This weekend in Bloomington, IL

● Listings verifiedFriday, August 7 · every listing checked against its source by our Bloomington editors

Saturday & Sunday, Aug 8–9

28 events, 4 free. All of this week's events →

Saturday, August 8 21 events
  • 8am

    11th Annual Row4Dough

    The Factory Bloomington-Normal, 401 Bronco Drive, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    See details

    The event brings teams together at The Factory Bloomington-Normal for the eleventh year of Row4Dough in Region G, featuring a rowing workout that supports Special Olympics Illinois athletes. Registration is open.

    Event website ↗
  • 9am

    Sensory Saturday

    Altitude Trampoline Park, 1702 General Electric Rd, Bloomington
    See details

    Altitude Trampoline Park presents Sensory Saturday on the second Saturday of each month, offering a calmer jump session with reduced noise and fewer people. Admission is $12 per child, and one parent per child may participate for $5. Tickets are available for purchase in the park only. Grip socks are required, not included in admission, and can be bought for $3 plus tax.

    Event website ↗
  • 9am

    Bloomington Reptile Expo

    Bloomington Interstate Center, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Experience a vibrant Show Me Reptile Show that blends education and adventure for all ages. Explore a wide range of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, small exotic mammals, and aquatics, along with plants and bioactive supplies. Breeders and vendors will be on hand with enclosures, décor, feeders, equipment, and other care essentials. This event welcomes longtime keepers as well as those who are simply curious. Many attendees enjoy seeing the animals, taking photos, asking questions, and connecting with the community behind the hobby. General admission is $12 for adults with advance purchase and $15 at the door, $5 for kids ages 7 to 12, and free for children 6 and under. VIP passes are $17 in advance or $20 at the door, and include early entry and complimentary admission on day two at shows that span two days. All ages are welcome.

    Event website ↗
  • 9am

    SVdP - Holy Trinity: Saturday’s Food Distribution

    St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, 705 N Roosevelt Ave, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    Free

    St. Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity is offering a Saturday food distribution in a drive-through format. This event focuses on food distribution only. Guests are asked to remain in their vehicles while volunteers load items, and it helps to arrive with plenty of empty space in your vehicle for quick and easy loading. Bicycles and motorized bikes must be walked while on the lot. Walk-up service is available only for guests who do not have access to a vehicle; those who arrive by car will be directed to stay in their vehicle and use the drive-through line. Please be respectful of neighbors by not blocking driveways and by following local parking rules. Only families who are in the parking lot by the end of distribution time will be served, and the site cannot remain open to serve those still waiting after closing. To ensure there is enough for everyone, if you receive food during a Saturday distribution, please do not return the following Monday for another distribution within two days. If you receive food on the 2nd or 4th Saturday, you cannot receive again on the following Monday. If you get an item your household cannot use, consider sharing it with a neighbor or another family in need. These guidelines help keep everyone safe and allow volunteers to serve all guests fairly and efficiently.

    Event website ↗
  • 9:30am

    Farmer's Market

    Downtown Bloomington, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    See details

    This farmer's market brings together food, art, crafts, and live music in Downtown Bloomington.

    Event website ↗
  • 10am

    Peace, Love & Yoga

    DESTIHL Beer Hall & Barrel Room, 1200 Greenbriar Dr., Normal · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Ease into DeadHead Daze weekend with Peace, Love & Yoga at DESTIHL Beer Hall & Barrel Room. Instructor Selina Pritchard leads a gentle, one-hour session focused on stretching and breath on the Beer Hall lawn. No prior experience is required, and all levels are welcome. After class, a complimentary drink is included. Admission is $12 per person, and please bring your own mat.

    Event website ↗
  • 10am

    Knit In

    Normal Public Library, 206 W College Ave, Normal · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Knitters and crocheters are invited to gather at Normal Public Library for a relaxed community stitch-in. Bring needles, hooks, yarn, and a friend, then settle in to craft together. Participants may create items for charity or continue personal projects alongside fellow makers. This quarter highlights blankets for the Scott Child and Family Center in Bloomington, also known as Bright Point, and hats and scarves for the Boys and Girls Club of Bloomington Normal and Unity Community Center. Blanket sizes requested include toddler at 42 inches by 52 inches, crib at 45 inches by 60 inches, or throw at 52 inches by 60 inches. Any pattern and any color are welcome. Hats and scarves are needed in adult and child sizes, not baby. Free parking is available at Normal Public Library, with additional paid parking at the nearby College Avenue Parking Deck. For questions or pattern suggestions, contact the Education Department at 309-827-0428 or education@mchistory.org.

    Event website ↗
  • 11am

    Barks, bubbles, & sunshine

    AB Hatchery & Garden Center, 916 E Grove St, Bloomington
    See details

    This summer gathering features sweet treats, dirty sodas, plenty of water fun, and opportunities to meet adoptable pups.

    Event website ↗
  • 12pm

    DOGust Birthday Bash

    Humane Society of Central Illinois, 423 Kays Dr, Normal · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Celebrate shelter dogs at a birthday themed community gathering presented by the Humane Society of Central Illinois. The event highlights adoptable dogs and supports their search for loving homes. Attendees can meet potential new companions, enjoy birthday treats and pup cups, take part in giveaways and family friendly activities, and learn ways to help local shelter pets. Josh LaCombe of Country Financial is the presenting sponsor. At a sponsor booth, guests can request a complimentary insurance quote or policy review, and for each one completed a donation will be made to the Humane Society of Central Illinois. Whether exploring adoption, planning a fun outing with the family, or looking to support homeless animals in the community, this celebration welcomes animal lovers of all ages.

    Event website ↗
  • 4pm

    Almost Live & Cruisin' Uptown

    Uptown Normal, Normal · verified Jul 31
    Free

    Uptown Normal transforms into an open air car gallery with hundreds of vintage and modern vehicles showcased across the area. Enjoy live music, a family friendly atmosphere, and free entry. The event is organized by Mid State Cruisers with support from the Town of Normal.

    Event website ↗
  • 4pm

    August Open Mic Poetry at Bobzbay Books!

    Bobzbay Books, 419 N Main St, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    See details

    A relaxed poetry open mic at Bobzbay Books invites both newcomers and seasoned voices to read or listen in the store’s Kids Room. With no stage and no microphone, the setting stays low pressure, making it a comfortable place for first-time readers and anyone who prefers a gentler introduction to sharing work. Participants are welcome to present original poems, favorite pieces, short stories, or spoken word, with the expectation that all material remains respectful and avoids content that demeans or excludes others. A simple sign-up sheet will be available in the Kids Room before the readings begin, and participation is free with no registration required. A small seating area of about 8 to 10 chairs will be set up for readers and listeners, and others may quietly browse the shop while enjoying the performances. The Kids Room will not be shoppable during the event, though the rest of the store will remain open. Children are welcome with an accompanying adult, noting that some readings may not suit all ages. This gathering is part of a monthly series that returns on select Saturdays throughout the year.

    Event website ↗
  • 4:30pm

    Jim & Tommy

    Uptown Circle, Normal · verified Jul 31
    See details

    The largest car show in Blo/No presents a wide showcase of automobiles for enthusiasts and newcomers.

    Event website ↗
  • 5:30pm

    Kids Night Out

    Iron Coyote Challenge Park, 4113 E Oakland Ave, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Parents can enjoy an evening to themselves while Iron Coyote Challenge Park keeps kids ages 5–15 engaged with climbing, ninja obstacles, games, and active play. This fully supervised, four-hour evening centers on movement, friendship, and fun, with no screens involved. Food and snacks are part of the experience, and the setting is designed to be safe and supportive. Capacity is limited, so advance reservations are recommended.

    Event website ↗
  • 6pm

    Sweetwater

    Gill Street Bar and Grill, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Enjoy an evening on the patio at Gill Street Bar and Grill featuring Sweetwater, with music, food, drinks, and dancing.

    Event website ↗
  • 6pm

    Cheek’s Annual Parking Lot Party

    Bloomington, IL · verified Aug 2
    See details

    Brushville takes the stage at Cheeks Bar & Grill for a lively parking lot party, delivering a high-energy show that blends country and rock favorites into seamless medleys to keep the celebration going. Expect live music, upbeat vibes, and a fun crowd at this summer gathering.

    Event website ↗
  • 7pm

    Saturday Night Lights

    Altitude Trampoline Park , 1702 General Electric Rd, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Altitude Trampoline Park turns on the disco lights for a high energy jump session. Bounce with friends as favorite tracks play all evening. All ages are welcome. Admission is $24.99 per person. Altitude Trampoline Socks are required and not included, costing $3 per pair plus tax. Tickets can be purchased ahead of time online.

    Event website ↗
  • 7pm

    Blo-No Boogie Band at Fat Jacks!

    Bloomington, IL
    See details

    Blo-No Boogie Band performs a live set at Fat Jacks anniversary celebration. The band brings their stage show to the festivities with live music for the occasion.

    Event website ↗
  • 7pm

    Saturday Night Trivia

    Casper Brewing Company, 3807 Ballybunion Rd, Bloomington
    Free

    Seven rounds of Twin City Trivia bring a mix of brain teasers and lighthearted fun. Participation is free, no entry fee applies, and no app is needed. No advanced trivia expertise is required. Top scoring teams receive prizes, with bragging rights up for grabs as well. Teams compete from their tables and test their knowledge together.

    Event website ↗
  • 7pm

    Old Shoe

    DESTIHL Brewery and Beer Hall, 1200 Greenbriar Dr, Normal
    See details

    Old Shoe is performing at DESTIHL BREWERY in Normal, IL. The show is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM.

    Event website ↗
  • 8:30pm

    Summer Jammin' with Party Cannon!

    The Windjammer Lounge, 2303 Stern Dr, Bloomington
    See details

    Windjammer Bloomington hosts a summer celebration with Party Cannon, planned for a warm evening with a fun and lively vibe. Enjoy an upbeat night that leans into the season’s easygoing energy and the hope of pleasant weather.

    Event website ↗
Sunday, August 9 7 events
  • 12pm

    Free Inside Out Arts Festival

    Miller Park Pavillion , 1020 S Morris Ave, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    Free

    This free community event at Miller Park Pavilion features hands-on art and nature activities, music, and informational booths hosted by community organizations. It is open to all ages and is sponsored by Bloomington Parks & Recreation.

    Event website ↗
  • 12pm

    To The Max 2k Obstacle Challenge

    Maxwell Park, Normal · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Fresh course updates and new obstacles bring a renewed feel to this 2K obstacle challenge at Maxwell Park in Normal, while keeping a family-friendly atmosphere. Participants will jump, crawl, hang, and slide through a range of obstacles created for a wide span of ages and abilities. The event includes competitive heats for youth ages 7 to 13 and recreational waves for families with children ages 5 and up. It offers a fun way to cap off the season together. Family discounts are available.

    Event website ↗
  • 1pm

    Build-A-Bear on the Road

    Girl Scouts of Central Illinois Bloomington Service Center, 3 Westport Ct, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    See details

    The Trefoil Boutique offers expanded shopping hours, with a Build-A-Bear Workshop experience coming to the area. Browse new merchandise, build a cuddly new friend, and personalize it with accessories. Cookie Dough can be used.

    Event website ↗
  • 2pm

    Fun & Games: Family Games Day

    Bloomington Public Library, 205 E Olive St, Bloomington
    See details

    This family-friendly game day takes place in the Children’s Department, with play stations in Program Rooms 1 and 2. Participants can try a variety of board and card games as well as puzzles, with Red Raccoon Games game masters on site to demonstrate rules and guide players through a curated selection designed for family play.

    Event website ↗
  • 2pm

    I LOVE THE 2000s TRIVIA AT LIL BEAVER!

    Bloomington, IL
    See details

    Take a nostalgic dive into the 2000s with a trivia night celebrating the era’s music, films, television, sports, celebrity buzz, trends, and tech. Questions span the whole decade, calling back to flip phones, early social media, reality TV crazes, viral sensations, and pop megastars. Teams compete for prizes, and 2000s-inspired outfits are encouraged. Reservations are needed. Admission is $5 per person, and tables can seat up to six players. To reserve, email TwinCityTrivia@gmail.com.

    Event website ↗
  • 5pm

    Broadway Musical Trivia Night

    DESTIHL Beer Hall & Barrel Room, 1200 Greenbriar Dr., Normal · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Put your Broadway knowledge to the test at a themed trivia night at DESTIHL Beer Hall & Barrel Room. Expect questions that span hit shows from Hamilton to Hadestown, lyric-guessing challenges, and the stories behind beloved songs, characters, composers, and unforgettable stage moments. All levels are welcome, from devoted theater fans to anyone who loves belting out show tunes in the car. Reservations are required. Tickets are $5 per person, with up to six people per table. To reserve a table, email TwinCityTrivia@gmail.com.

    Event website ↗
  • 7:30pm

    Goo Goo Dolls

    Grossinger Motors Arena, 101 S Madison St, Bloomington · verified Jul 31
    See details

    Goo Goo Dolls bring a live performance to Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington, Illinois.

    Event website ↗

Hosting something in Bloomington? — Get your event listed in the directory and in the newsletter.

More events near Bloomington

BaseLocal covers 900+ communities — these are next door.

Bloomington Events This Weekend (Aug 8–9) | BaseLocal