Event listings updated daily at illinoistimes.com
MARCH
Liturgical and sacred art exhibit
Through April 25. Part of the Liturgical Sacred Art Festival. The juried exhibit includes ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, metal, mixed media, painting, photography and sculpture. It offers a unique opportunity to purchase original liturgical art. Admission is free. springfieldart.org. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-891-8584.
Music at the Museum: Calle Sur
March 12, 7pm Thu. The Panamanian/Colombian duo performs a broad range of Latin musical traditions, from joropo and cumbia to samba and punto. $15 adults, $12 members and children under 12. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
Ron White
March 12, 7:30pm Thu. Comedian Ron "Tater Salad" White, who first rose to fame as the cigar-smoking, scotch-drinking funnyman from the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, has long since established himself as a star in his own right. $39-$95. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Josh Turner
March 13, 8-10pm Fri. One of country music's most recognizable hit-makers. $38+. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
March 13-15, 7pm Fri. and Sat., 2pm Sun. Told through song with the help of a narrator, Joseph is a reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers and the coat of many colors. The magical musical is full of catchy songs. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
St. Patrick's Day Parade
March 14, at the craic o'noon Sat. Inflatables, bagpipes, Irish dancers and more. Downtown Springfield., 217-544-1723.
Brown Bag Concert Series
March 18, 12-15pm Wed. Pei-I Wang, piano, D. David Cook, clarinet and Alexandra Rodriquez, flute. Free. A brown bag lunch is available for $5. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 217-528-4311.
LOL UIS Comedy Series-Kevin McCaffrey
March 20, 8-10pm. Fri. Kevin McCaffrey is a comedian who made his network TV debut on The Late Show with David Letterman. $15 in advance or $20 day of show. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Salt of the Earth
March 20, 7-9pm Fri. This film stands out in history as a blacklisted film, swept up in the communist panic of the McCarthy era, but has stood the test of time to give a unique perspective of the Southwest in the 1950s. Free. UIS Brookens Auditorium, One University Plaza, 217-206-6245.
Spring Opening Day at the Zoo
March 20, 10am Fri. Help kick off the zoo's 50th year celebration. Ages under 2 are free, ages 3-12 $4.50, adults $6.25 and seniors ages 62+ $4.75. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Drive, 217-585-1821.
Civil War Era Women's Fashion and Comportment
March 20, 6-7pm Fri. Presented by Kay Gnagey and Karen Duffy. Free. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
O Mio Fagotto Caro
March 21, 7:30pm Fri. Christopher Raymond on bassoon. UIS Music Program Brown Bag Recital Series. Free, but donations are welcome. UIS Studio Theatre, One University Plaza, 217-206-7529
Spring Celebration
March 21, 7:30pm Fri. Waltz into spring with Johann Strauss Jr.'s Voices of Spring and Dvorak's Bohemian inspired violin concerto with Israeli violin virtuoso Itamar Zorman. Adults $21-$63, students $6 and ages 5 and under free. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Winter Indoor Farmers Market
March 21, 9am-12pm Sat. The vendors from the outdoor Old Capitol Farmers Market will be inside. Find local meats, fresh produce, baked goods, Illinois wine and artisan creations. Street parking is free. ilstewards.org. 217-528-1563. Anvil and Forge Brewing and Distilling Company, 619 E Washington St., 217-494-6200.
Sweet Baby James, James Taylor Tribute
March 27, 8pm, Fri. An intimate acoustic evening of Taylor's greatest hits. Nashville musician Bill Griese sounds so much like James vocally, and plays his signature guitar style so convincingly, there are times you will close your eyes and swear you are listening to the legend himself. Tickets $25 or $30 day of show. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence Ave., 800-838-3006.
In the Blink of an Eye
March 27, 6-7:30pm Fri. The 2020 Liturgical Arts Festival's opening event. An interfaith celebration of life's journey through spoken work and music, written by Phil Funkenbusch and Leigh Steiner, with music coordination by Sue Hamilton. Free. St. John's Lutheran Church, 2477 W. Washington St., 217-891-8584.
Edwards Place Servants
March 27, 6pm, Fri. This special tour shows guests Edwards Place through the eyes of the servants. Servants will describe their duties and share gossip about the Edwards family as they take you through the house, including the cellar and attic – spaces that are not normally on view to tourists. $15 or $10 for SAA members. edwardsplace.org. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Rediscovering the Dana-Thomas House Panel Discussion
March 30, 5:30-7pm Mon. The panel will include photographer Doug Carr, architect Mike Jackson, docent Allicent Smith, local writer Cinda Ackerman Klickna, foundation president Celeste Pankey and site superintendent Justin Blandford. Moderated by Susan Helm. Free. dana-thomas.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
Reading Light: Sacred Art and Architecture
March 30, 6-8pm. Mon. Local architectural historian Anthony Rubano will give a presentation on the art and architecture of Sacred Heart Convent Chapel. Learn about the modernists' adaptation of more ancient liturgical architectural forms and explore the evolution of stained glass. Open to self-guided tours prior to the event. A part of the Liturgical and Sacred Arts Festival. Free. Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, 1237 W. Monroe St., 217-891-8584.
Camerata Chamber Music II
March 31, 12pm. Tues. Presented by the UIS music camerata scholarship recipients. UIS Music Program Brown Bag Recital Series. Free, but donations are welcome. UIS Student Union Ballroom, 2251 Richard Wright Drive, 217-206-4782.
Latinas, Media and Citizenship
March 31, 6-8pm Tues. Jillian M. Báez explores the ways Latina and Latino audiences, but women in particular, understand and engage American mainstream and Spanish-language media. Free. UIS Brookens Auditorium, One University Plaza, 217-206-6245.
To Love and To Cherish
March 31 6-8pm Tue. Wedding traditions including apparel, accessories and music from various faith traditions, followed by a concert featuring the American Guild of Organists and the Temple Israel Choir. A part of the Liturgical and Sacred Arts Festival. Free. Cathedral Church of St. Paul, 815 S. Second St., 217-891-8584.
APRIL
Grand Army of the Republic Museum Season Opening
April 2, 10am. Thu. The museum, which displays of memorabilia from the Grand Army of the Republic and Woman's Relief Corps as well as some incredible artifacts from the Civil War, will re-open for the season. garmuslib.org. Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Museum, 629 S. Seventh St., 217-522-4373.
The Dear Codgers: The Lincoln Boys and their toys
April 2, 12-1pm, Thu. Moderated by Susan Haake and John Popolis. In honor of the Tad Lincoln's birthday, take a closer look at artifacts belonging to the Lincoln boys. Marbles, a calling card and a Tad-sized table and chair will be featured, along with modern reproductions of toys and games enjoyed by the boys and their friends. Free, but donations are welcome. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Lincoln Home National Historic Site, 426 S. Seventh St., 217-492-4150.
Iwo Jima and Okinawa
April 2, 6:30pm Thu. A brutal combat on the doorstep of Japan. There was only one thing luring American war planners to invade the tiny island of Iwo Jima in February 1945 – it was only 763 miles from Tokyo. Free, reservations required. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 212 N. Sixth St., 217-588-8844.
Club La Cage
Apr 3, 7pm Fri. A fun-filled evening of drag, music and comedy supporting the Springfield PrideFest and The Phoenix Center. Recommended for mature audiences. $15-$35. hcfta.org. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
When Night Falls
April 4, 7-9pm Sat. Interfaith celebrations of life and death. Burial customs and practices of various faith traditions. Featuring the Lincoln hearse and an open house including historic funeral artifacts, music and poetry. Part of the Liturgical Arts Festival. Admission is free. Staab Funeral Home, 1109 S. Fifth St., 217-891-8584.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon
April 4, 7:30am Sat. Premiere Midwest half marathon takes runners 13.1 miles past Springfield's major Lincoln sites, such as his home and tomb. Registration. srrc.net. Old State Capitol, One Old State Capitol Plaza, 217-785-9363.
Music at the Museum: The Early Mays
April 9, 7pm Thu. Appalachian-inspired harmonies, masterful songwriting and a sweet old-time sound. $15 adults, $12 members and children under 12. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
Amélie
April 10, 7-9pm Fri. Amélie is an innocent and naïve girl in Paris with her own sense of justice. She decides to help those around her and, along the way, discovers love. Subtitles. Presented by NPR Illinois F & I Film Series. Free. UIS Brookens Auditorium, One University Plaza, 217-206-4762.
The Color Purple
April 10, 8pm Fri. 2016 Tony Award winner for Best Musical Revival. $24-$89. uispac.com. UIS Performance Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
"Negro League Beisbol"
April 11-June 23. Open during regular museum hours. A traveling exhibit developed to honor and explore the connections of African American baseball history with Hispanic cultures, communities and countries. The exhibit features profiles of significant baseball players, a timeline of American and Hispanic baseball history and detailed baseball histories of several countries. spiaahm.org. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
MasterChef Junior Live!
April 15, 7pm Wed. The family-friendly show will feature head-to-head cooking demonstrations and fun. Tickets $39+. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Earth Awareness Fair
April 18, 1-5pm Sat. Featuring over 40 exhibitors, live music, games, crafts, activities, workshops, food and more. Hosted by the City of Springfield. Free. springfield.il.us. Old State Capitol Plaza, between Sixth and Fifth streets at Adams Street, 217-789-2255.
Farmers Market
April 18, 9am-12pm Sat. Seasonal farmers market features local vendors selling a wide variety of fresh and locally grown products. ilstewards.org. 217-528-1563. Anvil & Forge Brewing and Distilling Company, 619 E. Washington St., 217-494-6200.
Spanish-American War Encampment
April 18, 10am-3pm Sat. Historians will display equipment, uniforms and weapons used by over 11,000 Illinois National Guard Soldiers in the Spanish-American War in 1898. Illinois was the first state to offer troops to the federal government in support of the war. Illinois State Military Museum, 1301 N. MacArthur Blvd., 217-761-3910.
April in Paris
April 19, 5pm Sun. Enjoy a captivating evening celebrating the Illinois Symphony Orchestra. Dinner, live and silent auctions and enchanting entertainment featuring soprano Kari Paludan and pianist Nikola Paskalov. Crowne Plaza, 3000 S. Dirksen Parkway, 217-529-7777.
Museum After Hours: Brewing Illinois
April 24, 5:30 - 8:30pm Fri. Learn the history of brewing and distilling in Illinois from beer and spirits to tea and coffee. Beer brewing display and demonstration (weather permitting). Live music and brew-inspired art activity. Enjoy beer from Obed and Isaac's and wine from West of Wise Winery. Food will be available for purchase. Admission $15 or $10 for museum members. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-6044.
Dr. Dolittle Day
April 25, 1-4pm Sat. Learn all about how the zoo cares for the animals. Demonstrations such as training and farrier work, and activities for animal health and wellness care. Adults $5, children $2. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Drive, 217-585-1821.
Roasted: Hot Pots and Pork
April 25, 3-9pm Sat. Glaze a raku pot and watch it get fired in an outdoor kiln, enjoy a hog roast dinner and listen to live music by the Mary Jo Curry Blues Band and Bluesmattic Blues Band. $30 admission and pot, $20 admission only, $15 children 12 and under, day-of fee add $5. springfieldart.org. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Riverdance
April 28, 7:30pm, Tue. A powerful and stirring reinvention of this beloved favorite, celebrated the world over for its Grammy award-winning score and the thrilling energy and passion of its Irish and international dance. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary power and grace of its music and dance. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
MAY
Antique Farm Show
May 2, 10am-4pm Sat. Featuring horse-drawn plows, historic farming equipment and agricultural techniques from the 19th century. Free. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.
French Finale
May 2, 7:30 Sat. With world-renowned pianist Stewart Goodyear. ilsymphony.org. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Illinois Archaeology Collections
May 7, 12-1pm Thu. Moderated by curator of anthropology Brooke Morgan. From humble fragments of animal bone to intricately decorated ceramic pots to glassware that once graced the tables of diplomats, millions of objects tell the history of Native Americans, Euro-Americans and African-Americans in the Midwest. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum Research and Collections Center, 1011 E. Ash St., 217-558-6696.
Fat Ass Craft Beer and Cigar Festival
5K and Street Party
May 8-9, 10am Fri-Sat. The event kicks off at 5pm on Friday with live music. The Saturday 5K race includes food, beer and entertainment along race route. The street party, featuring a hog roast and more music, will follow. Registration. fatass5k.com. Downtown Springfield, 217-525-1111.
Hammer-In
May 9, 9am-2pm Sat. Resident and other area blacksmiths will give demonstrate how everyday items were made at the forge. The historic village's grounds and buildings will be open for tours. clayville.org. Clayville, Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 217-481-4430.
Music at the Museum: Fendrick and Peck
May 14, 7pm Thu. A unique variety show of songs, poems, and stories. $15 adults, $12 members and children under 12. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
Springfield's railroads from the time of Lincoln to the present
May 14, 12pm Thu. This Illinois History Forum offers an historical overview of the railroads operating while Lincoln was alive and his relationship with them, as well the railroads served by Union Station during its years as an active passenger station. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
Girls on the Run
May 16, 8:30am Sat. Everyone is welcome to participate – runners and non-runners of all ages. A great family event. gotrcentralillinois.org. Lincoln Land Community College, 5250 Shepherd Road, 217-786-2200.
Springfield PrideFest
May 16, 11am-11pm Sat. This annual celebration features a parade, entertainment, dancing, vendors, food, drink, children's area and more. Presented by The Springfield Phoenix Center. Free. springfieldpride.org. Downtown Springfield, Capitol Avenue between Fourth and Sixth streets, 217-528-5253.
Old Capitol Art Fair
May 16-17, 8am-5pm Sat, 8am-4pm Sun. One of the most popular juried art fairs in the country. Original art, entertainment, food, a children's tent and more. Free. socaf.org. Old State Capitol, One Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, 217-785-9363.
Big Fish
May 22-24 and 28-30, Fri-Sun. A musical based on the novel by Daniel Wallace and directed by Ed Smith, where the present-day real world and a storybook past meet. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-5440.
LOL UIS Comedy Series-Michael Palascak
May 23, 8-10pm Sat. Michael Palascak was named the 2018 Stand-up of the Year by the Late Nite Last Week podcast for his performance on The Late Late Show with James Corden. $15 in advance or $20 day of show. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
The Addams Family
May 29-31, Fri-Sun and June 3-7, Wed-Sun. Call for times. A comical feast that embraces the wackiness of every family. Reserved tickets $15 and $17. Tickets for general lawn seating are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors, students, military and children ages 3-12. themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Drive, 217-793-6864.
An Evening of Magic
May 30, 7:30pm Sat. A show for the entire family presented by top magicians from across the U.S. Astounding large-stage illusions, amazing sleights of hand, hilarious comedy and plenty of audience participation. hcfta.org. $15.00. Hoogland Center for the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
JUNE
Rees International Carillon Festival
June 4-7, 6pm Thu-Sun. An annual festival that features nightly carillon concerts by renowned carillonneurs. Fireworks on Friday at dusk. Bring a picnic dinner and lawn chairs or blankets. Free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.
Defying the Odds
June 4, 6:30pm Thu. The first in the Civil War Series for the summer of 2020. Lincoln Heritage Museum director and curator Anne Moseley will speak about women who used the experience they gained during the Civil War to fight for their right to vote. Sponsored by Mr. Lincoln's Hometown Civil War Round Table. Free. Books on the Square, 427 E. Washington St., 217-965-5443.
Legacy of Giving Music Festival
June 5-6, 5pm Fri, 12pm Sat. Featuring 65 bands across five stages, plus a vendor fair and food trucks. Kid friendly. Proceeds to charity. Admission $5. logmusicfest.org. Downtown Springfield.
8K Trail Race and Kid's Fun Run
June 6, 7:30am Sat. lincolnmemorialgarden.org. Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore Drive, 217-529-1111.
Music at the Museum: Sundae + Mr. Goessl
June 11, 7pm Thu. Featuring award winning vocalist Kate Voss and tireless virtuoso guitarist, Jason Goessl. This charming wife and husband duo incorporates humor, vintage style, interesting instrumentation, nostalgia and serious chops in their act. $15 adults, $12 members and children under 12. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
Company
June 12-14 and 18-20, Fri-Sun. A musical comedy based on the book by George Furth. Directed by Preston Dodd. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-5440.
Summer Frolic
Jun 13, 10am-4pm Sat. Period-clothed interpreters celebrate frontier heritage. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.
Sangamon County Fair
June 17-21, Wed.-Sun. Carnival, contests, nationally recognized entertainment, rodeo, agricultural exhibits and more. Admission. sangcofair.com. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, 316 W. Birch St., New Berlin, 217-488-2685.
Ragtime the Musical
June 19-21, 24-28, 8:30pm Fri-Sun, 8:30pm Wed-Sun. Set in the volatile melting pot of turn-of-the-century New York, three distinctly American tales are woven together. Reserved tickets $15 and $17. Tickets for lawn seating are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors, students, military and children ages 3-12. themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Drive, 217-793-6864.
Paint the Street Festival
June 20, 12pm-10pm Sat. Purchase a 6x6 foot square of street to paint solo or with your family and friends. Free admission. Fees for painting are $35 advance, $40 the day of and $45 professional. All supplies included. Painting ends at 7pm. springfieldart.org. Downtown Springfield, 217-523-2631.
JULY
Morgan County Fair
July 7-12, Tue-Sun. Carnival, food, talent show, pageant, livestock, tractor pulls, live entertainment and more. $4 adults, $2 kids 8-12, free for kids under 8, half-price admission for all and free to seniors on Sunday. themorgancountyfair.com. Morgan County Fairgrounds, 110 N. Westgate, Jacksonville, 217-245-6800.
The Bow of Promise
July 9-12, Thu-Sun. Written by Diana Schoenher and directed by Jessica Polhemus. The play commemorates the 100th anniversary of the passing of the 19th amendment and offers poignant, thought-provoking insights into the myriad of challenges American women faced during their pursuit of political voice. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-5440.
Mamma Mia!
July 10-12 Fri-Sun and 15-19 Wed-Sun. ABBA's hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman's search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. Reserved tickets $15 and $17. Tickets for lawn seating are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors, students, military and children ages 3-12. themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Drive, 217-793-6864.
Women's Distance Festival
July 11, 8am Sat. Two-mile race and kid's fun run. Registration. srrc.net. Washington Park, 1501 S. Grand Ave. W., 217-544-1751.
The Life of Albert Cashier
July 16, 6:30pm Thu. Four researchers will present their findings on Cashier who was born female, signed up as a male soldier in the Union Army during the Civil War and returned home as a man after being discharged. Sponsored by Mr. Lincoln's Hometown Civil War Round Table. Free. Books on the Square, 427 E. Washington St., 217-965-5443.
Babes in Arms
July 24-26, and July 30-Aug. 1. This musical boasts one of the greatest scores ever written. Set at a summer stock theatre, the plot concerns a group of young apprentices and their conviction to mount the original revue they have created while dodging the underhanded attempts of the surly theatre owner to squash their efforts at every turn. Directed by Judy Smith. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-5440.
Abe's Olympic Triathlon
July 25, 7:30am Sat. Participants will swim in the lake and through the arches of Lindsay Bridge, then bike 24.8 miles on rolling prairie roads. They will then embark on a 6.2-mile run. Awards ceremony at 11am. triharderpromotions.com. Lake Springfield Center Park, Long Bay Drive, 217-341-1309.
Coin Show - Central Illinois Numismatic Association
July 26, 9am-4pm Sun. Fifty dealers from throughout the Midwest in what has grown to be a major regional show. U. S. and foreign coins, paper money, tokens, medals and bullion. Dealers both buy and sell items. $1 from 9am-4pm, early birds before 9am $20. Northfield Inn, Suites and Conference Center, 3280 Northfield Drive, 217-523-7900.
Downhome Music Festival
July 31-Aug 1, Fri-Sat. Local bands playing original songs on multiple stages, plus craft beers, local vendors, kid area and more. Admission $6. downhomemusicfest.com. Downtown Springfield, Seventh and Washington streets, 217-622-1374.
Matilda the Musical
July 31-Aug 2, Fri-Sun and Aug 5-9, Wed-Sun. Reserved tickets $15 and $17. Tickets for lawn seating are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors, students, military and children ages 3-12. themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Drive, 217-793-6864.
Powerlight Super Cruise and Movie Night
July 31, 7pm Fri. Cruise from downtown Springfield to Knights Action Park. Free. Knights Action Park, 1700 Knights Recreation Drive, 217-546-8881.
AUGUST
Abe Lincoln Car Show Spectacular
Aug 1, 8am-4pm Sat. Includes ground and air displays, police officer and veterans' tributes and more. Car show features all makes and models. Free to spectators. Knights Action Park, 1700 Knights Recreation Drive, 217-546-8881.
Music at the Museum: Joybird
Aug 13, 7pm Thu. Joybird is fiddler, multi-instrumentalist, visual artist and arts educator Jess McIntosh. $15 adults, $12 members and children under 12. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
Illinois State Fair
Aug 13-23, Thu-Sun. So much to do we can't list everything. Food, entertainment, grandstand shows, midway, exhibits and more. Admission. illinois.gov. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Inherit the Wind
Aug 14-16 and Aug. 20-22, Fri-Sun. A fictionalized account of the 1925 Scopes "Monkey" Trial, which resulted in John T. Scopes' conviction for teaching Charles Darwin's theory of evolution to a high school science class, contrary to a Tennessee state law. Directed by Laurie McCoy. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-5440.
Abe's Amble 10K/5K
Aug 23, 7:30am Sun. On the last day of the Illinois State Fair, hundreds of runners take it to the streets covering the fairgrounds, Lincoln Park, Oak Ridge Cemetery and back. This challenging 10K course is USATF-certified. A 5K option is available. Registration. srrc.net. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
SEPTEMBER
Springfield Oyster and Beer Festival
Sep 5, 12-5pm Sat. Enjoy craft beer and cider, fresh oysters, offerings from several food vendors, live bands and more. Admission. sobfestival.com. The Inn at 835, 835 S. Second St., 217-523-4466.
Springfield Mile 1 and 2
Sep 5-6, 11am-7pm Sat and Sun. $35 in advance, $45 day of race. springfieldmile.org. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Sangamon Valley Woodcarvers Annual Show
Sep 5-6, 10am-5pm Sat, 10am-4pm Sun. Wood art on display plus vendors, show activities, drawings, seminars and more. svwoodcarvers.org. Illinois Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 S. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Bluegrass Concerts
Sep 11-12, 6-10pm Fri-Sat. Featuring performers from all over the Midwest. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.
Springfield Bicycle Club Tour of Historic Sites
Sep 12, 1pm Sat. This casual, neighborhood-style ride is approximately eight miles. Sites will include Lincoln's Home, the Old State Capitol and Lincoln's Tomb, among others. spfldcycling.org. Begins and ends at the Capitol Complex Visitors Center, 425 S College St., 217-720-1568.
Family Funfest
Sep 12, 11am-4pm Sat. Featuring large inflatable games, video gaming truck, food trucks, character appearances, plus main stage entertainment such as bands, magicians, zoo animals and more. preventchildabuseillinois.org. Downtown Springfield, 217-522-1129.
Traditional Music Festival
Sep 12, 10am-4pm Sat. Midwest performers entertain on instruments such as mountain dulcimers, bones, autoharps, fiddles, banjos and guitars. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.
Art Spectacular – Juried Fine Art and Craft Fair
Sep 12-13, 10am-5pm Sat, 10am-4pm Sun. A multi-experience festival consisting of juried art, music, kid's art sale and food vendors. Featuring 50 regional and national artists. Free admission. carillon-rees.org. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-306-1838.
Capital City Century
Sep 13, 7am Sun. Distance options of 25-125 miles over flat to slightly rolling terrain. Food stops, SAG service, post-ride party. Register at capcitycentury.com. Lincoln Land Community College, 5250 Shepherd Road, 217-720-1568.
Edwards Place Fine Art Fair
Sep 19-20, 10am-5pm Sat, 10am-4pm Sun. Artists from across the region and country, live music, food trucks, art demos, kid's activities, used book sale and more. Free. springfieldart.org. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Fall Festival
Sept. 19-20, 9am-4pm Sat and Sun. Featuring vendors, artisans, reenactments and demonstrations, kid's activities and entertainment. The historic buildings will be open for tours. clayville.org. Clayville, Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 217-481-4430.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival
Sept 25-27, 6-10pm Fri, 9am-10pm Sat, 11am-2pm Sun. More than 1,000 cool cars, live music and entertainment, performance marketplace, family fun area, food and more. Free. route66fest.com. Downtown Springfield, 317-236-6515.
City Wide Hymn Fest
Sep 27, 3pm Sun. Interdenominational hymn sing open to all who enjoy singing along with or listening to traditional hymns. Held in cooperation with several local churches. Free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.
OCTOBER
Full Moon Trail Run
Oct. 2, 7:30pm Fri. A 2.5-mile nighttime trail run. srrc.net. Lewis Memorial Acres, 399 S. Koke Mill Road.
Candlelight Tour
Oct 2-4, 7-9pm Fri-Sun. See Lincoln's New Salem at night. Staff and volunteers in period clothing will discuss life in 19th century Illinois. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.
Conference on Illinois History
Oct 8-9, Thu-Fri. Historians present their findings from their latest research into the state's past, such as Native Americans and early settlers, Abraham Lincoln and his contemporaries or crusaders for social justice, and then take part in lively conversations with the audiences. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
Carve for the Carillon
Oct 10-11, 11am-4pm Sat-Sun. Help carve, scoop and move pumpkins for the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular on Oct. 16-17. Pumpkins supplied. All ages and abilities welcome. Rain or shine. Free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
Oct. 16-17, Fri-Sat. Admission is $7, children ages 4-11 $5 and children age 3 and under are free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.
Fall Festival
Oct 24, 10am-4pm Sat. Period-clothed interpreters demonstrate daily tasks such as candle dipping, soap making, basket making, spinning wool, fruit and vegetable preservation and more. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.
NOVEMBER
Mysteries at the Museum
Nov 5, 12-1pm Thu. A Tales from the Vault Program moderated by Ian Hunt, chief of acquisitions at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library Thursday. Free, donations appreciated. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
Collector's Day
Nov 7, 1-4 pm Sat. Local collectors will display their best objects and speak with visitors about the stories they tell. Collections on display may include meteorites, antiques, historic photographs, wood carvings, memorabilia and more. Free with museum admission. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
Music at the Museum: Gaines & Wagoner
Nov 12, 7pm Thu. This award-winning husband and wife duo, Mary Gaines (cello, guitar, bass, vocals) and Chris Wagoner (violin, mandolins, lapsteel, ukulele, guitar, accordion, vocals), play an eclectic mix of Americana. $15 adults, $12 members and children under 12. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
Beethoven's Birthday Bash
Nov 14, 7:30pm. Sat. Featuring pianist Claire Huangci. ilsymphony.org. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Memorial's Festival of Trees
Nov 21-29, Featuring trees, swags and wreaths decorated by area designers. Thanksgiving hours are 4-8pm. memorialsfestivaloftrees.com. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-725-8047.
Small Business Saturday
Nov 28, 12-5pm Sat. The nationwide day to spend a portion of your gift-giving dollars at local and independently owned businesses, which you can find in spades in the downtown neighborhood. Friendly shop owners, free gift wrapping and more. Tree lighting at 5pm. Free. downtownspringfield.org. Downtown Springfield, 217-544-1723.
DECEMBER
The Little Woman on 8th Street
Dec 3, 12-1pm Thu. Moderated by Susan Haake and John Popolis. Celebrate Mary Lincoln's birthday with a close up look at some of her own artifacts. See her signature on a favorite book, compare her different dinnerware patterns and participate in a lively discussion on her choices of wallpaper. Take a tour of the Lincoln Home decorated for Christmas. Free, but donations are welcome. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Lincoln Home National Historic Site, 426 S. Seventh Street, 217-558-6696.
Brilliant Brass
Dec 4, 7:30pm Fri. Illinois Symphony Chamber Orchestra concert. ilsymphony.org. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 217-528-4311.
Holiday Walks
Dec 5-23, Wed and Sat. Downtown Springfield is the perfect backdrop for your holiday season. Free. downtownspringfield.org. Downtown Springfield, 217-544-1723.
Holiday Lights Parade
Dec 5, 5:30pm Sat. Jefferson to Fifth to Monroe to Sixth to Washington streets. springfieldjaycees.net. Downtown Springfield.
Music at the Museum: Windborne
Dec 10, 7pm Thu. The singers present "Song on the Times," their project of working-class movements for peoples' rights from the past 400 years, sung for today's struggles. $15 adults, $12 members and children under 12. Illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
Candlelight Christmas
Dec 11-12, 3-8pm, Fri and Sat. The historic buildings will be lit with candlelight and outlined with rope lights. Period-costumed tour guides will share the stories of the Broadwell family and the travelers and visitors to this area. Relax and enjoy coffee or wine in one of the historic buildings, or sit in front of the stone fireplace in the pavilion. clayville.org. Clayville, Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 217-481-4430.
Victorian Christmas Tea
Dec 12 11am and 3pm Sat. Learn about 19th century holiday traditions and practices over tasty tea and delectable desserts. Caroling and holiday stories. Enjoyable for grandparents, parents and children. $30. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-891-8584.
Caroling at the Carillon
Dec 13, 2:30pm Sun. Sing carols accompanied by the carillon bells, visit with Santa and enjoy cocoa and cookies. Free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.
Holiday Pops in the Heartland
Dec 19, 7:30pm, Sat. Featuring the Springfield Youth Performance Group. www.sypg.org. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
First Night
Dec 31, 1-4pm and 5-11:15pm Thur. Complimentary afternoon activities for kids. Ticketed shows feature evening music, dance and more at various downtown locations at night. Fireworks at 8pm. Admission. springfieldartsco.org. Downtown Springfield, 217-753-3519.
