Events in Springfield, IL

The Day Book Club brings readers together for a monthly gathering in the library. No signups are needed, and members provide treats to share. Details about each month’s book selection, discussion questions, and other updates will be announced.

The Triple Threat Band performs at the Friendly Post, offering a fun time with their music.

Navigating career shifts, empty nesting, or returning to the social scene after a major transition does not have to be a solo effort. This complimentary hour at a cat café is designed to help people around ages 41 to 55 connect in a relaxed, low pressure environment. To break the ice, the gathering includes a round of music bingo, and the first person to arrive gets to pick the playlist. While the focus is on that peer group, it is open to others to support building a stronger local network. Guests are asked to be respectful of both fellow attendees and the resident cats. It offers friendly company, lighthearted games, and an easy way to meet new people.

Celebrate the season’s trifecta of Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas at a warm and lively artisan market filled with handmade goods and unique gifts from local makers. Taking place at The Orr Building, the event offers a full day of shopping, community connection, and festive fun. Treat vendors will be on site with tasty sweets. Special guests include the Grinch, who will try to keep his hands off the Halloween candy, and Santa, who will be available for photos with children. Live music adds to the cheerful atmosphere. Admission is $3 for adults, $1 for seniors, and free for children 12 and under.

Spend a relaxing couple of hours fishing alongside Riverton Police Officers. Fishing poles and bait are provided, and donuts are included, with assistance from IDNR.

Springfield Clinic offers a free community walking program led by its physicians. It welcomes participants of all ages and abilities. Enjoy a casual environment to get moving, talk with physicians, and meet new people while supporting community wellness. RSVP is encouraged, and participants can pre-register online.

Children ages 7 to 10 can explore the science behind the monarch butterfly’s long journey during this S.T.E.A.M. Saturdays session at the Illinois State Museum in Springfield, IL. Developed in partnership with the Illinois State Museum and the Abraham Lincoln Council, the program combines STEAM learning with hands-on activities. Participants examine how monarchs navigate, how weather affects their route, and how habitats and ecosystems support them. Pricing is $25 for a single day or $125 for the complete six-day series.

Discover a trading card show at White Oaks Mall in Center Court, where collectors can buy, sell, trade, and connect. Admission is free. Expect a wide range of favorites, including Pokémon, sports cards, MTG, Yu-Gi-Oh, One Piece, and more. When the show wraps up, a free trade night takes place in the White Oaks Mall food court. Vendor booths are available for $40 and include one 8 foot table and one chair.

The 8th annual Harvest Sip and Shop brings a fall-themed night of browsing, beverages, and friendly mingling. Guests can enjoy complimentary soft drinks, mocktails, and cocktails while exploring vendors from around the Midwest. Offerings include local flowers, boutique finds, home decor, and gift ideas for the Christmas season, creating a blend of fall market energy with a girls night out vibe. New this year, the event will feature live music.

This MTG Commander event welcomes both casual and competitive players. Entry is free, and prizing is random.

Settle in at Boone's for Twin City Trivia where teams tackle seven rounds that test knowledge, spark laughs, and fuel bragging rights. It is always free to play, there is no entry fee, and no app is needed. Prizes go to the top teams, so bring your smartest friends, plus the fun ones, and see how your table stacks up.

A friendly social hour at a cat café welcomes people enjoying retirement, easing into semi-retired life, or simply looking to build meaningful connections in a relaxed setting. This complimentary gathering is geared toward those around age 56 and up, and includes music bingo as an easy icebreaker. The first person to arrive gets to choose the playlist for the game. While the focus is on peer groups in that stage of life, participation is not limited to that age range. Attendees are asked to be considerate of one another and of the resident cats, creating a comfortable space where new friendships can begin.

Watch glass artists present a glassblowing demonstration at Baima Glass Studio. This event is free and open to the public.

Comedian Ali Siddiq brings The Custom Fit Tour to the UIS Performing Arts Center in Springfield. Known for candid, truth-driven storytelling delivered with authenticity, resilience, and humor, he has built a massive online following with clips that frequently go viral. Expect vivid, memorable tales from a widely respected voice in stand-up who has been eagerly anticipated in this city.

Jamaica & The Wildside will be back at The Tipsy Toad for a return appearance. It is a chance to catch their next visit to this venue.

Not Petty returns to Farmhouse Brews at Harvest Market in Springfield for its final appearance of the year. This Tom Petty tribute duo will perform two full sets celebrating Petty’s music, separated by a shorter set featuring the group’s own originals and covers from outside the Petty catalog. Expect plenty of beloved hits along with B sides and rarities for listeners who appreciate the deeper cuts. Since forming, the act has played more than 650 shows across Illinois, the Midwest, and beyond.

The 2nd Annual Central Illinois Music Fair returns to Marian Banquet Hall in Riverton for a full day devoted to music collecting. Browse selections from regional dealers featuring vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, and a variety of music memorabilia. Whether you are a seasoned collector, a casual digger, or just starting out, there is plenty to discover. Admission is offered in tiers, with an early bird option for $5, a regular option for $3, and a free entry period later in the day. The venue is easy to reach from the interstate and offers ample parking. Dealer tables are nearing sellout, with limited availability remaining.

Celebrate the centennial of Historic Route 66 with a relaxed group cruise along the Illinois stretch, tracing original alignments and savoring the nostalgia of America’s famed highway. Suitable for friends, classic cars, motorcycles, and any vehicle, the pace is easy and flexible with plenty of chances to pause for attractions, vintage signs, diners, and photos. The drive begins at Route 66 Kickstand, a locally owned restaurant and bar offering a hot breakfast buffet. Travelers head east entirely on Historic Route 66 with two main options, either the classic Route 4 alignment through Carlinville for small town charm and photo opportunities, or the smoother west frontage road for a simple, scenic ride. Route 66 shields and markers are plentiful, making the path straightforward to follow. The cruise concludes at Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill, Museum & Entertainment Complex in Springfield, a destination known for its classic car theme, food and drinks, and museum exhibits. Arrivals are flexible for lunch and conversation in honor of the 100 year milestone. Afterward, continue east for more miles on the Mother Road or head back via another historic alignment. A low key meetup for Route 66 enthusiasts, it is all about enjoying the road and the memories made along the way.

Spend an evening with fellow readers exploring historical fiction in a relaxed book club setting. Registration is not required. Participants bring treats to share. Watch for announcements about each month’s selection, discussion prompts, and other updates.

This presentation, facilitated by the UIS College of Health, Science, and Technology, offers an accessible introduction to radon and how to test for it. Participants will learn key facts about radon, gain step-by-step insight into testing methods, and receive resources from the Illinois Office of Emergency Management’s Radon Program. The workshop features demonstrations of various radon tests and digital monitors, and a short-term radon test will be provided at no cost.

Whenever a month includes a fifth Friend Finder Friday, an extra special gathering brings together cat lovers of all ages. Two complimentary rounds of Music Bingo create a welcoming way for families, seniors, and students to enjoy the space, meet neighbors, and share the fun. Guests are asked to be considerate of both fellow attendees and the resident cats. Pick up a bingo card, enjoy good company, and you may meet a new favorite person and a new feline friend.

Rumbleween brings a costumed celebration of live music to Route 66 Hotel And Conference Center in Springfield. The bill features the original folk songs of Mace Hathaway, blues from The Smokestacks, the groove-forward sounds of Low-Phat, Blue Sky Revival performing an Allman Brothers tribute, and Captain Trip and the Space Cadets saluting the Grateful Dead. A costume contest encourages creative outfits, and ticket details will be announced soon.

This trunk or treat will take place in the high school’s South lot. If it rains, the event will move to the Old Gym just off the South lot. Participants can set up beforehand and should have trunks ready before attendees begin visiting.

Revel in Red brings a high-energy rock show to the Halloween Party at Route 66 MotorHeads Bar & Grill, Museum & Entertainment Complex. Expect a set that spans decades, with rock anthems and favorites from the 70s to today, including songs by Prince, Van Halen, Boston, Night Ranger, Bon Jovi, Journey and REO, along with modern hits from Pink, The Killers and My Chemical Romance. The vibe is loud and lively, with powerhouse performances, cold drinks, and a festive atmosphere.

Put your Friends knowledge to the test with a trivia night covering iconic moments like the break debate, Smelly Cat, and the infamous Thanksgiving trifle. Bring a team and see who remembers the most about Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe. This is a free, in person event on a first come, first served basis. Arriving early with your whole team is recommended to secure a spot, and there is time to grab dinner before the questions begin. Expect plenty of laughs and the occasional shout to pivot as the questions keep coming.

Experience a festive holiday marketplace inside the historic Expo Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois. Browse more than 120 curated vendors offering vintage goods, handmade pieces, and boutique selections, filling the building with seasonal shopping from start to finish.

Figuring out a first career or deciding what comes next can feel easier with community. This free meetup at a cat café welcomes people roughly 18 to 25 for connection in an easygoing setting. To help everyone mingle, there will be a round of music bingo, and the first attendee to arrive chooses the playlist. All are welcome, though the focus is on building peer networks for that age range. Participants are asked to be considerate of other guests and the cats. Expect friendly conversation and chances to meet new friends.

Enjoy mouse racing at the Friendly Post, with doors opening before the races begin. Food will be available to purchase.

JackAsh performs at Curve Inn in Springfield, Illinois, taking the stage inside the bar for the first time. The appearance highlights the venue’s recent renovation, offering a look at the refreshed space alongside the music.

This craft fair and bake sale features handmade creations and baked treats prepared and donated by the women of Springfield First. Browse a variety of crafts and seasonal decorations alongside fresh pies, cookies, and breads, with plenty of options for thoughtful holiday gifts. Hot soup will be available for purchase while you look around. A visit from Santa is planned, and DB Luxe Celebrations will provide a photo booth for pictures with Santa. A $5 donation for photos benefits Women’s Ministry. Children can decorate a frame to pair with their photo. Purchases support the 15:10 Ministry and its missions to encourage women, serve families, and share Christ’s love. Expect friendly interactions and a joyful community atmosphere, unique handmade goods, baked items available while supplies last, and an opportunity to shop with purpose for friends, neighbors, co-workers, and families.

Meet and talk with living historians and reenactors who interpret the Great War from 1914 to 1918. Engage in conversation to deepen your understanding of World War I and the era it shaped.

Springfield acoustic duo The Tangents deliver an eclectic blend of country, rock, pop, blues and more, with plenty of audience interaction. Their performances have reached stages from Nashville to venues across Florida and Mississippi. Casey Cantrall handles guitar and vocals, and Tiffany Cantrall contributes vocals, coming together for a set that spans multiple styles.

This statewide conference welcomes both members and non-members of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway. It offers a day devoted to networking along with topics that include education, history, preservation, and economic development, plus discussion about 2027 and beyond along Illinois Route 66. Additional information will be shared soon.

The Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway will mark 100 years of Route 66 with a Centennial Celebration hosted at Motorheads in Springfield, Illinois. This evening event welcomes enthusiasts, roadies, Byway members, and non-members to honor a significant milestone in the highway’s history.

After long days of grading and endless staff meetings, the comedians behind Bored Teachers bring their classroom frustrations to the stage and turn them into laughs in their latest tour, Is It Friday Yet?!. Expect all-new material and high-energy sets packed with relatable school-life stories and blunt truths. For nearly a decade, Bored Teachers has been a leading voice in educator humor, earning more than one billion video views, amassing over ten million followers, and hosting a top teacher-comedy podcast. Since 2022, the troupe has performed for more than 200,000 educators and sold out over 200 theaters across 49 states, five countries, and three continents, building a sense of solidarity for anyone who has taught a class, supported a student, or survived parent-teacher conferences. The show features some of the funniest teacher-comedians sharing rapid-fire confessions that will have audiences nodding, clapping, and laughing hard. Content note: PG-13 language, candid teacher truths, and laughter that may be hard to control.

Heavy Delight returns to the Butternut Hut with a high-energy mix of funk and smooth, soul-drenched grooves. The set is crafted for a rich, satisfying night of rhythm and melody that keeps the vibe lively from start to finish.

Neon Rodeo brings its 90s country tribute back to Route 66 MotorHeads Bar & Grill, Museum & Entertainment Complex in Springfield, IL. The show features a lively set packed with 90s country favorites, delivering a nostalgic night along the Mother Road.

Internationally known blues and roots vocalist and harmonica player Brandon Santini performs at The Alamo as part of ICBC Blue Monday. The show spotlights his commanding voice and expressive harmonica playing in a set rooted in traditional blues and roots music.

Embrace the holiday spirit with a class devoted to festive sweets, featuring recipes that lower the sugar while keeping classic flavors front and center. Preregistration is necessary, and capacity is limited.

Bring the kids to Riverton Village Hall to meet Santa in person. Santa will give every child a treat bag and a special present.

Comedian Bert Kreischer brings his Permission to Party World Tour to the UIS Performing Arts Center, serving up his trademark uncensored storytelling for Central Illinois audiences. Once dubbed the nation’s top partyer by Rolling Stone, he has since become one of the highest-grossing stand-up performers as well as a force in entrepreneurship, content creation, and entertainment. Forbes has praised his storytelling, and that mix of authenticity and high-energy humor powers a show aimed at big laughs.

Celebrate the season with a cheerful photo of your dog and Santa. Santa will hand out treats and small surprises, available until they run out. A $5 contribution is suggested to support Friends of Sangamon County Animal Control. An elf will be stationed on the hall's east side, beside Santa's house, to help with entry. If your pet requires specific accommodations, such as being the only dog inside, let the elf know. Safety for all people and pets is the priority.

Debbie Ross takes the stage at The Alamo for a special Blue Monday performance. Expect soulful singing, favorite classics, and an energetic set that celebrates live music and the memories it inspires. A cover charge of 5 dollars applies.