As events may be canceled or rescheduled at the last moment, please first check with the host or venue when making plans to attend an event.
ONGOING
Friday Night Jazz
Every Friday, 5:30-7:30pm. Listen to some of Springfield’s finest jazz musicians with a different act every week. Sponsored by the Springfield Area Arts Council. Free, family friendly and accessible. springfieldartsco.org. Boone’s, 301 Edwards St., 217-679-3752.
“Water, Sky, Stone, Clay”
Fridays, Saturdays, 12-6pm. Through April 27. Enjoy the works of more than 20 gallery members. On the first Friday of each month gallery is open until 8pm. pharmacygallery.com. Free. The Pharmacy Gallery and Art Space, 623 E. Adams St., 217 622 7903.
Mystery Movie Monday
First Monday of every month, 7pm. Through May 6. Moviegoers won’t know the title of the film until the red velvet curtain opens on the grand screen. Movies from across the spectrum of genres will be shown – comedy, drama, suspense, musical, romance, western – everything but horror. Free popcorn. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.
Capital City Improv Workshops
Third Thursday of every month, 7-9pm. Through May 17. Want to try improvisational theater? Join Capital City Improv for workshops and learn improv basics and play a variety of improv games. Everyone 12 and older is welcome. Space is limited. Please RSVP via a link on the Capital City Improv Facebook page to reserve a spot. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
The Art of Jazz
Second Thursday of every month, 7-9pm. Jazz guitarists and educators Jose Gobbo and Mark Tonelli perform together or curate an evening, booking a guest musician, a group or occasionally the UIS Jazz Band. $10 at door. Pharmacygallery.com. Pharmacy Gallery & Art Space, 623 E. Adams St., 217 622 7903.
Sanctuary Tours
Thursdays, 1:30-3pm. Through June 27. See the beautiful sanctuary that houses seven Tiffany windows and the pew that Abraham and Mary Lincoln used during their time at the church. lincolnschurch.org. Free. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 217-528-4311.
A Matter of Balance
Tuesdays, 2-4pm. Through April 23. An award-winning, eight-week program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. Classes are held once a week for eight weeks. centralilseniors.org. $30. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
MARCH
Spring Floral Display
Saturday-Sunday, 12-5pm and Monday-Friday, 12-4 p.m., through April 7. Easter lilies and lush foliage fill the exhibit hall and conservatory. Washington Park Botanical Garden Exhibit Hall, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Women’s History Evening Tours
Fri., March 22, 5-6, 6-7pm and Fri., March 29, 5-6, 6-7pm. Enjoy a guided tour of the Dana House focusing on Mary Agnes Lawrence and Susan Lawrence Dana. Learn how this mother and daughter worked with others across the nation, and what made their Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home an ideal platform on education, democracy and equal rights. dana-thomas.org. Free. Dana-Thomas House, 301 E. Lawrence Ave., 217-782-6776.
World Ballet Series: Swan Lake
Fri., March 22, 7-9pm. World Ballet Series is a unique project composed of renowned professional dancers representing over 10 countries. Featuring richly detailed, hand-painted sets as well as over 150 radiant costumes that bring fresh representation to this timeless classic. uispac.com. $35-$89. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
A Musical Benefit for Ukraine
Fri., March 22, 6-7pm. Features a performance by local pianist Bonnie Ettinger and others. $20 donation per person at door, cash or check, to benefit Blue-Yellow for Ukraine USA, which provides non-lethal aid to Ukrainian soldiers and civilians on the front lines. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Road, 217-503-0586.
Timeless Daughters
Sat., March 23, 9:30-11:30am. “Springfield’s Daughters Then and Now.” Enter the secret garden to join us in activities that Springfield daughters of the past enjoyed. Choose a Springfield daughter whose interests are similar to yours and learn who she became. Activities are designed for ages 12 with a grown-up, but all ages are welcome. dana-thomas.org. Free. Dana-Thomas House, 301 E. Lawrence Ave., 217-782-6776.
John Mellencamp
Sat., March 23, 8-10pm. John Mellencamp’s career in music, spanning more than 35 years, is one of the most highly respected singer/songwriters of a generation. uispac.com. $49.50-$149.50. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Spotlight on Ice
Sat., March 23, 1 and 6 p.m. and Sun., March 24, 1 p.m. Watch more than 50 local skaters perform to selections from The Lion King, Hamilton, Star Wars and more. Dress warmly. Concessions will be available. Presented by the Springfield Figure Skating Club. Check the Facebook page for ticket information. $15-$25. Nelson Center Ice Arena, Lincoln Park, 1601 N. Fifth St., 217-753-2800.
WWE Road to WrestleMania
Sat., March 23, 7:30-10:30pm. See your favorite WWE superstars including The American Nightmare, Cody Rhodes, Seth “Freakin” Rollins, LA Knight, Rhea Ripley, Becky Lynch, Bobby Lashley and many more. Superstar Experience and Walk the Aisle VIP Packages also available. $20 and up. BOS Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, 217-788-8800.
Ray “Philly” Phillips Birthday Comedy Bash
Sat., March 23, 7pm. Great comics from across the U.S. Contact Stoney B or Ray Philly for tickets. Your Funny Comedy Club, 30th floor. See the Facebook page for more info. $10 in advance, $15 at door. Wyndham City Centre, 700 E. Adams St., 789-1530.
Jiu Jitsu Tournament
Sat., March 23, 9:30am and Sat., Sep. 7, 9:30am. Presented by FUJI BJJ Championship Series. Competitors range in age from 4 years old to 60-plus. fujibjj.com. $20 at the door. Age 12 and younger are free. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-725-8047.
Mary Lincoln: Springfield’s First Lady
Sun., March 24, 1-2, 3-4pm. Through a life full of triumph and tragedy, Mary Lincoln used her passion for politics to change history and open doors for future generations of women. Learn more about her, her service to community and country, and her role in preserving the Union. Make a tour reservation at eventbrite.com. Free. Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site, 603 S. Fifth St., 217-782-6776.
Coin Show
Sun., March 24, 9am-3pm. U.S. and foreign coins, ancient and modern coins, gold and silver bullion, state quarters and paper money. Over 70 dealer tables. Hosted by the Central Illinois Numismatic Association. Free for members and children under 16. $1. Northfield Inn, Suites and Conference Center, 3280 Northfield Drive, 217-899-9996.
Labyrinth Walk
Mon., March 25, 6-8:30pm and Mon., May 27, 6-8:30pm. This walking meditation is a unique spiritual experience. aluuc.org. Free. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Road, 217-801-2698.
Great Decisions Program
Wed., March 27, 7-9pm, Wed., April 3, 7-9pm, Wed., April 17, 7-9pm and Wed., April 24, 7-9pm. Learn about international affairs, meet interesting people and discuss critical issues in a small discussion format. A six-program series. See the website or email roywehrle@outlook.com for more information. mywacci.org. Free. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 533 S. Walnut St., 217-522-4415.
APRIL
Henson Robinson Zoo Opening
April 6-7, 10am-5pm. Enjoy a day of sun and fun to kick off the start of the zoo season. Meet new animal friends that have arrived and possibly get a visit from the Spring Bunny, too. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 East Lake Shore Drive, 217-544-1751.
Carillon concerts
April through December. Master carillonneur Carlo van Ulft and local assistant carillonneurs play a variety of music from original carillon compositions to arrangements of popular classics and pop music. Enjoy the beauty of the park and gardens with the unique accompaniment of carillon music. Visit the website or call for performance times. carillon-rees.org. Free. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.
Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon
Sat., April 6, 7:30am. So much history in just 13.1 miles. Race starts and finishes at the Old State Capitol where Lincoln gave his House Divided speech and near his former law office. The course also passes by his home, through Oak Ridge Cemetery and other sites with Lincoln ties. Hosted by Springfield Road Runners Club. srrc.net. Old State Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, 217-492-5823.
Improvisation and Illusions
Sat., April 6, 8pm. Hilarious scenes created on the spot. Be astounded as local magic entertainers provide a sense of wonder. Fill your night with joy and amazement with the games and magic. However, take note that they may not be appropriate for all ages. hcfta.org. $15. Hoogland Center for the Arts Club Room, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Spring Lawn and Garden Expo
April 6-7. Local vendors selling plants, flowers, garden art, supplies, grills, mowers, decks, landscaping and more. Free. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-528-3033.
New Home and Remodeling Show
April 6-7. Get inspired for your home building and remodeling projects. Talk with exhibitors to get ideas and tips. Hosted by the Springfield Area Home Builders Association. springfieldareahba.com. Illinois State Fairgrounds Exposition Building, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-698-4941.
Club LaCage Drag Show
Sat., April 6, 7pm. The Phoenix Center presents a fun-filled evening of drag, music, comedy, big hair and top-notch fashion starring many of Springfield’s best drag performers. VIP seating is available. All seating includes snacks and swag. $30-$40. Proceeds benefit Pridefest. Hoogland Center for the Arts. springfieldpride.org. 217-523-2787
Noises Off
April 12-13, 7:30pm, Sun., April 14, 2pm, April 19-20, 7:30pm and Sun., April 21, 2pm. A play within a play where a mediocre theater troupe rehearses a touring production of a romp comedy, Nothing On. Unfortunately, almost nothing goes right. Presented by the Springfield Theatre Centre. hcfta.org. $22. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Kim Sigafus – Award-winning Ojibwa author
Sat., April 13, 11am-12pm. Sigafus will present “Singing Bird and the Importance of Native American Women in Illinois History.” Dressed in native regalia, she will focus on women such as Singing Bird (Blackhawk’s wife) and Hononegah, their daily lives, courting, marriage and child-rearing, and how those lives affected Illinois’ history. Free. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce St., 217-483-2713.
Let’s Be Frank – Perfectly Frank
Sat., April 13, 6-9pm. Storyteller Timothy Totten will weave a tale of love, loss and the emperor of Japan as he recounts the triumphs and tragedies of architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Event includes three-course meal, wine and program. Reservations requested by April 1. dana-thomas.org. $100. The Inn at 835, 835 S. Second St., 217-788-9452.
Come From Away
Sun., April 14, 7:30pm. This musical is based on the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded plane passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Part of the Broadway Series. Uispac.com. $34-$99. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
National Clydesdale Sale
April 18-20. The largest Clydesdale sale in the country. Visit the website for the full schedule of events. clydesale.com. Free admission. Coliseum, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 815-247-8780.
Celtic Woman
Thu., April 18, 7pm, and Sat., April 20, 7:30pm. In the 20 years since its debut, Celtic Woman has emerged as both a formidable musical presence and genuine cultural phenomenon. The group’s albums and DVD releases have been consistent multi-platinum best sellers and its concert tours continue to touch the hearts of a devoted, global audience. Both an accomplished recording ensemble and world-class performing collective, Celtic Woman introduces some of Ireland’s most talented singers and musicians to the world stage. $42.50-$153.50. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Yee Haw Jamboree
Thu., April 18, 11:30am. Dress in your western wear, and enjoy a special performance by the Silver Steppers! Includes line dancing, cactus juice and western chips and dip. centralilseniors.org. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
Arabian Horse Value Show
April 20-21. Featuring dressage, Western dressage, sport horse under saddle and sport horse in hand. The CenterLine Dressage Ice Breaker Show will also accompany the rated classes with plenty of showing opportunities for dressage riders on any breed. arabinc.org. Free. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-556-3971.
Friends of Genealogy
Sat., April 27, 2-3:30pm. Explore your family history. Connect, share and find support in the free monthly gatherings of genealogy enthusiasts eager to support your journey. Hosted by Friends of Genealogy. Registration not required. Free. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce St., 217-483-2713.
Alfred Hitchcock’s The 39 Steps
April 26-27, 7:30pm, Sun., April 28, 3pm, May 3-4, 7:30pm and Sun., May 5, 3pm. A spoof the old Alfred Hitchcock movie and loaded with Alfred Hitchcock film references. Four actors play over 140 characters in this fast-paced comedy. hcfta.org. $22; seniors and students $20. Hoogland Center for the Arts Peggy Ryder Theatre, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
MAY
Moonlight Market
First and third Wednesdays May 1 through Sep. 18, 6-9pm. A wonderful way to enjoy an evening downtown. Find the works of local artists and artisans, plus dine and sip while you shop. Downtown Springfield, Jackson Street, between Sixth and Seventh streets. 217-670-0627.
Opposites Attract
Fri., May 3, 7:30pm. A performance by the Illinois Symphony and featuring pianist Joyce Yang. Conducted by Naomi Woo. uispac.com. $21-$63; students $10. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Symphony Supper
Fri., May 3, 5-6:30pm. Enjoy a pre-concert dinner with other music enthusiasts at Symphony Suppers. Hosted by the Illinois Symphony Guild of Springfield. Social time with cash bar at 5pm with dinner at 5:30pm in Conference Room C & D. Ticket includes dinner and tea, coffee or soda. Reservations due April 26, 2024, can be made by mailing a check payable to Illinois Symphony Guild of Springfield, P.O. Box 9641, Springfield, IL 62791-9641. ilsymphony.org. $40. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-522-2838.
Annual Illinois Vietnam Veterans Vigil
May 3-5. Yearly 24-hour event honors all veterans and active-duty military with a focus on Vietnam War veterans. Visit the Vietnam Veterans Annual Vigil Facebook page for more information. Veterans Memorial Complex, Oak Ridge Cemetery, 1500 Monument Ave. illinoisvvmav.org.
Hammer-In
Sat., May 4, 9am-3pm. The blacksmiths will be working and all of the buildings will be open for this popular annual event. clayville.org. Clayville Historic Site, Pleasant Plains, Route 125, 217-481-4430.
First Sunday Midwest Bazaar Spring Fever
Sun., May 5, 8am-4pm. You never know what you’re going to find at this bazaar. Top-notch vendors, food and even a pet adoption mobile site. You can even visit with some alpacas. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-725-8047.
Creation Stories: An Interfaith Discussion
Tue., May 7, 6pm. Part of the Liturgical Arts Festival of Springfield, lafspringfield.org. Free. Temple Israel, 1140 W. Governor St., 217-546-2841
Chicago
Tue., May 7, 7:30pm. After 25 years, this tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz has one show-stopping song after another with amazing dancing. Part of the Broadway Series. uispac.com. #34-$99. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Bored Teachers: We Can’t Make This Stuff Up!
Thu., May 9, 7:30-9:30pm. The world’s funniest teacher-comedians all on one stage. Their hilarious skits have amassed hundreds of millions of views on the internet, and they’re all joining comic forces on stage for a night of laughter you do not want to miss. uispac.com. $35 – $55. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
A Program of Hymns and Spirituals
Thu., May 9, 7:30pm. Program by Mark Gifford and Justin Johnson. Part of the Liturgical Arts Festival of Springfield, lafspringfield.org. Free. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 E. Lawrence St., 217-522-3342.
Fat Ass 5K and Street Party
Fri., May 10, 5:30-11:30pm and Sat., May 11, 10am-3pm. The Craft Beer and Cigar Festival on Friday night features live music by The Shenanigans, Lick Creek and Off the Wall. The 5K takes off on Saturday, followed by the street party with live music by Captain Geech and the Shrimp Shack Shooters. Visit the website or call for registration info. fatass5k.com. Downtown Springfield, Downtown, 217-525-1111.
The Bridges of Madison County
May 10-11, 7:30pm, Sun., May 12, 2pm, May 17-18, 7:30pm and Sun., May 19, 2pm. This sweeping romance about the roads we travel, the doors we open and the bridges we dare to cross will leave audiences breathless. Based on the best-selling novel. Presented by the Springfield Theatre Centre. hcfta.org. $22. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Mother’s Day Remembrance Tribute
Sat., May 11, 10am. Honoring all mothers and the important roles they have played in our lives. The brief ceremony will be led by a certified celebrant. Free. Roselawn Memorial Park, 1735 S. Camp Butler Road, 217-525-1661.
Central Illinois Senior Celebration
Wed., May 15. “Powered by Connection.” Lots of exhibitors, health screenings and live entertainment. Free admission with a donation of a canned food item. Hosted by Senior Services of Central Illinois. centralilseniors.org. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-528-4035.
Illinois Product Farmers Market
Thursdays, May 16 through Sept. 26, 3:30-7pm. Local meats, produce, dairy products, baked goods, honey and jams, craft beers, woodworking, jewelry and more. Plus live entertainment and a food truck. Illinois State Fairgrounds, The Shed, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-524-9129.
Old Capitol Art Fair
May 18, 10am-5pm and May 19, 10am-4pm. Set against the backdrop of the Old State Capitol, the art fair is the jewel of the Midwest. This tradition of fine art has brought artists and shoppers from across the country flocking to downtown Springfield’s two-day outdoor art gallery for over 60 years. Free. Old State Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, 217-553-5564. springfieldoldcapitolartfair.org.
Springfield PrideFest 2023
May 18, 11am-midnight. Join the Phoenix Center for the gayest of days of embracing diversity and celebrating the local LGBTQ community. It features live entertainment, more than 50 vendors, food and drinks, kids’ area, teen area and parade. Downtown Springfield, Fifth Street and Capitol Avenue. Free. 217-528-5253.
Lucky Horseshoes
May 28. Springfield’s Prospect League team’s season begins at home against a division foe, the Illinois Valley Pistol Shrimp. Regular season concludes July 31 and playoffs begin Aug. 1. Shoesbaseball.com. Lanphier Park, 1415 North Grand Ave. E., 217-679-3511.
On Golden Pond
May 23-26, 6:30pm The love story of Ethel and Norman Thayer who are returning to their summer home on Golden Pond for the 48th year. theatreinthepark.net. $18. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, Petersburg, 15588 History Lane, 217-632-5440.
Springfield Legends Classic III
May 25, 6:30pm. Former members of the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals battle it out in a seven-inning exhibition game. VIP meet and greets available which include autographs, photos and more. See Lucky Horseshoes web site, shoesbaseball.com, for ticket prices. Robin Roberts Stadium, 1415 North Grand Ave. E., 217-679-3511.
Capital City Biathlon and 5K
May 25, 8 am. Choose from a 5K run, biathlon (5K run and 15-mile bike) or a team biathlon. $30-$45. Danenberger Family Vineyards, 12341 Irish Road, New Berlin. 217-488-6321.
Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series
Thursdays, 6pm. A variety of music acts will perform on 10 Thursday evenings from May 29 to Aug. 1. Free. Y Block, Main Stage, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723. downtownspringfield.org.
History Comes Alive
May 31-Aug. 4. Go back in time in this 10-week living history program. Meet the Lincolns, attend a flag-lowering ceremony, visit the local museums and historic sites and much more. Go to visitspringfieldillinois.com for the full schedule. 217-789-2360 x5520.
Artists on the Plaza
Fridays, noon to 1p.m., from May 31 through Aug. 30. Local musicians perform on the Old State Capitol Plaza downtown. Sponsored by the Springfield Area Arts Council. Springfieldartsco.org. Free. 217-753-3519.
Jersey Boys
May 31-June 2 and June 5-8. A fantastic jukebox musical presented in a documentary-style format that dramatizes the formation, success and breakup of the 1960s rock ‘n’ roll group, The Four Seasons. themuni.org. $12-$22. Ages 5 and under free. The Muni, 815 East Lake Shore Drive, 217-793-MUNI.
JUNE
8K Trail Race
June 1, 7:30-9:30am. Race over the scenic trails and pathways of the historic garden, along the trails next to Lake Springfield and throughout the Ostermeier Prairie Center grounds, while kids can participate in a Fun Run. Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 East Lake Shore Drive, 217-529-1111.
International Carillon Festival
June 6-9. Times Fireworks at dusk on Friday. Lauded as one of the world’s most important and prestigious carillon events, the festival has an unsurpassed tradition of presenting the finest carillonneurs from around the world. Free. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-306-1838. carillon-rees.org.
Legacy of Giving
June 8, 5pm-midnight and June 9, noon to midnight. Over 60 music acts on five stages. Two days of music, arts, crafts, kid’s entertainment, food trucks and sporting events. All proceeds benefit local charities. Old State Capitol Plaza, between Sixth and Fifth streets at Adams Street, 217-361-5678. logmusicfest.org.
Springfield Comic and Toy Show
June 9, 10am-4pm. Get ready for a geeky good time! Show will feature many vendors and artists. Event includes tournaments, a cosplay showcase and random drawings. $5 admission at door. Crowne Plaza Springfield, 3000 S. Dirksen Parkway, 217-529-7777.
Midwest Charity Horse Show
Tue., June 11. Each year, the proceeds from this classic American Saddlebred horse show are donated to a worthy cause. Coliseum, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-414-1900.
Sangamon County Fair
June 12-16. This is a classic Midwestern county fair featuring livestock shows, queen contest, midway, music and always some top-notch entertainment. $5-$10. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin, 316 W. Birch St., 217-488-2685.
Juneteenth Celebration
June 12-19. A weeklong, communitywide celebration featuring a variety of family-friendly events including a talent show and a parade June 15. Find more information on the Juneteenth Inc. Springfield, IL Facebook page.
Romeo & Juliet
June 13-16, 6:30pm. A tragedy by William Shakespeare about two young lovers who are unable to be together because of their rivaling families’ longstanding feud. theatreinthepark.net. $18. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, Petersburg, 15588 History Lane, 217-632-5440.
Henson Robinson Zoo Day
June 15, 10am-5pm. Help the zoo celebrate the city of Springfield’s proclamation of Henson Robinson Zoo Day. All guests get in free. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-585-1821.
Summer Frolic
June 15, 10am-4pm. Celebrate the frontier heritage with interpreters in period clothing demonstrating period activities throughout the historic village where Lincoln once lived. Free. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, Petersburg, 15588 History Lane, 217-632-4000.
This article appears in Spring 2024 March 2024.
