
Noteworthy happenings in and around the capital city Event listing updated daily at illinoistimes.com.
Telephone area code is 217 unless otherwise specified.
APRIL
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon Apr 1, 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Premiere Midwest half marathon takes runners 13.1 miles past Springfield’s major Lincoln sites such as his home and tomb. Registration. runabe.srrc.net. Old State Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, 785- 9363.
Hammer In Apr 1-2, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nationallyknown blacksmiths demonstrate and discuss historic and modern blacksmithing methods. Featuring Jim Slining. Registration. lincolnsnewsalem. com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-4000.
Faerie Tale: A Royal Wedding Apr 1-2, 2 p.m. Springfield Ballet Company’s new ballet set to the music of Felix Mendhelssohn and Pyotr Tchaikovsky. $18-30.sangamonauditorium.org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
King of the Cowboys Apr 2, 3 p.m. A multimedia salute to iconic Western movie, music and TV star Roy Rogers by Riders in the Sky. $25-32. hcfta.org. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 523-2787.
Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella Apr 4, 7:30 p.m. Tony Award-winning Broadway musical from the creators of The Sound of Music and South Pacific offers a contemporary take on a classic tale. $62+. sangamonauditorium.org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
As You Like It Apr 6-9, 7:30 p.m. Thu-Sat, 2 p.m. Sat- Sun. One of Shakespeare’s most popular romantic comedies. $12-14. millikin. edu. Albert Taylor Theatre, Millikin’s Shilling Hall, Decatur, 424-6318.
Illinois Symphony Orchestra Apr 7, 7 p.m. “Around the Town” concert features ISO ensembles in a more intimate setting. Free. ilsymphony.org. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 533 S. Walnut St., 522-4415.
Almost, Maine Apr 7-9, 13-15, 7:30 p.m. Thu-Sat, 2 p.m. Sun. Directed by UIS Associate Professor of Theatre Eric Thibodeaux-Thompson. $8-14. uis.edu/theatre. UIS Studio Theatre, One University Plaza, 206-6160.
Adam Trent: The Futurist Apr 8, 7:30 p.m. Described as Justin Timberlake meets David Copperfield, Adam Trent’s interactive performances are part magic, part concert and part stand-up comedy. $25-40. millikin.edu. Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 1184 W. Main St., Decatur, 424-6318.
Litchfield Pickers Market Apr 9, May 14, Jun 11, Jul 9, Aug 13, Sep 10, Oct 8. Open-air market specializes in vendors featuring items prior to 1980. Plus live music, food, more. Free admission. visitlitchfield.com. Downtown Litchfield, 400 N. State St., Litchfield, 866-733-5833.
The Zombies Apr 11, 7:30 p.m. Resurrection of the second UK group following the Beatles to score a #1 hit in america. $41+. sangamonauditorium.org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
SPW Open Mic Apr 19, May 17, Jun 21, Jul 19, Aug 16, Sep 20, Oct 18, Nov 15, Dec 20, 6-8 p.m. A Springfield Poets and Writers event. Hosted by Théa Chesley, third Wednesday of every month. Free. 544- 3611. Robbie’s, 4 S. Old State Capitol Plaza, 528-1901.
Trading Hands Kids Sale Apr 20-22, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Thu-Fri, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. Sat. Children’s consignment event. Free admission. tradinghands.net. 417-496-5837. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 725-8047.
Jesus Christ Superstar Apr
21-23, 28-30, 8 p.m. Fri-Sat, 2 p.m. Sun. Presented by the Springfield
Theatre Centre. $16, $18. hcfta.org. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420
S. Sixth St., 523-2787.
Newsboys Apr 21. Tickets. springfieldpc3.com. Prairie Capital Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, 800-745-3000.
The Bachelorette Apr
21-23, 28-30, May 5-7, 7:30 p.m. Fri-Sat, 12 p.m. Sat, 2 p.m. Sun (Apr
23 and 30), 5 p.m. Sun May 7. Fueled by jealousy and resentment, three
20-something friends from high school embark on a night of debauchery
that goes from playfully wasted to devastatingly destructive. Rated
PG-13. $12. millikin.edu. Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 1184 W. Main St.,
Decatur, 424- 6318.
The Fabric of Friendship Apr
21-23, 8 p.m. Play set during the Civil War by Ken Bradbury highlights
the lifelong friendship between Mrs. Lincoln and her dressmaker. $15
adults, $13 seniors, $10 children under 12. theatreinthepark.net.
Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588
History Lane, Petersburg, 632-5440.
To My Dear Wife Apr
21-23, 8 p.m. Play based on a true Civil War exchange of letters
between husband Ethan Foster and wife Susan Foster. $15 adults, $13
seniors, $10 children under 12. theatreinthepark.net. Theatre in the
Park, Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane,
Petersburg, 632-5440.
Woodland Wildflower and Tree Sale Apr
22-23, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat, 1-4 p.m. Sun. Annual sale of woodland
wildflowers and trees. Free admission. lincolnmemorialgarden.org.
Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr., 529-1111.
Springfield Food Truck Festival Apr
22, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Food trucks, beverages, live music. 524-5861.
Conservation World, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 782-
6661.
Gershwin’s Greatest: Pops Concert Apr
22, 7:30 p.m. The Illinois Symphony Orchestra, led by guest conductor
Vladimir Kulenovic, performs an evening of George Gershwin’s greatest
hits. $20, $40, $60. sangamonauditorium.org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1
University Plaza, 206-6160.
History Happy Hour Apr
22, 7:30 p.m. Learn about the history and enjoyment of bourbon with
Kentucky-born Dr. Nathan Steele. Bourbon and desserts included in ticket
price. $30; $25 for SAA members. edwardsplace.org. Edwards Place,
Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 523-2631.
Masterworks V Apr
22, 7:30 p.m. Silvan Negrutiu’s performance of Beethoven’s “Piano
Concerto No.3” contrasted by Rautavaara’s ethereal “Cantus Arcticus.”
Tickets. millikin.edu. Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 1184 W. Main St.,
Decatur, 424- 6318.
Alice Cooper Apr
23, 8 p.m. Live in concert. $47 risers, $71 floor. springfieldpc3.com.
Prairie Capital Convention Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza,
800-745-3000.
UIS Music Spring Showcase Apr
28, 7:30-9:30 p.m. Featuring the UIS Chorus, Chamber Orchestra and Band
with UIS music soloist competition winners. Free. uis.edu/music.
Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
Boy Scouts Weekend Apr 29-30. Scouts walk 20+ miles from New Salem to Springfield on a route similar to what
Abraham Lincoln would have walked. Sunday ceremony at Lincoln’s Tomb.
lincolnsnewsalem. com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588
History Lane, Petersburg, 632-4000.
Springfield Winter Farmers Market Apr
29, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fresh produce and local protein. Seasonal farmers
market features 15 local vendors selling a wide variety of products.
Free admission. ilstewards.org. 528-1563. Third Presbyterian Church,
1030 N. Seventh St., 528-0457.
Roasted: Hot Pots + Pork Apr
29, 3-9 p.m. Make your own Rakufired pot and enjoy a hog roast at this
family-friendly event. $30 admission and pot; $20 admission only; $15
for child admission and pot. Prices increase $5 day of.
springfieldart.org. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St.,
523-2631.
Michael Dunbar, Ben Bedford, Fifth House Ensemble Apr
29, 8 p.m. Multi-media performance features Michael Dunbar’s powerful
sculptures, Ben Bedford’s music and lyrics, and Fifth House Ensemble’s
chamber music arrangements. $30+. sangamonauditorium.org. Sangamon
Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
Abe’s Mini Triathlon Apr
30, 12 p.m. Mini triathlon includes a 100-yard indoor pool swim, 5-mile
bike ride and 1-mile run. Registration. triharderpromotions.com. Porta
High School, 17651 Bluejay Road, Petersburg, 632-3219.
Pioneer Sprint Triathlon Apr
30, 1 p.m. Sprint triathlon includes a 300-yard indoor pool swim,
13-mile bike ride and 3.1-mile run. Registration.
triharderpromotions.com. Porta High School, 17651 Bluejay Road,
Petersburg, 632-3219.
Masterworks Percussion Ensemble Apr 30, 4 p.m. Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 1184 W. Main St., Decatur, 424-6318.
MAY
Lullaby Concert May
2, 6 p.m. Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra performs music for the
youngest symphony-goers. Decatur Public Library, 130 N. Franklin St.,
Decatur, 424-2900.
Heathers: The Musical May
4-7, 7:30 p.m. Thu-Sat, 2 p.m. Sat- Sun. The darkly delicious story of
misfit Veronica Sawyer and the Heathers, the hottest and cruelest girls
in Ohio. $16- 18. millikin.edu. Albert Taylor Theatre, Millikin’s
Shilling Hall, Decatur, 424-6318.
Paul Galbraith May
5, 8 p.m. Brilliantly innovative classical guitarist Paul Galbraith
presents a solo concert featuring works by Bach, Mozart and Albeniz.
$25+. sangamonauditorium.org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University
Plaza, 206-6160.
Antique Farm Show May
6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 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, 632-4000.
Fantastic Finale May
6, 7:30 p.m. Illinois Symphony Orchestra concert features Grammy- Award
winning guitarist Jason Vieaux and Dvorak’s Carnival Overture led by
Andrew Sewell. $20, $40, $60; $5 for students. ilsymphony.org. Sangamon
Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and Chorale May
6, 7:30-9:30 p.m. William Lane performs exciting and melodious music
for the French horn and orchestra.jaxsym.com. 243-5678. Illinois College
Rammelkamp Chapel, 1101 W. College Ave., Jacksonville, 245-3000.
Village People May
6, 7:30 p.m. Concert features highenergy choreography, fun, singing and
dancing. Known for hits such as “Macho Man” and “YMCA.” $30-150.
millikin. edu. Kirkland Fine Arts Center, 1184 W. Main St., Decatur,
424-6318.
Doubt, A Parable May
12-14, 19-21, 8 p.m. Fri-Sat, 2 p.m. Sun. Presented by the Springfield
Theatre Centre. Directed by Edward H. Smith. Admission.
springfieldtheatrecentre.com. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth
St., 523- 2787.
Prairie Plant Sale May
13-14, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat, 1-4 p.m. Sun. Annual sale of prairie plants.
Free admission. lincolnmemorialgarden.org. Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301
E. Lake Shore Dr., 529-1111.
Fat Ass 5K May
13, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. 5K race route includes food, beer and entertainment
along race route. Friday night preview party. Saturday street party with
hog roast and live band following race. $29- 45. fatass5k.com. Downtown
Springfield.
Sangamon Valley Civic Orchestra
May
19, 7:30 p.m. Concert features the Sangamon Valley Civic Orchestra. $10
adults, $5 students, free to ages 12 and under. hcfta.org. Hoogland
Center for the Arts, Theater 3, 420 S. Sixth St., 523-2787.
The Three Musketeers May
19-21, 25-27, 8 p.m. From the novel by Alexandre Dumas. In
collaboration with Lincoln Land Community College. Directed by Mark
Hardiman. $15 adults, $13 seniors, $10 children under 12.
theatreinthepark.net. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s New Salem State
Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-5440.
8K Trail Run and Children’s Fun Run May
20, 7-10 a.m. Run 8K along a rolling, mostly dirt and mulch course
through Lincoln Memorial Garden, the Ostermeier Prairie Center and along
Forest Ridge. Registration, $25+. lincolnmemorialgarden.org. 502-3992.
Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr., 529-1111.
Old Capitol Art Fair May
20-21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sun. One of the most popular
juried art fairs in the country. Original art, entertainment, food,
children’s tent and more. Free admission. socaf.org. Old State Capitol, 1
Old State Capitol Plaza, 785-9363.
Springfield PrideFest May
20, 12-10pm. Annual celebration featuring entertainment, dancing,
vendors, food, drink, children’s area, teen lounge, more. Free.
springfieldpride.org. Downtown Springfield.
Sangamon Valley Youth Symphony May
21, 4 p.m. Concert features youth ensembles. $10 adults, $5 students,
free to ages 12 and under. svys.org. 753-8000. Springfield High School
Auditorium, 101 S. Lewis St., 525-3100.
TT Motorcycle Races May
27. World’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series. $15 advance,
$20 race week. amaproracing.com. 632-0277. Multi-purpose arena, Illinois
State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 782-6661.
Springfield Mile Race 1 May
28. Motorcycles race a 1-mile oval track. $30 advance, $40 race week.
amaproracing.com. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 Sangamon Ave.,
782- 6661.
JUNE
Aladdin, Jr. Jun
2-4, 9-10, 8 p.m. Children’s musical filled with songs from the Disney
movie. Directed by Adam Power. $15 adults, $13 seniors, $10 children
under 12. theatreinthepark.net. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s New Salem
State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-5440.
Legacy of Giving Music Festival Jun
2-3. SOHO Music Festival replacement features 60 bands across five
stages, vendor fair and kids area. Proceeds to charity. Downtown
Springfield.
Tony Bennett Jun
3, 8 p.m. Concert by 19 time Grammy Award-winner Tony Bennett. $60+.
sangamonauditorium. org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza,
206-6160.
Carillon Festival Jun
4-9, 6:30 p.m. One of the worlds’ most prestigious carillon events.
Bring picnic dinner, lawn chairs and blankets. Fireworks on Friday,
9:15pm. Free to public. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial
Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546-3853.
Naturalization Ceremony Jun
9, Sep 15, 2 p.m. New United States citizens take oaths of allegiance.
Free. gov/us-citizenship. Old State Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza,
785-9363.
Willy Wonka Jun
9-11, 14-18, 8:30 p.m. Musical is based off Roald Dahl’s timeless story
of the world-famous candy man and his quest to find an heir. Tickets:
$15 and $17 reserved $10 and $12 lawn. themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E.
Lake Dr., 793-MUNI.
Summer Frolic Jun
10, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Period-clothed interpreters celebrate frontier
heritage plus World Wide Knit in Public Day. Bring your own chair and
knit. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site,
15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-4000.
Sangamon County Fair Jun
14-18. Carnival, contests, nationallyrecognized entertainment,
agricultural exhibits and more. $20 ages 11-62, $10 ages 5-10, free to
ages 5 and under. sangcofair.com. 899-4566. Sangamon County Fairgrounds,
316 W. Birch St., New Berlin, 488-2685.
Railsplitter Olympic Triathlon Jun
17, 7:30 a.m.. Olympic triathlon includes a .9-mile private lake swim,
24.8-mile bike ride and 6.2-mile run. Registration,
triharderpromotions.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588
History Lane, Petersburg, 632- 4000.
Stovepipe Sprint Triathlon Jun
17, 8 a.m.. Sprint triathlon includes a 500-yard private lake swim,
13-mile bike ride and 3.1-mile run through an 1800’s pioneer village.
Registration. triharderpromotions.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State
Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-4000.
Celtic Woman Jun
17, 7:30 p.m. Captivating new “Voices of Angels” concert by
multi-platinum international music sensation Celtic Woman. $42, $72.
sangamonauditorium.org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza,
206-6160.
Crazy Horse Bluegrass Festival Jun
23-25. Tenth annual music festival features great music all weekend.
crazyhorsecamp.com. 243-5678. Crazy Horse Campground, 2113 Crazy Horse
Road, Ashland, 886-2089.
State Fair Jun
23-25, 29, Jul 1, 8 p.m. Musical about an Iowa farm family preparing to
go to the multi-day Iowa State Fair. $15 adults, $13 seniors, $10
children under 12. theatreinthepark.net. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s
New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-5440.
A.J. Croce Jun
24, 8 p.m. Son of Jim Croce and jazzinfluenced blues artist turned pop
music iconoclast. $25+. sangamonauditorium. org. Sangamon Auditorium,
UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
Mary Poppins Jun 30, Jul 1-2, 5-9, 8:30 p.m. Musical based on the similarly titled Mary Poppins children’s
books by P. L. Travers and the 1964 Disney film. Tickets: $15 and $17
reserved $10 and $12 lawn. themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr.,
793-MUNI.
JULY
Independence Day Fireworks Jul
4, 9:30-10 p.m. Free. VisitLitchfield. com. 324-8147. Lake Lou Yaeger
Marina 1, 4313 Beach House Trail, Litchfield, 866-733-5833.
Disney’s Newsies: The Musical Jul
7-9, 12-16, 19-23, 7 p.m. Wed-Thu, 8 p.m. Fri-Sat, 2 p.m. Sun.
Captivating story of a band of underdogs who stand up to the most
powerful men in New York. $25 advance, $30 day of; $22 seniors and
children. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence,
800-838-3006.
Morgan County Fair Jul
12-16. Carnival, talent show, pageant, livestock, tractor pulls, live
entertainment and more. themorgancountyfair.com. Morgan County
Fairgrounds, 110 N. Westgate, Jacksonville, 245-6800.
High School Musical Jul
14-16, 20-22, 8 p.m. Contemporary musical comedy featuring a popular
high school basketball star and a shy, new student who discover they
both share a secret passion for singing. $15 adults, $13 seniors, $10
children under 12. theatreinthepark.net. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s
New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-5440.
Food Fest of Springfield’s Best Jul
14-15. Revival of Springfield’s favorite downtown food and music
festival with many new twists. Hosted by Downtown Springfield, Inc.
downtownspringfield.org. 544-1723. Downtown Springfield.
Big Dawg Dare Jul
15, 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Extreme 5K run features inflatable obstacles and mud.
Registration, bigdawgdare.com. Wolff Farms, 3153 N. 15th Ave.,
Litchfield, 866-733-5833.
Irving Berlin’s White Christmas Jul
21-23, 26-30, 8:30 p.m. Musical based on the Paramount Pictures 1954
film of the same name. Tickets: $15 and $17 reserved $10 and $12 lawn.
themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr., 793-MUNI.
Paint the Street Festival Jul
22, 12-10 p.m. Paint a 6x6 square on the streets of downtown
Springfield. All supplies included. $30 per square for members; $35 per
square for non; $5 increase day of event. springfieldart.org. 523-2631.
Downtown Springfield.
Downhome Music, Beer and Art Festival Jul
28-29. Local bands playing original songs on multiple stages, 100 craft
beers, local food vendors, kids area. Admission. downhomemusicfest.com.
Downtown Springfield.
Route 66 Half Iron Triathlon Jul
29, 7 a.m. 1.2-mile lake swim, 56-mile bike ride and 13.1-mile run on
lake roads. Registration. triharderpromotions.com. Lake Springfield
Beach House, 100 Long Bay Dr., 757-8660.
com. 341-1309. Lake Springfield Beach House, 100 Long Bay Dr., 757-8660.
Stoneman Sprint Triathlon Jul
29, 8 a.m. Includes a 500-yard lake swim, 12-mile bike and 3.1-mile run
on closed, shaded lake roads. Registration. triharderpromotions.com.
Lake Springfield Beach House, 100 Long Bay Dr., 757-8660.
AUGUST
Arsenic and Old Lace Aug
3-6, 8 p.m. Comedy directed by Kristin and Mark Wheeler. $15 adults,
$13 seniors, $10 children under 12. theatreinthepark.net. Theatre in the
Park, Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane,
Petersburg, 632-5440.
Iron Abe Olympic Triathlon Jul
29, 7:30 a.m. Includes a .9-mile lake swim, 24.8-mile bike ride and
6.2- mile run on closed, shaded lake roads. Registration.
triharderpromotions.
Powerlight Super Cruise and Movie Night Aug 4. New cruise route for 2017. Free. 553-5271. Knights Action Park, 1700 Knights Recreation Dr., 546-8881.
Powerlight Abe Lincoln Car Show Spectacular Aug
5, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Includes ground and air displays. Car show features
all makes and models. Free to spectators. 553-5271. Knights Action Park,
1700 Knights Recreation Dr., 546-8881.
Decatur Celebration Aug
4-6, 12-10 p.m. Family street festival featuring carnival, live music,
parade, food, kids block and more. Free entry. decaturcelebration.com.
Downtown Decatur.
Illinois State Fair Aug
10-20. So much to do we can’t list everything. Food, entertainment,
midway, exhibits and more. Admission. illinois.gov/statefair. Illinois
State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 782- 6661.
Grease Aug
11-13, 16-20, 8:30 p.m. 1971 musical by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey
with additional songs written by John Farrar. Tickets: $15 and $17
reserved $10 and $12 lawn. themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr.,
793-MUNI.
Loose Lips Sink Ships Aug
18-20, 24-26, 8 p.m. Musical follows a group of young men in
Wisconsin’s Sturgeon Bay who enlist in the armed forces following the
attack on Pearl Harbor. $15 adults, $13 seniors, $10 children under 12.
theatreinthepark.net. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s New Salem State
Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-5440.
Abe’s Amble 10K Aug
20, 7:30 a.m. Sun. 6.2-mile course takes runners through Lincoln Park,
Oak Ridge Cemetery and back to fairgrounds. Registration. srrc.net.
Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 782- 6661.
Clayville Art Fair Aug
26, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Second annual fair includes numerous artists and
various media including paint, watercolor, photography, pottery and
more. Donations. clayville.org. 481- 4430. Clayville, Route 125,
Pleasant Plains, 572-4984.
Clayville Car Show Aug
26, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cruise from New Salem to Clayville at 10:30 a.m.. Car
show and judging from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $15 for exhibitors, free to
public. clayville.org. 725-7355. Clayville, Route 125, Pleasant Plains,
572-4984.
Clayville Folk Music Festival Aug
26, 12-11 p.m. Sixth annual folk music festival features two stages of
amplified and unamplified music. Food, soft drinks, beer, wine
available. $5 per person or $20 per family. clayville.org. 725-6179.
Clayville, Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 572-4984.
Old Capitol Blues and BBQ Aug
28-29, 5 p.m. Annual blues music and BBQ competition. Managed by The
Alamo and Central Illinois Blues Club. downtownspringfield.org. Downtown
Springfield.
Dan Adair Triathlon Aug
27, 8 a.m. Mini triathlon includes a 100-yard indoor pool swim,
6.1-mile bike and 1.1-mile run on shaded path. Registration.
triharderpromotions.com. Gus and Flora Kerasotes YMCA, 4550 West Iles
Ave., 679-1625.
MD Memorial Triathlon Aug
27, 9 a.m. Sprint triathlon includes a 400-yard indoor pool swim,
12-mile bike ride and 3.1-mile run on a shaded path. Registration.
triharderpromotions.com. Gus and Flora Kerasotes YMCA, 4550 West Iles Ave., 679-1625.
SEPTEMBER
Springfield Oyster and Beer Festival Sep
2, 12-5 p.m. Enjoy craft beer and cider, fresh oysters, offerings from
several food vendors, live bands, more. Admission. sobfestival.com. The
Inn at 835, 835 S. Second St., 523-4466.
Short Track Motorcycle Races Sep
2. World’s premier dirt track motorcycle racing series. $15 advance,
$20 race week. amaproracing.com. 632-0277. Multi-purpose arena, Illinois
State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 782-6661.
Springfield Mile Race 2 Sep
3. Motorcycles race a 1-mile oval track. $30 advance, $40 race week.
amaproracing.com. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 Sangamon Ave.,
782- 6661.
Bluegrass Music Sep
8-9, 6-10 p.m. Bluegrass musicians play live in the outdoor theater.
Traditional, folk and bluegrass musicians invited to participate.
lincolnsnewsalem. com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588
History Lane, Petersburg, 632-4000.
Art Spectacular at the Carillon Sep
9-10, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sun. Ranked in “Best 100 Art
Shows in the Country” by Sunshine Artist magazine. 50 professional
artists with artwork in a variety of mediums. Music, food, more. Free
admission to art fair; Kids’ Place costs $1.25 per child.
carillonrees.org. 787-3532. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W.
Fayette Ave., 546-4116.
Traditional Music Festival Sep
9-10, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 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, 632-4000.
Historic Bicycle Ride Sep
9, 1-5 p.m. Eight-mile tour by bicycle of Lincoln sites and other
historical sites in Springfield. Complimentary post-ride snacks. Free.
spfldcycling.org. 698-7626. Noll Law Office, Lincoln Depot, 903 E.
Monroe St., 414-8889.
45th Annual Capital City Century Sep
10, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Distance options of 10-125 miles over flat to
slightly rolling terrain. Food stops, SAG service, post-ride party.
Registration. spfldcycling.org. 899- 9175. Knights of Columbus 364, 2200
S. Meadowbrook Road, 787-2360.
Litchfield Triathloun Sep
10, 7 a.m.-12 p.m. Seventh annual triathlon featuring Sprint and
Olympic distances. Registration. racemaker.org. Lake Lou Yaeger Marina
1, 4313 Beach House Trail, Litchfield, 866-733-5833.
Clayville Fall Festival Sep
16-17, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Pioneer artisan and
craftsman demonstrations, historic building tours, kids activities,
food, period music and more. $5 adults, $3 ages 7-12, free to ages 6 and
under. clayville.org. 481- 4430. Clayville, Route 125, Pleasant Plains,
572-4984.
Edwards Place Fine Art Fair Sep
16-17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. Enjoy dozens of artist
booths, live music, food trucks, beer and wine tent, children’s
activities and a book sale at Springfield’s oldest and art fair. Free.
springfieldart.org. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 523-
2631.
Fall Festival and Steam Show Sep 22-24. See horse-powered equipment, antique tractors, gas and steam engines, demonstrations on bailing and blacksmithing,
children’s activities, train rides, large flea market, food and more.
prairielandheritage. com. 243-5678. Prairie Land Heritage Museum, 1005
W. Michigan Ave., 243- 7262.
Golden Eagle Intertribal Powwow Sep
22-24, 12-8 p.m. Fri, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sat-Sun. Gathering of many nations
to honor and show respect to all veterans. Featuring storytelling for
all ages, children’s dances, treats and gifts, handcrafted vendors,
food, more. Free. VisitLitchfield.com. 851-2206. Lake Lou Yaeger, Picnic
Area 4, 4 Marina Lane, Litchfield, 866-733-5833.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival Sep
22-24, 6-10 p.m. Fri, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sun. More
than 1,000 cool cars, live music and entertainment, performance
marketplace, family fun area, food and more. Free admission to
spectators. route66fest.com. 866-783-6645. Downtown Springfield.
City Wide Hymn Fest Sep
24. Interdenominational hymn sing open to all who enjoy singing along
with or listening to traditional hymns. springfieldparks.org. Washington
Park, 1501 S. Grand Ave. W., 544-1751.
OCTOBER
Candlelight Tour Oct
6-8, 7-9 p.m. See Lincoln’s New Salem at night. Staff and volunteers in
period clothing discuss life in 19th century Illinois.
lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588
History Lane, Petersburg, 632- 4000.
Indian Summer Festival Oct
7-8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sat-Sun. Prairie party for the entire family. Fairy
garden, crafts, activities, entertainment, food and more. $5 adults, $3
ages 6-12. lincolnmemorialgarden.org. Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E.
Lake Shore Dr., 529-1111.
West Fork Encampment Oct
7-8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. Sun. Historical
re-enactment showcases traditional military and frontier life from
1750-1820. Free. visitlitchfield.com. Lake Lou Yaeger, Picnic Area 4, 4
Marina Lane, Litchfield, 866-733-5833.
Morgan Horse Demonstration Oct
7, 1 p.m. Mississippi Valley Morgan Horse Club presents demonstrations
and horse activities, educational materials for adults and kids and time
to visit with MVMHC members and horses. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s
New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg,
632-4000.
Stewart’s Deep Rock Car Cruise Oct 7, 2-5 p.m. Cruise on Old Route 66 with cars from 1930-1977. deeprockcruise@gmail.com. Litchfield Museum and Route 66 Welcome Center, 334 Old Rt. 66 North, Litchfield, 866- 733-5833.
Springfield Marathon, Half-Marathon and 10K Oct
14-15. All routes begin and end on the UIS campus. Registration,
springfieldmarathon.net. University of Illinois at Springfield,
206-6073.
Carve for the Carillon Oct
14-15, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Help carve, scoop and move 2,017 pumpkins for
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. Pumpkins supplied. All ages, abilities
welcome. Free. carillon-rees.org. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740
W. Fayette Ave., 546-4116.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Oct
20-21, 6:30-9:30 p.m. 2,017 handcarved, illuminated jack-o-lanterns
carved by community members and local artists. Tree of Lights, spooky
music, fire pits, food vendors. Rain or shine. No pets. $7 adults, $5
ages 4-11, 3 and under free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial
Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546-3853.
Route 66 Half-Marathon/ 5K/Mile-Dash Oct
22, 7 a.m.-12 p.m. Fifth annual Litchfield Half Marathon, 5K and Mile
Dash on beautiful Route 66. Registration. racemaker.org. Litchfield
Skyview Drive-In, 1500 N. Historic Rt. 66, Litchfield, 866-733-5833.
Fall Festival Oct
28-29, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Periodclothed interpreters demonstrate daily tasks
such as candle dipping, soap making, basket making, spinning wool,
fruit and vegetable preservation and more. Free. lincolnsnewsalem. com.
Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg,
632-4000.
NOVEMBER
Abe’s Trail Trek Nov
11, 8:30 a.m. 5K, 10K and Half Marathon distances through a historic
venue with hills, scenic river views and an 1800s pioneer village.
Registration.triharderpromotions.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic
Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-4000.
Springfield Jaycees Beerfest Nov
11, 2-8- p.m. Hundreds of beers to sample under one roof.
springfieldjaycees.net. Illinois State Fairgrounds Exposition Building,
801 Sangamon Ave., 782-6661.
Stories of Springfield Nov
17-18, 7:30 p.m. Abraham Lincoln reminisces about the songs and stories
of Springfield in this original theatrical production by Rose Serio.
$20, wine and dessert included. edwardsplace. org. Edwards Place,
Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 523- 2631.
Annual Holiday Market Nov
18-19. One-stop shopping for holiday gifts, decorations and handmade
ornaments. Free admission. lincolnmemorialgarden.org. Lincoln Memorial
Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr., 529-1111.
Holiday Farmers Market Nov 18, Dec 16, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 782-6661.
Memorial’s Festival of Trees Nov
18-26. More than 200 artistically decorated trees and wreaths,
handcrafted Gingerbread Village, Little Elves’ Workshop craft area,
Snapshots with Santa, entertainment and more. Admission.
MemorialsFestivalofTrees. com. 788-4301. Orr Building, Illinois State
Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 725-8047.
DECEMBER
Frostbite Festival 2M and 10M Dec
3, 9 a.m. Sun. Choose from 2-mile or 10-mile out-and-back course.
Registration, srrc.net. FitClub West, 2811 W. Lawrence Ave., 787-1111.
Caroling at the Carillon Dec
10, 4-5 p.m. Roaring bonfire and carol singing with carillon bells, hot
cocoa and cookies. Free. carillon-rees. org. Thomas Rees Memorial
Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546-3853.
First Night Dec
31, 1-4 p.m. and 5-11:15 p.m. Afternoon free activities for kids at
Springfield High School. Evening music, dance and more at various
downtown locations. Admission. springfieldartsco. org. Hoogland Center
for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 523-2787.