Events in Mattoon, IL

The first of two nights delivers an evening of tunes plus karaoke, a spooky costume contest, and drinks with a wicked twist. Step in only if you are ready for some fright-filled fun.

Now in its eleventh year, Yellow Chip Road brings a spooky spin to a long-running grassroots gravel grinder that starts and finishes in Kansas, Illinois and stays true to its rough-and-ready character. Riders can expect a demanding mix of surfaces that includes chunky gravel, rocky stretches, stream crossings, rolling terrain, and remote scenery. The 104 mile option features extended rugged sections, and none of the routes are easy. A minimum tire width of 32 is recommended, with 45 millimeters or wider suggested for the best experience. Formerly known as Ill Kanza, this event rewards preparation and resilience. Routes of 104, 72, 46, 33, and 22 miles are available, and all are timed. Awards go three deep in the Open 104, Women’s 104, Singlespeed 104, Open 72, Women’s 72, Open 46, and Women’s 46 fields. Categories also include 33 and 22 mile options, plus a tandem category for any distance. Every participant receives three raffle entries. Before the start, place one ticket from each pair into the cup for the prize you want, then check after the ride to see if your numbers match any winning tickets. This is largely self supported. Bring spare tubes, a pump or CO2, tools, and ideally chain quick links. An emergency number will be available if you truly cannot continue, but riders are expected to handle most issues on their own. Supply tables with drop bag service will be set up as table A and table B, with most routes visiting only one. On-course aid appears at specific points: the 22 mile reaches table B at mile 12.4, the 33 mile reaches table B at mile 22.9, and the 46 mile reaches table B at mile 36.1. The 72 mile visits table A at mile 41.8 and table B at mile 62.4. The 104 mile includes a cooler at mile 39.4, a table at mile 58.7, and table A at mile 91.3. Additional resupply options include a gas station in Marshall at mile 52.8 on the 104, with a left on 6th Street trimming 0.3 miles if you are not stopping, and a soda machine in Grandview at mile 48.3 on the 72. Course navigation features signs at gravel-road turns that are not T intersections, pavement markings on paved sections, and flags elsewhere. Flags will be on the right side just before each intersection, with pink indicating a right turn and blue indicating a left. Maps and cue sheets will be available, and loading the route to a GPS is recommended. The 104 mile course will be completely unmarked. All riding takes place on public roads, so follow traffic laws and stay alert. Racing begins with a neutral rollout for all distances except the 104, ending at the first gravel road 1.3 miles into the ride. The finish line sits 1.4 miles before the end of the course near the final gravel section and will be marked with a checkered flag and a timer. Keep your number visible as you cross. Timed distances are 44.4 miles for the 46, 70.7 for the 72, and 102.1 for the 104. Registration is available in advance or on-site for an additional five dollars, and a portion of proceeds benefits the Kansas Food Pantry. After the ride, a meal will be available for purchase at the Presbyterian Church, and the bathrooms there will be open. Routes are subject to change.

Just Jenny is offering personal readings at Akasha Zamora in Mattoon. Choose a general reading for $15 or opt for a deeper session at $25. Service is first come, first served, and no reservation is needed.

The Atwood American Legion Auxiliary hosts its second annual chili cook off in Atwood, featuring chili tastings, costumes, carnival games, and community activities. Competitors must pre-register, and judging will present awards for Judges’ Choice, People’s Choice, and Best Costume. First-place winners receive custom 3D printed trophies created by the Atwood-Hammond Public Library. Attendees can sample the entries for $5 and vote for the People’s Choice award. Carnival offerings include Frisbee toss, tic tac throw, balloon darts, can toss, ring toss, and bowling, with tickets priced at 50 cents each or 12 for $5. Jo’s Sno Shack will be on site with treats. Atwood’s Halloween schedule also includes a parade and trick-or-treating. The organizers are seeking volunteers to help with the carnival games.

Bree will offer readings for anyone who would like one. Sessions are donation based, with a suggested contribution of 20.00.

Celebrate Halloween at The Triple Nickel Saloon in Mattoon.

High energy music sets the scene while a spooky costume contest brings out creative looks. Enjoy drinks made to thrill. Enter only if you are ready for some fearless fun.

At The Black Goat, the evening pairs an exploration of Maledicchio with a screening of Mario Bava’s 1960 Italian Gothic horror film Black Sunday. Before the film, the program looks at Italian curses, the evil eye, and folk magic, including il malocchio, protective charms, and traditions that resonate with the movie’s themes. Afterward, the focus shifts to the feature itself, where the witch, the curse, and the evil eye come to life on screen. Film, lore, and parfum shape the experience. Admission is $13, and capacity is limited.

The 19th Annual Band Together for Kids returns to the Charleston VFW, presented by Citizens Against Child Abuse, to rally community support for children in Coles County at Christmas. Proceeds help provide gifts for underprivileged youth, including those who may not qualify for other seasonal assistance programs, so more kids can experience the joy of the holiday. The evening features live performances by The Moondogs, The Sundogs, and The Halos, along with silent auction baskets, a 50/50 drawing, Citizens Against Child Abuse T-shirts available for purchase, great food, live music, and more. Tickets are $20 for adults, which include a meal, live bands, drinks, and desserts, and $5 for children. The Charleston VFW has hosted this event at no cost for 19 years, allowing more of the funds raised to go directly toward helping local kids.

The Scrap Lab is a creative session where ordinary materials are reimagined into artful journal pages. Participants build layers and texture as they craft pages that reflect their own style and personality. This program is for adults and is free, with donations appreciated.

Trace Adkins performs live at Effingham Performance Center.

Centered on archery, this gathering at Casey First Baptist Church in Casey, IL highlights a KOZ month focused on the sport. The theme draws from 1 Timothy 4:12, encouraging young people to lead by example in their words and conduct, guided by love and faith.

Browse more than 200 brand new items, each priced at no more than 25 percent of its estimated value. There is no bidding, just straightforward shopping. All proceeds are donated to Mattoon Cops for Kids.

Story Spotlight is a free family program featuring self-paced activity stations that focus on a new story or author each month. Set up on the library’s second floor, the experience lets families explore together at a comfortable pace.

Discover significant savings at the White November wedding dress sale, featuring aisle-ready gowns marked up to 60 percent off retail. Dresses are already priced between $500 and $1,599, with additional stackable discounts available... morning brides receive an extra 15 percent off, and afternoon brides receive an extra 10 percent off. The sale spans four weekends, creating multiple chances to find a gown before the selection and deals are gone.

The Annual Holiday Market at First Christian Church of Sullivan celebrates a long-standing tradition of handcrafted goods, homemade flavors, and community care. Originally a church bazaar, it has grown into a festive marketplace where the Christmas Shoppe, Artisans Workshop, and Quilters Corner showcase unique creations, seasonal decor, and gifts made and donated by church members. The Bountiful Bakery features cookies, candies, cakes, pies, and more. New this year, the Boutique replaces the former Jewelry Shoppe and highlights purses, handbags, scarves, accessories, and other special finds. Guests can take part in the Pick-a-Prize Drawing with items contributed by individuals and businesses and purchase tickets for a raffle of a handcrafted sheep quilt. Winners do not need to be present. A coffee hour offers coffee, homemade treats, and friendly conversation, and the Lunch Café serves a homemade meal with dessert, with carry-out available. Every purchase supports local needs, with 100 percent of proceeds benefiting the Moultrie County Food Pantry, the SES Weekend Food Bag Program, the Moultrie County Senior Center, and the Sullivan Area Ministerial Association. There is no admission charge. Payment is by cash or check. This is not a vendor or craft fair, since the shoppes are organized and stocked by church members so proceeds directly aid community organizations.

A spirited head-to-head matchup features the WIU Leathernecks squaring off with the Eastern Illinois Panthers. School pride and competitive energy set the tone for this clash between the two teams.

Explore the world of the nature center’s animal ambassadors in a family-friendly program that shares how these animals are cared for behind the scenes. After learning about their routines, enjoy a close-up encounter with residents that call the center home. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated. Sessions may be canceled if registration is low.

Step outside for a relaxed, inclusive walk through nature created for adults of all abilities. The pace stays easy so participants can move their bodies, connect with the outdoors, and enjoy friendly company. This adult program is free to attend, and donations are appreciated.

Dirty's Bar & Grill hosts a two day Dine & Donate fundraiser benefiting One Stop Community Christmas. A portion of all food sales from dine in, take out, and Door Dash delivery across both days will be donated to this community organization, which supports families in Coles County and nearby counties.

This event offers an evening of networking and community connection, with insights into how mediation provides a peaceful, cost-effective way to resolve conflicts for families, businesses, and agricultural communities. Hors d'oeuvres and light snacks will be served. All are welcome.

Brickbat Alley hosts a 90s-themed trivia night presented by Amy’s Awesome Traveling Trivia. The questions lean into nostalgia with nods to taping songs from the radio, feeding a Tamagotchi, and knowing every word to a boy band hit, all set in a friendly, competitive setting. Teams are welcome, and arriving early for dinner and drinks is a simple way to settle in before the trivia starts. Test what you remember from the decade and see who was just along for the frosted tips.

Rural Life Antique Shows brings an antique showcase to Tuscola, Illinois across two venues. Both the Downtown Community Center and a Main Street location will be open, giving shoppers two shows to explore in one town.

STL Comedy Studio debuts live stand-up at The Bella Vita Private Resort, presenting an evening of sharp comics, big laughs, and a lively setting with food and drinks. With a history of staging memorable shows throughout Missouri and Illinois, they curate a lineup designed for an easy night out. It suits date nights, gatherings with friends, or anyone ready to unwind with some comedy. Space is limited, so purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.

The Central Illinois Truck Convoy brings back a glow themed night of bingo at Effingham Elks Lodge #1016. Enjoy ten games with cash prizes totaling more than $1,000, along with a cash bar, snacks, and a raffle. Admission is $25 in advance or $30 at the door, and quantities are limited. Each ticket includes six bingo cards for ten games plus a glow hat and dabber, with additional sets of six bingo cards available for $5. Participants must be 18 or older to play. Table reservations are available for groups of six or more.

At the Illinois Amish Heritage Center in Arthur, the German Spelling Bee celebrates the language traditions of Amish and German-speaking communities inside the historic German Schoolhouse. Participants of all ages can test their skills in friendly competitions featuring both German and English words. Separate divisions for adults and children create an inclusive, family-friendly setting where parents, grandparents, students, and language enthusiasts can take part or cheer on the competitors. The event offers a chance to explore local history and culture while enjoying learning and lighthearted rivalry.

The annual fall market at Jurgens Park offers shopping with a variety of vendors, food trucks, music, and family-friendly fun. Vendor registration is open, with only six spots remaining for interested sellers.

Set on the private circular dock at The Bella Vita Private Resort, this limited-capacity Laugh & Lunch event from STL Comedy Studio features live stand-up, a live recording of Just Another Podcast, and a casual meet-and-greet with the comedians after the show. The lakeside setting creates a close, relaxed atmosphere, with performers representing Salem, Illinois, St. Louis, Chicago, Kentucky, and additional locations. Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the venue.

At The Black Goat, explore seventeenth century England’s witch trials with a discussion on Matthew Hopkins, the culture of witch hunting, how accusations were pursued, methods of interrogation, the search for witch marks and familiars, and the ways suspicion could be treated as evidence. The program then screens Michael Reeves’s 1968 feature Witchfinder General and examines the real history that underpins the film. Admission is $13, and the evening brings together film, lore, and parfum.

Following strong interest in the initial comedy show at Bella Vita Private Resort, a second full performance has been added at the same Ashmore, Illinois location after a planned appearance in Bloomington was moved. Set within a 110-acre private resort, the showcase brings together comedians from Salem, Illinois, St. Louis, Chicago, Kentucky, and additional communities for a varied night of stand-up. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase at the venue, creating an easy way to make it a complete outing with friends and family.

Immerse yourself in the gritty sound of 90s grunge and the waves it sent through rock in the 2000s and beyond. This experience offers a heartfelt salute to the music of youth, channeling nostalgia and raw energy.

Learn the essentials of sewing bags in a skills-focused class at Trisa's Quilting Corner & More in Villa Grove, Illinois. The session introduces how to read bag patterns, assemble components, and practice zipper techniques used in many designs. Instruction also covers safe machine setup and operation, winding and inserting a bobbin, correct threading, adjusting tension for various fabrics, selecting foundational stitches, and solving common machine and stitching issues, with guided practice included. Participants should already be comfortable using their sewing machine and have basic sewing knowledge. Attendees should bring their sewing machine with power cord and presser foot, compatible bobbins and needles, the machine manual in paper or digital form, scissors, thread, straight pins or clips, a seam ripper, and a ruler. Materials needed include three coordinating half-yard cuts of fabric, a half yard of Soft and Stable, a quarter yard of fusible interfacing, lightweight mesh measuring 8.5 by 17 inches, vinyl measuring 9 by 17 inches, a handbag zipper totaling two yards with three zipper pulls, and thread that matches the fabric. The class fee is $35. Instruction is led by Jeanette Weider, who brings more than two decades of experience in quilting, bag making, and a range of sewing techniques, with patient guidance tailored to different learning styles.

Hunter celebrates his 23rd birthday at Bookie's Tavern Tuscola with a live set that mixes well known covers and original songs. Bring friends and enjoy a drink while he performs, creating a fun, music filled night to mark the occasion.

Pink Friday at Daisies & Denim in Effingham brings a festive day of shopping with sales, special treats, gifts, giveaways, and plenty of new arrivals. Expect a fun, upbeat atmosphere and extra surprises as you browse for fresh finds.

Families can take part in a playful lineup of turkey-themed games and challenges, working together to move, think, and gobble their way to the finish. Activities highlight teamwork, quick thinking, and speed while sharing fascinating facts about turkeys. This youth and family program is free, with donations appreciated.

Black Vinyl brings a high-energy set to Speakeasy, spinning alternative favorites and big hits from the 90s and 2000s. The bar keeps the drinks flowing while the room buzzes with energy, and there is plenty of space to dance, move, and jump into the pit.

Effing-Con 2026 is Effingham’s only convention dedicated to video and tabletop gaming. Hosted at the Thelma Keller Convention Center, it features a full day of activities and opportunities to meet Daniel Pesina, Charles D. Moisant, and Carlos Pesina. Children 10 and under receive free admission when accompanied by a paying adult.

Grand Prairie Friends offers a seasonal learning experience for volunteers and landowners focused on invasive plant identification, removal, and management. This session highlights the season’s emerging invasive threat, with a morning dedicated to instruction and an afternoon practicing new skills in the field. Registration is required. There is no cost to attend and lunch is provided. Please wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. Participants 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult. The program is supported by an IL American Water grant.

A cheeky holiday bingo night with a mischievous Dirty Santa twist. Entry is $5 at the door, with all proceeds donated to the Charity of the Month. Attendees can expect bawdy Christmas singalongs, silly prizes that keep the room laughing, and playful rounds where a friend's prize can be stolen. The irreverent vibe and raucous holiday tunes reinvent classic bingo and proudly nudge participants onto the naughty list.

Kids can celebrate the season with hands-on craft making, sweet treats, and festive singalongs. Admission is $5 per child, and all proceeds support the Charity of the Month. Each participant can create a Christmas craft, enjoy cookies, and take part in Christmas karaoke. Every child will receive a wrapped gift from Santa.

Experience an Old-Fashioned Christmas at the Illinois Amish Heritage Center, a heartwarming celebration shaped by the simple traditions of Christmases long ago. Enjoy festive music, historic surroundings, a hearty home-cooked meal, and time-honored holiday customs. Whether starting a new tradition or choosing to slow the pace and savor the spirit of the season, this gathering offers a classic holiday atmosphere. Additional details, including registration and the complete schedule, will be announced soon.

A festive Christmas movie screening offering popcorn and drinks. Attendees may bring their own snacks, beverages, or dinner to enjoy during the film.

Nightmare B4 X-Mas Bash Part II features live music from iMortal, a nu metal cover band performing songs from the mid 1990s through today. Attendees who dress the part have a chance to win a prize. Large Jack Skellington plush toys will be available for purchase, and proceeds support the Charity of the Month.

This winter break camp invites youth in grades K-5 to imagine how animals around the world might celebrate the New Year, exploring creature-inspired festivities with a focus on nature. Registration is required. Cost is $22/M and $28/NM.

Decade of Decadence brings an all-out 80s rock celebration to The Foxmore in Shelbyville, IL for New Year’s Eve. Expect high-energy classics with big guitars, belt-along anthems, and a shared countdown to midnight. The show features the group’s full production, including a giant video wall, dynamic visuals, and concert-style lighting that keeps the energy high all night. Tickets are $30, and a VIP table for up to ten guests is $300.