Noteworthy happenings in and around the capital city
Event listings updated daily at illinoistimes.com. Telephone area code is 217 unless otherwise specified
APRIL
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon Apr 7, 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, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, 785-9363.
Weapons of the Civil War Apr 11, 12pm Wed. Moderated by Dr. Greg Kane, 10th Illinois Volunteer Cavalry. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Illinois State Museum Research and Collections Center, 1011 E. Ash St., 785-0037.
Robin Hood Apr 13-15, 20-22, 8pm Fri-Sat, 2pm Sun. Presented by Springfield Theatre Centre. Directed by Kelly Bassett. $20 adults, $18 students and seniors. springfieldtheatrecentre.com. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 523-2787.
Six Characters in Search of an Author Apr 13-15, 19-21, 7:30pm Thu-Sat, 2pm. Play follows a group of theater artists as they rehearse a known play, only to be interrupted by six characters from another play, which its author never finished. $8-14. uis.edu. UIS Studio Theatre, One University Plaza, 206-6160.
Faerie Tale Apr 14-15, 2pm Sat-Sun. Springfield Ballet Company’s enchanting ballet set to the music of Felix Mendelssohn and Pytor Tchaikovsky. $21 youth, $33 adults in advance; $38 adults, $26 youth day of. sangamonauditorium.org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
Roasted: Hot Pots and Pork Apr 14, 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 Pleasure Chest Blues Band. $30 admission and pot; $20 admission only; $15 children 12 and under. springfieldart. org. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 523-2631.
Becoming A State: The Illinois Way Apr 15, 2-3pm Sun. Historian and writer Tara McClellan McAndrew on the wayward way Illinois became a state and how our first lawmakers in Kaskaskia created state government from scratch. Free. 782-0979. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 782-7386.
Dixie’s Tupperware Party Apr 20-22, 8pm Fri-Sat, 2pm Sat-Sun. Off-Broadway play about an irreverent Tupperware party features funny tales, heartfelt stories, great giveaways and more. $28 advance seniors, $30 advance adults; $35 day of; $50 VIP. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.
Earth Awareness Fair Apr 21, 1-5pm Sat. Featuring 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, 789-2255.
Project HOWL: Monkeying Around Apr 21, 1-3pm Sat. Ages 10-12 will learn about animals and their ecosystems and help enrich the lives of animals on zoo grounds.
Registration. $13 residents and members, $15 non. springfieldparks.org. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr., 585-1821.
The Fabric of Friendship Apr 21, 6:30pm Sat. Play starring Pam Brown and Kathryn Harris tells the story of the friendship between Mary Todd Lincoln and Elizabeth Keckley. hcfta.org. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 523-2787.
Ben Culli Hymn Festival Apr 22, 4-5:30pm Sun. Professional musicians in the community sing praise to God through hymns. Hosted by Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and Grace Lutheran Church. Free. gracelutheranspringfield.com. 522-3965. Grace Lutheran Church, 714 E. Capitol Ave., 522-3965.
Three Poets from Central Illinois Apr 26, 6:30pm Thu. Presentation on Carl Sandburg, Vachel Lindsay and Edgar Lee Masters by Professor Charles Schweighauser. pspld.com. Prairie Skies Public Library District - Ashland, 125 W. Editor St., Ashland, 476-3417.
Springfield Winter Farmers Market Apr 28, 9am-12pm Sat. Seasonal farmers market features 16 local vendors selling a wide variety of fresh and/or locally grown products. ilstewards. org. 528-1563. Third Presbyterian Church, 1030 N. Seventh St., 528-0457.
Club LaCage Apr 28, 7pm Sat. A fun-filled evening of drag, music and comedy in support of the Springfield Phoenix Center. Recommended for mature audiences. $15-$35. hcfta.org. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 523-2787.
Illinois Symphony Orchestra Apr 28, 7:30pm Sat. Featuring Stephen Hough on piano. Tickets. ilsymphony.org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
Gothic at Midnight - An Evening of Hilarity and Horror Apr 30, 7:30pm Mon. Show inspired by the old-time radio dramas of Orson Welles and Vincent Price. $28+. sangamonauditorium.org. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 206-6160.
MAY
Antique Farm Show May 5, 10am-4pm Sat. Featuring horsedrawn 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.
Civil War Tech May 5, 10am-12pm Sat. Hands-on activities that allow children to explore the intersection of history and technology. May’s theme is “Mapping.” Free. PresidentLincoln.Illinois.gov.
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Central Illinois Young Musicians’ Concert May 6, 4-5pm Sun. Annual concert of solo presentations celebrating central Illinois young musicians in their awardwinning performances. Reception to follow. Free. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 528-4311.
The Birth, Death and Rebirth of Downtown May 8, 5:30-7pm Tue. Lecture titled “The Birth, Death and Rebirth of Downtown: Marrying Development, Preservation and Workforce.” Part of the “Yesterday, Tomorrow and Today: Illinois Realtors Town Hall Speaker Series.” Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh St., 753-4900.
US Grant: American Hero, American Myth May 10, 12pm Thu. Illinois History Forum session moderated by historian Caroline E. Janney. Free. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
FatAss 5K Craft Beer and Cigar Festival May 11, 5pm Fri. FatAss 5K preview party features food trucks, adult beverages, live music and more. Free. fatass5k.com. Downtown Springfield.
Venice May 11, 7pm Fri. One of America’s premiere vocal bands, blending the qualities of classic Aerosmith with James Taylor and The Eagles to create a sound all their own. $40 advance, $45 day of. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.
FatAss 5K May 12, 11am-3pm Sat. 5K race includes food, beer and entertainment along race route. Saturday street party featuring hog roast and live band to follow race. Registration. fatass5k.com. Downtown Springfield.
1776 May 18-20, 24-26, 8pm. Musical follows John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson as they sign the Declaration of Independence. $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 Kids’ Fun Run May 19, 7:30am Sat. 4.97-mile rolling, sometimes flat loop starting and ending in Lincoln Memorial Garden, plus a children’s fun run at 9am. $30 before Apr 30, $35 after. $6 kids’ fun run. lincolnmemorialgarden.org. Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr., 529-1111.
Old Capitol Art Fair May 19-20, 8am-5pm Sat, 8am-5pm Sun. One of the most popular juried art fairs in the country. Original art, entertainment, food, children’s tent and more. Free. socaf.org. Old State Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, Springfield, 785-9363.
Springfield PrideFest May 19, 11am-11pm Sat. Annual celebration features parade, entertainment, dancing, vendors, food, drink, children’s area, teen lounge and more. Presented by The Springfield Phoenix Center. Free. springfieldpride.org. Downtown Springfield, Capitol Avenue between Fourth and Sixth streets.
Binding Our State Together May 20, 2-3pm Sun. Presentation by historical geographer Norman Moline titled “Binding Our State Together: Canals, Railroads, Postal Services and Roads.” Free. museum.state.il.us. 782- 0979. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 782-7386.
Poets in the Parlor and Open Mic May 20, 2-4pm Sun. Reading by featured poet Carlo Matos, author of The Quitters and It’s Best Not to Interrupt Her Experiments, plus an open mic session prior to the reading. Free. vachellindsay.com. Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site, 603 S. Fifth St., 524-0901.
JUNE
Legacy of Giving Music Festival Jun 1-2, 5pm Fri, 12pm Sat. Featuring 70 bands across five stages, plus a vendor fair, kids area and more. Proceeds to charity. $5. logmusicfest.org. Downtown Springfield.
Little Shop of Horrors Jun 1-3, 6-10, 8:30pm Fri-Sun, 8:30pm Wed-Sun. Directed by Laurie Barnes and sponsored by Springfield Clinic. themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr., 793-MUNI.
Rees International Carillon Festival Jun 3-8, Sun-Fri. Annual festival features nightly carillon concerts by renown carillonists. Fireworks on Friday at dusk. Free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546-3853.
David Joens Jun 5, 2pm Tue. David Joens, director of the Illinois States Archives, on the history of the Illinois state flag and seal. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
The Last of Mrs. Lincoln Jun 7-10, 8pm. By James Prideaux. Directed by Kristin 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.
Summer Frolic Jun 9, 10am-4pm Sat. 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 12-17, Tue-Sun. Carnival, contests, nationally recognized entertainment, rodeo, agricultural exhibits and more. Admission. sangcofair.com. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, 316 W. Birch St., New Berlin, 488-2685.
Victorian Underpinnings Jun 13, 12pm Wed. Moderated by Erika Holst, Curator of Decorative Arts and History, and Laura Reyman, Soldiers’ Aid Society. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Illinois State Museum Research & Collections Center, 1011 E. Ash St., 785-0037.
History Sparkles Jun 14, 6:30pm Thu. Presentation about the four first ladies to the four Illinois presidents, featuring desserts and drinks. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 212 N. Sixth St., 782-5764.
29th US Regiment: Colored Troops in Illinois Jun 14, 6:30pm Thu. Second in a series of 12 programs about “Illinois and the Civil War,” developed as special events honoring the Illinois Bicentennial. Free. Books on the Square - Springfield, 427 E. Washington St., 965-5443.
Illinois Antislavery and the Struggle for Freedom Jun 17, 2-3pm Sun. Presentation by Jeanne Schultz Angel on the complexity of responses to slavery in the early days of statehood and its link to the impact of human trafficking in present-day Illinois. Free. museum.state.il.us. 782-0979. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 782-7386.
Crazy Horse Bluegrass Festival Jun 22-25, Fri-Mon. Music all weekend long, including a Sunday morning gospel show. crazyhorsecamp.com. Crazy Horse Campground, 2113 Crazy Horse Road, Ashland, 886-2089.
Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Jr. Jun 22-24, 28-30, 8pm. Musical production features more than 50 local students. 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.
Sister Act Jun 22-24, 27, Jul 1, 8:30pm Fri-Sun, 8:30pm Wed-Sun. Directed by Andrew Maynerich and Morgan Kaplan. Sponsored by Edward Jones. themuni. org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr., 793- MUNI.
Car Show and Art Fair Jun 23, 10am-5pm Sat. Car show and art fair, plus a music festival from 9am- 12pm. $3 adults, $1 ages 6-12, and free to ages 5 and under. clayville.org. Clayville, Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 572-4984.
Paint the Street Festival Jun 23, 11am-10pm Sat. Purchase a 6x6 foot square of street to paint solo or with your family and friends. Free admission. To paint: $35 advance; $40 at door; $45 professional. All supplies included. springfieldart.org. 523-2631. Downtown Springfield.
JULY
Capital City Celebration Jul 1, 11am-12am Sat. Featuring fireworks, great music, and live entertainment for all ages. Hosted by the Springfield Jaycees. springfieldjaycees.net. Fourth Street and Capitol Avenue, Downtown Springfield.
Clara Irwin’s Strawberry Party Jul 4, 5-8pm Wed. Featuring entertainment, fresh strawberry confections, live music, games, and a group reading of the Declaration of Independence. ileshouse.org. Elijah Iles House, 628 S. Seventh St., 492- 5929.
Mamma Mia! Jul 6-8, 11-15, 18-22, 25-29, 7pm Wed-Thu, 8pm Fri-Sat, 2pm Sun. A young woman’s quest to discover her father’s identity brings her back to the Greek island paradise they last visited 20 years ago. $20 adv; $30 day of; $22 seniors and children. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.
Women’s Distance Festival Jul 7, 8am Sat. Two-mile race and kids’ fun run. Registration. srrc.net. Washington Park, 1501 S. Grand Ave. W., 544-1751.
Morgan County Fair Jul 11-15, Wed-Sun. Carnival, food, talent show, pageant, livestock, tractor pulls, live entertainment and more. $4 adults; $2 kids 8-12; free to kids under 8; half-price admission for all and free to seniors on Sunday. themorgancountyfair.com. Morgan County Fairgrounds, 110 N. Westgate, Jacksonville, 245-6800.
Pre-Statehood Illinois Jul 11, Wed. Moderated by Ian Hunt. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Lincoln’s Vandalia: A Pioneer Portrait Jul 12, 12pm Thu. Illinois History Forum session moderated by James Cornelius, the ALPLM’s Lincoln curator. Free. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Civil War Widows and Orphans Jul 12, 6:30pm Thu. Sixth in a series of 12 programs about “Illinois and the Civil War,” developed as special events honoring the Illinois Bicentennial. Free. Books on the Square - Springfield, 427 E. Washington St., 965-5443.
Amaranth Apple Festival Jul 13-14, Fri-Sat. Summer street festival features two nights of live music from nationally-known musicians, plus local poetry, art and cuisine. Admission. downtownspringfield.org. 544-1723. Downtown Springfield.
Distant Thunder Jul 13-15, 19-21, 8pm. Directed by Bill Bauser, Jr. $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.
Legally Blonde: The Musical Jul 13-15, 18-22, 8:30pm Fri-Sun, 8:30pm Wed-Sun themuni.org. Directed by Anna Maisenbacher. Sponsored by UCB. themuni.org. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr., 793-MUNI.
Building Illinois Jul 15, 2-3pm Sun. Presentation titled “Building Illinois: Entrepreneurialism Flourishes, Workers Rise” by Mike Matejka, governmental affairs director for the Great Plains Laborers District Council. Free. 782-0979. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 782-7386.
Prairie to Farm Field Jul 17, 6pm Tue. Presentation titled “Prairie to Farm Field – The History of Springfield’s Landscapes” by Curtis Mann and Stephanie Martin. Part of the “Yesterday, Tomorrow and Today: Illinois Realtors Town Hall Speaker Series.” Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh St., 753-4900.
Downhome Music, Beer and Art Festival Jul 27-28, Fri-Sat. Local bands playing original songs on multiple stages, plus craft beers, local vendors, kid area and more. Admission. downhomemusicfest.com. Downtown Springfield, Seventh and Washington streets.
AUGUST
The 50th Anniversary of the Fair Housing Act Aug 1, 5-6:30pm Wed. Presentations about the 1968 Fair Housing Act; preview of the Realtors plaza, including interpretive signs about Springfield racial history. Part of the “Yesterday, Tomorrow and Today: Illinois Realtors Town Hall Speaker Series.” Illinois Realtors, 522 S. Fifth St., 529-2600.
Powerlight Super Cruise and Movie Night Aug 3, 7pm Fri. Cruise from downtown Springfield to Knights Action Park. Free. Knights Action Park, 1700 Knights Recreation Dr., 546-8881.
Annie Aug 3-5, 8-12, 8pm Fri-Sun, 8pm Wed- Sun. themuni.org. Directed by Carly Shank. Sponsored by RSM. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr., 793-MUNI.
Lionel Bart’s Oliver! Aug 3-5, 9-11, 8pm. Book, music and lyrics by Lionel Bart. Directed by 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.
St. Jude Runs Springfield Aug 4, 5am-8pm Sat. Join the Springfield to Peoria St. Jude Runners as they make their way relay style to the St. Jude telethon. 1-3 mile legs on mostly flat terrain. stjuderuns.org. Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, 1200 Capital Airport Dr., 788-9200.
Abe Lincoln Car Show Spectacular Aug 4, 8am-4pm Sat. Includes ground and air displays, police officer and veterans tribute and more. Car show features all makes and models. Free to spectators. Knights Action Park, 1700 Knights Recreation Dr., 546-8881.
Self Presentation from Portraits to Snapshots Aug 8, 12pm Wed. Moderated by Erika Holst, Curator of Decorative Arts and History. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Illinois State Museum Research & Collections Center, 1011 E. Ash St., 785-0037.
Illinois State Fair Aug 9-19, Thu-Sat. So much to do we can’t list everything. Food, entertainment, midway, exhibits and more. Admission.illinois.gov. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 782-6661.
Abe’s Amble 10K Aug 19, 7:30am 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.
Farming in the Great Corn Belt Aug 19, 2-3pm Sun. Presentation titled “Farming in the Great Corn Belt: 200 Years of Challenges, Choices and Changes” by Don Meyer, an agriculture instructor and FFA advisor. Free. 782-0979. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., Springfield, 782- 7386.
Spoon River Anthology Aug 24-26, 30-31, Sep 1, 8pm. By Charles Aidman, Edgar Lee Masters and Naomi Caryl Hirshhorn. Directed by Phil Funkenbusch. $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.
Constitution Day Aug 26, Sun. Celebration features the grand opening of the Illinois Realtors Bicentennial Plaza and the newly restored Governor’s Mansion. Festivities held on Jackson Street and at other downtown locations. Downtown Springfield.
SEPTEMBER
Bicentennial Pageant Sep 1-2, Sat-Sun. Pageant features reenactments of Lincoln’s New Salem years with patriotic imagery and fanfare. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-4000.
Sangamon Valley Woodcarvers Annual Show Sep 1-2, 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., 782-6661.
Springfield Oyster and Beer Festival Sep 1, 12-5pm Sat. 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.
Labor Day Parade Sep 3, 10-11am Mon. A celebration of the achievements of working people throughout the year. downtownspringfield.org. 544-1723. Downtown Springfield.
Prairie Defender: The Murder Trials of Abraham Lincoln Sep 6, 12pm Thu. Illinois History Forum session moderated by author George R. Dekle. Free. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Hamilton and History VIP Dinner Sep 6, 6:30pm Thu. Featuring New York Times bestselling author Jeremy McCarter, who co-authored “Hamilton: The Revolution” along with Lin Manuel- Miranda. hcfta.org. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 523-2787.
Bluegrass Concerts Sep 7-8, 6-10pm Fri-Sat. Featuring performers from all over the Midwest. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 632-4000.
Art Spectacular Sep 8-9, 10am-5pm Sat, 10am-4pm Sun. A multi-experience festival consisting of art, music and children’s programs. Featuring 50 regional and national artists. Free admission; kids’ place costs $2 per child. carillon-rees. org. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546- 4116.
FamilyFunFest Sep 8, 8am-5pm 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. 522-1129. Downtown Springfield, Washington Street between Sixth and Seventh streets.
Traditional Music Festival Sep 8-9, 10am-4pm Sat-Sun. 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.
Capital City Century Sep 9, 7am Sun. Distance options of 10-125 miles over flat to slightly rolling terrain. Food stops, SAG service, postride party. Registration. spfldcycling.org. Knights of Columbus 364, 2200 S. Meadowbrook Road, 787-2360.
Oral History Blagojevich Sep 12 Wed. Moderated by Mark DePue. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Public Art in Springfield Sep 12, 7pm Wed. Panel discussion featuring John McClarey, Troy Freeman, Corrin McWhirter and Allison Lacher. Moderated by Betsy Dollar. Part of the “Yesterday, Tomorrow and Today: Illinois Realtors Town Hall Speaker Series.” springfieldart.org. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 523- 2631.
When Character was King: A Story of Ronald Reagan Sep 13, 12pm Thu. Illinois History Forum session moderated by ALPLM Executive Director Alan Lowe. Free. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Fall Festival Sep 15-16, 10am-5pm Sat, 9am-4pm Sun. Featuring vendors, artisans, reenactments and more. $5 adults, $3 ages 6-12, and free to ages 5 and under. clayville.org. Clayville, Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 572-4984.
Illinois in Art and Literature, 1818 to 2017 Sept 16, 2-3pm Sun. A wide-ranging, slide-illustrated presentation by art historian and educator Laura Mueller. Free. 782-0979. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 782-7386.
Sangamon River: A Sense of Place Sep 18, 6:30pm Tue. Presentation by Professor Charles Schweighauser.pspld.com. Prairie Skies Public Library - Pleasant Plains, 555 Buckeye Road, Pleasant Plains, 626-1553.
International Route 66 Mother Road Festival Sept 21-23, 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.
City Wide Hymn Fest Sep 23, 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, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546- 3853.
Full Moon Trail Run Sep 24, 7pm Mon. 2.5-mile nighttime trail run. srrc.net. Lewis Memorial Acres, 399 S. Koke Mill Road.
1776 Sept 28-30, Oct 5-7, 8pm Fri-Sat, 2pm Sun. Directed by Gus Gordon. Old State Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, 785-9363.
OCTOBER
Conference on Illinois History Oct 4-5, Thu-Fri. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Candlelight Tour Oct 5-7, 7-9pm Thu-Sun. 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.
Morgan Horse Demonstration Oct 6, 1pm Sat. 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.
Civil War Music Oct 10, Wed. Moderated by Christian McWhirter. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Carve for the Carillon Oct 13-14, Sat-Sun. Help carve, scoop and move pumpkins for the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. Pumpkins supplied. All ages, abilities welcome. Rain or shine. Free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546-3853.
Springfield Marathon, 3/4 Marathon, Half Marathon and Quarter Marathon Oct 13-14, Sat-Sun. All routes feature beautiful scenery and begin and end on the UIS campus. springfieldmarathon.com. University of Illinois at Springfield, 206-6073.
Route 66: History of Transportation in Springfield Oct 16, 5:30pm Tue. Speakers TBA. Part of the “Yesterday, Tomorrow and Today: Illinois Realtors Town Hall Speaker Series.” Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh St., 753-4900.
Illinois Prairies: A Sense of Place Oct 18, 6:30pm Thu. Presentation by Professor Charles Schweighauser. pspld.com. Prairie Skies Public Library District - Ashland, 125 W. Editor St., Ashland, 476-3417.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Oct 19-20, Fri-Sun. See illuminated jack-o-lanterns carved by community members and local artists. Food vendors on site. Rain or shine. carillonrees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546- 3853.
Great Pumpkin Grab Oct 21, Sun. Child-friendly trick-ortreating experience with fun activities.
Carved pumpkins available to take home while supplies last. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546-3853.
Music to Commemorate the Illinois Bicentennial Oct 21, 2-3pm Sun. “From Prairie to Farm to City: Music to Commemorate the Illinois Bicentennial” by Chicagobased hammered dulcimer player Phil Passen. Free. 782-0979. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 782-7386.
Hair Wreaths and Mourning Items Oct 24, 12pm Wed. Moderated by Erika Holst, curator of decorative arts and history. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Illinois State Museum Research & Collections Center, 1011 E. Ash St., 785-0037.
Halloween at the Market Oct 27, 8am-12pm Sat. Featuring costume contests for kids, families and dogs, plus many special activities. downtownspringfield.org. 544-1723. Downtown Springfield.
Fall Festival Oct 27-28, 10am-4pm Sat-Sun. Periodclothed 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, 632-4000.
NOVEMBER
Lincoln and Shakespeare Nov 2-3, 7pm Fri-Sat. Starring Fritz Klein as Abraham Lincoln. Directed by Kevin Purcell.hcfta.org. 523-2787. Old State Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, 785-9363.
Tomb Robbers Nov 7, Wed. Moderated by James Cornelius. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
South Side Girls: Growing Up in the Great Migration Nov 8, 12pm Thu. Illinois History Forum session moderated by historian Holly Kent, University of Illinois Springfield. Free. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Veteran’s Day Parade Nov 11, 10-11am Sun. A celebration of the brave men and women of the Armed Forces. downtownspringfield.org. 544-1723. Downtown Springfield.
Springfield through the Wars Nov 13, 6pm Tue. Featuring speaker Laura Reyman on Springfield’s Soldiers’ Aid Society during the Civil War and FBI speaker Craig King on his time serving at Guantanamo. Part of the Yesterday, Tomorrow and Today: Illinois Realtors Town Hall Speaker Series. The State Journal Register, 1 Copley Plaza, 788-1326.
Abe’s Trail Trek Nov 17, 8:30am Sat. New courses for 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.
Memorial’s Festival of Trees Nov 17-25, 10am-8pm Mon-Sat, 10am-5pm Sun. Featuring trees, swags and wreaths decorated by area designers. 2018 theme is “Illinois Bicentennial.” Thanksgiving hours are 4-8pm. MemorialsFestivalofTrees.com. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 725-8047.
The Polar Express Pajama Party Nov 23-25, 5:30pm Fri-Sat, 1pm Sat, 3pm Sun. Enjoy crafting, hot cocoa, a screening of The Polar Express, and a visit with a special North Pole guest. Pajamas encouraged. $15 advance, $20 day of. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.
DECEMBER
Caroling at the Carillon Dec 9, Sun. Sing carols accompanied by the carillon bells, visit with Santa, and enjoy cocoa and cookies. Free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 546-3853.
Mary Todd Lincoln Dec 13, Thu. Moderated by Samuel Wheeler. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 558-8844.
Mr. Lincoln’s 200th Birthday Dec 13, 7pm Thu. Starring Pam Brown. hcfta.org. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 523-2787.
Marshall Field’s Christmas Dec 20, 12pm Thu. Moderated by Betsy Dollar of Springfield Art Association. Part of the ALPLM and ISM’s “Tales from the Vault” program series. Illinois State Museum Research & Collections Center, 1011 E. Ash St., 785-0037.
It’s a Wonderful Life Dec 21, 7pm Fri. Film screening. $10 at door, $5 with Kumler Food Pantry donation. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800- 838-3006.
White Christmas Dec 22, 7pm Sat. Film screening. $10 at door, $5 with Kumler Food Pantry donation. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800- 838-3006.
Love, Actually Dec 23, 7pm Sun. Film screening. $10 at door, $5 with Kumler Food Pantry donation. atthelegacy.com. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.
First Night Dec 31, 1-4pm and 5-11:15pm Mon. Complimentary afternoon activities for kids. Ticketed shows feature evening music, dance and more at various downtown locations at night. Admission.springfieldartsco.org. Downtown Springfield.
MORE EVENTS, MORE DETAILS
in our online calendar at
Searchable by date, venue, genre, name and more.
