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.
DECEMBER
Santa House at Kiwanis Park Fri., Dec. 20, 5-8pm, Sat., Dec. 21, 9am-12pm, Sun., Dec. 22, 12-4pm and Mon., Dec. 23, 5-8pm. Make magical memories this holiday season at the Santa House. Bring your camera or phone to snap a picture with Santa himself. Free. Kiwanis Park, Stanton Street, 217-753-2800 ext. 2001.
Dual Piano Christmas Dec. 20-21, 7pm and Sun., Dec. 22, 2pm. Starring Damien Kaplan and Mark Gifford and featuring two Steinway Grand Pianos, four hands, and two talented, creative brains letting loose for an evening of fun. hcfta.org. $22 or $20 for students and adults over 60. Hoogland Center for the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
It’s a Wonderful Life Fri., Dec. 20, 8pm. View this timeless classic on the big screen. Perfect for the whole family. No advance ticket sales. Tickets are $10 at the door, or $5 with a food donation. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence Ave., 800-838-3006.
Washington Park Botanical Garden Winter Holiday Floral Show Dec. 16-20, 12-4pm and Dec. 21-22, 12-5pm. Step into a world of 500 radiant poinsettias nestled among lush fresh evergreens and vibrant tropical foliage. Perfect for all ages. Washington Park Botanical Garden Exhibit Hall, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Santa at White Oaks Mall Saturdays, 10am-8pm and Mondays-Fridays, Sundays, 11am-7pm. Through Dec. 23. Make a magical memory with Santa Claus at White Oaks Mall. Find him in the Grand Court beneath the Giant Christmas tree, where he is ready to hear your wishes and pose for a family photo. Santa arrives Nov.15. For hours or to reserve a window of time, visit WhereIsSanta.com. Walk-ups welcome. Photo packages available. White Oaks Mall, 2501 Wabash Ave., 217-787-0110.
2024 Chatham Friends of the Parks Light Up the Park Dec. 18-25, 6-9pm. Drive through a mile of dazzling displays of beautifully colored lights. Special event evenings! Open for bicycles only 6-8pm Dec.4. Open for walkers only 6-8pm Dec. 18. $5 donation suggested. 217-415-8513.
“Christmas Fantasy” Candlelight Tours Fridays, 5-8pm and Fri., Dec. 20, 5-8pm. Through Dec. 20. The Homestead and museum will be decorated in full Victorian splendor, illuminated by candles and filled with music. Tours open to the public. $10 for adults, $5 for ages 6-18 and ages 5 and under free. C.H. Moore Homestead DeWitt County Museum, Clinton, 219 E. Woodlawn St., 217-935-6066.
2024 Old Capitol Holiday Walks Sat., Dec. 21, 10am-8pm. Once again, DSI and downtown’s unique, locally-owned shops will pull out the stops for this most magical event of the year – the Old Capitol Holiday Walks. Free. Downtown Springfield, Downtown, 217-544-1723.
“Make”-ing Memories Sat., Dec. 21, 1-3pm. Holiday crafts at the Dana-Thomas House. Nov. 30: Ornaments and cards. Dec. 14: Picture with Santa and frame. Dec. 21: Pinprick cards and orange pomanders. Register on Eventbrite. Free. Dana-Thomas House, 301 E. Lawrence Ave., 217-782-6776.
Winter Farmers Market Sat., Dec. 21, 8am-12pm. Customers can park for free at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library parking garage. Union Station, 500 E. Madison, 217-557-4588.
Nature’s Nibbles Workshop Sat., Dec. 21, 10-11:30am. Get ready to craft, create, and make a little mess for our furry and feathered friends. Kids ages 5-10 are invited to join in creating wildlife-friendly ornaments and edible crafts made from birdseed, spices and fruits. A perfect way to add a touch of nature to your holiday season. $35-$40. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Solstice Celebration Sat., Dec. 21, 10am-3pm. Discover the science behind the changing seasons and how animals adapt to the colder weather with a sensory snow bin and more. Explore how people around the world celebrate the solstice through art and games. Activities are free and available while supplies last. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Free. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-6044.
Meet Me in St. Louis Sat., Dec. 21, 7pm. Celebrate the 80th anniversary of this charming, nostalgic MGM classic, in glorious technicolor. The whole family will enjoy it. No advance ticket sales. Tickets are the door are $10 or $5 with a food donation. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.
An evening with Emmanuel di Villarosa Sat., Dec. 21, 7:30pm. The world-renowned tenor will present popular arias, Christmas favorites and other selections. With special guest mezzo-soprano Danielle Long. Second annual fundraiser for Family Service Center’s Tree of Wishes. Formal attire is encouraged. Tickets $30 per person online, $35 at door. Chapel at old Benedictine University, 1500 N. Fifth St., 217-572-2991.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas Sat., Dec. 21, 7:30pm. The ultimate holiday tradition. uispac.com. $19-$99. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Ha Ha Holiday Show Sat., Dec. 21, 8pm. Holiday and winter-themed sketches and short-form games presented by Capital City Improv. hcfta.org. $15. Hoogland Center for the Arts Club Room, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Special Performances of The Nutcracker Wednesdays, Saturdays, 5:30-6, 6:30-7pm. Through Dec. 21. The Copper Coin Ballet Company will perform selections from “The Nutcracker” each Wednesday and Saturday in the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum’s Union Theater. The Nutcracker follows the magical adventures of Clara and her Nutcracker Prince as they battle with the Mouse King and journey to the Land of the Sweets. This 30-minute abbreviated version of the ballet contains all the magic and favorite music from the original production. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Free. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 212 N. Sixth St., 217-785-7943.
Visit Santa Downtown Saturdays, 12-6pm. Through Dec. 21. Tell him what you would like for Christmas, hand him your list or just stand at a distance and wave hello. Whatever you do, he’ll wish you a merry Christmas. Old State Capitol Plaza, Washington Street between Fifth and Sixth streets.
Santa and Mrs. Claus Holiday Experience Sun., Dec. 22, 1-3pm. Santa and Mrs. Claus are coming back to SCHEELS. Stop by for this free event full of holiday joy. Free. Scheels, 3801 S. MacArthur Blvd., 217-726-6330.
Women’s Self Defense Seminar Sun., Dec. 22, 1-2:30pm. This self-defense seminar is designed for women to learn techniques that will give them a game plan against most common self-defense situations. Wear athletic clothing, bring a water bottle, no jewelry. RSVP via text or email. For those older than 12. graciebarra.com/springfield-il/,. Free. Gracie Barra Brazilian jiujitsu, 1665 Wabash Ave Suite D, 217-697-9889.
Candle Lighting Service Sun., Dec. 22, 6:30-7:30pm. Reawaken the Christ light within. Features music, singing and fellowship. Donations accepted. Unity of Springfield, 417 Cordelia, 217-523-5897.
Stella’s Silent Reading Club Mondays, 10-11am. This club is a gathering of readers reading their own book – parallel but together. A big table will be set aside for participants to assemble and share what they are reading and then silently read for the next hour. A book lover’s dream. Free. Stella Coffee and Tea, 1135 W. Governor St., 262-622-3151.
Life Recovery 12-Step Group Mondays, 6:30-7:45pm. Work through the 12 steps of life recovery, a set of biblical principles in addiction treatment that outline a course of action for tackling problems such as drug and alcohol addiction, overeating, sex addiction and more. See the Facebook page for more info. Destiny Church, 1425 N. Fifth St., 217-685-4124.
Candles and Carols Tue., Dec. 24, 6-7:30pm. Rejoice with story and song of the annual convergence of different sacred festivals and traditions – Yule, Chanukah, Advent/Christmas Eve and Kwanzaa. Free. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Road, 217-585-9550.
Comedy open mic Second and Fourth Wednesday of every month, 6-9pm. Hosted by Lance Cain. Signup is at 6pm with show at 7pm. See the Facebook page for more info. Anvil and Forge Brewing and Distilling Company, 619 E. Washington St., 217-494-6200.
Pride on the Eastside Fourth Thursday of every month, 5:30-6:30pm. A social group and support meeting for LGBT and people of color. Phoenix Center OUT East, 704 S. Dirksen Pkwy., 217-528-5253.
Adult Game Night Sat., Dec. 28, 6-9pm. Experience a night of laughter, excitement and friendly competition at OUT on Second, Adult Game Night as we snack and play a variety of games such as cards Against Humanity-style games, Dirty Pictionary, Telestrations: After Dark, and more. This event is 21-plus. $10. Phoenix Center: Out On Second, 120 E. Scarritt St., 217-528-5253.
Burning Bowl Releasing Ceremony Sun., Dec. 29, 10-11am. In this ceremony, release all that which no longer serves you as we start the New Year. Donations accepted. Unity of Springfield, 417 Cordelia St., 217-523-5897.
Let’s Make the New Year Magical Tue., Dec. 31, 11:30am-12pm. Bring in the New Year with some magical fun. Event features a live performance by Curt Smith. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
First Night Springfield Tue., Dec. 31, 12-8pm. Look for children’s activities and special around-the-world midnight countdown with confetti cannons at ALPLM, ice Skating at Union Square Park, special open house tours with live music at the Dana-Thomas House and a fireworks spectacular. Tickets for ages 15 and under are free and for ages 16 and older are $25. springfieldartsco.org. Downtown Springfield.
Jodi White Tue., Dec. 31, 7, 9:30pm. Jodi White brings her ballsy, bold and brazen brand of comedy to the capital city. Nothing is safe, She tells it like it is! donniebs.com. $32-$35. Knights of Columbus Casey’s Pub, 2200 S. Meadowbrook Road, 217-891-4858.
Lick Creek Tue., Dec. 31, 8:30pm. New Year’s Eve celebration with one of central Illinois’ top bands. $20-$30. Boondocks, 2909 N. Dirksen Pkwy., 217-679-0145.
JANUARY
Let’s Get Crafty First Wednesday of every month, 10:30-11:30am. Through Jan. 1. Connect, be inspired, and relax with others in an easygoing environment. All supplies for our simple crafts provided – just bring the conversation and imagination. Registration requested. For ages 16-plus. $3 optional donation. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce St., 217-483-2713.
Crystalize Your Intentions for 2025 Wed., Jan. 1, 6-7:30pm. A New Year’s Day healing crystal bowls meditation. Relax into the vision of what you would like to create in the new year while listening to crystal bowl vibrations. $25 suggested. Unity of Springfield, 417 Cordelia, 217-523-5897.
Open mic comedy night First and Third Wednesday of every month, 7:45pm. Got jokes? Sign up for a five-minute comedy set at Pizza Records the first and third Wednesday of every month. Free. Pizza Records, Jacksonville, 59 E. Central Park Plaza, 217-200-0896.
New Year essential basket giveaway Sat., Jan. 4, 10am-1pm. Freedom in Holiness Mission’s essential baskets are filled with Charmin toilet paper and Bounty paper towels. Recipients must show proof of need I.D. Fifty baskets will be given away. Free. Freedom in Holiness Mission, 1430 Loveland Ave., 217-522-2527.
Friends of Genealogy Sat., Jan. 4, 2-3pm. Explore your family history with the Friends of Genealogy. Connect, inform and discover support in free, open monthly gatherings of this welcoming community of genealogy enthusiasts. Free. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce St., 217-483-2713.
Unity White Stone Ceremony Sun., Jan. 5, 10-11am. Celebrate new beginnings in this ceremony and move forward with an intention for the year ahead. Donations accepted. Unity of Springfield, 417 Cordelia, 217-523-5897.
Self-Defense Seminar for First Responders Sun., Jan. 5, 3-4pm and Sun., Feb. 9, 3-4pm. Law enforcement officers, security guards, EMTs and other first responders are invited for a self-defense seminar. Training covers specific moves to your role, de-escalation techniques, high-impact areas, defensive posture and positioning for optimal protection. Free. Gracie Barra Brazilian jiujitsu, 1665 Wabash Ave Suite D, 217-220-5885.
Book Swap Sundays First Sunday of every month, 4-7pm. Exchange those used, unwanted books with other book lovers. Enjoy the free book coloring pages and bookmark station. Free. Ad Astra Wine and Tapas Bar, 308 E. Adams St., 217-679-1323.
A Matter of Balance Tue., Jan. 7, 2-4pm. A structured program consisting of eight sessions that include group discussion and light exercise. This program is designed to benefit older adults, whether or not they have a history of falls, or are just looking to become more active. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-503-4618.
Glass Table Discussions Second Wednesday of every month, 10-11:30am. Through June 11. Hone your mental strength by taking part in a series of open discussions on a variety of topics that will illuminate mental deficits and train our brains. Parents can decide if children are old enough to take part. Topics: January, Overcoming Tharn; February, Critical Thinking; March: Cognitive Distortions; April: Positive Thinking Skills; May: Strength of Logic; June: Erikson’s Theory of Development. Free. Stella Coffee & Tea, 1135 W. Governor St., 262-622-3151.
Puzzle Exchange Sat., Jan. 11, 8am. Bring your puzzles in during the week of Jan.6 and exchange for a different one on Jan. 11. Free. Stella Coffee & Tea, 1135 W. Governor St., 262-622-3151.
Comedy Open Mic Second Sunday of every month, 6:30-8:30pm. Comedy open mic featuring a different headliner each month. Sign up at 6pm. Show starts at 6:30pm. Venue is family-friendly but material may not be. Parental discretion advised. Free admission. The Wakery, 5 W. Old State Capitol Plaza, 217-670-2354.
Hooked on Books Book Club Second Monday of every month, 6-7pm. Join this engaging book discussion group on the second Monday of the month, where it delves into captivating reads and shares thoughts and insights. A mixture of fiction and nonfiction books. are discussed. September’s read is North Woods by Daniel Mason. Free. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce St., 217-483-2713.
Health Energy with Mike Thomas Tue., Jan. 14, 6-7pm. Registered pharmacist and health coach Mike Thomas will speak on building your energy for a new you in the New Year. He will provide free resources on how to increase energy through simple lifestyle changes, helping to create a healthier, happier life. chathamlib.org. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce St., 217-483-2713.
Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group Second Tuesday of every month, 1-2:30pm. The best thing you can do for the person you are caring for is stay physically and emotionally strong. Support groups offer comfort and reassurance, and can be good sources of practical advice and even humor. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
Nash’s Birthday Paw-ty Wed., Jan. 15, 11:15am-12pm. Pet Therapy dog Nash is turning 6. This event will celebrate the four-legged friend. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-503-4643.
Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour Presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs Wed., Jan. 15, 7pm. $29-$99. BOS Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, 800-745-3000.
Creed Fisher Thu., Jan. 16, 7pm. Creed Fisher is a storyteller and rising outlaw country musician. $20. Boondocks, 2909 N. Dirksen Pkwy., 217-679-0145.
Tony Deyo Fri., Jan. 17, 8pm. Tony Deyo is a stand-up comedian known most notably for his sharp, quick material and near-perfect comedic timing almost certainly gained from his years as a professional symphony musician. $25. Broadgauge, Petersburg, 101 North 7th St., 217-386-5669.
I’ll Be Seeing You Remembrance Ceremony Thu., Jan. 23, 11:15am-12:30pm. Joins us to honor the memories of friends and family lost in 2024 and the past. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
January Job Fair Sat., Jan. 25, 9am-12pm. Prospective employees and employers can meet during this third annual event in the school gym. Vendors sought. Contact Michael Carlson for more info. Free, donations accepted. St. Patrick Catholic School, 1800 S. Grand Ave. E., 217-523-7670.
Women’s Self Defense Seminar Fourth Sunday of every month, 1-2:30pm. Through March 23. This self-defense seminar is designed for women to learn techniques that will give them a game plan against the most common self-defense situations. Wear athletic clothing, bring a water bottle, and do not wear jewelry. RSVP via text. For ages over 12. Free. Gracie Barra Brazilian jiujitsu, 1665 Wabash Ave Suite D, 217-697-9889.
AARP Tax Aid Mon., Jan. 27, 9am-12pm, Tue., Jan. 28, 9am-12pm, Wed., Jan. 29, 9am-12pm, Thu., Jan. 30, 9am-12pm and Fri., Jan. 31, 9am-12pm. AARP volunteers will be available to schedule tax aid appointments. Appointments will be scheduled in person, on a first come, first served basis. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 2175284035.
Experience Decades Through Dance – A Sensory Friendly Event Fri., Jan. 31, 6:30-8:30pm. This Copper Coin Ballet Company performance is specially designed to offer a sensory-friendly experience in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Travel through decades of American history through dance. Each decade from the 1910s to the 1990s will be explored through historical facts and popular dance to music of the time. uispac.com. Tickets: $10. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217. 206-6160.
Aaron Watson Fri., Jan. 31, 8:30pm. Aaron Watson is a country music singer and songwriter. $20-$25. Boondocks, 2909 N. Dirksen Pkwy., 217-679-0145.
FEBRUARY
Local History: The Bunns and the Peases Sat., Feb. 1, 10-11am. Bob Bunn will share the fascinating history of two iconic heritage brands now united under one roof in Springfield. Chocolatier Ashley Miller will delight attendees with samples of her exquisite, handcrafted chocolates. chathamlib.org. Free. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce St., 217-483-2713.
Charlie Berens Sun., Feb. 2, 7-9pm. Charlie Berens brings his Good Old Fashioned Tour to Springfield. Berens is a comedian, New York Times best-selling author, Emmy-winning journalist, musician and more. $29.50–$57.50. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Elton John & Tim Rice’s “Aida” Fri., Feb. 7, 7:30pm, Sat., Feb. 8, 7:30pm, Sun., Feb. 9, 2pm, Fri., Feb. 14, 7:30pm, Sat., Feb. 15, 7:30pm and Sun., Feb. 16, 2pm. Elton John and Tim Rice’s “Aida” is an epic tale of love, loyalty and betrayal, chronicling the love triangle between Aida, a captured Nubian princess, Amneris, an Egyptian princess, and Radames, a soldier they both love. Presented by the Springfield Theatre Centre. hcfta.org. $22. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Everclear Fri., Feb. 7, 8pm. Rock group Everclear, led by Art Alexakis, is known for iconic hits such as “Santa Monica,” “Father of Mine” and “I Will Buy You a New Life.” boondockspub.com. $35-$40. Boondocks, 2909 N. Dirksen Pkwy., 217-679-0145.
Prairie State Orchid Society Exhibition and Plant Sale Sun., Feb. 9, 11am-4pm and Mon., Feb. 10, 11am-4pm. Free. Washington Park Botanical Garden Exhibit Hall, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Heartbeat Hop Fri., Feb. 14, 11:30am-12:30pm. Enjoy the Twist, Swim and Mashed Potato dance contest, door prizes, heartbeat sweets and hopping punch. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
Joe Gatto Fri., Feb. 14, 7-9pm. Joe Gatto is a comedian best known from the hit TV shows “Impractical Jokers” and “The Misery Index.” Most recently, he toured for two years with his stand-up solo show “Joe Gatto’s Night of Comedy” in sold-out theaters across the U.S., Canada and Australia. uispac.com. $39.75 – $59.75. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Pretty Woman Fri., Feb. 21, 7:30-9:30pm. Based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, the musical springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award®-winning director and choreographer, Jerry Mitchell. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Mini Chess Tournament Sat., Feb. 22, 10am-2pm. For ranked players and an introduction to competitive play for beginners. Open to the public, all ages and skill levels welcome. Participants will play three games, more games possible if time permits. In the multipurpose room on the second floor. Bring your own chess set. springfieldchessclub.com. Free. Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh St., 217-726-2584.
Cabin Fever Sat., Feb. 22, 1-4pm. A day filled with energy, excitement and endless fun for children ages 5-12 that will get them moving, playing and having a blast. Includes games and sports, creative play, fitness challenges and social time. springfieldparks.org. Free. Erin’s Pavilion, Southwind Park, 4965 S. Second St., 217-585-2941.
Savvy Caregiver Mon., Feb. 24, 1-3pm. A six-week course designed to assist caregivers of dementia patients in meeting their needs as a caregiver. This program provides caregivers with new coping skills. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
This article appears in Winter 2024 December 2024.
