Events in Decatur, IL

Bring friends for a free trivia night featuring seven rounds of questions each week that challenge your knowledge and keep the laughs coming. Prizes are awarded to the winners. Make it a weekly highlight with friendly competition and plenty of fun.

This community farmers market showcases local vendors offering fresh fruits and vegetables, honey, soaps, lotions, artisan crafts, meats, bakery treats, preserves like jellies, jam, and salsa, plus candles and scents. LINK and EBT are accepted. Shop at outdoor booths or head indoors to browse in air conditioning. Richland Bistro To Go will be on site with its food truck. An educational session on urban agriculture provides practical guidance on growing fruits and vegetables in a backyard setting.

A creative after-school program welcomes ages 6 to 12 for hands-on art making throughout September. Participants explore drawing, painting, clay, collage, and projects sparked by music, building confidence and imagination through playful, skill-building activities. This month’s lineup features alien-themed self portraits, tiny clay fairy gardens, pieces inspired by Frida Kahlo, instruments made from recycled materials, paper mosaics, an outer space mural, cartoon creation, and drawings influenced by a mix of music styles. The classes are part of a semester-long series, with the flexibility to enroll month by month and to choose Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or both for a custom schedule. Artist Shannon Cook leads each session, which includes time for movement, and a snack is provided.

Community Isn’t Convenient is an open connection series focused on building relationships and encouraging community engagement. The happy hour edition takes place each third Wednesday at GK9 Wine & Spirits. It follows an open house format, so guests can arrive when it works for them, stop in briefly or stay longer, and bring a friend if they like. It welcomes people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences. The atmosphere is low pressure and centered on making meaningful connections that can lead to organic growth and community impact. The series is expanding, with additional gatherings and experiences planned.

Lincoln Square Lounge hosts a weekly trivia night featuring seven rounds of questions designed to challenge the brain and keep the mood light. Participation is free, and winners receive prizes.

On many summer Saturdays, Preston Jackson Park comes alive with Mercy Market and Central Park Market, offering fresh produce, baked treats, and other goods. Lindsey the Ladysmith & Scrafts sets up a simple car side display with handmade items for shoppers to browse.

At Progress City, this harvest market features 100 curated vendors across three barns and additional outdoor spaces. Shoppers can explore vintage and antique finds, flea market discoveries, handmade creations, original art, gourmet and artisanal foods, furniture, decor, boutique clothing, and seasonal items. Food trucks will be available. Admission is $5 per person at the gate, and children 12 and under are free. Vendors interested in participating can find details and apply through the organizer’s vendor tab.

Decatur Area Arts Council and Gallery 510 present a weekend art festival in Central Park in downtown Decatur. Visitors can browse more than forty artist booths featuring creators from across the country, with work for sale that ranges from jewelry and pottery to metal sculpture, glass, fiber art, paintings, and more. Alongside the art, families will find hands-on activities for kids and a dedicated Kids ArtShop for children 12 and under. Live music adds to the atmosphere, and food trucks will be on site with drinks available for purchase. A preview party is also planned.

Richland Community College, in coordination with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Illiana Health Care Suicide Prevention Team, presents the sixth annual Operation Obstacle at the campus Fitness Center in College Park, Decatur. This two mile timed obstacle course is focused on increasing awareness around suicide prevention among veterans. On average, 17 U.S. veterans die by suicide each day, a statistic that underscores the purpose of this race.

Celebrate the music of Chicago with Chicago Transit, a Hamilton, Ontario based tribute formed in the early 1990s. Regarded as the first and longest-running Chicago tribute band, the group mirrors the original’s signature approach with five lead vocalists, a three-piece horn section, and a five-piece rhythm section. This lineup lets them cover the full spectrum of hits, from horn-driven favorites like Make Me Smile, 25 or 6 to 4, and Saturday in the Park to later, keyboard-focused ballads such as If You Leave Me Now. The show features one headlining set with no opener. Over the decades, Chicago Transit has appeared at festivals, theaters, casinos, and a variety of venues across Canada and the United States, including the Gatineau Hills of Quebec, Florida, the Midwest, and Chicago itself, and they received acknowledgment from Chicago in the 1990s. For more information and tickets, call 217-454-4583.

Enjoy a lively evening at The 48 with music that keeps the party going. Expect a festive atmosphere and plenty of energy as the night rocks on. Attendees should bring a chair.

Full Circle comes back to VFW Post 99 Camouflage Bar for a performance, marking their return to this stage.

This celebration commemorates 150 years and will include music, activities, food, and fun. Additional details will be announced.

The Historic Lincoln Square Theater hosts a powerhouse night of rock presented by 106.7 The Fox, featuring British glam pioneers The Sweet with special guest Tommy’s RockTrip. The Sweet rose to global prominence in the 1970s, helping define the look and sound of glam rock and influencing artists from Boy George and Kiss to Poison and Guns N’ Roses. Their catalog includes 39 number one hits worldwide, with favorites like Ballroom Blitz, Fox on the Run, Love Is Like Oxygen, Little Willy, No You Don’t, Blockbuster, Action, Teenage Rampage, and AC/DC. Founder Steve Priest later reignited the group with drummer Richie Onori and keyboardist Stevie Stewart to honor the legacy, and the current lineup brings Stewart and Onori together with vocalist Ari Kamin, guitarist Jimmy Burkard, and keyboardist Dave Schulz. Axl Rose has publicly cited Sweet alongside Queen as a major influence. Opening the show, Tommy’s RockTrip is led by drummer Tommy Clufetos and delivers a high-energy tribute to heavy metal and hard rock, focusing on the classic catalogs of Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne. Drawing on Clufetos’s years with Osbourne’s solo band and his role as the final drummer for Black Sabbath’s farewell tour, the set channels authentic power and often nods to Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie, and Ted Nugent.

Mississippi native Zach Rushing steps onstage with blunt, big-hearted storytelling built on hard work and straight talk. Known for voicing what many are thinking, he mixes quick, cutting observations with relatable tales from real life. His rise spans stand-up comedy, viral social media moments, and the Not-So-Rich-And-Famous Tour, and his punchlines keep the laughter going long after the stories wrap. Expect an unapologetic, honest performance that feels personal and packed with laughs.

Homecoming 2026 celebrates 125 years of Millikin University with a weekend centered on connection and Big Blue spirit. Festivities begin with the Alumni Awards Dinner on Friday. Saturday features the PARTAZE! photo booth, a historical campus tour, an all-alumni 125th birthday BBQ lunch, tailgates, Greek and other affinity group reunions, a football game vs. Carroll, the 50-Year Club Dinner, and music and arts events. The weekend concludes on Sunday with the Athletic Hall of Fame induction. Registration details will be announced soon.

A welcoming reception highlights Blue Connection, a watercolor workshop and exhibition presented alongside the Wonders of Watercolor exhibition in the Perkinson Gallery. This public gathering offers a chance to see works taking shape as the workshop and exhibition setup continue. Professor Ed Walker provides instruction in foundational watercolor theory and techniques. All materials are supplied, and participants may complete pieces to take home or opt to display them in the Crowder Gallery.

The SPOTLIGHT SERIES debuts with support from McDonalds, Speed Lube, Air King, McLeod Trucking, and Cromwell Media, celebrating central Illinois talent in a friendly competition. Thirteen bands perform across the season, and the act with the most ticket sales by year’s end, based on box office reports, earns top honors. The prize package includes a $6,000 advertising allotment, a $10,000 cash award, and an opening slot for a national artist in their genre during the 2027 season at the Historic Lincoln Square Theater. The champion is crowned King of the Hill and returns for a sophomore run with bragging rights. Each performer receives equal promotion and the chance to perform with full concert sound and lighting, and bands are encouraged to get creative with their own marketing since ticket sales decide the outcome. Show #5 features NEON RODEO, a 90s country tribute from Decatur, Illinois, with the Greg Bickers Band kicking things off. For more information, call 217-454-4583.

Octoberfest returns to Rocco's for another celebration.

Downstate Illinois gathers for a signature road race that welcomes both competitive and recreational runners, all while highlighting the benefits of an active lifestyle. The 5K offers a swift, runner-friendly route along the shores of Lake Decatur framed by vibrant fall colors, and the 15K adds a test of endurance over gently rolling terrain. Participants and spectators travel from across Illinois to be part of the experience, and tot trots invite young runners to join in, reinforcing the event’s family focus.

Enjoy an evening of good food and meaningful connection that supports women and children in Macon County who are experiencing homelessness. The Blue Jean Ball is God’s Shelter of Love’s yearly fundraiser, gathering community supporters, leaders, and advocates who share the belief that every woman and child deserves a safe place to call home. Blue jeans and western-inspired outfits are encouraged as the event honors the impact already made and focuses on the work still ahead. Attendees will listen to stories of hope, learn about lives changed through the organization’s programs, and see how contributions help provide shelter, stability, and a path forward. Since 1991, God’s Shelter of Love has served women and children experiencing homelessness by offering refuge, hope, and the love of Christ, and every gift helps carry that mission forward.

Settle into a cozy spot and unwind as a soothing blend of crystal singing bowls, gentle drumming, and resonant gongs surrounds you. This sound bath fosters deep relaxation, helps ease stress, encourages mindful calm, and can support more restful sleep and overall well-being. Bring a mat or blanket so you can get comfortable, and come with an open mind. No prior experience is required. The fee is $25, and drop-ins are welcome.

The Spotlight Series celebrates central Illinois musicians on a historic stage with full concert sound and lighting, all while keeping the competition fair with equal marketing and promotion for every act. Presented by McDonalds, Speed Lube, Air King, McLeod Express, and Cromwell Media, the first season features 13 bands. The group with the most ticket sales by season’s end, verified by box office reports, earns the King of the Hill title, a $10,000 cash prize, a $6,000 advertising package, and an opening slot for a national act in their genre during the 2027 season at the Lincoln Square Theater. The winner also returns the following year to defend the crown. Show 8 spotlights Silver Lake from Decatur, a modern country cover band that also leans into classic rock, 2000s rock, and pop. This appearance marks the band’s debut on this historic stage, adding energy to a series designed to reward both performers and fans.

A community food pantry event is taking place. Attendees are asked to bring their own bags or boxes. Devotions are available for those who are interested, and participation is optional.

The Historic Lincoln Square Theater welcomes back Mamma Mania, a New York City based ABBA celebration, for a high energy tribute in downtown Decatur. Expect a spirited trip to the 1970s as the group brings timeless hits like Dancing Queen and Mamma Mia to life with sparkling costumes, tight harmonies, and charismatic staging that captures the essence of ABBA. The performers include talent with touring credits from the official North American production of Mamma Mia, Marc Martel’s Queen Extravaganza, INXS, Britney Spears, Rob Thomas, The Weeknd and more. Touted as New York City’s premier ABBA tribute and one of the most booked shows of the year, this production honors ABBA’s legacy with melodies and lyrics that have resonated for generations, creating an evening filled with nostalgia, energy, and plenty of dancing.

Local by the Lake, the Empowerment Opportunity Center’s annual fundraiser, brings together local food, beverages, and live music for a relaxed evening at the Beach House. Indoor seating and a deck outside offer flexible spaces to enjoy the festivities. The program features a silent auction and additional opportunities to give, with all proceeds benefiting the Empowerment Opportunity Center’s programs.

Acclaimed electric violinist Dixon brings his reimagined sound to the Decatur Civic Center Theater, crafting an immersive concert built entirely live. With a five string electric violin and a custom looping setup, he layers melodies in real time to create a sweeping one person symphony shaped by his story of personal transformation. A former technology leader and symphony player, he set aside that career to follow this path and has since given more than a thousand performances across North America, shared his work on multiple TED stages, appeared on radio, television, and film, and spent over a decade at major festivals such as Burning Man and Electric Forest. Audiences often describe the experience as dreamlike, deeply moving, and unlike a typical violin concert, with frequent standing ovations and smiles through tears. This is an indoor, seated show. Tickets are $32 for general admission, $12 for students, and $7 for children 12 and under, with fees included. If available, tickets at the door are $40.

105.1 THE JACK FM presents a tribute concert headlined by Crazy Train, billed as America’s top Ozzy Osbourne experience, with special guest Son-Of-A-Gun, promoted as the best Guns N Roses tribute on the planet. Led by Vinny Cormier, described as North America’s leading Ozzy Osbourne tribute artist, Crazy Train delivers a production filled with special effects and memorable moments. Backed by a band of Berklee drop-outs that includes his son Dylan, Cormier channels the power and spectacle of Ozzy at full tilt, capturing the spirit of the Live and Loud 1993 era while performing hits that range from Black Sabbath staples to Patient #9. Cormier has toured since 1977 and has worked alongside artists such as Molly Hatchet, Eddie Money, Blue Oyster Cult, Quiet Riot, Steve Perry of Journey, Kansas, John Cafferty, and Marshall Tucker. The bill pairs Crazy Train from Bangor, Maine with Son-Of-A-Gun from LA for a night celebrating the music of Ozzy Osbourne and Guns N Roses.

Show #9 spotlights Solid Gold, a Decatur-based band, as part of the Spotlight Series with presenting partners McDonalds, Speed Lube, Air King, McLeod Trucking, and Cromwell Media. This debut season brings 13 central Illinois bands to the historic Lincoln Square Theater stage with full concert sound and lighting. Every act receives equal marketing and advertising support, and the overall winner is determined solely by total ticket sales reported by the box office at the end of the season. The top band earns a $10,000 cash award, a $6,000 advertising package, and an opening slot for a national act in its genre at the Historic Lincoln Square Theater the next season. The champion also takes the King of the Hill title and returns to defend it. Bands are encouraged to think creatively about promotion to boost sales. For details, call 217-454-4583.

Part of the 2026 Tribute Concert Series presented by the Decatur Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, this concert showcases The Linda Ronstadt Experience with American Idol finalist Tristan McIntosh stepping into the role of Linda Ronstadt at the height of her career. Backed by a full band, the performance centers on signature songs associated with Ronstadt and the unmistakable sound that defined her era. The set includes chart favorites such as “You’re No Good,” “When Will I Be Loved,” “That’ll Be the Day,” and “Blue Bayou,” along with selections tied to Jackson Browne, Elvis Costello, Tom Petty, Neil Young, Warren Zevon, The Rolling Stones, and Little Feat.

Show #10 of the Spotlight Series features Grand Theft Audio, a classic rock cover band from Decatur, Illinois. The series, presented by McDonalds, Speed Lube, Air King, McLeod Express, and Cromwell Media, showcases local performers with full concert sound and lighting on the historic Lincoln Square Theater stage. Across its first season, 13 central Illinois bands will appear, each receiving equal marketing and promotion. The band with the highest box office ticket sales at the end of the season earns a $6,000 advertising package, a $10,000 cash prize, and an opening slot for a national act in 2027 at the Historic Lincoln Square Theater. The winner is crowned King of the Hill, advances to a sophomore year, and can claim the title again. For more information, call 217-454-4583.

Part of the 2026 Spotlight Series, this installment highlights 90's Daughter from Urbana, Illinois. With presenting support from McDonalds, Speed Lube, Air King, McLeod Trucking, and Cromwell Media, the series celebrates central Illinois acts on the historic Lincoln Square Theater stage with full concert sound and lighting. Across the first season, 13 local bands take part, and the year-end champion is decided by total ticket sales as reported by the box office. The top act receives a $6,000 advertising package, a $10,000 cash award, and an opening slot for a national artist in their genre during the 2027 season at the Historic Lincoln Square Theater. The winner returns the following year with bragging rights and the opportunity to repeat. Every band is offered equal marketing and promotional support, and creative self-promotion can help drive ticket sales toward the grand prize.

Protege celebrates Halloween with a rock party full of festive energy and a focus on rock music. A lively celebration of the season awaits with a Halloween twist at the center of it all.

The food pantry will be open for distribution. Please bring your own bags or boxes to carry items. A brief devotion is available for those who wish to take part, and participation is optional.

The USA Softball of Illinois Hall of Fame Banquet 2026 gathers the softball community at the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel to honor athletes, coaches, umpires, and supporters whose commitment has shaped the sport throughout Illinois. The evening features a seated dinner and a program recognizing the newest Hall of Fame inductees, with shared reflections that celebrate the game’s history, achievements, and enduring spirit. For questions, contact the Decatur Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 217-423-7000 or Jessica@DecaturCVB.com.

Echoes of Pompeii returns after strong demand with a tribute to Pink Floyd. It features live performances that closely mirror the band's studio recordings, paired with an accompanying laser show. The production has expanded each year and highlights the signature sights and sounds associated with Pink Floyd in concert. For more information, call 217-454-4583.

Show #12 of the Spotlight Series features X-KRUSH from Champaign, Illinois. This concert is part of a new program presented by McDonalds, Speed Lube, Air King, McLeod Trucking, and Cromwell Media that highlights central Illinois talent while inviting fans to help decide the season champion. Thirteen bands share equal marketing and advertising support and perform on the historic Lincoln Square Theater stage with full concert sound and lighting. The band with the highest verified box office ticket sales by season’s end earns a grand prize that includes a $6,000 advertising package, a $10,000 cash award, and an opening spot with a national act in their style during the next season at the Historic Lincoln Square Theater. The winner is crowned King of the Hill, returns for a sophomore year with bragging rights, and can claim the title again. Questions can be directed to 217-454-4583.

Decade of Decadence, a Peoria-based band, unleashes a high-energy 80s rock party at the historic Lincoln Square Theater in Decatur. Expect an arena-scale production with powerful sound, dynamic lighting, and the era’s signature hair metal hits, from fist-pumping anthems to big-hearted power ballads built for singalongs. The performance is the thirteenth installment of the 2026 Spotlight Series, where cumulative ticket sales help determine a year-end winner who receives a $10,000 cash prize, a $6,000 advertising package, and an opening slot for a national act in 2027.

Comedian Jeff Allen brings a live, family friendly holiday special to Salem Baptist Church. Tickets are available online.

Set at the Decatur Conference Center and Hotel, this Midwest taekwondo championship showcases competition across forms, sparring, board breaking, and weapons.

Set inside the Staley Museum's historic home, this cozy Christmas market highlights handmade goods from local vendors and supports local history as well as small businesses. The complete list of vendors and other information will be announced soon.

A reception accompanies the School of Art and Creative Media Faculty Biennial, presenting professional work by faculty in design, printmaking, photography, film, video, and sound. The exhibition showcases their creative range and expertise, offering a look into the practices of working artists and highlighting the strength of the Art and Media programs. Each work reflects a distinct approach, coming together in a varied presentation of contemporary creative expression. Featured among the works is Ed Walker’s digital design 'Mining Diamonds', measuring 16 by 24 inches.