Events in Bloomington today

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Heartland Jazz Orchestra brings a family-friendly performance to Connie Link Amphitheatre, showcasing live jazz from across eras. The Heartland Jazz Orchestra Foundation has offered free public pop-up concerts for years with support from the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation through the Mirza Arts and Culture Grant, the Town of Normal through Harmon Arts Grants, and the McLean County Arts Council through the Community Arts Access Grant, reaching diverse audiences and encouraging interest in jazz among younger listeners. Attendees can bring lawn chairs or blankets and get comfortable. Concessions including water or soda, popcorn, candy, and frozen desserts will be available for $2 each. The amphitheatre is accessible from the Constitution Trail and offers multiple parking options.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

St. Vincent de Paul Holy Trinity offers a Monday distribution that provides groceries and clothing through a drive-through system. Food is available in both morning and afternoon sessions, and clothing is available in the morning, with a brief pause midday. For safety and efficiency, guests should remain in their vehicles while volunteers load items, and it helps to arrive with ample space cleared in the car. Walk-up service is reserved only for guests without access to a vehicle. Please walk bicycles and motorized bikes while on the lot, be mindful of nearby driveways, and follow local parking rules. Service is limited to those who are already in the parking lot before each session ends. If you received food during a 2nd or 4th Saturday distribution, please skip the following Monday to ensure resources are available for everyone. If you receive something your household cannot use, consider passing it along to a neighbor in need. These guidelines help volunteers serve the community safely and fairly.

Cue the nostalgia for a 90s music trivia evening packed with songs, artists, lyrics, music videos, and the decade’s unforgettable hits across grunge, hip hop, boy bands, pop queens, and one-hit wonders. Expect questions that span from Nirvana and NSYNC to Tupac, TLC, Alanis, and Britney, ideal for anyone who still knows every word to “Semi-Charmed Life” or instinctively shouts “Stop! Collaborate and listen!” Bring your mixtape-loving crew and put that throwback knowledge to the test. Booking in advance is necessary. Tickets cost $5 per person, and tables can seat up to six.

Let’s Dish: A Cookbook Club brings food lovers together every other month in February, April, June, August, October, and December. Each gathering centers on a fresh theme, and participants choose a recipe that matches it, cook at home, then arrive ready to share both their dish and what they learned in the kitchen. Themes for the year include Soul Food, Breakfast for Dinner, Asian Cuisine, Sandwiches, Latin American Cuisine, and Comfort Food. Please bring serving utensils for your contribution. Disposable tableware and water will be available, and those who bring a dish may sample the spread. A reusable container is welcome since leftovers are often shared. Registration is required and can be completed by calling 309.590.6168 or by visiting the Help Desk in person. This is a potluck, and all recipes are prepared in personal kitchens, so please eat at your own discretion. Questions can be directed to Nazma at reference@bloomingtonlibrary.org.

Join the cookbook club for “Let’s Dish!” where you’ll explore a new food theme each time. For this meeting, the theme is sandwiches. You’ll pick a recipe that fits the theme, prepare it at home, then bring your dish to share and sample other participants’ cooking experiences. Bring serving utensils for your dish. Disposable tableware and water will be provided, and a reusable container is recommended for leftovers. Registration is required, and the club is a potluck-style get-together.

A free trivia night at The Westside Blono features Twin City Trivia with seven rounds designed to test your knowledge and spark plenty of laughs. Teams compete for real prizes, with awards going to the top performers. There is no entry fee and no app is needed, so participation is simple. Gather friends into a team, play through the rounds, and aim for bragging rights by the end.

Bobzbay Books is hosting a profit share fundraiser benefiting Child Protection Network, with 10 percent of every purchase made in the shop or online during the event donated to the cause. Online orders placed that day also count toward the total, and shipping is available. Child Protection Network is a volunteer-led 501(c)(3) established in August 1990 by the McLean County State’s Attorney in collaboration with a grassroots group of community leaders. Its mission is to support the prevention and treatment of child abuse and neglect in central Illinois by providing financial resources to local agencies dedicated to this work.

A ribbon cutting celebrates new member Jenesis Twelve Boutique, followed by a pop up shopping experience. After the ceremony, there is time to browse and shop. The event takes place in the McLean County Chamber of Commerce Training Room.

This weekly Tuesday social dance offers a welcoming atmosphere for dancers of all levels. No partner or prior experience is required, and Young Dance Inc provides free dance lessons to help newcomers feel comfortable. Expect a lively mix of Ballroom, Latin, and Swing music, with water and lemonade available. Plans can change, so it is a good idea to confirm details on the website or the Let's Bring Back Dance Facebook page.

Seven brain-teasing rounds from Twin City Trivia bring a lively night of questions and laughs to Pizza Payaa. It is free to play, no app is required, and all knowledge levels are welcome. Prizes go to the top teams, so expect friendly competition and plenty of bragging rights on the line.

Test your knowledge at Fat Jacks Bar with Twin City Trivia, a seven-round challenge that blends brainy questions and plenty of laughs for teams. There is no entry fee and no app to download, so all you need to do is gather a crew and play. Take on seven varied rounds and compete for prizes awarded to the top teams. Bring the trivia whizzes and the fun friends, then see what your table can accomplish.

Enjoy Twin City Trivia, a free, team-focused quiz night with seven rounds that challenge your brain and keep the laughs coming. There is no entry fee and no app to download, making it simple to sit down and play. Prizes go to the top teams, and every table has a shot at bragging rights. Teams can bring a mix of trivia enthusiasts and fun-loving friends, then see what they can do.

Music Bingo at Chi Family Express turns classic bingo into a music game. A host plays short clips, and players look for the matching artist or song title on a six-square card and mark it. Fill the card to win a prize, then another round starts. When a tune is on the tip of your tongue, people often ask a friend, chat with a nearby table, or hum along until the answer clicks, which is part of the fun. It is free to play, prizes are offered in every round, and the atmosphere is full of sing-alongs, laughter, and the chance to discover a new favorite song.

Twin City Trivia brings seven rounds designed to test knowledge, spark laughs, and give teams something to brag about. It is always free to play, with no entry fee and no app to download, and prizes are awarded to the top teams, making it a welcoming option for players of all experience levels.

Test your knowledge with Twin City Trivia at Barrel House Food & Spirits in Bloomington. This team-friendly contest features seven rounds that mix challenge and laughs, giving everyone a chance to contribute. There is no fee to participate, no app required, and no special expertise needed. Prizes go to the highest scoring teams, so gather friends and see how far your collective brainpower can take you.

Mystery fans gather on the second Tuesday of each month from January through November. Attendance is available in person at Bloomington Public Library or virtually through Zoom. Each session highlights a selected mystery title. Print copies can be checked out or reserved through the library’s Help Desk, and many selections may also be available as eBooks or eAudiobooks in the Libby or Hoopla apps. Registration is required only for virtual participants and can be completed online, at the Help Desk, or by calling 309.590.6168. For help with books or registration, contact the Help Desk at 309.590.6168 or reference@bloomingtonlibrary.org. Questions about the club can be directed to Marcie at reference@bloomingtonlibrary.org.

This morning program invites adults 55 and older to enjoy a brisk walk through the zoo with fellow seniors while a guide shares insights about two different animals each month. The group meets at the entrance, then sets off to explore the grounds and learn along the way. Admission is $7 at the door, and members receive free entry with a valid membership card. Advance registration is not needed for individuals. Group visits are welcome and are asked to register by phone in advance. For more information, contact Silvia Schuh at sschuh@cityblm.org or 309-434-2250.

Teens in grades 6 through 12 can take part in a supportive writing workshop in the TeenZone that focuses on building skills through collaboration and practice. Participants explore the craft of prose, pick up practical tips, and receive help with essays as well as personal creative projects. Bring any piece you are working on, whether it is a small assignment or a larger idea, along with an open mind and your best thinking. Mini lessons may be available upon request. Questions about the program can be sent to Cora at reference@bloomingtonlibrary.org.

A free, all-ages performance at Uptown Circle features The Tucked in T's. The group blends country blues, acoustic rock, folk, roots, and modern string band influences for an acoustic set that spans music by The Beatles, The Stones, Chris Stapleton, Grateful Dead, Keb’ Mo’, Stephen Stills, John Prine, Neil Young, and others. Blankets or lawn chairs are welcome, and arriving early offers time to shop or grab a bite in Uptown Normal.

Good Neighbor Flag Football League returns for a summer season of friendly, high-energy games at Underwood Park. Registration is open. As part of registration, each player must bring two cans of white athletic field striping paint, and the paint must be labeled for athletic field use only rather than general purpose. The league welcomes returning participants and newcomers, whether arriving with friends or a full team.

Sunny Side returns to The Mystic Kitchen for its first performance back at the venue, arriving from New Orleans as part of the band’s sixth national tour. The performance is planned outdoors, weather permitting. There is no cover charge, and tips for the musicians are encouraged. Known for a premium wine selection and thoughtful food pairings, The Mystic Kitchen offers a setting where guests can enjoy the music alongside a delicious meal. Sunny Side is a New Orleans-based jazz group inspired by Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Nat King Cole, and other early jazz greats, with more recent influences that include Ray Charles, Fats Domino, and Dr. John. With rich three-part harmonies, a tight rhythm section, and a high-energy vocalist and dancer, the band delivers an authentic and lively New Orleans jazz experience. This stop is part of a run of 24 shows in 21 cities with appearances in Tennessee, Illinois, Ohio, New York, Maryland, and more, ranging from intimate listening rooms to vibrant swing dance halls. The band is a popular choice for private events and weddings, earning The Knot’s Best of Weddings recognition multiple times, a distinction reserved for the top 5 percent of wedding bands nationwide.

DR McKay's Bar and Grill features a seven-round Twin City Trivia game that blends brain-teasing questions with plenty of laughs. Play at no cost, with no cover charge and no app required, and everyone is welcome regardless of experience. Team up with friends, work through each round, and compete for prizes reserved for the highest scoring groups.

Music bingo at Lucky 7's Bar turns song clips into a friendly challenge. The host plays short snippets, each card has six squares, and players mark the spot when they match the artist or song title they hear. Fill the whole card to snag a prize, then keep the fun going with more rounds. If a tune does not ring a bell, lean on friends or make a new ally at the next table, or hum along until recognition hits. It is free to play, with prizes awarded in every round, and plenty of chances to sing, laugh, and discover a new favorite song.

Form a team at Windjammer Bloomington for a Twin City Trivia game featuring seven rounds that test your knowledge and keep the laughs coming. There is no cost to participate and no app is needed. Prizes go to the highest scoring teams, so recruit a mix of brainy and fun-loving friends and see how you stack up.

Good Vibrations Cruise-In rolls onto Front Street outside Grossinger Motors Arena with classic cars on display and participation open to all vehicle types. Organized by Mid State Cruisers, this free gathering is part of the Summer of Celebrations recognizing the arena's 20th anniversary, America's 250th, and 60 years of The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds. Expect door prizes, plenty of car talk, and a relaxed summer vibe before The Beach Boys take the stage. Two cruise-in participants will be selected to receive tickets to see The Beach Boys that night. Admission is free.

Make-A-Wish Illinois and leaders from the McLean Area Regional Council host a kickoff celebration at Keg Grove Brewing to mark the tenth year of Wine for Wishes, a fundraiser that helps grant wishes for children facing critical illnesses. The kickoff includes giveaways and specials from Make-A-Wish Illinois and Keg Grove, plus a chance to win a complimentary ticket to the Wine for Wishes event at Funk Farms.

Hosted at Shake It Up Cocktail Lounge & Eatery due to a yoga class at the studio, this book club centers on what each reader is already reading. There are no assigned titles. The gathering begins with a round table check-in, and conversation flows from the books people bring. It offers a friendly space to talk about recent reads, discover new recommendations, and connect stories to everyday life. It can also help reignite a paused reading habit.

Live music fills the patio at Baxters, creating a relaxed summer atmosphere with food and drinks available. Guests can spend the evening outdoors while the music plays. The experience is weather dependent.

Join Illinois Wesleyan University professor Chris Sweet for a talk on the role of the bicycle in Illinois history, drawing from his new book, A History of Bicycling in Illinois: 160 Years of Booms and Busts. The program will explore how bicycling connects with social issues, politics, religion, sport, technology, and economics, with a special focus on central Illinois. You’ll also get a chance to view an antique 1886 Penny-farthing-style bicycle and a bicycle made in Peoria in the 1890s. The talk includes an in-person component in Community Room 2, with a live stream available, and a book signing immediately afterward.

The Beach Boys bring the Sounds of Summer tour to Grossinger Motors Arena, highlighting a catalog that has resonated for generations. For more than half a century, the group has shaped American music, selling over 100 million records as hits like Surfin’ USA, California Girls, Good Vibrations, and Kokomo climbed the charts and became enduring favorites. This tour stop also marks a salute to 250 years of the USA and honors the 60th anniversary of Pet Sounds.

Trivia Night by Sushi Primos offers a 1.5-hour quiz with fun questions and tasty sushi. Participation is free, with prizes of a $15 Sushi Primos gift card for first place and a $5 gift card for second place. This event happens every week.

A free, family-friendly Music Bingo session at Eric’s Too Family Restaurant and Lounge invites players of all ages to test their tune knowledge and win prizes. Listen to songs, figure out the title or artist on your own or with a quick phone search, and mark the matching number on your bingo sheet. You can win by completing the four corners or by getting five in a row diagonally, horizontally, or vertically. Call out Bingo to claim your prize and enjoy a simple, lively game that keeps everyone involved.

At The Westside Blono, experience classic bingo with a musical twist. A host plays short clips of songs while players scan their cards, each with six squares, to spot the artist or song title and mark it. Fill your card to claim a prize, then jump into more rounds as the game continues. If a tune is unfamiliar, ask a friend or even a stranger, or hum it at the table while you figure it out. It is free to play, and prizes are awarded in every round. Expect sing-alongs, lots of laughs, and the chance to discover a new favorite song.

At Cheeks Bar & Grill, Twin City Trivia brings seven rounds that challenge knowledge and keep the laughs coming. Participation is free, no app is required, and players of any experience level can jump in. Prizes go to the highest scoring teams, so bring friends and see how your table stacks up.