Fall Guide

It barely snowed last winter. It barely rained this summer. And who knows what fall will bring? Flexibility is key when it comes to autumn in central Illinois. The perfect picnic plan could be scuttled by a surprise storm, a nice sit-down dinner party might benefit from a move to the backyard to take advantage […]

Summer may be drawing to a close, but the music scene in central Illinois is as vibrant as ever. From cutting-edge electronica to old-time a capella, Springfield and other central Illinois cities offer a variety of sounds within a short drive. Springfield Sangamon Auditorium www.uis.edu/sangamonauditoriumSept. 21, 8 p.m. – Michael W. Smith Christian singer-songwriter Michael […]

As summer comes to a close, the overwhelming heat and touristy jaunts are becoming distant memories. The sunscreen is being packed away, and you’ve enjoyed yet another summer of stimulating activities, but now what? Go to a show. There are many opportunities for theatrical leisure in your community. Jacksonville Theatre Guild will feature Arthur Miller’s […]

With the heat of summer in the rear view mirror, it is time for a fall adventure. Head to the Quad Cities along the big Ole Mississippi. There is a lot to do in the Quad Cities and on the way there and back as well. Want to horse around? You can check out horse […]

As autumn sets in, Springfield audiences can rest assured the rich repertoire of local and regional musicians will temper the cooling weather. From Labor Day pops concerts (think baseball) to Christmas choruses, musicians in central Illinois offer their talents as the soundtracks to our seasonal experiences. Illinois Symphony Orchestra With the exit of its 11-year […]

While many are gearing up for the Decatur Farm Progress Show Aug. 30-Sept. 1, lovers of old iron are bent on heading to the former Chanute Air Force Base to see machines built 50 years ago work the soil. This year’s Half Century of Progress show takes place Aug. 25-28 at the National Aviation Center […]

As the hot summer days are slowly replaced by brisk winds and bursts of colorful leaves, the Springfield area has a wide array of festivals that will allow you to enjoy the beautiful season of autumn. Art Rees Carillon’s annual Art Spectacular showcases up to 50 juried fine arts and crafts artists, musicians, food vendors, […]

In the dead of winter we hope for summer, in the summer heat and humidity we long for snow, but fall is perfect and everyone just wishes it would linger. To fully experience the beauty of fall, load up and meander along the Spoon River Drive. Check out the food, festivals and cultural icons and, […]

No one currently working in the Lincoln-Herndon Law Office smokes a pipe. So, what could possibly explain the aroma of pipe tobacco that employees at the historic site claim to notice from time to time? Is the aroma embedded in the walls and woodwork? Or is it the ghost of Abraham Lincoln’s long deceased law […]

When Brian and Tracey Meade’s air conditioner went out, club members showed up with two window units. The club is the Mid-America Sport Parachute Club, based out of the Taylorville airport. “It’s like a family,” Tracey said. “Everybody helps everybody.” The laid-back family atmosphere makes this the best drop zone in central Illinois. According to […]

Fall is a great time of year, and there’s always an interesting list of theater productions in the area. Take a look at what’s happening here this fall. Theatre in the Park at New Salem has two more performances of Kari Catton’s play Healin’ Home this weekend, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. The play […]

Rock, pop, Christian and jazz are among the musical offerings in central Illinois this fall. There’s something for everybody, so plan ahead, then get out and enjoy the music. Sangamon Auditorium Sept. 14, 8 p.m. Gordon Lightfoot Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot, known for his folk finesse, will perform at Sangamon Auditorium. Tickets are on sale […]