Untitled Document
Unless otherwise noted, events are in Springfield and
Sangamon County. Information for some event
was incomplete at press
time. Check upcoming editions of Illinois
Times for details.
MAY
Through Oct. 29 Old Capitol Farmers’ Market Every Wednesday and Saturday, the downtown market
features more than 60 vendors selling farm produce, flowers, and food.
Adams Street between Third and Fifth streets, downtown Springfield
(www.downtownspringfield.org)
Through Summer Canoe and Kayak
the Sangamon River
Guided canoe trips offering natural and cultural
history of the area for groups and individuals. Jim Edgar Panther Creek
23-25 & 29-31 And
Then There Were None (Ten Little Indians) Theatre in the Park presents the Agatha
Christie-penned production directed by James L. Seay. Lincoln’s New
Salem State Historic Site, Petersburg (www.theatreinthepark.net)
24 Early Bird Tennis Tournament A non-sanctioned event open to all ages. Washington
Park (www.springfieldtennis.org)
25 Springfield Mile Commodity Pavilion Grandstand, Illinois State
Fairgrounds (www.agr.state.il.us)
25 Berwyn International Food Fest A day of food and entertainment on Route 66 to
celebrate Memorial Day weekend. 6700 W. Ogden Ave., Berwyn
(www.berwynfoodfest.com)
25-26 Bluegrass and Blues Festival Along with the winery’s offerings the weekend
features performances from the River Ramblers, Second Harvest, and Antone
DeRocchi on Sunday. Monday’s lineup includes Kicked to the Curb,
Black Magic Johnson, and Hipbone Sam and Bad Bill. Hill Prairie Winery,
Oakford
25 Prop Club’s Jimmy Buffett Party If you can’t go to
“Margaritaville,” this party is a close second; the evening
features music from the Mud Bugs and a Buffett karaoke contest. Prop Club,
264 Maple Grove Lane (217-529-4901)
26 Chatham Memorial Day Services Joint services provided by Chatham American Legion
and VFW along with speakers and a firing detail. On the Square, Chatham
(www.chathamlegion759.com)
26 Lincoln’s Long-Gait Hike This Memorial Day, walk where Abraham Lincoln did
during a 5-mile hike in his honor. Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site,
Petersburg
(www.lincolnsnewsalem.com)
30-June 1 Hot Rod Super Nationals Rev up your engines for the annual hot rod race.
Multi-Purpose Area, Illinois State Fairgrounds (www.agr.state.il.us)
30-31 & June 1, 4-8 Hello
Dolly! Springfield’s Muni Opera presents the musical
directed by Georgia Dirksen. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr. (www.themuni.org)
30-June 1 & 6-8 Harvey
Jacksonville Theatre Guild presents the production.
Sophie Leschin Theater, Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org/tourism)
31 Lake-A-Palooza Kick off the summer season with a party featuring
kid’s activities, grilled food, and tunes in the afternoon from
Broken Stone. Springfield Ski and Boat Club, Lake Springfield
(217-971-5159)
31 Capital City Biathlon Lindsay Bridge, Lake Springfield
(www.lakespringfield.org)
31 Haunted Jacksonville Tour The tour features ghost stories and the history of
Jacksonville. Jacksonville (888-446-7859)
31 Barbecue, Blues, and Cruise In the absence of Taylorville’s Anything Goes
Fair, this new festival emerges featuring music from the St. Louis Voodoo
Band, Killborn Alley, and plenty of tangy barbecue. Christian County
Fairgrounds (www.downtowntaylorville.com)
JUNE
Through June Second Annual Artists Market Every Saturday in June, the MacArthur Boulevard
Business Association hosts an outdoor market with more than 30 artisans
selling arts, crafts, photography, and more. Town and Country Shopping
Center, Outer Park and MacArthur Boulevard (shoponmacarthur.com)
1 Glory Days, an 1830’s Militia Muster Join the recreation of signing up for the militia and
marching to war in 1832. Lincoln’s New Salem’s State Historic
Site, Petersburg (www.lincolnsnewsalem.com)
1 Annual Race and Unity Rally Gather to celebrate unity. Capitol Rotunda
1 Prairieland Voices Concert Conducted by Marion van der Loo. Laurel United
Methodist Church
1 Three Chords for a Cure Featuring live entertainment by Saturday Nite Special
and Hoosier Daddies along with a silent auction. American Legion, 1740
Fifth St., Lincoln
(www.stjudefans.org)
1-7 47th Annual International Carillon Festival A week-long event featuring carillonneurs from around
the globe including Springfield’s own Karel Keldermans on the 67 cast
bronze bells. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park
(www.carillon-rees.org)
3 President’s Invitational Golf Outing Springfield College-Benedictine University present a
golf outing. Registration pays for a round of golf, green fees, cart,
breakfast, lunch, beverage tickets, and more. Edgewood Golf Course, 16497
Kennedy Rd., Auburn (www.sci.edu)
5 Downtown Springfield Art Walks Visit local art galleries and shops during an evening
walk around downtown dedicated to the arts. Downtown Springfield
(www.downtownspringfield.org)
6 First Friday Film Festival David Schwartz lectures and the 1998 political film Primary Colors unspools
on the big screen. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 112 N. Sixth St.
(www.alplm.org)
6 Downtown Gallery Hop Hop around downtown Jacksonville and visit the
numerous galleries. Downtown Jacksonville
(217-473-2726)
6-7 Arthur Days Spring Festival A throwback to the merchant sidewalk sales of the
1940s, Arthur Days hosts an afternoon with various merchants, craft booths,
car shows, live entertainment, food vendors and more. Arthur
(www.illinoisamishcountry.com)
6-7 Soho Music Festival The festival lineup features local bands, including
Tom Irwin and Friends, Perfunctory This Band, Damwell Betters, Micah Walk
Band, Jill Manning, 56 Hope Road, The Station, and Sarah Schneider. Old
State Capitol (www.myspace.com/sohomusicfest)
6-8 Heritage Days Summerfest The three-day festival features music from The Brat
Pack and Debbie Ross Band, with ethnic food served in a carnival-style
atmosphere. Little Flower Parish (www.littleflowerchurch.net)
7 Annual Rose Affair Celebrate the beauty of roses with a seminar on
growing and caring for the flower. Green View Nursery Dunlap facility, 2700
Cedar Hills Dr. (www.greenview.com)
7 Second City Touring Company The laugh factory, which produced comedians such as
John Belushi, Alan Arkin, and Steve Carell, presents two performances.
Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.scfta.org)
7 Eighth Annual Jacksonville BBQ Braggin’
Rights More than 20 teams compete on the grills and provide
samples of pork, chicken, seafood, and more along with music from the
Landsharks. Morgan County Fairgrounds (www.jacksonvilleil.org/tourism)
6-8 & 12-15 Kiss Me
Kate Theatre in the Park presents the wildly popular
Broadway musical directed by Sean-Edward Hall. Lincoln’s New Salem
Historic Site, Petersburg (www.theatreinthepark.net)
7 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
7 2008 Quilt Show and Salad Luncheon The 30th annual quilt extravaganza includes quilt
creations, sweets, and a luncheon. Sacred Heart Catholic Church Hall, 208
N. Pine St., Villa Grove
7-8 Lincoln Days Civil War Reenactment Watch a part of living history as individuals in
Union and Confederate encampments participate in artillery drills, along
with ladies tea, fashion shows, and a performance by President Lincoln and
the First Lady. Lake Pittsfield, Pittsfield (www.pikelincoln.com)
9-Aug. 1 Summer Ecology Camp Campers explore native ecosystems, hike, create
nature arts and crafts, sing environmental songs, and more. Lincoln
Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Dr. (www.lmgnc.org)
11-20 Guys and Dolls Little Theatre on the Square presents the musical
featuring the hit song “Luck Be a Lady Tonight.” Little Theatre
on the Square, Sullivan (www.thelittletheatre.org)
12-14 Peoria Steamboat Festival and Classic The festival features music, food, games, carnival
rides, and a music headliner on the center stage. Festival Park, Marshall
Plaza, and CEFCU Center State at The Landing, Peoria
(www.peoriariverfront.com)
Opening June 13 Summer of Hate: The 1908 Race Riot An exhibition about the 1908 Race Riot features
photographs, news accounts, oral histories, and artifacts and opens on June
13. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
13 Haunted Jacksonville Tour The tour features ghost stories and the history of
Jacksonville. Jacksonville (888-446-7859)
13 Sh-boom! The eight-piece rock & roll nostalgia band covers
hits from the 1950s, ’60s, and ’70s. Cummings Dining Hall,
Jacksonville (217-245-3069) 13-14 Summer Book Sale Friends of Lincoln Library sell off a large
collection of hardbacks, paperbacks, and children’s books. Lincoln
Library, 326 S. Seventh St. (www.lincolnlibrary.info)
13-14 Annual Hot Summer Art Festival Imagine Foundation’s festival features artists
and photographer creating art in “plein air” and music
entertainment. Jacksonville (217-473-2726)
14 Douglas Park Rock Showcase Are you the best band in Springfield? Prove it.
Register your band to play at Springfield Park District’s first rock
showcase. Douglas Park Bandshell. (217-544-1751)
14 Robbie Fulks and Elizabeth Cook The honky-tonk crooner performs as part of the WUIS
Bedrock 66 Live Series. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St.
(www.scfta.org)
14 & 21 Green View Parade of Perennials Take part in an informal seminar about perennial
plants. Green View Dunlap facility, 2700 W. Cedar Hills Dr.
(www.greenview.com)
14 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
14 Super Saturday The children’s afternoon includes hands-on
activities pertaining to the monthly theme. Illinois State Museum, 502 S.
Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
14-15 Raggedy Ann and Andy Festival Celebrate the brother and sister duo at a festival
featuring a parade, train rides, food, arts, collectibles, and more. Main
Street, Arcola (www.arcolachamber.com)
14-16 Lincoln-Douglas Debates Sesquicentennial
Celebration The celebration commemorates Lincoln’s famous
“House Divided” speech. Old State Capitol.
15 Father’s Day at the Zoo Bring dad to the zoo and create a gift to show your
father’s who’s the real king of the jungle. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake
Dr. (www.hensonrobinsonzoo.com)
16-25 Springfield Art Association Summer Camp Studio classes in a variety of media for children
grades K-8th. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St.
(www.springfieldart.org)
16-Aug. 9 Prairie Art Alliance Classes A variety of adult classes and children’s camps
available for interested individuals ages 6 and older. H.D. Smith Gallery,
Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.prairieart.org)
17-19 Coffey Memorial Golf Tournament Hit the greens for a three-day junior memorial
tournament. Pasfield Golf Course, 1700 W. Lawrence Ave. (217-753-6226)
18 Hickory Ridge Roots Music Festival A daylong outdoor festival celebrating roots music
traditions. Dickson Mounds’ Outdoor Stage, 10956 N. Dickson Mounds
Rd., Lewistown (www.hickoryridge.outfitters.com)
18-22 Sangamon County Fair The fair features entertainment, a queen pageant, a
talent show, fair food, and more. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin
(www.sangcofair.com)
19-21 The Gables Marketplace Days Festival The sidewalk sale festival features a fine crafts
sale with work from local artists, live entertainment, and a selection of
food samples. The Gables, Plaza Drive
20 Movie in the Park Showing Bee Movie, in conjunction with the annual Juneteenth Celebration.
Comer Cox Park, Capitol Avenue and Martin Luther King Drive (217-544-1751)
20 Judith Owen Performs Owen performs as part of the WUIS Bedrock 66 Series.
Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.scfta.org)
20-21 Songwriters Circle Paul Ingle, Tom Irwin, Ben Bedford, and other
regional musicians sit in a circle and take turns singing original tunes.
Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg
(www.theatreinthepark.net)
20-21 Annual Chicken Fry Celebration Feast on tasty fired chicken and music from the
Screamin’ Vatos, Groove Daddies, and Joe Cooke Band. Firefighters
Lake Club, 940 W. Lake Dr.
20-22 & 27-29 The
Gin Game A tale of two older people living in a nursing home,
and the two reveal much about themselves over a game of gin rummy. Kate
Rossi directs. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St.
(www.scfta.org)
20-22 General Grierson Days
and Historic
Celebration The largest mounted Civil War reenactment in the
Midwest features period dress ball, battle reenactments, a performance from
the 10th Illinois Volunteer Calvary Regiment and Band, and more.
Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org/tourism) 20-22 Taste of Champaign-Urbana Taste the morsels offered up in the twin towns and
take in the music and games at the annual event. Champaign
(www.champaignparkdistrict.com)
20-22 & 25-29 All
Shook Up Springfield Muni Opera presents the Elvis
Presley-inspired musical directed by Jason Goodreau. The Muni, 815 E. Lake
Dr. (www.themuni.org)
21 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
21-22 Juneteenth Celebration Comer Cox Park, (www.springfieldparks.org)
22 Cahokia Mounds Sunrise Observance Meet at Woodhenge to learn about the ancient sun
calendar. Cahokia Mounds, Collinsville
(www.cahokiamounds.com)
23-24 Adult Open Tennis Tournament Washington Park Tennis Center (www.springfieldtennis.org)
23-27 & 21-25 Technokids Computer Camp A variety of camps designed to provide kids with
skills and knowledge about computers. NovaTech Solutions, 1630 S. State St.
(www.novasolutions.com)
25-July 6 Cabaret Little Theatre on the Square presents a musical about
the Kit Kat Club in 1930s Berlin. Little Theatre on the Square, Sullivan
(www.thelittletheatre.org)
26-28 Chatham American Legion Homecoming The old-fashioned street fair features food,
entertainment, games, and carnival rides. Chatham (217-483-4084)
27-29 Mechanicsburg Magic Celebration The celebration hosts events such carnival rides, car
show, flea market, and a performance from Bustin’ Loose. New Park,
Mechanicsburg (217-891-7282)
27-29 & July 3-6 John
Brown’s Body Lincoln’s New Salem Theatre in the Park
presents Stephen Vincent Benet’s epic poem about the Civil War.
Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg
(www.theatreinthepark.net)
28 Arthur’s Freedom Celebration and Fireworks The town of Arthur celebrates the Fourth of July with
a fireworks spectacular. Arthur
(www.illinoisamishcountry.com)
28 Fourth Annual Jacksonville Juneteenth Celebration
Juneteenth observes the end of the Civil War and the
emancipation of enslaved African-Americans and features activities such as
entertainment, crafts, picnic foods, and more. Jacksonville
(www.jacksonvilleil.org/tourism)
28 Central Illinois Daylily Society Show The juried competition features a display of
daylilies. Washington Park Botanical Garden Exhibit Hall, South Grand
Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard (217-753-6228)
28 Saturday Afternoon Teas
— From Corsets
to Cloaks APLM demonstrates and discusses the clothing styles
of the mid-19th century. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth
St. (www.alplm.org)
28 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
28 All in a Day’s Work Live like the original citizens of New Salem
including washing and mending clothes, weaving, and butter churning among
other activities. Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg
(www.lincolnsnewsalem.com)
28 Venice Performs Venice, a Southern California rock band, performs.
Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.scfta.org)
28 Loretta Lynn Performs The Coal Miner’s Daughter sings her country
tunes. Sangamon Auditorium, University of Illinois-Springfield campus
(www.uis.edu/sangamonauditorium)
28 22nd Annual Washington Street Jazz and Blues
Festival The afternoon festival features local blues and jazz
bands. Proceeds benefit Springfield Area Arts Council and provides matching
grant funds for the Community Arts Access Program. Downtown Springfield
(www.springfieldartsco.org)
28-29 Four-Wheel Jamboree Nationals Illinois State Fairgrounds (www.familyevents.com)
28-Sept. 21 The Many
Faces of Abe:
The Jim and Carole Shay Collection More than 100 fine art and advertising images of
Illinois’ favorite son, Abraham Lincoln, from the Shays’
personal collection. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St.
(217-523-2631)
29 Williamsville July 4th Celebration The festivities include an ice cream social, historic
home tour, antique cars and tractors, a pork chop lunch, and a quilt show.
Williamsville
JULY
2 Pied Piper Architectural Tour Discover Springfield’s architectural treasures
on a tour led by Anthony Rubano of the Illinois Historical Preservation
Agency. Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices (www.downtownspringfield.org)
3 Cheap Trick Concert Riverfront, Peoria (www.peoriariverfront.com)
4 Pleasant Hill Celebration Featuring a parade at 11 a.m. Pleasant Hill
(www.pikeil.org)
4 Staley Firecracker Road Run/Walk Compete in an all-ages competition featuring a 4k or
8k run and a 2k walk. Nelson Park Pool Pavilion (217-422-5911)
4 Firefighters Club Fourth of July Celebration The celebration features a performance from The Oohs.
Firefighters Lake Club, 940 W. Lake Dr.
4 Fourth of July Parade Watch a parade through downtown with fireworks at
dusk and then attend Imagine Foundation’s Gallery Hop. Downtown
Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org/tourism)
4 Malinda Iles Strawberry Party
and Community
Sing Sing and partake in some delicious strawberries at
the historic event. Elijah Iles House, 628 S. Seventh St.
(iles-house.blogspot.com)
4 Capital City Celebration The Fourth of July celebration features music,
performances, and a fireworks display. Downtown Springfield
4-5 Fair Saint Louis A celebration on the levee featuring music from
nationally known recording artists, a kids stage, fireworks, a parade, and
more. The Levee, St. Louis (celebratestlouis.org)
4-5 Rock the Docks Watch the fireworks on the backdrop of Lake
Springfield. Lake Springfield Marina
5 Picnic and Fireworks Over the Lake Take in the fireworks and enjoy a picnic dinner. DAV
Club, Lake Springfield (www.lakespringfield.org)
5 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
5 Prop Club’s July 5th Chicken Fry Eat some delicious grub and watch the concert, which
features American Idol contestant Elizabeth Eckert along with Broken Stone. Prop
Club, 264 Maple Grove Lane (217-529-4901)
6-12 Moultrie-Douglas Country Fair One of the oldest fairs in Illinois, including both
Moultrie and Douglas, the country fair features tractor pulls, a demolition
derby, fine arts exhibits, a rodeo, grandstand entertainment, and more.
Arthur (www.illinoisamishcountry.com)
9 Lincoln Library Afternoon Movie Featuring a showing of the children’s film Cars. Lincoln Library,
736 S. Seventh St. (www.lincolnlibrary.info)
9-14 Morgan County Fair The county fair features carnival rides, food, and
entertainment. Morgan County Fairgrounds, 104 N. Westgate
(www.jacksonvilleil.org/tourism)
9-20 West Side Story Little Theatre on the Square presents the musical
modern-day adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo
and Juliet. Little Theatre on the Square,
Sullivan (www.thelittletheatre.org)
11-12 Dyed in the Wool The band plays American folk music with a twist of
Celtic sound. Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg
(www.theatreinthepark.net)
11-12 Fifth Annual LLCC Motor Sports Club Show Rev up your engines for the event’s cruise-in,
motor sports show, music, and more. Lincoln Land Community College
(www.llccfoundation.org/llcccarshow.html)
11-13 2008 Ashland Summer Days Pass the summer days at
Ashland’s festival featuring a baby contest, bingo, square dancing,
fireworks, an antique tractor pull, and horseshow tournament. Ashland
11-12 Pike County Pig Days Hats off to the pigs and the pork industry in general
at the county’s annual salute to squealers featuring games and food.
Courthouse Square, Pittsfield (www.pikeil.org)
11-13 & 16-20 The
Secret Garden Presented by Springfield Muni Opera. Directed by
Laurie O’Brien. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr. (www.themuni.org)
11-Aug. 8 Nauvoo Pageant Travel back to the 1800s in the former hometown of
the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Nauvoo
(www.beautifulnauvoo.com)
11-Aug. 22 Memories Prairie Art Alliance hosts and exhibit about memories
featuring artwork from Pam Miller and Darren Miller. Reception is July 12.
H.D. Smith Gallery, Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St.
(www.scfta.org)
12 20th Annual Tour de Donut
Bike Race &
Block Party The block party-style event includes biking, bands,
doughnuts, ribs, and more. Staunton (www.stauntonil.com)
12 Zoofari Participate in animal-themed games and make animal
enrichment treats for the zookeepers to give to the animals. Henson
Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Dr. (www.hensonrobinsonzoo.com)
12 Saturday Afternoon Tea with Mrs. Roosevelt Join FDR’s better half for tea and a talk.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
12 Taste of Downtown Sample tasty food from menus at downtown restaurants
ranging from hot dogs and fried oysters to margaritas and desserts.
Downtown Springfield (www.downtownspringfield.org)
12 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
12 Zoofari Walk like an animal at the special event where
zoogoers can play animal games and observe their behavior. Henson Robinson
Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Dr. (217-753-6217)
12 Super Saturday The children’s afternoon includes hands-on
activities pertaining to the monthly theme. Illinois State Museum, 502 S.
Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
12-13 2008 Blues and BBQ Fest Featuring tangy barbecue and performances from Robert
Sampson, The Groove Daddies, Josie Lowder & Griz, and Sally Weisenburg
Trio. Hill Prairie Winery, Oakford
12-13 Annual Contemporary Indian Art Show More than 25 Indian artists show and sell their work.
Cahokia Mounds, 30 Ramey St., Collinsville
(www.cahokiamounds.com)
13 Music in the Park The evening markingEnos Park facelift features free
music. Enos Park, Seventh and Enterprise streets
(217-544-1751)
14-19 Pike County Fair The fair, in its 62nd year, features an array of
activities including a Society Horse Show. Pike County Fairgrounds,
Pleasant Hill. (www.pikeil.org)
14-20 State Farm Classic Longest-running events on the LPGA tour featuring
professional women golfers. Panther Creek Country Club, 3001 Panther Creek
Dr.
(www.lpgastatefarmclassic.com)
15-20 Menard County Fair The fair features live entertainment, livestock, a
carnival, exhibits, tractor-pull, and a demolition derby. Menard County
Fairgrounds (www.petersburgil.com)
17 Evening in the Garden and Garden Shed Sale Come tour the gardens with Master Gardeners who can
answer question about perennial gardens, state fair flowers, and more.
Illinois State Fairgrounds (www.extension.uiuc.edu/sangamonmenard)
17 Chris Camp Performs Featuring a performance from Chris Camp, “The
Whip Guy.” Lincoln Library, 736 S. Seventh St. (www.lincolnlibrary.info)
18-19 Chatham Jaycees Sweetcorn Festival Featuring music, corn, and the Illinois Championship
Cow Chip Throw. Chatham (www.chathamjaycees.net)
18-20 & 24-26 The
Elephant Man Theatre in the Park presents the Bernard
Pomerance’s classic dramatic tale of a disfigured man.
Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg
(www.theatreinthepark.net)
18-20 & 24-27 Urinetown,
the Musical Got to go? In this musical, presented by Over the
Moon Productions, if you want to use the restroom, it’ll cost you.
Rochester High School Fine Arts Auditorium, Route 29, Rochester
(www.overthemoonproductions.org)
19 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
19 Haunted Jacksonville Tour The tour features ghost stories and the history of
Jacksonville. Jacksonville (888-446-7859)
19 Music in the Park The free evening of music is held in conjunction with
the Comer Cox Rhythm and Blues Festival. Comer Cox Park, Capitol Avenue and
Martin Luther King Jr. Drive (217-544-1751)
23-Aug. 3 Gypsy A musical presented by Little Theatre on the Square.
Little Theatre on the Square, Sullivan
(www.thelittletheatre.org)
24-27 The Civil War: A
Musical
Sitting under the stars at the outdoor stage watch a
song-cycle production about the Civil War. Union Square Park
(www.alplm.org)
25 Movie in the Park Watch a free showing of the children’s movie Charlotte’s Web. Kiwanis
Park, Stanton and Via Verde streets (217-544-1751)
25-27 Best of Summer Stock Concert Decatur-area kids end the summer season with a
musical revue. Decatur Civic Center (217-422-5911)
26 Morgan Horse Demonstration Featuring an exhibition of Morgan horses hosted by
the Mississippi Morgan Horse Club. Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site,
Petersburg (www.lincolnsnewsalem.com)
26 South Jacksonville Celebration The celebration features a parade, a Little Miss
pageant, and entertainment. Dewey Park, Jacksonville
(www.jacksonvilleil.org/tourism)
26 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
26 & 27 Springfield Women’s City Golf
Tournament A two-day city amateur tournament. Bunn and Lincoln
Greens Golf Course (217-522-2633)
26-27 Springfield Tri-Fest The event features the Stoneman Tri, the Iron Abe
Tri, and a Kid’s Tri. Lindsay Bridge, Lake Springfield
(www.springfieldtrifest.com)
27 Old Time Music Fete Jam session under every tree accompanied by arts and
crafts for kids. Historic Cahokia Courthouse, 107 Elm St., Cahokia
(618-332-1782)
30-Aug. 3 McLean County Fair The county fair features carnival rides, food,
entertainment, a tractor pull, a McLean County Idol contest, and more.
Interstate Center, Bloomington (www.mcleancountyfair.org)
31-Aug. 3 & 7-10 Oklahoma!
Jacksonville Theatre Guild presents the Rodgers and
Hammerstein production. Sophie Leschin Theater, Jacksonville (217-245-1402)
AUGUST
1 Jacksonville Gallery Hop Imagine Foundation’s gallery walk features
exhibitions of art. Downtown Jacksonville (217-473-2726)
1-3 Decatur Celebration Illinois’ largest free family street festival
features crafts, food, and entertainment. Downtown Decatur
(www.decaturcelebration.com)
1-3 & 6-10 The Music
Man Presented by Springfield Muni Opera. Directed by
James Seay. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr.
(www.themuni.org)
1-3 J.D. Sinnock Junior Open
Tennis Tournament Washington Park Tennis Center
(www.springfieldtennis.org)
1-8 Champaign County Fair The traditional county fair features a demolition
derby, antique show, flea market, truck show, music, carnival rides, and
more. Champaign County Fairgrounds, Coler and Fairview, Urbana
(champaigncountyfair.com)
2 Central Illinois Daylily Society Sale Purchase the daylily varieties from the juried
competition. Washington Park Botanical Garden Exhibit Hall, South Grand
Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard
(217-753-6228)
2 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
2 Zoolympics Train for the upcoming summer Olympics along with the
zoo’s animals. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Dr.
(www.hensonrobinsonzoo.com)
2 Haunted Jacksonville Tour The tour features ghost stories and the history of
Jacksonville. Jacksonville (888-446-7859)
2-3 & 9-10 Springfield Men’s City Golf
Tournament A four-day men’s amateur tournament. Lincoln
Green Golf Course, 700 E. Lake Dr. (217-522-2633)
6 Pied Piper Architectural Tour Discover Springfield’s architectural treasures
on a tour led by Anthony Rubano of the Illinois Historic Preservation
Society. Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices (www.downtownspringfield.org)
6-17 All Shook Up Little Theatre on the Square presents an ode to the
King of Rock & Roll featuring 24 Elvis Presley hits. Uh-huh. Little
Theatre on the Square, Sullivan (www.thelittletheatre.org)
8-10 & 14-17 Two By
Two Theatre in the Park presents the retelling of the
biblical story of Noah with music from Richard Rodgers. Lincoln’s New
Salem Historic Site, Petersburg (www.theatreinthepark.net)
8-17 Illinois State Fair The nine-day fair features entertainment, carnival
rides, food booths, agricultural exhibitions, Conservation World, and of
course, the beloved butter cow. Illinois State Fairgrounds
(www.agr.state.il.us/isf/)
9 Super Saturday The children’s afternoon includes hands-on
activities pertaining to the monthly theme. Illinois State Museum, 502 S.
Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
9 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
15-17 & 22-24 Tick,
Tick . . . Boom! Jason Goodreau portrays a twentysomething trying to
figure out if he should follow his ambitions in the performing arts.
Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.scfta.org)
16 Downtown Champaign Festival of the Arts View art from creators throughout the area. Downtown
Champaign (www.champaignparkdistrict.com)
16 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
16-Sept. 1 Historic Photography Display View the historic photographs taken of Washington
Park since 1902. Washington Park Botanical Garden Exhibit Hall, South Grand
Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard (217-753-6228)
17-Jan. 11 Across the
Divide:
Reconsidering the Other Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St.
(www.museum.state.il.us)
22-23 Urbana Sweetcorn Festival Scarf down a few ears of buttery sweet corn and take
part in the festivities which include games, music, and plenty of corn.
Downtown Urbana
(www.urbanabusiness.com)
22-23 46th Annual Arthur Mennonite Relief Sale The weekend auction event includes many locally
handmade crafts to benefit agricultural assistance, community development,
and social services around the world. Arthur (www.illinoisamishcountry.com)
22-24 Lincoln Art and Balloon Festival Watch the hot air balloons take off and take in the
art on display. Lincoln (www.lincolnillinois.com)
22-24 & 28-30 Anne
of Green Gables Theatre in the Park presents the classic story of a
young orphan sent to a farm to work. Lincoln’s New Salem Historic
Site, Petersburg
(www.theatreinthepark.net)
23 Second Annual Blues Challenge The winning band receives a cash prize and the chance
to compete in the Memphis, Tenn.-based International Blues Challenge.
Downtown Springfield (www.icbluesclub.org)
23 Old Capitol Blues and BBQs The festival features live blues and a babyback ribs
contest with 20 barbecue cooks. Downtown Springfield
(www.downtownspringfield.org)
23 Music in the Park The night of free music celebrates the renovations at
Enos Park. Dreamland Park, Taylor Avenue and Cornell Street (217-544-1751)
23 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
29-30 Pittsfield Fall Festival Ring in the fall season with a festival featuring
food, games, and more. Courthouse Square, Pittsfield (www.pikeil.org)
29 Movie in the Park A free showing of the film Ratatouille. Nelson Center Pool,
Lincoln Park, 1601 N. Fifth St. (217-544-1751)
29-Sept. 1 10th Annual Prairieland Chautauqua Featuring the theme “The Age of Lincoln”
the Chautauqua features reenactment, musical entertainment, and more.
Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org/tourism)
30 Buccaneer Days The party features outdoor events such as a build
your own bikini contest and a pirate ship decorating contest. Don’t
forget your pirate costume. Springfield Ski and Boat Club, 268 Maple Grove
Lane (217-971-5159)
30 Springfield’s 1908 Race Riot Walk The 90-minute walk symbolically walks day two of the
infamous riots and recounts the history that led to the forming of NAACP.
Tinsley Dry Goods, 209 S. Sixth St. (www.springfieldwalks.com)
30-Sept. 1 Illinois Amish Country Cheese Festival Attention cheese lovers. For Labor Day, Arthur hosts
a three-day festival devoted to cheese in all its glory, featuring crafts,
entertainment, and free cheese samples. Arthur
(www.arthurcheesefestival.com)
31 Springfield Mile Commodity Pavilion Grandstand, Illinois State
Fairgrounds (www.agr.state.il.us)
31 Firefighters Club Labor Day Celebration Celebrate Labor Day with tunes from the Sofa Kings
and Joe Cooke Band. Firefighters Lake Club, 940 W. Lake Dr.
SEPTEMBER
3 Pied Piper Architectural Tour Discover Springfield’s architectural treasures
on a tour led by Anthony Rubano of the Illinois Historical Preservation
Agency. Lincoln-Herndon Law Offices (www.downtownspringfield.org)
5 First Friday Film Festival Watch this month’s double feature: the
political comedy Election and The Candidate. Union Theater, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 112 N.
Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
5-6 Arenzville Burgoo A festival with entertainment, crafts, games, and
good, featuring the town’s own recipe for burgoo, a thick stew cooked
for hours in cast iron kettles over an open fire. Arenzville
(www.burgoo.org)
5-Oct. 24 Just Imagine Prairie Art Alliance hosts an exhibit featuring
various mediums including work from featured artists Mary Selinski and
Linda Post-Lucas. H.D. Smith Gallery, Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S.
Sixth St. (www.scfta.org.)
6-7 Traditional Music Festival The weekend festival showcases early 19th century
music and dancing often found in the historic village of New Salem.
Lincoln’s New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg
(www.lincolnsnewsalem.com) 7 Annual Dulcimer Gathering at the Mounds An afternoon concert featuring performances from
mountain and hammered dulcimer musicians, Dickson Mounds Museum, 10956 N.
Dickson Mounds Rd., Lewistown
12-14 & 19-21 Camelot
Over the Moon Productions presents the musical based
on the story of King Arthur. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St.
(www.scfta.org)
13 Super Saturday The children’s afternoon includes hands-on
activities pertaining to the monthly theme. Illinois State Museum, 502 S.
Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
13-14 Art Spectacular on the Carillon Midwest artists sell original artwork in various
mediums with music, food, and more. Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park
(www.carillon-rees.org)
14 Leaf Identification Hikes Hike around the garden and gather leaves for a
collection. Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Dr. (www.lmgnc.org)
19-20 Petersburg Annual Fall Festival The harvest fest features food, entertainment, a
parade, and crafts. On the Square, Petersburg (www.petersburgil.com)
20 Fun, Feather, and Fin, Frontier Style Learn about Jack Kelso, a hunter, fisherman, and
trapper who lived in New Salem in the 1830s, during a day of hunting and
bow and arrow demonstrations. New Salem State Historic Site, Petersburg
(www.lincolnsnewsalem.com)
20-21 Edwards Place Fine Arts Fair Fine art and craft artists display and sell their
work. Hosted by Springfield Art Association. Edwards Place, 700 N. Fourth
St. (217-523-2631)
20-21 Seventh Annual Route 66 Film Festival See films from around the world and vote on your
favorite flick. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St.
(www.route66filmfestival.net)
26-28 International Route 66 Festival The festival, a tribute to the rambling road Route
66, features a car show and plenty of activities. Downtown Springfield
(www.route66fest.com)
27 African Feast and Drumming Festival Tickets must be purchased in advance. Fashion
Afrique, 318 E. Monroe St. (217-544-1289)
Compiled by Marissa Monson. For more information, go
to www.illinoistimes.com.
This article appears in May 15-21, 2008.
