Events in Champaign
Five Guys Fundraiser
Enjoy good food at Five Guys in Champaign while supporting the penguins and mentors. Show the event poster or sign when you order so that 20 percent of the proceeds are directed to the fundraiser. The poster can be found in the discussion section next to About.
Five Guys (Champaign, IL)Wednesday Night Trivia
At The Axe Bar, Twin City Trivia brings a lively team challenge with seven rounds designed to test knowledge, spark laughs, and earn bragging rights. It is free to play, with no entry fee and no app required. Prizes go to the top teams, making it a fun pick for groups of friends, whether they are trivia pros or simply in it for a good time.
The Axe BarMusic Bingo
Music Bingo is back at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom, hosted by Whaddayaknow? Bring your friends for a casual bingo night with a music twist, running through the evening. It’s a fun, laid-back way to hang out and test your music knowledge.
Pour Bros. Craft TaproomWednesday Night Trivia at Brothers
Get ready for Brothers Bar & Grill’s Summer Edition trivia nights every Wednesday. This week’s session runs in the evening, and you can also grab 50 cent wings starting at 9:00 PM.
Brothers Bar & GrillArt in the Parks: Manga & Comics
Explore simple, effective techniques for drawing favorite manga and comic characters in a relaxed, hands-on session. Pick up methods to add more detail, keep characters consistent, and sketch more quickly with confidence. This activity welcomes all ages and does not require registration. Basic supplies are available while supplies last, and participants are welcome to bring their own tools and sketchbooks. Seating may be limited, so consider bringing a lawn chair.
Hessel ParkBaxters American Grille
Enjoy a crowd pleasing mix of classic rock staples and country favorites, with familiar songs from both genres creating a relaxed, feel good vibe.
Baxters American GrilleRich Hogan Acoustic
At Baxters, enjoy a summer patio evening with live music, tasty bites, and a warm, inviting setting. Pick a favorite drink, get comfortable, and take in the tunes on the patio. Plans are dependent on the weather.
Baxters American GrilleThursday Night Trivia
Thursday nights feature an award-winning trivia competition at Pour Bros. Craft Taproom Champaign, running every week. Reserve a spot for your team by contacting the taproom, with up to six players allowed per team. Walk-ins can add their names to a waiting list to fill any openings from no-shows. During warmer months, the action can move to the patio when weather permits. Expect Thursday trivia specials with deals on drinks, gift cards for top finishers, and occasional swag giveaways. The venue is food friendly, so bring your own meal or have it delivered while you #pouryourown. For updates and chances at bonus points, follow Whaddayaknow? Free Pub Trivia - Champaign on Facebook and @champaigntrivia on Instagram.
Pour Bros. Craft TaproomPlay with 20+ Adoptable Cats!
Spend 50 minutes relaxing in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps support the cats’ care while giving them social time, even if you are not looking to adopt. The cats are sourced from local nonprofit rescues and their adoption fees go to the rescue they came from. All cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for common pathogens. Advance reservations are the only way to guarantee lounge time, though walk-ins may be possible if there is space.
The Scratching Post CUSafe@Home
Safe@Home is a hands-on program for kids (ages 9-14) interested in staying home alone safely. Participants learn practical safety habits, how to prevent unsafe situations, and what to do during emergencies like power failures or severe weather. They’ll also be introduced to the Safe Sitter® First Aid Chart to help them recognize and respond appropriately to injuries and illnesses. The program is designed to support students as they take their first steps toward independence.
Phillips Recreation CenterUnbooked | Bingo
Bingo takes center stage at the library with time to socialize and play, plus opportunities to win prizes. This gathering is part of the Unbooked Summer 2026 series, which also rotates through weeks of trivia, puzzle activities, card games, and a concert. Library programs are free to attend.
Champaign Public LibraryHL&TBR @Pipas Pub
Hunter Lucas & The Backroad Remedies take the stage at Pipas Pub for their first appearance at the venue. The set includes songs by Luke Combs, Jason Aldean, Green Day, and All American Rejects, alongside original music from Hunter Lucas. The night features live music, cold drinks, and friendly company.
Summer Prairie Skies
Enjoy a live guided exploration of the night sky that pairs celestial highlights with timeless star lore. Learn which constellations and planets are visible from your own backyard. The program is refreshed each season and welcomes all ages. Tickets are $8 for adults and $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, and children 12 and under. Passes are available in the lobby.
William M. Staerkel PlanetariumAn Evening with Gladys Knight
Gladys Knight, the legendary vocalist, brings her first ever performance to State Farm Center in a special concert experience titled An Evening with Gladys Knight. Tickets start at $51.50, and a State Farm Center Insiders presale will be offered. Additional ticket information is available through the State Farm Center box office and official website.
State Farm CenterChampaign-Urbana Days (CU Days)
Champaign-Urbana Days is a longstanding tradition that brings the community together to celebrate its heritage and culture. This three-day event features live music, local food, and a lively marketplace that includes community outreach groups, nonprofit organizations, and vendors offering merchandise. Children can enjoy face painting, caricature artists, balloon creations, and other activities throughout, and basketball enthusiasts can catch the CU All Stars tournament on the court. The program includes Youth Night with a school supply drive along with games and activities, plus hot dogs, food trucks, and more. Family Day offers games and activities, opportunities to connect with community and service organizations, and live entertainment on stage. A Gospel Event highlights uplifting gospel performances and entertainment.
Douglass ParkNoontime Gallery Talk & Tour
Krannert Art Museum hosts a guided conversation and walk-through that highlights art currently on display. The program shares background and perspectives on works featured in temporary exhibitions and in the museum's collection galleries. Accessibility supports are available upon request at kam-accessibility@illinois.edu.
Krannert Art MuseumFarm Tours and Cheese Tasting
Enjoy a 30-minute guided farm walk through Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery, including a look at the pastures and barns, their regenerative farming practices, and their Nubian and LaMancha goats. The tour wraps up back at the Farm Store with a tasting of a few seasonal cheeses. The event meets at the Farm Store, and it may include both indoor and outdoor areas, with uneven ground that can get muddy depending on the weather.
Prairie Fruits Farm and CreameryChamber First Friday Coffee 2026
Kick off the month with First Friday Coffee hosted by Meyer Capel. Drop in for coffee, tasty bites, and a relaxed chance to connect with other local professionals. Bring your business cards to help you network and receive a full contact list.
Meyer CapelHaunter
Get ready for a night of rock music with Haunter and Trash Pandas at Cowboy Monkey. The show starts at 9:00 PM.
Cowboy MonkeyArtventures for Kids
Krannert Art Museum teams up with librarians from The Urbana Free Library for a hands-on Saturday program created for children ages 5 and up and the adults who care for them. The experience starts with a storytime tied to works on view, moves into playful exploration of the galleries that connects the stories to the art, and finishes with creative art making guided by visiting artists and sparked by the exhibition. It offers a welcoming way for families to experience the museum together while encouraging curiosity, imagination, and self-expression as participants listen, explore, and create. Presented in partnership with The Urbana Free Library, with support from the Illinois Arts Council. Nearby parking is free on weekends. Accessibility supports are available, and accommodations can be requested.
Krannert Art MuseumCosmic Colors
Explore the electromagnetic spectrum and uncover the science behind color across the cosmos. Find out why the sky looks blue and why Mars appears red. Look inside a plant leaf and the human eye, investigate x-rays, and learn what color a dinosaur really was. Tickets are $8 for adults and $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65+, and children 12 or younger. Passes are available for purchase in the lobby.
William M. Staerkel PlanetariumBoard Game Demo Day
At The Scratching Post, a featured board game will be set up at the end of the bar for a short, hands-on walkthrough that teaches the core rules. Every demo title is available to buy and also stocked in the game library, so you can take home a copy or use a game pass to play the library version. Purchases make a positive impact, with 20 percent of profits from food, drinks, and merchandise donated to partner rescues. Previous demo selections have included Rock Hard 1977, Mouse Cheese Cat Cucumber, A Place for All My Books, and Lightning Train.
The Scratching PostKidscape Playground Tea Party
A cheerful tea party featuring Minnie Mouse includes a sweet treat and a hands-on craft. Attendance is limited to 15 children, and each child may be accompanied by up to two adults. The cost is $10 per child plus a processing fee. A reservation is required and can be made through the ticket link by selecting the Minnie Mouse tea party option in the events section.
Kidscape PlaygroundCU Days Senior Luncheon & Bingo
This luncheon at the Douglass Community Center welcomes adults ages 50 and up, offering a complimentary meal followed by lively bingo games with prizes.
Douglass ParkSunday Afternoon Goat Hike
Enjoy a guided goat hike on the farm, starting at 1:30 PM. You’ll walk along the pasture, past Saline Creek, through the wooded area, and around the pond for about a mile and a half, with plenty of stops to take photos and spend time with the goats. The fun includes an opportunity for the goats to run, and the hike ends with a farmstead cheese sample. The hike is outdoors, typically lasts around 45 to 60 minutes, and is for ages 8 and up. Check in at the Farm Store before your hike, and wear sturdy shoes that can get a bit dirty.
Prairie Fruits Farm and CreameryAdoptable Cats
Spend about 50 minutes relaxing in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps cover the cats' care and gives them time for socialization, even if you are not there to adopt. All the cats come from local non-profit rescues, and their adoption fees support the originating rescue. The cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for common pathogens. Advance reservations are the only way to guarantee lounge time, and walk-ins are welcome when space is available.
The Scratching Post CUOccasional Cajun Band
Enjoy traditional Cajun, Creole, and Zydeco music with the Occasional Cajun Band. The event runs from mid-afternoon into early evening at Rose Bowl Tavern.
Rose Bowl TavernSummer 2026 Trivia
At OLLI at Illinois, a trio of trivia gatherings offers changing themes and categories. Participants may come with friends or on their own, and solo attendees can be paired with OLLI members to form teams of four to six. Light refreshments are provided. Registration is not needed, and the series is open to everyone.
Osher Lifelong Learning InstituteSwim Under the Stars
Enjoy a free family swim under the stars at Sholem Aquatic Center, sponsored by Christie Clinic with involvement from chambanamoms. Lifeguards will be on duty and concessions will be available for snack purchases. No pool pass is required for entry. Children younger than 13 must be accompanied by an adult, and teens must follow the Sholem Teen ID rules. This event is very popular and admission will close once the pool reaches capacity, so arriving a little early is recommended. A rain date will be announced.
Sholem Aquatic CenterCafé Conversations
Have a casual chat with Stephanie Smith, the new director of Krannert Art Museum, during relaxed drop-in conversations at Mad Goat Coffee in Champaign. Share your thoughts about the museum, ask questions, or simply say hello. Conversations are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and no appointment is needed.
Mad Goat Coffee ChampaignChampaign Farmers Market
Champaign Farmers Market offers a family friendly atmosphere with free live entertainment, activities for kids, and a welcoming sense of community. This market focuses on local foods and artisanal goods for the CU community, featuring vendors with meat, vegetables, fruits, microgreens, baked goods, breads, herbal products, handmade items, and more. A vendor map is updated regularly to highlight who will be there. To make fresh, locally produced food more accessible, the market provides Link Match for SNAP/EBT shoppers and accepts WIC and Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program benefits. Kids Kits offer a free recipe and ingredients kit each month while supplies last. The Buy One, Give One initiative invites shoppers to purchase extra portions for donation to a local food bank, supporting farmers while helping families experiencing food insecurity.
Neil & Washington LotChampaign Urbana Puppet People (C.U.P.P) Work Nights
These studio sessions with Champaign Urbana Puppet People create a welcoming space to build puppets alongside a supportive group. Help is available for anyone new to puppet making, with PPs offering tips and encouragement. Attendees can also ask about goals, membership, and available classes.
The Twisted Coloring BookTuesday Music Bingo at Brothers [Summer Sessions]
Continuing through the summer, Tuesday Music Bingo at Brothers offers a simple twist on classic bingo built around music. Enjoy Tuesday night burger and drink specials. Winners can take home fun prizes, and there is a raffle drawing each week. General trivia also takes place on Wednesdays.
Tuesday Goat Hike
Join the Tuesday Happy Hour Goat Hike for a fun, guided walk around the Eastern part of the farm, featuring plenty of scenic photo stops and time for the goats to run. Check in at the farm store, and the hike starts at the apple tree in front of the store. The hike lasts about 30 to 45 minutes and includes a beverage of your choice (up to $12) from the bar at the conclusion of the hike. The hike is outdoors, ages 8 and up, and it may be canceled if temperatures and the “feels like” conditions go over 90 degrees, with a refund or reschedule offered.
Prairie Fruits Farm and CreameryWednesday Night Trivia
At The Axe Bar, Twin City Trivia takes over with a free, team-based quiz night featuring seven rounds that test knowledge and keep the laughs coming. There is no entry fee and no app required, so both first-time players and seasoned quizzers can dive right in. Prizes go to the top teams, and bragging rights are on the line across all seven rounds. Gather friends, pick a table, and see if your crew can rise to the top during a relaxed night out.
The Axe BarWednesday Night Trivia
VFW Post 5520 hosts a free trivia night featuring Twin City Trivia, built around seven rounds that test knowledge and spark plenty of laughs. Teams compete for bragging rights, with prizes awarded to the top scorers. There is no entry fee and no app is needed. Bring friends to form a team, settle in, and find out whether your table can come out on top.
VFW Post 5520Play with 20+ Adoptable Cats!
Hang out in the cat lounges for 50 minutes with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps support their care and also gives the cats chances to socialize, even if you are not looking to adopt. All cats come from local non-profit rescues, and adoption fees go to the originating rescue. The cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for common pathogens. Advance reservations are the only way to guarantee lounge time, with walk-ins welcome if space is available.
The Scratching Post CUMusic Bingo
Join the Music Bingo series at Pour Bros Craft Taproom for a fun, music-themed twist on classic bingo. It runs as a lively evening event, hosted by Whaddayaknow?. Come ready for a relaxed night of music and prizes while you play along.
Pour Bros. Craft TaproomWednesday Night Trivia
Join for the Summer Edition of Wednesday Night Trivia at Brothers Bar & Grill. Trivia runs from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and you can also catch 50 cent wings starting at 9:00 PM.
Brothers Bar & GrillKatie Flynn and Kurt Reeder Duo
Settle into the patio at Baxters for an evening of live tunes, along with food, drinks, and a relaxed summer vibe. Enjoy the outdoor setting with a favorite beverage, weather permitting.
Baxters American GrilleTyJon Charlie@Houlihan’s Patio in Champaign!
TyJon Charlie offers an intimate performance, threading stories of life’s peaks and valleys through heartfelt original songs. Blending indie folk with indie rock, the set shifts from luminous ballads to anthems that fill the room. The flow is seamless and invites listeners to settle in, tap along, or let loose. It centers on raw, soulful expression.
An Evening with Maggie Su
Enjoy an evening with author Maggie Su as she discusses her novel Blob: A Love Story, published by Harper in 2025. The book was named one of the best of 2025 by Debutiful, Electric Literature, and The New Yorker, and it was a finalist for the PEN/Hemingway Award. Su serves as a fiction editor at New England Review and holds a PhD in fiction from the University of Cincinnati. She lives in South Bend, Indiana, with her partner, daughter, cat, and turtle. After her presentation, books will be available to purchase and a signing will follow. Presented with support from the Library Friends and the Library Foundation, this event is part of the Great Authors at the Library series. Admission is free.
Champaign Public LibraryThursday Night Trivia
Pour Bros. Craft Taproom Champaign hosts a weekly, award winning trivia night where teams put their knowledge to the test. To secure a spot, contact the taproom by email or direct message each week. Teams can include up to six people, and walk-ins may join a waiting list if a spot opens due to no-shows. When the weather is warm, the action can move to the patio, conditions permitting. Expect drink specials, gift cards for top finishers, and swag giveaways. The taproom offers a pour your own experience and is food friendly, so bringing in food or arranging delivery is welcome. For updates and chances at bonus points, follow Whaddayaknow? Free Pub Trivia - Champaign on Facebook and @champaigntrivia on Instagram.
Pour Bros. Craft TaproomPlay with 20+ Adoptable Cats!
Spend 50 minutes in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps cover the cats’ care and also gives them social time, even if you are not looking to adopt. The cats come from local non-profit rescues, and their adoption fees support the originating rescue. All cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested. Advance reservations are the only way to guarantee lounge time, though walk-ins are welcome if space is available.
The Scratching Post CUThe Flamazing Race!
The second edition of this playful twist on a duck race sends flamingos coursing down a curving water course toward a finish in the pool, supporting CU Special Recreation’s Flamazing programs. The flock bobs, glides, slides, and spins as they vie for first place. Registration allows entrants to choose how many flamingos to enter, priced at $5 each or $40 for a Zazzle, which is 10. Before race morning, numbers for each entered flamingo are shared so entrants know which ones to root for. A rain date is planned.
Leonhard Recreation CenterBounce Back to School
Start the new school year with a playful celebration. Children can jump, slide, and enjoy a variety of inflatable attractions, and all activities are free. Bring friends and plenty of energy for a family-friendly burst of bouncing fun.
Hessel ParkFriday Night Lights
Friday Night Lights launches in 2026 as a free gathering for the automotive community, welcoming enthusiasts to display their vehicles and connect with fellow car lovers. Taking place on the second Friday of each month, it continues a tradition tied to the Champaign-Urbana car scene since 2008. Photographers are encouraged to capture the excitement and share on Instagram with #itsawrapauto for potential features. To keep the experience enjoyable for everyone, burnouts, loud music, and reckless driving are strictly prohibited.
It's a Wrap Automotive LLCUnbooked | Trivia
This is a lighthearted trivia night at the library for individuals or groups. Attendees can mingle, form a team, and pick up a snack before the questions begin, and the themes change each month. It is part of the Unbooked summer series, which also rotates in bingo, puzzles, card games, and a concert. There is no cost to attend.
Champaign Public LibrarySummer Prairie Skies
Enjoy a live guided tour of the night sky, paired with legendary stories passed down since ancient times. Learn which constellations and planets you can spot from your own backyard tonight. The program is refreshed each season and welcomes all ages. Admission is $8 for adults and $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, and children 12 and under. Passes are available for purchase in the lobby starting a half hour before the first show.
William M. Staerkel PlanetariumPlay with 20+ Adoptable Cats!
Spend 50 minutes in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps cover their care costs and also supports socializing the cats, even if you are not looking to adopt. The cats come from local non-profit rescues, and all adoption fees go to the rescue they came from. They are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for common pathogens. Reservations are required to guarantee lounge time, though walk-ins may be available if there is space.
The Scratching Post CUFarm Tours and Cheese Tasting
Take a 30-minute guided farm tour at Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery, with a walkthrough of the pastures and barns as part of a working farmstead creamery. The tour covers their regenerative farming practices and includes a chance to meet their Nubian and LaMancha goats. After the walk, the experience wraps up back at the Farm Store with a seasonal cheese tasting of current favorites.
Prairie Fruits Farm and CreameryComedy Show and Open Mic
For the Culture is hosting a Comedy Night and Open Mic at The Literary, celebrating Black humor, storytelling, and how laughter helps build community. Expect a mix of comedy, storytelling, spoken word, and music, along with open mic performances where community members can share jokes, life stories, poems, songs, or perspectives. If you’re not performing, you’re welcome to relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the night with neighbors.
The LiteraryPatio Paradise 2026--A Tiki Drink Ho'Olaue'A
Pour Bros. returns with its fifth annual tiki patio celebration, highlighted by a special menu of event-only tiki cocktails crafted by Nic. The party features a Baywatch theme and live music from Jake and Jackson. Chop Truck will be on site serving food.
Pour Bros. Craft TaproomCosmic Colors
Explore the electromagnetic spectrum in a show that explains what makes the sky look blue and why Mars appears red. Venture into the inner workings of a leaf and the human eye, examine x-rays, and learn what color a dinosaur really was. The experience unfolds beneath a spectrum of cosmic light. Admission is $8 for adults and $7 for Parkland students, seniors 65 and older, and children 12 and under. Passes can be purchased in the lobby beginning half an hour before the first show.
William M. Staerkel PlanetariumBoard Game Demo Day
Saturday is dedicated to board game demos at The Scratching Post. A featured title will be set up at the end of the bar, with a quick guided demo to help players learn the basics. Every demo game is both available for purchase and included in the in-house library, so attendees can buy a copy or purchase a game pass to play the library version. In addition, 20 percent of profits from food, drink, and merchandise sales are donated to partner rescues, so purchases also support a charitable cause.
The Scratching PostFusion Mellow + Butta'
Peoria acts Fusion Mellow and BUTTA' bring their sound to Cowboy Monkey as groove-forward jams return to downtown Champaign. A relaxed courtyard setting, chilled drinks, and a gentle breeze set an easygoing mood. Admission is $10 with applicable fees.
Cowboy MonkeyWishes on Wheels 32nd Annual Benefit Run
Now in its 32nd year, this community benefit run features a sign-up period, a group photo, and a coordinated ride departure. Motorcycles, cars, and other vehicles can take part, with four-wheeled participants asked to follow the designated chase vehicle to help keep riders safe. Activities include marbles games, 50/50 drawings, raffle prizes, and both live and silent auctions. Proceeds support a local family and help turn wishes into reality for those who need it most.
VFW Post 5520C-U Sacred Harp monthly singing
Experience shape-note singing featuring selections from The Sacred Harp (2025 edition) and Missouri Harmony. Bring your own songbook if you have one, and loaner books will be available for anyone who needs them. Beginners are welcome, no experience is required, and friendly guidance will help newcomers learn the basics. Attendees are welcome to bring a friend.
Hessel Park Christian Reformed ChurchSwing Dancing at Hamilton Walker's
Swing dancing takes over the lobby at Hamilton Walker's as part of a summer series set to DJ-selected tracks. There is no cost to attend, and food and drinks are available for purchase from the restaurant.
Hamilton Walker'sSunday Wine Down w/ Andrew Duncanson & Take A Ride Ft. Michael Peloquin
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Alto Vineyards for Sunday Wine Down featuring Andrew Duncanson and Take A Ride, with Michael Peloquin. Expect live music and a laid-back wine-time vibe for a great end-of-weekday reset.
Alto VineyardsPlay with 20+ Adoptable Cats
Spend 50 minutes in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps cover the cats’ care and also gives them social time, whether or not you’re planning to adopt. All cats come from local non-profit rescues, and 100% of their adoption fee goes to the originating rescue. Advance reservations are required to guarantee your lounge time, and walk-ins are welcome only if space is available. The cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for many common pathogens.
The Scratching Post CUCC2CRAAZY
Catch a CC2CRAAZY member’s return to Champaign, with support from Ant Hattie. This is an in-person event that runs for about two hours at The Space.
The SpaceKaraoke
Head to The Axe Bar for Karaoke night where you can grab the mic and sing your heart out. The event runs from late evening into the early hours, so come ready for a fun night of performances and good vibes.
The Axe BarBoard Game Summer Camp
Board Game Bootcamp returns for the summer with a hands-on session devoted to rapid board game design and prototyping. Participants work in teams and build a game around assigned mechanics and a theme. All materials are provided, including dice, pieces, boards, cards, paper, pens, and markers. The workshop is free and is designed to spark ideas for Season 13 of CUDO Plays, offering a feel for the competition even for those who are not entering as full competitors. This session takes place at the Champaign Public Library in Robeson Room C.
Champaign Public LibraryChic Kids (Champaign,IL) Hosting Silhouettes by Chris
Internationally known silhouette artist Chris Casey will be creating custom, heirloom-quality silhouette portraits in person. The artist hand-cuts each portrait using surgical scissors and fine quality paper, and this is a fun family activity. You can bring a side-view photo of your pet (like Rex or Whiskers) and have a pet silhouette made too, and the finished portraits make great gifts.
Chic KidsMusic Bingo
Join us for Music Bingo at Pour Bros Craft Taproom, a fun twist on traditional bingo with a music theme. Hosted as part of the weekly series, it runs for a two-hour session of games, music, and good vibes.
Pour Bros. Craft TaproomWednesday Night Trivia
Swing by for Wednesday Night Trivia at Brothers Bar & Grill for their Summer Edition trivia nights. Trivia runs from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and you can also grab 50 cent wings starting at 9:00 PM.
Brothers Bar & GrillAugust Jazz in the Park
Sunset Ridge Park hosts the closing night of the Jazz in the Park Summer Series, featuring local musicians performing smooth, soulful jazz as the evening sky settles in. Settle onto a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy live music, easygoing summer energy, and a friendly community atmosphere. Pick up bites from nearby food trucks or bring your favorite snacks to savor while you listen. Relax, tap your toes, and take in the rhythm as the series wraps up for the season.
Sunset Ridge ParkPlay 500+ Board Games
Drop in for an all-day board game hangout at The Scratching Post, with access to a library of 500+ games ranging from classics like Monopoly and Jenga to modern favorites such as Catan and Ticket to Ride. Game passes are $5 per person for a two-hour table reservation, and seating is first come, first served. There are tools to help you choose, plus QR codes to make learning games easier, and you can also bring your own game or D&D group. Snacks, drinks, alcohol, and a cat lounge are available, so it is a laid-back, friendly atmosphere to play and relax.
The Scratching Post CUPlay with 20+ Adoptable Cats!
Spend about 50 minutes relaxing in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps cover the cats’ care and also supports socializing them, even if you’re not looking to adopt. The cats come from local non-profit rescues, are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested, and their adoption fees go to the rescue they came from. Reservations are the only way to guarantee lounge time, and walk-ins are welcome only if space is available.
The Scratching Post CUPlay 500+ Board Games
Drop in for a full session of board gaming at The Scratching Post, with access to a library of 500+ board games, covering classic favorites, modern strategy titles, and newer games you may not find in stores yet. Game passes cost $5 per person for 2 hours and tables are first come, first served. You can also use tools and QR codes to help you pick a game and learn how to play, and you’re welcome to bring your own game or D&D group. Snacks, drinks, alcohol, and a cat lounge are also part of the vibe.
The Scratching Post CUPlay with 20+ Adoptable Cats!
Spend 50 minutes in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps cover the cost of their care and supports socializing them, even if you are not looking to adopt. Cats come from local non-profit rescues, and their adoption fees support the originating rescue. All participating cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for common pathogens. Advance reservations are the only way to guarantee lounge time, though walk-ins may be welcome if space is available.
The Scratching Post CUA Celebration of Black Elegance
Get dressed up for “Jazz, Cocktails & Gowns,” a night celebrating Black elegance, style, confidence, and culture. Expect live jazz music, cocktails, conversation, dancing, and a live event photographer capturing the evening. The event also features a speakeasy-style spoken word experience, with attendees encouraged to come ready with a poem or song.
Hound's CourtPlay with 20+ Adoptable Cats!
Spend 50 minutes in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps cover the cost of their care and gives the cats social time, even if you are not looking to adopt. All cats are from local non-profit rescues, are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for common pathogens. Advance reservations are the only way to guarantee lounge time, and walk-ins may be available if there is space.
The Scratching Post CU3D Printing for Adults: Trinket Boxes
This hands-on workshop introduces adults to 3D printing at the library by guiding participants through designing a personalized trinket box with TinkerCad. After the design is finished, the library will produce it on its 3D printer for pickup later in the week. To reserve a spot, call 217-403-2000. All library events are free.
Champaign Public LibraryKids Kits at the Champaign Farmers Market
Kids Kits is a free program from the Champaign Farmers Market that equips children with a child friendly recipe and all the ingredients to prepare a tasty, wholesome snack made with local produce. Kits are available at the market on the last Tuesday of each month, first come, first served while supplies last. The program encourages young cooks to try new foods and build kitchen skills, and previous recipes are available to recreate at home. Sponsored by Meridian of Illinois.
Downtown PlazaFamily STEM Night
Illinois Science Explorers, the University of Illinois science outreach initiative, hosts a family-friendly evening featuring complimentary pizza, hands-on science, and try-it-yourself experiments. Kids and adults explore STEM side by side through building projects and simple investigations that spark curiosity and creativity. The activities welcome all ages and offer plenty of opportunities to learn something new together while enjoying pizza and making memories as a family.
Martens CenterKaraoke at The Axe Bar
Head to The Axe Bar for a karaoke night where you can jump in and sing your heart out. Karaoke starts at 9:00 PM and runs late into the night.
The Axe BarJustin Alan Payne
Exile on Main Street hosts an evening with Justin Alan Payne alongside Sweetmelk. Payne hails from East Nashville and has spent more than a decade reaching audiences across the United States, performing both solo and with his projects Justin Payne & Co. and Rough Lovers. On the verge of releasing his first Nashville solo LP, he brings a distinctive songwriting voice with striking range and depth, continuing to build momentum within indie circles.
Exile on Main StreetPlay 500+ Board Games
Swing by The Scratching Post for an open board game hangout featuring a huge library of 500+ games, ranging from classics like Monopoly and Jenga to modern favorites like Catan and Ticket to Ride. Game passes are $5 per person for 2 hours and tables are first-come, first-served, with plenty of options to help you pick a game or learn one using QR code how-to videos. You can also bring your own game or D&D group. Snacks, drinks, alcohol, and cats in their separate lounge are available, with lots of good vibes.
The Scratching Post CUOpen Mic Night w Scottie Black (Monthly)
This monthly open mic, hosted by Scottie Black at Cowboy Monkey, celebrates a stage that has supported many in the Champaign-Urbana music scene. It is free with no cover and open to ages 19 and up. Signups happen in person. Solo and duo acoustic acts are the focus for now, with plans to expand to bands and more in the future. Taking place on the last Thursday of each month, it offers space for both performers and listeners.
Cowboy MonkeyPlay 500+ Board Games
Come hang out at The Scratching Post for a board game day featuring more than 500 games, mixing classic favorites with modern picks. Game passes are $5 per person for 2 hours, and table seating is first come, first served. There’s plenty of help finding something to play, including tools to learn games without reading rulebooks, plus you’re welcome to bring your own game or D&D group. Expect snacks, drinks, alcohol, and even cats in a separate lounge visible from the cafe side through large windows.
The Scratching Post CUPlay with 20+ Adoptable Cats!
Spend about 50 minutes in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps cover the cats’ care and supports socializing them, even if you are not looking to adopt. The cats are sourced from local non-profit rescues, and their adoption fees go to the originating rescue. All participating cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for common pathogens. Advance reservations are the only way to guarantee lounge time, while walk-ins are welcome if there is space.
The Scratching Post CUMahomet Music Festival 2026
The Mahomet Music Festival 2026 brings together a lineup of Christian and mainstream pop artists, headlined by Riley Clemmons, with Shane Profitt also appearing. Enjoy an outdoor music festival at Mahomet Parks & Recreation.
Mahomet Parks & RecreationMoo-vie Nights
Moo-vie Nights at Prairie Farm offers family fun on summer evenings with concessions, time on the farm, and a family-friendly film beneath the open sky. Admission is free and no registration is required. Bring a blanket and settle in for a relaxed outdoor movie experience featuring titles like The Lorax, The Bee Movie, Wall E, Brother Bear, and Luca.
Prairie FarmPlay 500+ Board Games
Spend an afternoon and evening in a board game café with access to a library of 500+ board games, from classics like Monopoly and Jenga to newer favorites like Catan and Ticket to Ride. Game passes cost $5 per person for 2 hours and seating is first come, first served. There are helpers to make picking a game easy, options for learning without reading rulebooks (QR codes with how-to videos), and you can also bring your own game or D&D group. Snacks, drinks, alcohol, and a cat lounge area are available, so it is a laid-back hangout for all kinds of board gamers.
The Scratching Post CUD&D Night
D&D Night at The Scratching Post blends tabletop adventuring with cat-themed fun. Expect playful touches like crafting character sheets for the lounge cats and plenty of pew pew sound effects. Attendees can take part in different ways. Bring a full group and reserve a table by emailing info@scratchingpostcafe.com. Game passes are $5 per person, and for this night all game pass fees are donated to partner non-profit rescues. Those seeking a guided experience can get tickets for a one-shot run by Professional Game Master Persephone Lovell. Registration is limited to eight players. Bring a Level 3 5e character using either the 2014 or 2024 rules, or choose from pre-made options. Questions about the one-shot can be sent to persephonelovell44@gmail.com or asked on the Scratching Post Discord. Gameplay happens on the cafe side, separate from the cat lounge. Visiting the cats requires a separate reservation. Drinks, snacks, and alcohol are available, and 20% of profits from food, beverages, and merchandise support partner rescues.
The Scratching Post CUDrew Cagle & The Reputation
Cowboy Monkey hosts a high energy night as Drew Cagle & The Reputation takes the stage with special guest Trashy Annie. This hard rock act, touring nationally and rooted in Central Illinois, is known for intense, unapologetic performances delivered fully live. The band has earned attention from outlets such as Rolling Stone and SPIN and has notched four Top 40 songs across active rock, blues, and classic rock radio. Their releases include the debut EP Haunted and the album Bad Attitude, which drew praise from Alice Cooper and Eddie Trunk, picked up airplay on SiriusXM, produced charting tracks including the number one All Figured Out, and featured a collaboration with Tracii Guns. With a mission to bring back rock and roll’s mystery and danger, they blend the spirit of the 70s and 80s with modern grit, big hooks, and vivid storytelling. This event is 19+.
Cowboy MonkeyPlay with 20+ Adoptable Cats!
Spend 50 minutes in the cat lounges with 20+ adoptable cats. This reservation helps cover the cats’ care and also gives them a chance to socialize, even if you’re not looking to adopt. All cats come from local non-profit rescues, and the adoption fees go to the originating rescue. The cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for common pathogens. Advance reservations are the only way to guarantee lounge time, and walk-ins are welcome only if space is available.
The Scratching Post CUShuga Beatz Acoustic Live
Live music sets the tone on the Baxters patio, complemented by tasty dishes and drinks in a relaxed summer setting. This outdoor experience is weather permitting.
Baxters American GrillePrairie Farm Campout
Pitch a tent at Prairie Farm for an overnight experience filled with simple pleasures and discovery. Begin the evening with close-up interactions with farm animals, then gather for a classic wiener roast and s'mores by the fire as stories are shared among family and friends. When night falls, unwind with a movie under the stars that all ages can enjoy. Morning brings the sights and sounds of the farm, followed by a light continental breakfast. A guided program rounds out the adventure with a look at the wildlife that visits Prairie Farm and the ways nature supports the local environment.
Prairie FarmChampaign Comic, Toy, & TCG Card Show Sept 12-13 - Free Event @ Market Place Shopping Center
A mall-wide pop culture celebration features comics, toys, art, games, TCG cards, cosplay, vinyl, and other fan-favorite finds set up across the mall. More than seventy vendor and artist spots will be available. A cosplay showcase is planned, with additional details to be announced the week of the show.
Market Place Shopping CenterAlison Krauss and Union Station
Alison Krauss and Union Station take the stage at State Farm Center in Champaign, Illinois. The concert showcases the group performing together in a live setting.
Champaign, Illinois. USAWest Side Arts
Champaign Park District and 40 North present a juried festival with free admission that connects creators and enthusiasts while honoring creativity in many forms. Browse and purchase standout work from local and regional artists across a wide range of mediums. Whether you are building a collection or simply exploring, this event offers a warm way to experience the skill and imagination of the creative community.
West Side Park5 Things September 2026
Back in its original, close-knit format and now at Carmon's Champaign, this women-focused gathering blends girls-night-out energy with practical career and life takeaways. The evening begins with a happy hour and the chance to browse five local women-owned businesses. It continues with an hour of insights from five accomplished professionals, each sharing five actionable tips to help streamline and elevate everyday life and work. The finale offers more time to mingle, revisit the vendors, and reconnect with new contacts. Created by women for women, the event emphasizes authentic relationship building for business, friendship, or both in a relaxed, fun atmosphere that celebrates showing up exactly as you are.
Carmon's ChampaignBarnyard Bash
Experience an evening of live music at Prairie Farm with $5 admission and required registration. Enjoy a cool fall setting with local food trucks, hayrack rides, animal petting, games, crafts, s'mores, and other activities.
Prairie FarmJadie and Doc Shredd Live On The Patio
The patio at Baxters features live music alongside tasty food and a relaxed outdoor vibe. Enjoy a favorite drink, get comfortable, and take in a summer evening of tunes. Plans may change based on the weather.
217flea Night Market ✨
An evening market features a variety of vendors. Attendees can sample tarts, sip matcha, and listen to DJs with a food truck on site. This edition includes even more vendors than the last event at this location. More details will be announced soon.
Resistance ThreadsJOHN SUMMIT - CTRL ESCAPE ARENA TOUR
John Summit brings the Ctrl Escape Arena Tour to State Farm Center during homecoming week. This tour stop aligns with the week's celebrations.
State Farm CenterLeonid & Friends: 2026 Tour
Leonid & Friends presents a high-energy performance celebrating the sounds of the 1970s, spotlighting the music of Chicago, Earth, Wind & Fire, Steely Dan, and more. Created by musician and producer Leonid Vorobyev, this 11-piece group brings together accomplished vocalists and instrumentalists from Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, and beyond, all devoted to honoring this iconic era. Expect meticulous renditions of Chicago favorites alongside vibrant rock, pop, and jazz fusion selections, driven by a tight horn section, lush vocal blends, and rock and roll spirit. Highlights include classics such as 25 or 6 to 4, Make Me Smile, Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?, Feelin’ Stronger Every Day, Beginnings, Questions 67 & 68, and Hard to Say I’m Sorry/Get Away, plus surprises from a growing repertoire that reaches into the catalogs of Earth, Wind & Fire, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Steely Dan, The Carpenters, and other ’70s favorites. The result is a warm celebration of music that defined a generation.
Virginia TheatreJon Langston || Champaign, IL
The City Center in Champaign, Illinois hosts a performance by Jon Langston. Most events at this venue are for guests 19 and older, with allowances for those accompanied by a parent or guardian or when otherwise specified. When available, Mezzanine tickets provide a balcony vantage point above the first floor bar that overlooks the stage and the general admission floor. This option includes non reserved seating and tables, plus access to a private bar and restrooms. All ticket types include access to the general admission area, and for select shows limited open seating may be available there. Ticket prices increase on the day of the show and all ticket sales are nonrefundable. A VIP meet and greet option offers an acoustic performance before doors, merchandise items, a photo with Jon, and signing of one item. For venue policies and more information, please consult The City Center’s official resources.
Candyland Family Adventure
Celebrate Halloween at Douglass Community Center with a Candyland-themed family adventure filled with candy-inspired carnival games, lighthearted challenges, and vibrant activities for all ages. Admission is free and no registration is required.
Douglass Community CenterBruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers: Indigo Park Tour
Three-time GRAMMY winner Bruce Hornsby appears with his longtime six-piece group, The Noisemakers, on the Indigo Park Tour. The performance draws from the breadth of his career and also showcases new songs from his upcoming album, Indigo Park. A singer, pianist, composer, and bandleader, Hornsby is known for exploring a wide range of American musical traditions, working with diverse collaborators, and shifting styles while upholding craft and curiosity. This chapter continues his evolution, reflecting an artist who stays current, inventive, and influential across genres and generations.
Virginia TheatreBC/DC Celebrating Breast Cancer Survivors and Fundraiser
At The City Center, this benefit honors breast cancer survivors and raises funds for those currently in treatment with an evening of rock and roll, auctions, and dancing. Once doors open, food will be available from Bufords Pub, and a VIP area opens earlier with a special culinary twist from Chef Dee and Chef Jimmy. The music starts with Lexi Tieffel, followed by a brief program featuring a live auction while a small silent auction continues throughout. Head First Band takes the stage with special guests Kelley Hazel and Drew Hoag from BIG GUNS, and a DJ keeps the dance floor moving to close the night. Additional details will be shared as the event approaches.
The City CenterWe Interrupt This Program
Show and Tell Productions unveils We Interrupt This Program, created by Bill Odenkirk with Sarah Edwards, pairing a theatrical story with a guided conversation. In this premiere from the four-time Emmy Award-winning writer and producer known for The Simpsons, Futurama, and Mr. Show, a small Midwestern radio station prepares to re-air Orson Welles’s War of the Worlds on the original broadcast’s anniversary when sudden reports arrive... an alien craft is seen above an Illinois cornfield. The production is directed by Corey Bradberry, with video by Fuse, projection and screen design by Olivia Sebesky, and music direction by Graham Edwards. Special musical guest Ryan Groff appears, with additional appearances by Bob Odenkirk, Jill Talley, Ahmed Best, and Avi Loeb. After the performance, The Tell: Is the Truth Out There? brings Ahmed Best, Avi Loeb, and Bill Odenkirk into a discussion moderated by Emmy-winning PBS host Sarah Edwards, enhanced by immersive projections from Olivia Sebesky Design. The conversation considers whether humanity is alone, whether visitors observe Earth, and how the possibility of extraterrestrial life might reshape ideas about time, surveillance, and our place in the cosmos. With archival imagery woven into the visuals, the guests examine the elusive nature of evidence, arguments for and against extraterrestrials and UAP, and the ways biases and culture influence interpretation. They also look ahead to how confirmation of alien life could affect cooperation among nations, human priorities, and how people treat one another, aiming to challenge or reaffirm beliefs about life beyond Earth and its relevance to everyday life.
Virginia TheatreSweetest Day Disco Party
Women are invited to bring someone special for a fun time together. Share a lighthearted outing meant for smiles and simple, feel good moments.
William F. Earnest American Legion Post 559NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD (1968) Film Screening & Book Event
Illinois Public Media, the University of Illinois Alumni Association, and Champaign Park District present a special evening that pairs a screening of George A. Romero’s Night of the Living Dead with a conversation about its legacy and a book signing. The 1968 landmark of horror follows a group of panicked survivors barricaded in a rural Pennsylvania farmhouse while ghouls surround the property, and it is widely credited with reshaping the modern zombie genre. The film is not rated and runs 96 minutes. Featured guest Daniel Kraus, a Pulitzer Prize winning novelist and University of Illinois alum, will discuss his new book, Partially Devoured: How Night of the Living Dead Saved My Life and Changed the World, which blends cultural history and memoir to explore the movie’s impact on film, American culture, and his own life. After the screening, Kraus will take the stage with Illinois Alumni magazine editor in chief Ryan Ross for a conversation about the film and the book, followed by a signing. Copies of Partially Devoured will be available for purchase from the Illini Union Bookstore, including on site during the event.
Virginia TheatreStraight No Chaser
Straight No Chaser brings a spirited a cappella celebration that upends the usual campus crooner image. For more than twenty-five years, this nine-man vocal group has been a seasonal favorite for millions, and fans continue to look forward to hearing their holiday favorites each year. Their holiday tour features a generous slate of songs delivered with tight harmonies and lighthearted banter, blending time-honored tunes with fresh takes. The ensemble of Walter Chase, Jerome Collins, Seggie Isho, Michael Luginbill, Steve Morgan, Luke Bob Robinson, Jasper Smith, Tyler Trepp, and Freedom Young has achieved worldwide success, with more than three million albums sold, over 1.5 million tickets sold, 100 million plus YouTube views, and over one billion streams. They have appeared on major television stages and collaborated with Sir Paul McCartney, Sir Elton John, and Stevie Wonder, and their album Yacht on the Rocks features Toto’s David Paich. Two releases, Holiday Spirits and Christmas Cheers, are RIAA Gold. Founded at Indiana University in the mid 1990s, the group reunited after an original member posted their 1998 performance of The 12 Days of Christmas on YouTube, a moment that sparked a resurgence leading to a deal with Atlantic Records, a devoted touring audience, and sold-out shows. Every performance aims to keep listeners entertained and inspired, with a balance of old and new that captures the spirit of the holidays.
Virginia Theatre