking.theme— A functional cookie that stores your dark or light mode preference so the platform respects your choice on each visit.
We do not set any third-party advertising cookies or tracking pixels.
Analytics
We use Umami for analytics — a privacy-first tool that does not use cookies. Umami collects no personally identifiable information and does not track individual users across sessions or sites. IP addresses are anonymized before any data is recorded. Analytics are aggregated and used only to understand how people use the platform so we can improve it.
localStorage
Your preferences — including favorite neighborhoods, vibes, and price range — are stored in your browser's localStorage, not in cookies. localStorage data never leaves your device unless you're signed in, in which case preferences are optionally synced to our servers so they persist across devices. You can clear your stored preferences at any time from your settings page, or by clearing your browser's site data.
Third-Party Services
We use Stripe to process payments for subscriptions, Plan My Night, and venue promotions. During checkout, Stripe may set its own cookies on your device to facilitate secure payment processing and fraud prevention. These cookies are governed by Stripe's own policies — see stripe.com/cookies for details.
Managing Cookies
You can control and delete cookies through your browser settings. Most browsers allow you to block all cookies, accept only certain cookies, or clear existing cookies. Keep in mind that disabling the caf5-session cookie will prevent you from staying logged in — you'll need to sign in again each time you visit.
Browser-specific instructions for managing cookies can usually be found in your browser's help documentation.
Changes to This Policy
We may update this cookie policy from time to time as the platform evolves. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated date at the top. We encourage you to check back periodically.
Contact
If you have questions about how we use cookies: support@chicagoafterfive.com