Events in Champaign

Salvation Army Youth Night at Chick Fil A!

This community night at Chick-fil-A in Champaign raises funds for Salvation Army youth programming. Proceeds help support local programs and outreach, weekly youth gatherings, and youth retreats and camps. The evening combines good food with a friendly atmosphere and a chance to give back.

Chick-fil-A Champaign

3D Printing for Adults

Adults can learn the basics of 3D printing at the library while creating a personalized keychain in TinkerCad. After the design is complete, the library will print it on its 3D printer for pickup later in the week. Reserve a spot by signing up online or by calling 217-403-2000. There is no cost to attend.

Parkland College Theatre Productions

Parkland Jazz Combo Spring Concert

An evening of classic and contemporary jazz fills the Parkland College Second Stage Theatre as the Parkland Jazz Combo takes the stage. The program features music by Benny Carter, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Jimmy Smith, and others. Admission is free. Directed by Kevin Hart, who also performs on piano and vibraphone, the ensemble includes special guest bassist Josh Houchin, with Tim Holl on alto saxophone, Jacob Poole on trombone, Jakob Schifo on guitar and vocals, and James Kinsella on drums.

Champaign, IL, United States

Champaign Vegan Chef Challenge

A month-long celebration of new vegan dishes is happening across Champaign as local businesses feature special plant-based menu items created by skilled chefs. Visit participating restaurants to try exclusive offerings, then share your experience by voting, commenting, posting photos, and tagging @veganchefchallengeMW. Everyone is welcome, not just vegans. The focus is on bringing the community together around great food and supporting Champaign chefs. Volunteer opportunities are available for those interested in helping with outreach, event promotion, and community building throughout the month. Details on participating businesses, menus, sponsorship opportunities, and more are available from the organizers.

After School Club

Elementary-aged students can take part in after-school activities at Rantoul Public Library that spark creativity and curiosity. Projects include art and craft making along with simple science activities, offering a hands-on way to learn and create.

Rantoul Public Library

Club Fred

Hang out after school for games, activities, and more.

Coop Panera fundraiser

Enjoy a delicious dinner while supporting a worthy cause. Dine out and make a positive impact simply by sharing a meal.

Hill Street East

Family STEM Nights

This family-focused evening offers hands-on science hosted by Illinois Science Explorers, the University of Illinois science outreach initiative. Kids and adults explore interactive experiments and engaging STEM activities together, inspiring curiosity and creativity. Free pizza is provided. Admission is free, and registration is required.

Martens Center

80’s Movie Trivia Night

A trivia night in the Mezzanine spotlights movies from the 1980s with multiple rounds of questions. Teams of up to six can participate, and dinner and drinks are available from the Farmhouse. Each round winner receives a $5 gift card, and the team with the highest total points at the end earns a $50 gift card. Admission is free, and registration is required.

Harvest Market

Harvest Market - Champaign

Trivia Tuesdays!

Spend Tuesday evenings in the mezzanine with a lively round of trivia where teams can include up to six players. It is free to play and prizes are up for grabs, creating a friendly challenge for newcomers and seasoned quizzers alike. No reservations are needed. Enjoy Taco Tuesday specials while you compete, featuring $3 tacos, $5 margaritas, and chilled Modelo bottles for $2.50.

🌴 Tiki Tuesday: A Tropical Culinary & Cocktail Experience

Savor a tropical escape with an upbeat cooking class that blends island aromas, refreshing cocktails, and a relaxed, feel-good vibe. Expect an energetic atmosphere and thoughtfully crafted dishes that channel vacation-worthy flavors. The tasting menu features huli huli–style meatballs, coconut shrimp soup, a crunchy tropical slaw with a citrus yogurt dressing, slow-roasted barbecue ribs finished with a pineapple glaze, and a luau-inspired upside-down cake, paired with cocktails. Instruction focuses on practical techniques and food preparation, with tastings of each dish and wine samples offered alongside select courses. Participants must be 21. Guests receive 20% off olive oils and balsamics. Please note the cancellation policy: no refunds. To receive credit for a future class, email a request at least one week in advance to loui@grovestone.com, with a $10 processing fee. The kitchen is not allergen-free or gluten-free, and accommodations for dietary needs are limited; consider checking in advance if you have restrictions. Foods may contain or come into contact with common allergens including dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, soybeans, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, or shellfish, and cross contact may occur, including possible changes in formulations by manufacturers. Recipes shared during the class remain the property of Grovestone and are for personal, non-commercial use only; redistribution requires written consent. Participation includes permission for photography and video that may be used on websites, social media, and publications without compensation, and includes a release of related claims. Menu items, chefs, and scheduling are subject to change, cancellation, or rescheduling.

Grovestone

Tuesday Music Bingo at Brothers [Spring Semester]

Free music bingo brings a music twist to classic bingo at Brothers Bar & Grill Champaign. Mark off songs instead of numbers and win prizes for bingos. The weekly Tuesday series runs during the spring semester and pauses for basketball games and spring break. Tuesday burger and drink specials are available, and general trivia also takes place at Brothers on Wednesdays each week.

Vegetable Gardening From the Soil Up

Discover what it takes to cultivate a productive vegetable garden from the ground up. This program explores how to pick the right location, build and prepare soil, choose suitable seeds and transplants, plant at the right times, and provide steady care throughout the season. Chuck Voigt leads the discussion and answers questions with a focus on growing conditions in Central Illinois. Voigt served as the state vegetable and herb specialist for more than 27 years and retired from the University of Illinois Department of Crop Sciences in 2015. He co-authored Vegetable Gardening in the Midwest, first released in 1995. In retirement he maintains a large garden, appears regularly on WILL’s Mid American Gardener, and remains active in the International Herb Association.

Extension Auditorium

Grace Lutheran Church, Champaign, IL

Friends and Family Night

This program features Toast of Champaign Chorus sharing its 2026 competition package, a special set the ensemble has been polishing. Two quartets representing the chorus on the regional stage, On A Whim and Mixed Bag, will present their competition packages as well. Expect an evening centered on music, close harmony, and fellowship with a celebratory send off for the performers.

Karaoke Every Tuesday

Enjoy a night of karaoke at The Axe Bar as singers step up to the mic to perform their favorite songs. All appetizers are half off, there is no cover, and everyone is welcome.

Free

Tuesdays at Ten: Out in the Garden

Enjoy coffee, conversation, and a chance to learn something new at the library. This month focuses on plants and getting ready for the growing season, creating a friendly space for socializing and discovery. All library events are free.

Club Fred

Hang out afterschool and enjoy games and other activities.

Trivia Tuesdays at Collective Pour

Collective Pour hosts a team-based general knowledge trivia event presented by Whaddayaknow? Free Pub Trivia. A variety of questions keeps groups engaged, and food from Smith Burger Co. is available during the event.

Collective Pour

Local Art Exhibit

Explore a showcase of local artwork by Sydney Bruner displayed throughout the cafe. Viewing the pieces in the cafe area is free, and reservations are available for time in the cat lounge. All works are available for purchase, with 10 percent of each art sale benefiting partner nonprofit rescues. In addition, 20 percent of profits from food, drink, and merchandise support those rescues. Enjoy the art, sip a beverage, and help cats. Sydney Bruner is based in Champaign, Illinois, and primarily works with acrylic and oil. Her art explores themes of nature, nostalgia, pop culture, feminism, and introspection, often featuring bright colors, glitter, rhinestones, and iridescent details.

Play NATURE @The Scratching Post, Win Prizes!

Play Nature in the cafe for a chance to win prizes. Each play earns one entry for weekly drawings, and entries roll over from one week to the next. Complete all five modules to receive a bonus of ten additional entries. The grand prize drawing for the Nature Big Box includes every entry, even for those who have already won a smaller prize. Nature is a strategy game about nurturing species in a tough ecosystem where food is scarce and predators are always nearby. Evolve traits like Tusked to boost foraging, Fast to escape danger, or Clawed to hunt effectively. A game pass is $5 per person. Weekly giveaways highlight items such as an Exclusive Spring Mini Module, Flight, Jurassic, Natural Disasters, Arctic Tundra, and Amazon Rainforest modules, along with digital codes and Nature Bags.

DivorceCare

FIRST hosts a 13-week DivorceCare ministry group for anyone navigating the pain of separation or the aftermath of divorce, even years later. Participants can start at any point. Meeting weekly, the group offers a caring setting with practical guidance, encouragement, and community to support each person’s path toward healing. It recognizes how difficult this season can be and provides steady support so no one has to face it alone.

First Christian Church

Wednesday Night Trivia at VFW Post 5520!

VFW Post 5520 hosts a weekly trivia night filled with questions that challenge and entertain. The game runs across seven rounds to keep teams engaged from start to finish. Participation is free, and prizes go to the top performers.

VFW Post 5520

Trivia Every Wednesday - At The Axe Bar!

The Axe Bar hosts an evening of trivia where teams compete for top honors and prizes. Enjoy drink specials throughout the event, and take part at no cost. Bring friends and see how your knowledge stacks up in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Wednesday Night Trivia at The Axe Bar!

Test your knowledge at The Axe Bar with a trivia format built around seven rounds that mix challenge and laughs. There is no cost to participate, and prizes are awarded to the winners.

Pour Bros. Craft Taproom Champaign

Music Bingo Wednesdays

Pour Bros. Craft Taproom Champaign hosts an ongoing music-themed bingo series presented by Whaddayaknow? Participation is free. Sponsored by Diageo, the event includes chances to win prizes and swag along with drink specials. Outside food is welcome. For updates and bonus point opportunities, follow Whaddayaknow? Free Pub Trivia - Champaign on Facebook and @champaigntrivia on Instagram.

Wednesday Night Trivia at Brothers [Spring Semester]

Free pub trivia takes over Wednesday nights during the semester at Brothers Bar & Grill Champaign, with general knowledge questions and prizes for the top teams. Groups of up to six can play with no penalty. Wednesday night specials include $1 Busch Light cans, $1 wells, $4 32 oz orange crush, and $8 wine bottles. Wing night features 50 cent boneless wings and $1 bone-in wings, 10 per order. Trivia runs during the semester, except during basketball games and spring break. Music bingo is also offered on Tuesdays each week.

Play with Adoptable Cats

Settle into a relaxed vibe with discounted drinks for guests while the cats enjoy their nightly catnip ritual. Take a moment to unwind and spend some unhurried time with these feline companions.

Harvest Market - Champaign

Music Bingo

Enjoy a free session of music bingo. Check in with the host on the upstairs mezzanine. Dinner is available, with smash burgers discounted by $2.

Civic

Wesley Park Playground Redesign Meeting

The Champaign Park District will host a public meeting at the Douglass Annex to discuss plans to replace the playground at Wesley Park. Attendees can review proposed equipment from Nutoys Leisure Products and share feedback on the concepts. Children are welcome to take part. The redesign will be coordinated with the City of Champaign’s future improvements to the Martin Luther King Trail. Plans call for moving the playground to a more central spot within the park’s green space and focusing on modern equipment for children ages 2 to 12, with features that differ from those in nearby parks. Wesley Park covers 2.8 acres and offers ample green space, a playground, a path system, and basketball courts.

Pour Bros. Craft Taproom Champaign

Thursday Night Trivia

Thursday nights feature an award-winning trivia competition at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom Champaign, taking place every week. During warmer months, the patio is used when weather allows. To reserve a spot for your team, email or message the taproom each week. Teams may include up to six people. Walk-ins can join a waiting list to fill any openings from no-shows. Look for drink specials during trivia, gift cards for the top teams, and occasional swag giveaways. Pour your own, and feel free to bring food or have it delivered. For updates and bonus point opportunities, follow Whaddayaknow? Free Pub Trivia - Champaign on Facebook and @champaigntrivia on Instagram.

Blooming Babies - Donation Drive

Elevate Trampoline Park is hosting a community baby item donation drive that pairs playtime with purpose. Bring a new baby item and receive two hours of jump time for $10. To get the special rate, each jumper must contribute at least one donation, and the offer cannot be combined with other discounts. All collected items support a local organization, making it easy to help little ones while enjoying time at the park.

Elevate Trampoline Park

Club Fred

Club Fred is an after school hangout at the Champaign Public Library - Douglass Branch featuring games, interactive activities, and other fun.

Play with 20+ Adoptable Cats!

Unwind with drink specials for people while the cats enjoy their nightly catnip. Take a break and relax with the cats.

Bingo

Enjoy 15 games of bingo with cash prizes of $25, $50, and $100, contingent on a minimum of 25 participants. Choose $20 for nine cards per game or $10 for three cards per game. Daubers are available for $1, or bring your own. Bingo cards, daubers, and concessions will be available for purchase. Drinks include $1 cans of soda along with complimentary lemonade, tea, and water. Concession offerings are still being finalized. Proceeds support Holy Cross School. For questions, contact the parish office at 217-352-8748.

Holy Cross Parish Center

Unbooked Kids

This library program features a rotating mix of crafts and hands-on activities for children that spark curiosity and imagination. All library events are free.

William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College

Spring Prairie Skies

Settle into the William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College for a guided look at this evening’s sky, with live narration and timeless star lore woven through the experience. Discover which constellations and planets are in view and learn practical tips to locate them yourself. The program is refreshed season by season and is designed for attendees of all ages. Admission is $8 for adults, with $7 tickets for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, and children 12 and under. Tickets are available at the door starting thirty minutes before the show, and members of the Friends of the Staerkel Planetarium are admitted at no charge.

William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College

Niyah and the Multiverse

An imaginative Chicago preteen named Niyah sets off on a visually rich Afrofuturist adventure across the multiverse, inviting audiences to consider where they belong among countless possibilities. Explore ideas of shadow matter and spark your own theories about parallel worlds during this planetarium experience. Created by the Adler Planetarium and licensed with support from the Friends of the Staerkel Planetarium, the show is presented at the William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College. Admission is $8 for adults and $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, and children 12 and under. Members of the Friends of the Staerkel Planetarium receive free entry. Passes are available in the lobby.

The Dollhouse at Fire Doll Studio

Dancing

Dollhouse Disco

At The Dollhouse at Fire Doll Studio in downtown Champaign, a recurring disco night brings drinks, dancing, and disco energy to an intimate, creative setting. The environment is designed as a safe and inclusive space, welcoming everyone to be fully themselves and dance with confidence. Free admission.

Karoke Every Friday

Enjoy karaoke at The Axe Bar. Boneless wings are half off, there is no cover charge, and all are welcome.

The Treehouse: Retail & Play Space

Toddler Time

Young children can explore and play for free at The Treehouse: Retail & Play Space. Two separate play sessions are offered, and advance registration for a single session is required to manage capacity. Each session is limited to 30 children and will close once full. If the event is at capacity, walk-ups may wait in line, but entry is not guaranteed. Those who arrive late may have their spots released to someone waiting. Designed for ages 0 to 5, this Toddler Time is supported by Christie Clinic during the spring and summer.

Comedy

Legacy of Laughs Comedy Tour

Chicago comedy takes over Neil St. Blues as the Legacy of Laughs Comedy Tour brings B. Cole & Friends to the stage. Hosted by Dat Damn Deedee, the show features stand-up from K-Ferg, D. Patrick, Sheldon Calhoun, and Smashius Clay, with DJ JT Da Don keeping the energy high between sets. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. A two drink minimum applies, and reserved tables as well as group discounts are available. This event works for date night or a night out with friends, combining comedy and music in one place.

Neil St. Blues

Binny's Beverage Depot - Champaign

Discover France

Explore Frances famous wine regions in a walk-around tasting. This event provides a solid introduction to these great wines.

Lego Star Wars Build Event

Barnes & Noble hosts a LEGO building event inspired by Star Wars at the store. It is designed with builders ages 10 and older in mind and welcomes participants of any age.

Barnes & Noble

William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College

In My Backyard

Children are invited to explore the night sky right from their own backyards in an interactive show that blends storytelling, poetry, and songs. Young participants learn about the changing seasons, the constellation Ursa Major, planets, meteors, and the Moon, with narration by Fred Penner. Admission is $8 for adults and $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, and children 12 and under. Tickets will be available at the door starting 30 minutes before the show begins. Members of the Friends of the Staerkel Planetarium receive complimentary admission.

Battle of the Bands

At South Quad, a showcase brings together six local artists for an afternoon of live performances. The lineup features Shrenik Balaji, BRAIN SEX, Hollow, The Critters, Stitched Rug and The Crown, and Victoria. Billed as a highlight of the semester, the event also includes a giveaway where attendees can enter for a chance to win two tickets to Lyrical Lemonade’s Summer Smash festival. Admission is free, and RSVPs are collected through a QR code.

South Quad

Ragtime Auditions

Performers are invited to audition for Ragtime. Prepare either a brief monologue or read from provided sides. Bring a 32 bar vocal selection in the style of early golden age or early jazz influenced musical theatre, or a comparable genre, and emphasize storytelling, crisp diction, and versatile style rather than sheer volume. Examples of suitable repertoire include Anything Goes, Annie Get Your Gun, Porgy and Bess, Oklahoma, and Show Boat. Backing tracks are welcome if you do not have sheet music. A group dance call is included in the process. Wear clothing that allows free movement, avoid jeans and long earrings or necklaces, and bring jazz, ballet, or character shoes if possible, with tennis shoes acceptable if needed. For questions or conflicts with the dance call, email artistic@cutheatreco.org. A character breakdown is available.

CUTC Rehearsal Space

Fix-a-Flat Clinc

Gain confidence in handling flats at a friendly clinic that walks through how to change a bicycle inner tube. Step-by-step demonstrations cover practical techniques along with helpful tips and tricks for dealing with punctures when you are out on a ride and far from home. Leave with know-how to get rolling again quickly after a roadside mishap.

Art Institutes in Chicago Daytrip

Explore The Art Institute of Chicago and the South Asia Institute on a day trip featuring curated tours at both, with a focus on art from India and the broader South Asian region. Registration is open to all.

Chicago IL

Mrs. Doubtfire

As part of the WCIA 3 Broadway Series, Mrs. Doubtfire brings the much-loved Scottish nanny to Champaign in an uplifting musical comedy suitable for families, adapted from the film. Brimming with humor and heart, the production highlights the power of sticking together.

State Farm Center

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, ELCA

Markets

Plant Sale! Twin City Garden Club of Champaign-Urbana

Discover a wide selection of perennials, herbs, and more, all dug from member gardens, at the annual plant sale by the Twin City Garden Club of Champaign-Urbana. The sale takes place in the front parking lot of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, ELCA.

Decade of Decadence

The City Center in Champaign throws a full-throttle celebration of 80s rock with big hair vibes, leather, and arena-sized anthems. A massive video wall blasts classic, MTV-style visuals to capture the feeling of flipping on the TV in 1989. This is a high-energy show built for full volume rather than background music. Ticket options include General Admission at $13.50 for standing room only, Mezzanine at $25 on a balcony that overlooks the stage and general admission floor with limited non-reserved seating, private restrooms, and a private bar, and it also includes general admission access. Reserved tables are $30 per seat, sold in sets of four, and provide four individual seats at a dedicated table. Attendees must be 19 or older unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Prices increase on the day of the show, and all tickets are nonrefundable.

Balkanalia – Spring Concert

The Balkan Music Ensemble, directed by Dr. Donna Buchanan, presents its annual spring concert at Smith Recital Hall. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome.

Smith Recital Hall

Free Comic Book Day

The Library celebrates Free Comic Book Day with free comics available at the Main Library, including the Children’s and Information desks, and at the Douglass Branch while supplies last. Local comic book artist and University of Illinois School of Art and Design professor Stacey Robinson leads a presentation and a self-directed activity in Robeson Pavilion Room A/B. A photobooth will be set up for superhero or villain themed photos, and costumes are encouraged. All Library events are free. Champaign cardholders can also access the online comic resource Comic Plus.

Katsuhiko Kashiwazaki Seminar

A weekend seminar featuring Katsuhiko Kashiwazaki takes place in Champaign. Attendance is limited to 30 participants. Afterward, he is set to appear at the Jimmy Takemori Clinic in Washington DC.

Kokushi Midwest Judo

Meadowbrook Community Church

Festivals

Meadowbrook Spring Carnival

This family-friendly event features carnival games, inflatables, face painting, and balloon animals. Food from SMITH BURGERS and ICE DADDY'S will be available for purchase. Admission is free, with costs only for food.

Artist Talk & Tour: Another Place: Storymaking the Entangled Prairie

At Krannert Art Museum, exhibiting artists from Another Place: Storymaking the Entangled Prairie lead a guided tour and conversation that share how their creative practices and research inform the work on view. The tour features Ryan Griffis, whose collaborative projects draw on political ecology to examine how power and economies drive environmental change, Melissa Pokorny, whose sculptural installations combine images, textiles, and found materials to explore how meaning forms through constructed relationships, and Stacey A. Robinson, whose multimedia work envisions decolonized Black futures through collage, motion graphics, illustration, and DJing. The program offers an inside look at the ideas, methods, and collaborations behind the exhibition. Support is provided by the Campus Research Board and the Frances P. Rohlen Visiting Artists Fund in the College of Fine and Applied Arts, and the museum acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council. Accessibility supports are available to help all visitors participate.

Krannert Art Museum

Dark Tower Comics Champaign

Free Comic Book Day

MWG will make an appearance at Dark Tower Comics Champaign to support Free Comic Book Day. Their visit reflects the shop's participation in the event.

Makerspace @ Douglass | Drop-in

This drop-in session at the Champaign Public Library offers open access to The Makerspace for hands-on creativity. Explore the space, try out tools, and work on your ideas at your own pace. Library staff will be available to answer questions and provide guidance.

May PostMark Urbana

Celebrate dance with 40 North and the Urbana Arts & Culture program at PostMark Urbana. Enjoy performances, children’s activities, and more as part of this monthly Downtown Urbana event.

The Urbana Free Library

Drew Kiddoo and The Blackouts

Drew Kiddoo and The Blackouts bring a set of original Americana charged with a rock and roll soul to Exile on Main Street.

Exile on Main Street

The Canopy Club - with Waylon Wyatt

Waylon Wyatt performs live at The Canopy Club in Urbana, IL. Gametime has tickets available on short notice.

The Canopy Club

Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra

The Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra will be performing.

Foellinger Great Hall

Play with Adoptable Cats

Spend 50 minutes in the cat lounges with adoptable cats. Your reservation helps cover the cost of their care and helps to socialize them. All of the cats come from local non-profit rescues, and 100% of their adoption fee goes to the originating rescue. They are all spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for many common pathogens. Advance reservations are the only way to guarantee time in the lounge. Walk-ins are welcome as long as there is space, but if the hour is sold out, it may be a while before the next available lounge time.

Holidays

Pre-Mother's Day Luncheon

A heartfelt celebration that recognizes the women who make a difference in participants' lives.

Holiday Inn Champaign

The Big Pitch! Young Entrepreneur Program Pitch Competition

Area high school students present their business ideas at Champaign Public Library, pitching to a panel of local entrepreneurs. The competition marks the start of National Small Business Week, and the top pitch earns a $5,000 cash prize to help launch the idea. Presented with support from the Library Foundation. This program is free.

Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church

Civic

Scholarship Tea

Held at Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, this annual Scholarship Tea celebrates the accomplishments of African American high school girls across local communities.

Dancing

Lindy Hopers

Illini Swing Society provides DJed music for a monthly free swing dance in collaboration with Hamilton Walkers in downtown Champaign. This social dance features swing music and an open floor for anyone who wants to participate. No sign-up, partner, or prior experience is required. There is no cover charge, and attendees are encouraged to support the venue with a food or drink purchase.

Hamilton Walker's

Anita Purves Nature Center

Outdoor Recreation

Sunday Morning Bird Walk — Champaign County Audubon Society

Join one of the most popular events, a free guided bird walk. The walk will take place in either Busey Woods or Crystal Lake Park. All skill levels and ages are welcome, but those under 15 should be accompanied by an adult.

MAY4

After School Club

Elementary aged students are invited to take part in after school activities that include arts and crafts plus science projects. These hands-on experiences blend creativity with exploration for a fun way to round out the school day. Examples of upcoming activities will be shared.

Rantoul Public Library

MAY4

Club Fred

Hang out afterschool for games, activities, and more!

Jupiter's at the Crossing

CUTC's 5x5 Art Auction

The Champaign-Urbana Theatre Company presents its annual 5x5 Art Auction at Jupiter’s at the Crossing. Fifty-five local artists and performing arts enthusiasts are creating original 5-by-5 canvas pieces to be auctioned as a fundraiser for the company. Explore a variety of tiny artworks, enjoy conversation over libations, and bid on favorites to take home. Hosted by Chris Harris, the evening also features a musical review highlighting the 2025-2026 show season. There is a $5.55 cover, and tickets are available at the door.

Lincoln Building (Champaign, Illinois)

Champaign Urbana Puppet People (C.U.P.P) Welcome Meeting

Get acquainted with the Champaign Urbana Puppet People at their first welcome meeting at the Lincoln Building. Learn what the group is about, including its Tuesday puppet making meetups, and hear an overview of goals, membership, and classes. Beginners are encouraged, and help will be on hand for anyone who has never made a puppet.

Trivia Tuesdays

Trivia fills the mezzanine in a free, drop in format where teams of up to six compete for prizes. There is no need for reservations. Food and drink specials include $3 tacos, $5 margaritas, and Modelo bottles for $2.50.

Harvest Market

Pajama Storytime

Settle in for a cozy, pajama-friendly storytime at the Douglass Branch Library with engaging stories, lively songs, and plenty of fun. This program is intended for children ages five and under attending with a parent or caregiver. Admission is free.

Douglass Branch Library

Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band

Experience the powerful blend of blues and rock from Kenny Wayne Shepherd, a five-time Grammy nominee and multiple award-winning guitarist and songwriter. This anniversary tour looks back to the grit and spark of his 1995 debut while highlighting his growth into one of modern blues’ most enduring voices. The Ledbetter Heights 30th Anniversary Tour presents the complete 12-track album performed live, followed by a second set featuring standout moments from his 30-year career. First breaking through as a Strat-wielding teenager from Shreveport in 1995, he helped return the blues to the mainstream with fiery playing, memorable hooks, and deep respect for the tradition. Decades later he remains active and evolving, continuing to tour, record, and collaborate. His lasting success in a genre known for its niche audience reflects a refusal to stand still, with one foot in the blues and the other exploring the wider world of rock and roll. He expresses gratitude for the record that launched him and stays committed to making music that feels direct and from the heart.

Virginia Theatre

Virginia Theatre - Il - Champaign, IL

Kenny Wayne Shepherd

Kenny Wayne Shepherd appears at the Virginia Theatre in Champaign, Illinois.

Virginia Theater Champaign Il

Kenny Wayne Shepherd

Kenny Wayne Shepherd brings a fiery blend of blues and rock to Virginia Theater in Champaign, showcasing expressive guitar work, rough-hewn vocals, and solos that light up the stage. The show centers on feeling and momentum, with tight, high-octane jams and a focus on skilled, no-frills playing. Expect a set powered by heartfelt expression and a confident stage presence.

Founding Females® Meet Up | Chambana

A relaxed monthly meet up brings together women entrepreneurs in Champaign-Urbana for real conversation, shared wins, and collaborative problem solving. The tone centers on community over competition, with meaningful connections that move beyond small talk and a clear no-pitch policy. The gathering is free and open to all women building businesses. Attendees can bring current challenges, goals, and an open mind, and they are welcome to come with a friend. This Champaign-Urbana meetup is hosted at The CU Flower House by Holly Birch of Holly Birch Photography, Ali Kreider of Ali Kreider Fitness, and Andrea Hunt, owner of The CU Flower House. Founding Females meet ups take place monthly in cities across Illinois and Indiana, and there are opportunities to start new chapters for those who want to help the network grow.

Champaign County Farm Bureau Auditorium

Intro to Tai Chi

Explore the foundations of Tai Chi in a one-hour introductory session at the Champaign County Farm Bureau Auditorium. Guided by Family Life Educator Emily Harmon and Nutrition and Wellness Educator Rachel Mannen, participants will learn simple, research-backed movements that support mobility and overall well-being. The practice is gentle and low impact, with potential benefits such as improved strength, flexibility, and balance, along with reduced pain and lower fall risk. No prior experience is required, and getting started is always an option. This session is part of Healthy Champaign County’s Active Living Week.

Monthly Entrepreneur Meet Up in Champaign-Urbana, IL

Join a group of passionate women entrepreneurs for a monthly in-person meet up. Attendees can chat, laugh, share wins, and crowdsource solutions. The meet ups have a community-over-competition vibe, and attendees can expect casual conversation about business topics. Pitches are not allowed, and connections go beyond small talk. All women entrepreneurs are welcome, and are encouraged to bring business challenges, goals, and an open mind.

The CU Flower House

Play Nature

Celebrate spring by playing Nature in the cafe and earn entries for prize drawings with every game. Nature invites players to cultivate strong animal populations in a tough ecosystem where food is scarce and predators are on the prowl. Develop traits like Tusked for better foraging, Fast to escape threats, or Clawed to hunt, and try all five modules for new challenges. Each play in the cafe counts as one entry, and entries carry over from week to week. A game pass is $5 per person. Completing all five modules adds 10 bonus entries. Weekly drawings highlight a variety of rewards, from exclusive spring mini modules and digital codes to Nature Bags, along with expansion modules such as Flight, Jurassic, Natural Disasters, Arctic Tundra, and Amazon Rainforest. All entries remain in the pool for the grand prize drawing of the Nature Big Box edition, even if a smaller prize has already been won.

Local Art Exhibit - Sydney Bruner

Browse a showcase of local works by Sydney Bruner displayed throughout the cafe. There is no charge to view the artwork in the cafe area. Visits to the cat lounge are available by reservation. All pieces are offered for purchase, with 10 percent of each art sale benefiting partner nonprofit rescues. In addition, 20 percent of profits from food, beverage, and merchandise sales support those same rescues. Enjoy the art, pick up a drink, and help cats in need. Sydney Bruner is a Champaign, Illinois based artist who primarily works in acrylic and oil. Her pieces explore themes of nature, nostalgia, pop culture, feminism, and introspection, often featuring vivid colors and accents such as glitter, rhinestones, and iridescent elements.

Champaign County Farm Bureau Auditorium

Herb Sale Preview and Plant Swap (C-U Herb Society May Meeting)

The C-U Herb Society meets at the U of I Extension and Farm Bureau Auditorium for a preview of herbs to be offered at the Annual Herb Sale, presented by plant sale committee chair Jane Smith. The meeting also includes a member plant swap for exchanging plants.

Writers Lounge

A friendly meetup for local writers focused on conversation and creative support. Participants can share works in progress, trade writing tips, and offer constructive feedback while building connections with peers. Advance registration is recommended.

Wednesday Night Trivia

Head to The Axe Bar for a lively trivia night featuring seven rounds of questions that mix challenge with laughs. Participation is free, and prizes await the winners.

First Baptist Church at Savoy

Golden Opportunities Lunch

A gathering centered on lunch and fellowship, followed by a service project that supports a local ministry. The cost is $5 per person. Payment is available online or in person by signing up at the office. For in-person payments, please pay before the event. Payments may be left at the Welcome desk in the back of the Crossing on Sunday mornings.

DIY Kids | Lava Lamps

Our most popular DIY project returns! Make your own lava lamp using food coloring, glitter, and Alka-Seltzer tablets. This is a weekly do-it-yourself activity for kids.

Open Mic

At The Space in downtown Champaign, Mike Ingram, Anika Emily, and Jake Fava guide an open mic filled with music and poetry, alongside food and drinks described as life changing.

The Space

Mother's Day Candle Party

Mark Mother's Day with a candle making workshop at Alto Vineyards Champaign. This 90-minute session provides a hands-on creative experience to honor the mothers in your life.

May 7th

Saving Abel performs live at The City Center. This concert features the band on stage performing their songs.

Marshmallows & Melodies

Settle in at Toalson Park for a laid-back night with Midwest Dueling Pianos alongside cozy marshmallow roasting. The performers keep everyone involved, taking requests and rolling through familiar favorites in a lively, interactive show for all ages. Pack a blanket or lawn chairs, meet up with family and friends, and enjoy s'mores, sing-alongs, and plenty of laughs under the stars.

Toalson Park

Crochet 101!

Learn the basics of crochet with Miss Emily in a friendly, beginner focused class. Crochet is her first love, and she is eager to share the fundamentals of this fiber art. All supplies are included, with a hook, yarn, scissors, and darning needles provided. The cost is $35 per person and includes unlimited help from Emily. Attendance is capped at 10 participants.

The Fiber Phoenix Rises

Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)

A beloved animated adventure arrives on the big screen at The Virginia Theatre. A 13-year-old witch-in-training named Kiki leaves home with her chatty cat Jiji to live independently in a coastal city. After mastering broomstick flight, she launches an airborne delivery service and becomes part of the community. When self-doubt causes her magic to fade, she must rediscover her confidence to soar again. Presented with support from MIX 94.5 and Rewind 92.5, this G-rated feature runs 115 minutes. Upon release it became Japan’s top box office hit and went on to earn Anime Grand Prix honors for best anime, best female character, and best theme song. U.S. critics embraced it as well, with Roger Ebert naming it among the standout animated releases of the year and the Siskel and Ebert program awarding their highest rating. Doors open 45 minutes before the movie begins.

The Virginia Theatre

Saving Abel

Saving Abel takes the stage at The City Center, presented by the venue. Entry is open to guests 19 and older unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. The Mezzanine, a balcony above the first floor bar, overlooks the stage and the general admission area. When available, tickets for this section include non-reserved tables and seating, along with access to a private bar and private restrooms. All ticket levels include access to the general admission floor, where limited non-reserved seating may be offered on select shows. Ticket prices increase on the day of the show, and all sales are final.

Club Fred

Hang out afterschool for games, activities, and more!

Animal Music Thursday!

At The Scratching Post, Animal Music Thursday features a program of animal-themed selections, pieces that evoke the natural world, and tunes intended to awaken the inner animal. It is part of a series presented on select Wednesdays, with one Thursday included, running from November through May.

Play with 20+ Adoptable Cats!

At The Scratching Post CU, spend time with more than 20 adoptable cats in a relaxed setting. Guests can enjoy drink specials while the felines receive their nightly catnip. Play, unwind, and get to know a variety of adoptable companions.

Unbooked Kids

A family-friendly library program offers a relaxed open format with a changing mix of kid-focused crafts and hands-on activities. Each visit brings fresh projects that spark curiosity and creativity. All library programs are free.

Unbooked | Trivia

Spend a Friday evening at the library enjoying a relaxed trivia night. Attend solo or with friends for a friendly competition, with topics that switch up each month. Participants can socialize, team up with others, and enjoy a snack. Library events are free.

It's a Wrap Automotive LLC

Friday Night Lights

Friday Night Lights kicks off in 2026 with an evening that celebrates the automotive community. This free gathering brings enthusiasts together to showcase their vehicles, connect with fellow car lovers, and enjoy time among people who share the same passion. The series is held on the second Friday of every month. With roots in the Champaign-Urbana car scene since 2008, the organizers continue a tradition of events that bring the community closer. Photographers can capture the excitement and share on Instagram using #itsawrapauto. To keep the experience enjoyable for everyone, burnouts, loud music, and reckless driving are strictly prohibited.

William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College

Spring Prairie Skies

Experience a live, guided tour of the night sky at the William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College, paired with legendary stories handed down from long ago. Discover which constellations and planets can be seen from your own backyard. The program is updated each season and welcomes participants of all ages. Admission is $8 for adults, or $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, and children 12 and under. Members of the Friends of the Staerkel Planetarium are admitted free. Passes may be purchased in the lobby beginning half an hour before the first show.

William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College

Niyah and the Multiverse

At William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College, Niyah and the Multiverse follows an imaginative Chicago preteen on an Afrofuturist adventure across parallel worlds. The story invites audiences to reflect on where they belong when realities multiply and to consider what form their own shadow matter might take, inspiring personal theories about the multiverse. Created by Adler Planetarium and presented through licensing made possible with support from the Friends of the Staerkel Planetarium. Admission is $8 for adults and $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, or children 12 and under. Members of the Friends of the Staerkel Planetarium are admitted free. Passes may be purchased in the lobby starting a half hour before the first show.

Meditation with Cats

Enjoy a calming hour of guided meditation in a cat lounge with more than twenty adoptable cats. Persephone Lovell leads the session step by step, and no prior experience is needed. Participants may bring a yoga mat, or get comfortable in a chair or on the available rugs. After the meditation, you are welcome to linger in the lounge and spend additional time with the cats.

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

Young Professionals Resource Group (YPRG)

The Young Professionals Resource Group brings together early-career professionals in a positive network centered on personal and professional growth. Participants connect with peers while focusing on development that supports both their careers and their lives.

Bash Out Blood Cancer

Hosted by the SladeTesterStrong Team, this event brings people together to support the fight against blood cancer through games and giving. The lineup includes poker and blackjack, raffle baskets, and 50/50 drawings. Appetizers will be provided, and a cash bar will be available.

The Venue CU

William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College

In My Backyard

Explore the night sky close to home at the William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College. Through stories, poetry, and songs, children are encouraged to participate while discovering the seasons, Ursa Major, planets, meteors, and the Moon. The program is narrated by Fred Penner. Tickets cost $8 for adults and $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, and children 12 and under. Friends of the Staerkel Planetarium members receive free admission. Tickets are available at the door beginning 30 minutes before the show.

GSR Workshop

Learn about the General Service Representative role in AA in a focused workshop that answers key questions. The session explains what a GSR is, clarifies the responsibilities associated with the position, and explores why this service role is important within Alcoholics Anonymous.

Henson Place

2026 BFA Opening Reception

The opening reception for the Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition showcases a broad array of work by more than 100 graduating BFA students spanning studio art, new media, art education, graphic design, and industrial design. Student pieces are displayed in the East Gallery, and the reception takes place in the Link Gallery at Krannert Art Museum. Admission is free and the public is welcome. The museum notes support from the Illinois Arts Council.

Krannert Art Museum

Sunshine Daydream • Grateful Dead Tribute • Alto Vineyards • Champaign, IL

Live Grateful Dead music meets wines that have won awards at Alto Vineyards just outside Champaign, Illinois. Bring a chair or blanket to relax on the lawn while you enjoy the show. Admission is $12, and all ages are welcome.

Cars & Coffee

A new Cars and Coffee meet is being planned in collaboration with Parkland Motorsports, taking place on the same Saturday the long-running Parkland Car Show traditionally occupied. The Parkland Motorsports facility will be open for walkthroughs, and several student and instructor project cars will be on display. Additional details will be shared as the day draws near. Champaign Cars & Coffee is a casual get-together for auto enthusiasts to connect and celebrate motorsports. All enthusiasts are welcome, and attendees are encouraged to take photos and videos and share them. Please remember that the parking lot is owned by Parkland College, so treat the space with care. Use trash receptacles, avoid burnouts, keep music at a reasonable level, do not speed, and be courteous to everyone in attendance.

Parkland Motorsports

Radical Queer Sewing Club May Meeting

Spend time alongside others while working on your own sewing projects in a cooperative environment. The club is explicitly welcoming to queer, BIPOC, and disabled participants. This is not a formal workshop, though peer-to-peer help will be available and a small amount of shared supplies will be provided. Masking is encouraged. No prior experience is required. The focus is on repair and rewear, with practical, low cost and low waste approaches guiding the work.

William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College

Sensory-Friendly One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure

At the William M. Staerkel Planetarium at Parkland College, a sensory-friendly presentation of One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure features lights up, sound lowered, and a relaxed setting where guests may come and go or move around as needed. The format supports individuals on the autism spectrum, people with sensory sensitivities, and families with young children, and everyone is welcome whether or not accommodations are required. Big Bird, Elmo, and Hu Hu Zhu lead a journey to the Moon, explain how it differs from Earth, and show how to find the Big Dipper and the North Star from your backyard. This interactive program was created in collaboration by Adler Planetarium, Sesame Workshop, the Beijing Planetarium, and Liberty Science Center, and is presented through a grant from the PNC Foundation. Admission is $8 for adults and $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, and children 12 and under. Tickets are sold at the door beginning 30 minutes before showtime, and members of the Friends of the Staerkel Planetarium are admitted free.

Market Place Shopping Center

Cirque Italia - Water Circus

Audiences in Champaign, Illinois can look forward to Cirque Italia’s Water Circus at Market Place Shopping Center.

Sunshine Daydream

Grateful Dead fans can anticipate a lively show from Sunshine Daydream, a tribute group from central Illinois. The band delivers spirited renditions of Grateful Dead favorites, songs from the Jerry Garcia Band, and a few handpicked covers from bands such as...

Play with 20+ Adoptable Cats!

Guests can enjoy drink deals while the cats have their nightly catnip. Unwind in their company and take a relaxing break with feline companions.

Our Mic: Mother's Day Edition

Mark Mother’s Day with an evening of conversation, culture, and performance at Neil Street Blues. The OUR Mic Sunday Series presents an interview with materials scientist Dr. Juan Lopez alongside a dance performance by Calpulli Mayahual. Centered on the theme For the Cultures, the program explores the impact of activism across diverse cultural communities. Tickets are $10, and attendees under 18 get in free. Each ticket includes a complimentary dessert provided by Neil Street Blues.

Neil St. Blues

The Treehouse: Retail & Play Space

Mother's Day Event

Celebrate moms at The Treehouse with a relaxed drop-in experience where families can create keepsakes together. Guests can visit during open hours to decorate a trinket jewelry box and assemble a DIY flower vase bouquet. The crafting activities include unlimited access to the play area for $11. Freshly spun cotton candy will be available, along with a selection of unique desserts to purchase throughout the day. Local mom and author Lauren DeLaval will host a special story time featuring her children’s book.

No Sword Sunday (Friends Room 215)

No Sword Sunday meets in Friends Conference Room 215 at the Champaign Public Library for a relaxed, project-focused session. Bring A&S projects to work on while body-doubling with others for motivation. There are opportunities to learn something new and to share your own skills with fellow attendees.

Market Place Shopping Center

Cirque Italia - Water Circus

Cirque Italia brings the Water Circus to Market Place Shopping Center in Champaign, Illinois.

Candy Foster and Shades of Blue

Enjoy an afternoon with Candy Foster and Shades of Blue.

Mal Blum and more

Mal Blum teams up with Oceanator for a live show at The Space in Champaign, Illinois. Tickets are listed for this event.

The Space

Play with 20+ Adoptable Cats!

Guests can enjoy drink specials while the cats have their nightly catnip. This is a chance to relax and spend time with felines.

MAY11

Market Place Shopping Center

Cirque Italia - Water Circus

See a performance of Cirque Italias Water Circus: Atlantis. This show combines acrobatics and theatrics.

Mom's Art Night Out

Moms can take a well-deserved break at a relaxed art night focused on watercolor. Paint a tropical escape of your own while enjoying small bites and tropical mocktails. Everyone leaves with an 8 by 10 inch tropical watercolor they created. The session is led by local illustrator Kelli Roos, and all supplies are provided.

Springer Cultural Center

Dario Cohen, Live at Hound's Rest! No Cover!

Dario Cohen performs live at Hound’s Rest as part of a collaboration with Sound Bridge that showcases only original music and songwriting. Admission is free. The series is supported by the City of Champaign through the Sound Check Program, which helps sustain live music in downtown Champaign. Enjoy original performances in a welcoming setting with local libations. For the latest lineup of performers throughout the series, check the venue’s social media.

Hound's Rest

WCIA 3 Broadway Series: HADESTOWN

Part of the WCIA 3 Broadway Series, Hadestown unfolds in a world where music can alter destiny. The production earned eight Tony Awards in 2019, including Best Musical, and also received the 2020 Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album. It offers a theatrical journey that blends shadowy intensity with hope, holding attention from start to finish.

State Farm Center

Table Talk Book Club

This casual monthly gathering centers on conversation about books by contemporary African American authors. New participants are welcome. For more information, call 217/403-2090.

MAY13

Touch-a-Truck

Families, kids, and adults can check out a wide range of trucks, emergency vehicles, and construction equipment up close. Chat with the professionals who operate them, ask questions, and step inside for an interactive look at how they work. The event is free and welcomes all ages, offering a friendly mix of learning and play.

Centennial Park

MAY13

Introduction to Scotch II

Step up your Scotch knowledge with an introduction to more complex flavor profiles, stories, and styles. Get ready for a journey into the world of Scotch, exploring some of the finest whiskies available.

Binny's Beverage Depot

MAY13

Express Employment Professionals

Walk-In Interviews

Walk-in interviews are available at the Champaign office. No appointment is required, providing a simple and flexible option for participants.

MAY14

Knitting Night @The Scratching Post!

Settle in for a friendly knitting circle designed for both newcomers and experienced crafters. Bring a work in progress or start something new, swap tips, get guidance from seasoned knitters, and share skills with others. Twelve seats are set aside on the cafe side where no cats are present. There is a $5 per person seat fee, and every dollar of that goes to partner non-profit rescues. Purchases help too, with twenty percent of profits from food, drinks including alcoholic options, and merchandise benefiting the same rescue partners.

MAY15

Hayden Coffman | Champaign, Illinois

Hayden Coffman brings his heartfelt country sound to The City Center in Champaign, Illinois. A singer and songwriter from Knoxville, Tennessee, he is known for a soulful voice, smooth delivery, and lyrics that connect on a personal level while embracing a modern edge. At the venue, most events are for ages 19 and older, unless otherwise noted or when attending with a parent or guardian. The Mezzanine is the balcony above the first floor bar with a clear view of the stage and the general admission area. When offered, tickets for this section include unreserved seating at tables along with access to a private bar and private restrooms. All ticket levels can enter the general admission area, and some shows there feature limited, non-reserved seating. Prices increase on the day of the performance, and all ticket purchases are nonrefundable. Coffman’s independent rise includes a Gold certification for his single Better Off and more than 283 million total streams. He has appeared on the covers of Spotify’s Fresh Finds Country and Next From Nashville playlists, with additional support from Amazon’s Breakthrough Country and TIDAL’s Country Rising. Recognized among the fastest-growing unsigned country artists in the United States, he has reached the Top 3 in Spotify growth rankings and the Top 5 on YouTube, along with multiple Top 10 debuts on the iTunes charts.

MAY15

Drag Bingo

Herra Winn and Portia Lynn Snaps, joined by a special guest, lead a lively night of drag bingo packed with prizes, performances, music, and comedy. Each ticket covers admission for one person, provides a bingo card for every round, and includes one complimentary drink. Bring your most outrageous questions to submit during the show.

MAY16

Sports

Top Tier Camp- Softball All Skills 6th-8th Grade

Top Tier Athletes offers an all-skills clinic led by current Division I college players, delivering energetic, hands-on training. Participants work on core fundamentals such as hitting, fielding, baserunning, and game awareness. Whether just starting out or fine-tuning mechanics, athletes practice advanced techniques with competitors who know what it takes to excel at the collegiate level. It is a chance to learn, grow, and leave inspired.

Dodds Softball Field 3

MAY16

Champaign-Urbana Special Rec

Beyond The Finish Line

This no-cost, high-energy event at the Champaign Urbana Special Recreation Center in Champaign looks past the finish line and offers a welcoming atmosphere with plenty of fun.

MAY16

Play with 20+ Adoptable Cats!

The experience features beverage specials for guests while the cats savor their regular catnip treat, creating a lighthearted, calming mood that makes it easy to unwind with feline companions.

MAY17

Sunday Wine Down

Local legends PBS will be playing covers from The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Crosby Stills and Nash, and other popular music from the 70s. Alto Vineyards will be serving wine, beer, slushies, and blended sangria.

MAY20

Open Mic Night

Share original poetry, spoken word, and flash fiction in a welcoming open mic. Participants can sign up to read, or attend as an audience member to enjoy the performances. Advance registration is recommended.

MAY21

Get Started in Real Estate Investing | Money Matter$

Learn the fundamentals of real estate investing in an introductory session that explains how to take your first steps and begin building an investment portfolio. The program is available in person or online, offering flexibility for how you participate. The session features Nick Ward, a lifelong resident of Champaign-Urbana and the President and Owner of Joel Ward Homes Inc., a residential real estate brokerage and property management company. He focuses on helping people use real estate to create more flexibility in their lives. Offered in partnership with Joel Ward Homes Inc. It is part of the Money Matter$ series. This library program is free to attend.

MAY21

Jazz in the Park

Settle onto the lawn with a blanket or chairs and enjoy an easygoing night of live jazz performed by local artists. Food trucks will be available with a range of dishes to buy, and bringing a picnic from home is welcome. This open-air gathering invites attendees to relax, enjoy the music, and make the most of a pleasant evening in the park.

Clark Park

MAY21

Finding Nemo Jr.

Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr. makes a splash as part of CPD’s 2026 Youth Theatre season, Big Adventures, Bigger Dreams. Young performers bring the ocean world to life in a retelling of the Pixar favorite, following a journey rooted in courage, friendship, and family. The production features new songs by the award-winning duo Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, along with colorful characters and touching scenes. It celebrates perseverance and the excitement that comes with exploring the unknown.

Virginia Theatre

MAY22

Unbooked | Card Games

Enjoy an easygoing evening at the library with a mix of card-game favorites like Spades, Euchre, and Uno. No experience is needed, since instruction is available for anyone who wants to learn. You can attend on your own or come with friends. There is no cost to participate.

MAY23

AllNighter at Huber's

Huber's West End Store hosts AllNighter. The group will be at the store for this event.

Huber's West End Store

MAY23

Priscilla Block

Find tickets for Priscilla Block at The City Center in Champaign.

MAY24

The Blondarosa

Enjoy an afternoon with The Blondarosa Band. Heather Alexander-Gentry, the bands lead singer and a mom, will perform hits ranging from Miranda Lambert to Led Zeppelin.

MAY24

Play with 20+ Adoptable Cats!

Unwind with drink specials for guests while the cats enjoy their nightly catnip. Settle in and relax as you spend unhurried time in the company of these felines.

MAY26

Summer Care

This summer day camp is designed for elementary children who have completed kindergarten through fifth grade. Participants take part in field trips and visits from special guests, explore lessons centered on the Bible, get creative with art and STEM projects, play games, try simple cooking activities, and enjoy unstructured free time. Indoor and outdoor sessions keep kids moving while also encouraging problem solving and imagination. Each week features a fresh mix of activities so the experience continues to evolve throughout the program.

First Christian Church

MAY26

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

Small Business Owners Resource Group sponsored by First Mid Bank & Trust

This group offers a forum for small business owners to participate in roundtable discussions. The group is designed to allow people to share experiences, discuss common challenges, and receive advice from other entrepreneurs. Expert-led sessions are also held occasionally to provide insight on relevant topics. Certain eligibility criteria apply: you must be an owner or co-owner of a small business with between 2 and 30 full-time employees, your business must meet the SBAs size standards for your industry, and you must be a current member in good standing with the hosting business association. Attendance of at least 8 of the 12 monthly meetings is strongly encouraged, and you must agree to maintain confidentiality.

MAY27

Play 500+ Board Games

Choose from a library of over 500 board games, from classic titles like Monopoly and Jenga to modern games like Catan and Ticket to Ride. There are even games available that you can’t yet buy in stores. Game passes are available for purchase. There are tools available to help you choose a game and learn the rules. Snacks, drinks, alcohol, and cats are available. A percentage of the profits goes to partner rescues.

MAY28

Medicare 101 Educational Seminar

Learn the essentials of Medicare in a free, introductory seminar presented by Silver Wolf Insurance Services at Champaign Public Library. Attendees may bring one adult guest, and appetizers will be provided. There is no cost or obligation. Seating is limited, so advance registration is recommended. The session is designed for those new to Medicare as well as anyone reviewing their choices, with clear guidance and practical strategies to support confident decisions. Disclosure: Silver Wolf Insurance Services does not represent every plan available in the area and currently works with 8 organizations that offer 75 products. For information about all available options, call 1-800-MEDICARE or contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

MAY29

Unbooked | In Concert with Afro D & Global Soundwaves

Experience a concert at the library featuring Afro D & Global Soundwaves. Admission is free.

MAY29

Binny's Beverage Depot - Champaign

All-American Wine Tasting

Sample a variety of American wines that complement warm weather and grilling. This walk-around event allows you to discover wines from across the United States while enjoying charcuterie.

MAY29

Play with 20+ Adoptable Cats!

Relax in a comfortable setting with drink specials for humans while the cats enjoy their nightly dose of catnip. Settle in and spend time in the calming company of cats.

Books and Beans Author Fair

Browse books from seven area writers while enjoying coffee at The Caffeine Rx. This author fair brings together community authors and readers, offering an opportunity to discover your next book.

The Caffeine Rx

Kidscape Playground Dino Stomp into June

This dinosaur themed experience at Kidscape Playground includes a fossil dig and a hands on craft. Reservations are required and must be made through the website link. Children must be accompanied by no more than two adults.

Kidscape Playground

Outdoor Recreation

Illini Weekend Getaway – The Champaign of Rides! powered by Bicycle Illinois

A spring-focused bicycle ride at Blair Park highlights the season’s return with rising temperatures and longer, sunnier days. Roads edged with new greenery, early blossoms, and morning birdsong create a bright backdrop for time outside on two wheels, presented with Bicycle Illinois.

Blair Park

Play with 20+ Adoptable Cats!

Take a break with drink specials for people while the cats enjoy their nightly catnip ritual. Settle in and relax.

MAY31

Illinois Chess Rookies / Chess Club for Adults

An extra chess session is planned in Robeson Pavilion Room C on the first floor. It was scheduled because the usual meeting date could not be booked. Regular gatherings typically take place twice each month, and newcomers are welcome, including beginners and first-time participants. Bringing your own chess set is appreciated. Please follow the meeting room food and drink policies.

MAY31

The Painkillers

Enjoy some great music and wine with The Painkillers Blues Band. A great way to wind down and start your week.

JUN4

Rick Ross — Decatur

Rick Ross brings a summer show to Illinois at Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater alongside Waka Flocka Flame, creating a hard hitting hip hop bill in Decatur. Known for cinematic beats and larger than life narratives, Ross often energizes crowds with staples like B.M.F., The Boss, Purple Lamborghini, and Stay Schemin. With Waka Flocka Flame also performing, the night points to high energy anthems and crowd moving rhythms from start to finish.

Decatur Il.

JUN5

I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center

Blue Tie Gala

An evening at the I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center focuses on keeping children safe and strengthening families in the community. Guests can look forward to dinner, live and silent auctions, and stories that highlight Crisis Nursery's impact. Community leaders, businesses, and supporters gather to celebrate the families served and to raise essential funds for children experiencing crisis. Proceeds help sustain round-the-clock emergency care for children and family-strengthening services, giving parents in difficult moments a safe place to turn. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available.

JUN12

William F. Earnest American Legion Post 559

Adult Prom

Step into a red carpet setting for a prom-style night created for adults. A star-themed atmosphere sets the tone for a glamorous evening.

JUN13

Festivals

Juneteenth

At Douglass Park, a community celebration of Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and honors African American resilience, culture, and progress. Champaign Public Library and Champaign Park District are collaborating to present family-friendly activities. Attendees can meet vendors, enjoy games and crafts, and learn more about the holiday. The gathering encourages reflection on the past and offers a welcoming atmosphere centered on joy, unity, and community.

JUN18

The Five Cities Baroque Festival: Resident Artist Recital

This year's headlining guest artist, harpsichordist Charlotte Mattax Moersch, performs a solo recital at Exaltation of the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Champaign.

JUN18

Matt Maeson - Watch My Step

Matt Maeson brings Watch My Step to The Virginia Theatre, showcasing a multiplatinum singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who shapes tangled feelings and uncertainty into catchy alternative songs rooted in honest emotion. Born in Virginia and based in Nashville, he broke through with the debut album Bank on the Funeral, which delivered the Platinum singles Cringe and Hallucinogenics with Lana Del Rey. Both reached Number 1 at Alternative, making him the first male solo act whose debut full-length produced two chart-toppers in that format. His next album, Never Had To Leave, earned praise from outlets such as American Songwriter and Consequence of Sound. Over the years, he has supported Zach Bryan in arenas and appeared on tracks with Gryffin, Illenium, and Chelsea Cutler. His sold out acoustic run, That’s My Cue, is captured on the 2024 live release That’s My Cue: A Solo Experience. Recent milestones, including marriage, a move from Austin to Nashville, and becoming a parent, shape new music like Everlasting on Atlantic Records, where resilience and vulnerability sit side by side.

The Virginia Theatre

JUN20

JOURNEY - FINAL FRONTIER TOUR 2026

JOURNEY launches the Final Frontier Tour for a celebratory farewell across North America. After more than five decades onstage, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees present a new stage production and a setlist loaded with hits that topped charts around the world, including Don't Stop Believin, Any Way You Want It, Faithfully, Lights and more. The night honors a legacy shaped by enduring anthems, love, and the fans who made it possible.

State Farm Center

JUN20

State Farm Center - Champaign, IL

Journey at State Farm Center

Journey takes the stage live at State Farm Center in Champaign, Illinois.

JUN30

Family STEM Night (6/30)

Hosted by the Illinois Science Explorers, a science outreach initiative from the University of Illinois, this family friendly evening invites children and adults to explore STEM together. Enjoy complimentary pizza while diving into hands-on experiments and interactive activities that encourage building, testing, and discovering side by side. The experience is designed to spark curiosity and creativity across all ages, with options that welcome both first-time explorers and enthusiastic tinkerers. Expect a warm atmosphere, plenty of chances to learn something new, and shared moments that make science memorable for the whole family.

Martens Center

JUL1

Wale & Smino Tickets

Wale and Smino share the stage in Chicago for a live hip-hop show that blends smooth flows with a genre-crossing sound. Expect clever wordplay, soulful hooks, and beats built to move the crowd for a high-energy concert experience.

Chicago IL

JUL7

Art in the Parks: Clay in the Parks

Get creative at Kaufman Lake with a hands-on clay workshop for the whole family. Shape, carve, and mold air-dry clay into personalized trivets or small sculptures, then take home one finished piece per participant. The clay cures in about two days and can be decorated afterward with paint or markers. Experienced ceramic instructors will be on hand to guide each step. Open to all ages with no registration required. Materials will be available as long as supplies last.

Kaufman Lake

JUL7

Leonhard Recreation Center

Movie Night at Sholem - The House with a Clock in Its Walls

Settle in for a swim-in screening of The House with a Clock in Its Walls, with the film shown while guests relax in the water. Admission is $8, or free with a summer pool pass or a Silver Sneakers membership. Attendance is capped at 300, so reserving in advance is recommended; if space remains, payment can be made at the front desk. A rain date is planned. Anyone younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

JUL8

Bryan Bielanski Live @ Exile on Main Street

Bryan Bielanski, a singer-songwriter rooted in rock and folk influences, appears at Exile on Main Street. His sound blends a familiar warmth with a fresh spark, honed through more than 2,500 performances, including 311 shows in 2025, for audiences across the globe. Hook-filled melodies and an upbeat spirit shape his music, captured on his album Bryan's Super Happy Fun Time and echoed by fans and critics around the world.

Exile on Main Street

JUL11