Events in Springfield today

Run Your Bundts Off brings a sweet twist to a community race at Lincoln Park with a 5K run or a 2‑mile walk designed for all ages and paces, including families and stroller users. This charity event directs proceeds to Girls on the Run of Central Illinois and True North Running to support confidence, character, and a love of movement, with no profits kept. Participants can look forward to Bundtinis at the finish, a custom finisher medal, a race T‑shirt while supplies last, free professional photos, and chip‑timed results for the 5K. The start and finish are positioned by the Lincoln Park pavilion, with race‑day packet pickup inside the pavilion. Parking is available nearby in the Nelson Center lot, and signage will point the way to the Start and Finish arch. Runners are asked to stage toward the front and walkers toward the back. Packet pickup is also offered the day before at Nothing Bundt Cakes, and registration QR codes are requested for pickup. The field is capped at 500 participants, and finisher medals are guaranteed for all who register. Awards for the 5K include the top three overall women and men, along with the top three in each age and gender division. Overall winners take home a full‑size Bundt cake. New enhancements this year include a larger race village with additional vendors, updated medals from Ashworth Awards, more restrooms, refreshed shirts from Impressions Design, a clockwise route around the park path, and an expanded start and finish area. The event takes place rain or shine, the course may be adjusted if needed, and refunds are not offered. Volunteer opportunities are available and include a race shirt.

This distribution offers free clothing and food with no obligations. It is intended for individuals in need of clothing or food and for people who know someone who could benefit. To receive free food, bring your ID and be ready to complete some paperwork.

Presented in partnership with The Cats' Pyjamas Cafe, this monthly storytime welcomes families and young children for playful tales and peaceful time with rescue cats. Sessions are free and open to the public, offering a calm setting where guests and feline residents can relax together. Look forward to heartwarming stories, quiet companionship, and a touch of feline charm.

Caturday Storytime is a monthly collaboration with the Lincoln Library that welcomes families and young children to enjoy stories alongside rescue cats. These free public sessions create a calm setting for quiet companionship, offering a gentle space where visitors and resident felines can relax together with cozy snuggles and plenty of feline charm.

This new program welcomes youth ages 5 to 15 with a parent or guardian for a hands-on exploration of the Dana-Thomas House. Participants will start with a brief guided look at Frank Lloyd Wright’s art glass, then move to the courtyard where youth can choose favorite art glass colors and tie-dye their own “Everyone Belongs” shirt. All supplies and instructions are provided. Available shirt sizes include children’s medium, adult small, and adult medium. A parent or guardian must stay with their child throughout the program, and adults may help as needed, though only youth will make shirts. The program is free, and reservations are recommended.

Learn about the artistry that goes into bonsai containers in an interactive pottery session with the Springfield Bonsai Society. Guided by Elizabeth Thai and Scott Day, you will design and create a custom bonsai pot. The $40 fee includes all materials and kiln firing. Attendance is limited to 12 participants, and all skill levels are welcome.

Harmony Grits brings a lively set to The Tipsy Toad, blending traditional and modern country with southern rock favorites and familiar classics. Tight arrangements and rich vocal harmonies anchor the performance while the instrumentation keeps the energy high. The band features Everett Bugg on fiddle, guitar, and vocals, Nicole Bugg on vocals, Pam Kilmer on vocals, Polly Bugg on bass and vocals, Scott Bugg on drums, and Randy on steel guitar. Expect quick fiddle runs, soaring vocals, warm steel tones, and a steady backbeat throughout. It is a showcase of authentic country sounds delivered with polish and spirit, perfect for an upbeat evening of live music at The Tipsy Toad.

Lauren Alaina is performing at the Logan County Fair in Lincoln. The show starts in the evening at 7:30 PM.

The 14th annual Summer Edition of the Elegant Wedding Expo brings together local couples and wedding professionals at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Springfield. Explore designer tables and styled feature spaces, meet more than 60 premier vendors, and discover fresh ideas for every part of your celebration. Enjoy live music and entertainment, convenient free parking, and plenty of perks such as giveaways, exclusive day-of offers, and a swag bag. VIP admission is available with early entry and a complimentary mimosa. Sponsors include Complete Weddings + Events, Down the Aisle Bridal Shop, Maeven Bridal Box, Nelson’s Catering, Peoria Zoo and Luthy Botanical Garden, and Young Dance Inc. Exhibitor inquiries can be directed to info@elegantweddingexpo.com.

Enjoy a friendly Commander format gathering focused on fun and community. Entry is free, and prizes are awarded at random. Whether you prefer relaxed games or a more competitive pace, all play styles are welcome in a warm, inclusive setting.

Rochester Library Farmers Market returns with support from Gregurich Beef Company. Browse farm fresh produce, delicious baked goods, and unique creations from local artisans, with activities for kids as well. The market takes place in the library parking lot, creating a welcoming spot to connect with growers and makers from the community.

Not Petty brings its Springfield-based Tom Petty tribute to Dockside Grill at Lake Springfield Marina with a setlist built around two full blocks of Petty songs, separated by a short segment of the duo's original material and non-Petty covers. The performance leans into the biggest hits while also including B sides and rarities for listeners who enjoy the deeper cuts. With a track record of more than 650 shows across Illinois, the Midwest, and beyond, this duo presents a show that honors Tom Petty's catalog alongside a glimpse of their own songwriting.

This free community concert presents a mix of organ, violin, and other instrumental selections, with area musicians performing in tribute to Trinity Lutheran Church’s music director and organist, Laura Fliege. The program will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, and light refreshments will be available afterward.

Obed & Isaac's The Cidery hosts a Disney music trivia event featuring audio clips and questions drawn from both classic and modern films. Participants identify songs, movies, characters, and the artists behind beloved tracks, with prizes for the highest scoring teams. Disney themed attire and costumes are encouraged. Reservations are required. Tickets are $5 per person, and tables can seat up to six people. To reserve, email TwinCityTrivia@gmail.com.

Settle in at Boone's for Twin City Trivia, a seven round game night designed to challenge your brain and spark plenty of laughs. It is free to play with no entry fee and no app required. Real prizes are up for grabs, with awards for the top teams. Bring your smartest friends, add the fun ones too, and see whether your table has what it takes.

Enjoy a Monday perk at Knight’s Action Park, where moms receive complimentary admission with a paid regular admission. This runs every Monday and cannot be combined with other discounts.

Settle into a calm, creative evening at the Dana-Thomas House. Bring a book for quiet reading, a journal or sketchbook for reflection, or your current craft project to keep working on. If you would like to try something new, materials will be available for a featured craft activity. You are welcome to bring light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. Individuals, families, and small groups are invited. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome, with children accompanied by a responsible adult. Reservations are recommended. Please note that Wi-Fi and electrical outlets are not available. The house spans 12,600 square feet across 16 levels connected by stairs, so keep this in mind when planning or requesting accommodations. If you are unsure whether your project is appropriate for the setting, contact the organizers with your question in advance. Photography, video, and other recording are permitted outdoors only, and are not allowed inside.

Al Kitchen brings classic country to Fulgenzi's Pizza and Pasta. A longtime presence in the local country scene and a Nashville veteran, he performs favorites along with other tunes. Pizza and burgers are available to enjoy with the music, and the night features live songs, dancing, and plenty of food for friends and families.

At Titan Games, the inaugural Puzzle League brings teams of up to four together to complete a puzzle-themed bingo card of achievements across six puzzle nights, culminating in a 500-piece speed puzzling finale. The entry fee is $100 per team. Each team secures a spot for all seven weeks. Rather than taking a puzzle home after each session, participants choose from a shared pool of puzzles to work toward their achievements. Prizes include league puzzles and store credit.

Mike Metz hosts a weekly open mic that brings live music to The Bird Tavern each Monday night. Performers are welcome to bring their instruments and take the stage, while listeners can relax in the bird garden with pizza and drinks. The music is free.

Polly O’Keary brings high-energy, deeply soulful blues to BlueMonday at The Alamo. This appearance showcases a bold, spirited sound with powerful vocals and driving grooves.

Sky Lounge hosts a free night of Twin City Trivia with seven rounds that challenge your knowledge, spark laughs, and deliver bragging rights. There is no cost to enter, no app to install, and no special expertise required. Form a team of clever friends or the ones who bring the fun, then compete for real prizes awarded to the top finishers. Simply arrive, take a seat, and see what your table can do.

Tuesday evenings bring a welcoming group ride that meets at the Hope Church parking lot. Riders of all abilities are included, with groups organized by posted routes and guided by designated ride leaders so everyone knows the plan and who to follow. New cyclists can get a feel for the Springfield Bike Club, while seasoned members help create a supportive atmosphere with friendly guidance for those just starting out. Whether you are looking for a workout, community, or both, there is a place for you on these Tuesday rides. There is no cost and everyone is welcome.

This trivia night features seven rounds of questions designed to challenge your knowledge and add a dose of laughter. There is no cost to participate, and prizes are awarded to the winners.

Show support for the community by choosing to buy local at the Old Capitol Farmers Market.

Bring a valid County Market receipt to the box office to receive a free additional admission of equal or lesser value with the purchase of a full-price ticket. This deal must be redeemed in person and applies only to the Action Splash pass. It cannot be combined with other discounts.

Experience a family-friendly storytime and pop-up library in Lindbergh Park that brings books, read-alouds, and playful learning to the outdoors. Children can listen to engaging stories and take part in simple activities designed for young readers. It is a chance to celebrate reading, connect with other families, and enjoy a fun morning in the park.

Enjoy an after-hours exploration of the Lincoln Tomb with a newly introduced guided tour that focuses on the upper deck. Several tour times are available, and reservations are recommended. Access to the upper deck is limited to participants in the guided tour. For those who prefer to avoid stairs, an interpretive presentation inside the Tomb Rotunda highlights the statues featured on the upper level.

This support group welcomes anyone affected by prostate cancer, including spouses, partners, friends, and family. Meetings take place at the Memorial Learning Center on the second floor in Room 2D, and a virtual option is available. For more information, contact Tia Rapps at 217-588-5392 or rapps.tia@mhsil.com.

Pack a favorite board game and gather family or friends for a relaxed game night at the Dana-Thomas House. A table in one of the historic rooms will be reserved for your group so you can play together in a unique setting. Non-alcoholic drinks and light snacks are welcome. This free, all-ages event requires reservations due to limited space.

Boone's hosts a weekly Wednesday night open mic with hosts Joel Honey and Silas Tockey. The event takes place rain or shine. There is a full bar, and the kitchen is open for food.

Knight’s Action Park is offering special admission for the community. Eligible heroes, including members of the military, veterans, police, firefighters, EMTs, nurses, and teachers, can enter for $25 with a valid professional ID. Dads and grandparents receive free admission when a full price child ticket is purchased. These offers are available in person only and cannot be combined with other discounts.

Participants gather in the Sanctuary to play flute with the Sangamon Valley Flute Circle. The session welcomes all, encourages beginners, and requires no previous experience. The focus is on sharing the healing power of music.

Six Gun Sally is taking the stage at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield. The show kicks off at 2:00 PM.

Join the Illinois State Fair Parade Run on race day for a 2-mile run or walk option. Packet pickup happens the day before the race at Springfield Running Center from 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM, and you’ll need to attend to get a free admission ticket. Limited race-day packet pickup is also available at the fairgrounds from 3:30 PM to 4:45 PM, and participants picking up on race day will need to pay admission to enter the fairgrounds. Virtual participants can run or walk their two miles wherever they choose and submit their time on race results page during the week after the race.

Enjoy a relaxing yoga session led by Keely. Each class is $5. Advance registration is required and space is limited. To sign up, text or call Keely at (217)520-2629 or email rootsayurvedaandyoga@gmail.com.

Mark and Kynda Canada are hosting a local Helping Parents Heal affiliate support group meeting at Unity of Springfield, Illinois. Helping Parents Heal is a nonprofit that supported them after the passing of their son Judson in 2018. The gathering brings together parents on a similar journey to connect, share encouragement, and exchange resources, with the intention of easing emotional heaviness and nurturing hope and greater peace of mind.

Whether you are learning to play or already a seasoned gym member, enjoy a night of Pokémon. Professors will be on hand.

Recognized by Illinois Times as Best Trivia Night in 2024 and 2025, this weekly pub quiz at Anvil & Forge features eight rounds and 40 questions in a game that lasts about 90 minutes. The lineup blends pop culture with a bit of academia. Each week brings a mystery theme, a speed round, visual and audio sections, and at least one round chosen by the previous week's third place team. Players also select the category for Round 8. Beer and dishes from Foundry Kitchen are available while you play.