Events in Springfield, IL

A fundraising event dedicated to autism takes place at the Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center. The focus is on raising financial support for autism.

Designed for those enjoying retirement, easing into semi-retired life, or simply seeking meaningful connections, this complimentary gathering at a cat café offers an easygoing, no-pressure setting for people around 56 and wiser to connect. Community members of all backgrounds can relax with the resident cats, share conversation, and cultivate lasting friendships. While attendance is not limited strictly by age, the meetup is curated for peer groups to help strengthen local networks. Participants are kindly asked to be respectful of both fellow guests and the feline residents. It offers a calm space to unwind, enjoy good company, and discover new favorite human and cat friends.

Historic downtown Springfield becomes a showcase for classic cars, live music, and the nostalgia of Route 66 as the celebration marks its 25th year. This anniversary edition also honors a full century of the iconic highway, with a few extra surprises in store. Revel in Red delivers a high energy show built for crowd connection, spanning five decades of favorites from artists like Van Halen, Journey, P!nk, and Bruno Mars. Alongside the familiar hits, keep an ear out for brand new original songs as the band begins sharing its own material on the road.

Cast a line for a cause at this charity catfish tournament supporting the Springfield Veterans Shelter. The entry fee is $220. Each participant may weigh up to five fish, with blue, channel, and flathead catfish all eligible in any combination, and there are no minimum or maximum length requirements. Registration takes place across from the beach house, followed by a captains meeting at the guard shack. Fishing concludes with an official weigh-in at Lindsay Bridge.

At Dream Center Sangamon County, the outreach ministry of Destiny Church hosts a free distribution of clothing and food. Support is available for anyone experiencing need, with no conditions attached. To receive food, bring your ID and be ready to complete the required paperwork.

Bring a BMW to Isringhausen for a relaxed meet with coffee and pastries. Parking will be in the Volvo lot on Washington, placing the gathering within the festival area. After checking out the lineup of BMWs, attendees can head into the RT 66 Mother Road Show in downtown Springfield.

Out of the Darkness Community Walks are AFSP's primary fundraising walks that bring people together nationwide to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention. Money raised supports research, advocacy, and educational programs in Illinois, reaching schools, workplaces, and communities. For questions, contact Rachel Rodriguez at 620-767-9912 or afspspringfieldilwalk@gmail.com.

A relaxed crafting get-together at the Springfield Masonic Center welcomes scrapbookers, card makers, and anyone working on personal projects. Each participant receives a dedicated table, dinner, a Stampin’ Up! goodie bag with about $20 in products, and access to coordinating stamps and dies to add extra detail to creations. Registration is $70, with a single-day option available for $40. Bring your favorite projects and supplies, plus any snacks or drinks you prefer. Small coolers are allowed, and a microwave is available for heating food. Power strips and extension cords are recommended for tools that need electricity. For details or to register, contact Michelle at shllbll1@yahoo.com or 217-415-9953.

Get ready for a high-octane set from The Joey Tenuto Band at the Butternut Hut. This 4 to 5 piece group mixes rock, blues, reggae, and country favorites with original songs for a show that aims to shake the walls. Expect dancing, loud singalongs, and cold drinks as the big sound and good vibes keep the party going well past just one more song.

Experience a high-voltage arena rock showcase with Chicago Rockhouse, featuring soaring vocals, blazing guitars, and a set packed with classic anthems from legendary rock artists.

Experience MTG gameplay in the Commander format. Participation is free, and prizing is random. Suitable for both casual fun and competitive play.

At Boone's, Twin City Trivia brings seven rounds designed to challenge teams and spark some laughs. Participation is free, there is no entry fee, and no app is needed. Prizes are awarded to the top teams, so gather friends, claim a table, and see how your crew stacks up.

An evening book club meets at the library to discuss recent historical fiction titles. No registration is required. Members provide treats. Watch for updates on the monthly book selections, discussion questions, and additional details.

Enjoy a downtown evening of board games with a playful cat-themed twist. This free, all-ages community gathering takes place on the first Thursday of every month and offers a relaxed, low-pressure setting for families, students, and neighbors in the heart of the city. Lincoln Library will showcase a curated selection of board games to pick from, and participants may team up with other attendees, arrive with their own group, or bring a favorite game to share. It is a welcoming way to meet new people and spend time with great company.

Spend an easygoing hour at a cat café connecting with others who are around 18 to 25, whether you are navigating school, starting a first job, or deciding what comes next. This complimentary gathering takes place on the first Friday of the month and offers a relaxed, low-pressure setting to talk, unwind, and meet people while enjoying time with the café’s cats. Everyone is welcome, even if you are slightly outside the target age range, with the goal of fostering peer connections and a stronger community network. Please be considerate of fellow guests and the feline residents. Settle in, find a bit of zen, and discover new friends, both human and cat.

The fifth annual Antique and Artisan Fall Market returns to The Brinkerhoff Mansion with more than 120 local vendors. Browse antique finds, handcrafted goods, boutique items, and works by local artists, and enjoy treats from cottage bakers. Food trucks will offer a variety of bites, and live music will play throughout the day. Admission is free, and the event is pet friendly. Celebrate the season by supporting local small business owners while shopping, eating, and spending time with friends on the mansion's historic campus.

Volunteer Frank Marchant leads a specialty exploration of the Dana-Thomas House with an in-depth focus on its architecture. The experience runs about two hours, roughly double the length of the standard tour, and includes access to rooms not typically included on other tours. Guests take a closer look at design details and hear engaging anecdotes related to the Dana House, with time for questions and discussion influencing the pace. There is no admission fee, and donations to support the site are appreciated. Cash is accepted on-site, and electronic contributions are also an option. Reservations are required. This tour is recommended for teens and adults interested in Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture, as well as returning visitors seeking a more in-depth visit.

Stellar Aviation at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport hosts the fourth annual fly-in and cruise-in, featuring plenty of cars and aircraft to see up close. The local Experimental Aircraft Association chapter will serve food with side items for $15 per plate. Early arrivals are welcome, though food service and access to the aircraft ramp begin later in the event. A rain date is scheduled in case of bad weather, creating a fun day at the airport for families, friends, and enthusiasts.

Expert volunteer Frank Marchant leads an in-depth tour of the Dana-Thomas House that explores the world’s largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright furniture and art glass. The experience highlights the glass from an architectural point of view and includes stories about Wright. The tour lasts about two hours, depending on guest questions and discussion. There is no fee, and donations to support the site are suggested, with cash accepted on-site or electronic options available. Reservations are required. This offering is recommended for teens and adults interested in Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture, and for those who have toured the house before and want a deeper experience, while a separate general introduction is also available by reservation. The group will begin at the front door of the home. Photography and video are limited to the exterior only and are not permitted inside. Please note that the house spans 12,600 square feet across 16 elevations connected by stairs.

Boots and Bow Ties Annual Fundraiser brings an upbeat night to Route 66 Motorheads Bar & Grill in support of local seniors. Live music from Lick Creek sets the tone for a lively evening. Admission is for ages 21 and over, and a $15 cover directly supports local seniors. Tickets are available online, in person at Senior Services of Central Illinois, or at the door. A limited dinner menu will be served during the fundraiser, while those who want the full restaurant menu can plan to dine before the event begins. Expect spirited entertainment, good food, and a festive atmosphere dedicated to a meaningful cause. Appreciation goes to the sponsors who make the night possible, including Title Sponsors Home Instead Senior Care and Medicare Mitch, Gold Sponsors Advanced Healthcare Services, Cedarhurst of Jacksonville, Lee O'Keefe Insurance Agency, Memorial Health, and Springfield Supportive Living, Silver Sponsors AgeLinc, Anonymous Donor, Bank of Springfield, Carrollton Bank, CEFCU, Eastland Independent & Assisted Senior Living, Heartland Bank & Trust Company, Illini Tech, JLS Marine, Inc., Marsh McLennan, and Springfield Clinic, and Bronze Sponsors A&B Printing Services, Inc., American Central Insurance, Illinois Presbyterian Home, Jack Stoldt Auto Service Center, and Peerless Cleaning & Restoration Services.

The Magic Moon Witches Market returns to Magic Moon Crystals & Co. with an evening of discovery featuring local artisans and mystical makers, handcrafted treasures, crystals, jewelry, artwork, readings, magical goods, delicious food, and entertainment. Welcoming both seasoned witches and curious newcomers, this community-focused gathering highlights small businesses and offers something to explore throughout the market. After a first edition that drew thousands and created a night of connection and wonder, this installment brings back favorite elements and adds new surprises. More details, vendor information, entertainment, and special attractions will be announced soon, and official updates will be shared only through the organizers’ designated channels.

The Fourth Annual Grand Market at BJ Grand Salon & Spa West offers a festive day of fall shopping and community spirit. Explore a variety of local vendors featuring handmade goods, boutique finds, seasonal decor, gifts, and treats, with raffles adding an extra dose of fun. The event highlights local businesses and creators, making it easy to support talented entrepreneurs. Admission is free and open to all. Vendor applications are currently available, and all communication about vendor opportunities is handled only through the official application process. Payment or sensitive information will not be requested via comments, direct messages, or third parties.

This rain date will be used for the cruise-in if the Saturday event is canceled due to weather. The event features plenty of cars to explore and aircraft available for close-up viewing. Burgers with sides will be served by the local Experimental Aircraft Association chapter for $15 per plate. Early arrival is welcome, though food service and access to the aircraft ramp begin later.

Giovannie & The Hired Guns take the stage for a show. Advance tickets are $20.

In Springfield, Illinois, the Miles of Possibility Route 66 Conference honors a century of the Mother Road with a centennial summit that brings together historians, travelers, preservationists, and curious participants. The schedule features keynotes, panels, and workshops that celebrate, inform, and spark new possibilities. A centennial spotlight adds immersive cultural experiences with music and storytelling that reflect on 100 years of Route 66. International perspectives round out the conversation, honoring the road’s legacy while looking ahead to its future.

Press pause on a packed schedule with a free, one hour meetup at a cat café designed for people around ages 26 to 40. Settle into a relaxed, low pressure setting, spend time with the resident cats, and connect with neighbors who are also carving out a little breathing room. Everyone is welcome, even if not in that exact age range, as the focus is on peer connections that strengthen the local network. Please be considerate of both fellow guests and the feline residents. Expect a calm vibe, friendly conversation, and the chance to meet new favorite people and cats.

Bike and Jeep Night brings together motorcycles, Jeeps, and community spirit with a live band, food, and camaraderie. Support from this gathering directly helps local veterans and their families. It welcomes riders on two wheels, drivers on four, and guests who simply want to enjoy the fun.

Caturday Storytime, created in partnership with Lincoln Library, is a monthly series where families and young children can listen to stories while spending calm time with rescue cats. The gatherings are free and open to everyone, with a relaxed atmosphere that lets guests and the cats enjoy each other’s company. It offers gentle tales, cozy moments, and a touch of feline charm.

Get into the Halloween spirit with a kids costume contest featuring two age groups, 1 to 5 and 5 to 10.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.