Noteworthy happenings in and around the capital city

Event listings updated daily at illinoistimes.com

“Midway”

Through April 14, Mon.-Thu, 11am-6pm. The primary focus of Ann Toebbe’s paintings is domestic life. Her process employs freehand painting, flat geometry, geometric abstraction and intricate patterning. UIS Visual Arts Gallery, HSB 201, One University Plaza, 217-206-6506.

“Edgewise”

Through Aug. 31. A celebration of the women, female and queer-gendered voices from imposed margins who have found ways to get a word in edgewise in a male-centric society. This collection holds powerful stories of women’s lives and their contributions to the arts, history, and science. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.

Friday Night Jazz

Every Friday, 5:30-7:30pm. Sponsored by the Springfield Area Arts Council. No cover charge. Family friendly, free parking and accessible. Boone’s, 301 Edwards St. 217-679-3752

Second Saturday Open Studio

Second Saturday of every month, 12-4pm. Watch Pharmacy member artists at work and ask questions to learn about their methods and mediums. Masks and social distancing are required. Free. pharmacygallery.com. The Pharmacy Gallery and Art Space, 623 E. Adams St., 801-810-9278.

Spring Floral Show

March 26-April 17. Just in time for the flowers to push themselves up through the dirt and shake their petals free. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.

Friday Nights at DIM

Every Friday, 6-8pm, beginning April 1. First Friday receive professional art critiques, on the second Friday try live model drawing, hang out with the artists on the third Friday, and the fourth and fifth Fridays are for projects on which you want to work. DIM Art House, 319 Chatham Road, 773-235-5600.

APRIL

Carillon concerts

April through December. Master carillonneur Carlo van Ulft and local assistant carillonneurs play a variety of music from original carillon compositions to arrangements of popular classics and pop music. Enjoy the beauty of the park and gardens with the unique accompaniment of carillon music. Visit the website or call for performance times. Free. carillon-rees.org. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-306-1838.

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella

April 1-2, 7pm, April 3, 2pm, April 8-9, 7pm and April 10, 2pm. The pumpkin! The glass slipper! This Tony Award-winning family fun musical delights audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. Jaw-dropping transformations, stunning costumes and a bit of magic. $18. Hoogland Center for the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.

Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon

April 2, 7:30am. Run through history in Abraham Lincoln’s hometown, including past his law office, his tomb and the only home he over owned. USATF certified course. Go Abe! Downtown, Old State Capitol Plaza. srrc.net.

Abe for all: Sensory-free night

April 2, 4-7pm. A series of learning experiences supporting and promoting diversity and inclusion. Intentional activities to engage guests and make Lincoln’s legacy accessible to all. Modifications to lights and sounds, quiet places and new activities will be offered. Free. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 212 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.

USA Boxing

April 16, 7:30pm. Springfield Cobras Boxing presents USA Olympic-style amateur boxing. theboscenter.com. $20-$60. BoS Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, 800-745-3000.

Club LaCage Drag Show

April 22-23, 7pm. Presented by the Phoenix Center. Two evenings of song, dance and comedy. The queens and personalities that grace the stage will keep you wildly entertained. The theme is the 70s, so dress the part and enjoy the fun. Admission includes snacks and swag. Tickets available at hcfta.org. $25-$35. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-528-5253.

Lady Windermere’s Fan

April 22-23, 7pm and April 24, 2pm. Affairs, confrontation, denial, retribution. An examination of the gender politics within marriage and society, and the ambiguous idea of morality among the upper classes. springfieldart.org. $15. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.

Moana Jr.

April 22-23, 7pm. April 24, 2pm.This thrilling and heartwarming coming-of-age story follows the strong-willed Moana as she sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. Presented by the Springfield Theatre Centre. hcfta.org. Hoogland Center for the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.

AIWO Color Me Holi 5K Run/Walk

April 23, 9am-2pm. Holi is India’s festival of colors that celebrates spring. Even if you don’t want to run or walk, you can still join the fun with color play, high-energy dance moves to Bollywood music and delicious Indian treats. This Asian Indian Women’s Organization (AIWO) event will benefit local Girls on the Run. $30. Washington Park, 1501 S. Grand Ave. W., 217-544-1751.

Billy Gilman

April 23, 8pm. Gilman made the Guinness Book of World Records as the youngest singer to reach #1 on the Billboard Top Country Album charts. $35 in advance, $40 day of and $50 VIP. $50 add on for meet and greet. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.

Family Pops: Jeans & Classics

April 23, 7:30pm. The music of Queen and Journey by the Illinois Symphony Orchestra. ilsymphony.org. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Spring Lawn and Garden Sale

April 23-24. Find flowers, plants, mowers, garden art and more. Visit the wine and beer garden, Butterfly Encounter and Let’s Talk Lawn & Garden educational series and over 30 vendors. Free parking in the ramp. BoS Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, 800-745-3000.

Earth Awareness Fair

April 23, 10am-4pm. A family friendly event with exhibitors, animals, hands-on activities, art, music, workshops, games, contests and food. Tree huggers welcome. Hosted by the City of Springfield. Free. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-789-2255.

Ron White

April 28, 7:30pm. Tater Salad in person. $39-$95. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

UIS Chorus Concert

April 29, 7pm. Tsai Chan, director. Also viewable online. uis.edu/music. UIS Studio Theatre, One University Plaza, 217-206-7529.

MAY

National Inventors Month

May 1 through May 31, Tue.-Fri., 12-4pm and Sat., 10am-5pm. An exhibit of some of the many inventions of African Americans. spiaahm.org. Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.

Moonlight Market

May through September, first and third Wednesdays of every month, 6-9pm. Highlighting local crafters, farmers, artists and artisans from around the central Illinois area, plus live music. On Jackson Street between Fifth and Sixth streets. 217-670-0627.

The British Invasion

May 1. Featuring songs from The Rolling Stones, Dave Clark 5, The Animals, The Kinks and Dusty Springfield, this immersive multimedia show will place the audience front and center of pop culture history. uispac.com. $20-$69.50. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Dr. Dolittle Day

May 1. Learn even more about the zoo residents, watch animal care demonstrations and join in lots of fun activities. $7 adults, $5 ages 3-12. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-585-1821.

Artsy: An Art Fair for Kids in Care

May 1, 1-4pm. Amazing art, hands-on experiences, balloon animals and arm painting. Fancy Nancy activities. Benefits The James Project, a nonprofit foster care and adoption ministry. The Pharmacy Gallery and Art Space, 623 E. Adams St., 801-810-9278.

3, 2, 1 Blastoff

May 4, 10am. A concert for kids by the Illinois Symphony Orchestra. ilsymphony.org. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Styx

May 5, 7:30pm. The band draws from over four decades of barn-burning chart hits, joyous singalongs and hard-driving deep cuts. $54-$149. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Illinois Quarter Horse Show

May 5-8. One of the oldest recognized horse breeds in the U.S. that originated ca. 1660 as a cross between native horses of Spanish origin and English horses imported to Virginia. They excel at sprinting short, quarter-mile distances. Free. Coliseum, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E. Sangamon Ave.

Make Our Garden Grow

May 6, 7pm. UIS and Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras. Directed by Logan Campbell. Viewing also available online. uis.edu/music. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Fat Ass 5K and Street Party for Charity

May 7, 10am. This race has generated over $1.5 million for charity since 2008. Includes stops for beer, corn dogs, donuts and ice cream, because why not? Live music and entertainment throughout the race route, followed by a street party that includes drinks, barbecue and more live music. fatass5k.com. Downtown Springfield, Sixth and Adams streets, 217-525-1111.

UIS Chamber Music Concert

May 7, 7pm. University of Illinois Springfield and Illinois Symphony Orchestra musicians. Also viewable online. uis.edu/music. UIS Studio Theatre, One University Plaza, 217-206-7529.

Abe’s Mini Triathlon

May 7, 8:30am. 100-yard swim, 5-mile bike ride and 1-mile run. triharderpromotions.com. Porta High School, Petersburg, 17651 Bluejay Road, 217-341-1309.

Mother’s Day Remembrance Tribute

May 7, 10-11am. Honoring all mothers and the important roles they have played in our lives. The brief ceremony will be led by a certified celebrant. CDC guidelines will be followed. Roselawn Memorial Park, 1735 S. Camp Butler Road, 217-525-1661.

Color and Light/Reading Light

May 9, 6-8pm. Sacred art and architecture lecture by Anthony Rubano. Part of the biennial Liturgical Arts Festival of Springfield. lafspringfield.org. Free. Sacred Heart Convent Chapel, 1237 W. Monroe. 217-523-5212.

To Love and to Cherish

May 10, 6-8pm. A concert of wedding music, and a wedding arts and apparel display. Part of the biennial Liturgical Arts Festival of Springfield. lafspringfield.org. Cathedral Church of St. Paul, 815 S. Second St., 217-544-5135.

In the Blink of an Eye

May 13, 6pm. Celebrating life’s journey through the spoken word and music. An original performance work by Leigh Steiner and Phil Funkenbusch. Part of the Liturgical Arts Festival of Springfield. lafspringfield.org. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 217-528-4311.

Miscast Cabaret

May 13-14, 8pm and May 15, 2pm. What happens when things get mixed up a bit and some of your favorite musical theater songs are gender swapped? The result is certain to be humorous, breathtaking and spectacular. $20. Hoogland Center for the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.

Wrought Iron Hammer-In

May 14, 9am-4pm. A bunch of blacksmiths sharing stories and making metal parts the old-fashioned way. The historic buildings will be open for small, socially distanced tours. Beverage service and popcorn available. clayville.org. Clayville Historic Site, 12828 State Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 217-481-4430.

Bird banding

May 14, 8am-2pm. A family friendly event with Lincoln Land Community College and the Illinois State Museum. Learn how and why birds are banded with licensed bander Tony Rothering. Experience the variety and beauty of the diverse bird population in this area. Children’s activities provided by the Illinois State Museum. Donations welcome. Jubilee Farm, 6760 Old Jacksonville Road, 217-787-6927.

Native plant sale

May 14, 9am-1pm. Native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants, multiple milkweed species and a great selection of plants for pollinators and wildlife. Hosted by the Illinois Native Plant society. Illinois State Fairgrounds Commodities Pavilion, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-243-6055.

American Journey

May 14, 7:30pm. $21-$63. Be sure to catch this exciting musical journey across America presented by the Illinois Symphony Orchestra and featuring violinist William Hagen. ilsymphony.org. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Springfield Area Highland Games and Celtic Festival

May 14, 9am-10pm. If you want to prove that you have what it takes to be a soldier or courier in Scotland, you can try to toss a 20 ft.-tall caber, throw a 56 lb. weight over a raised bar or show that you can play well with others by participating in a tug-of-war. Conversely, you can watch others do those things while you also enjoy bagpipe bands, food, storytelling and Scottish goods. $8-$15. Children under 5 are free. Tickets are available online only. centralillinoiscelts.com. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, 318 W. Birch. 217-488-2685.

When Night Falls

May 14, 7-9pm. Celebrations of life and death. Part of the biennial Liturgical Arts Festival of Springfield. lafspringfield.org. Free. Staab Funeral Home, 1109 S. Fifth St., 217-528-6461.

Nothing to Be Afraid Of

May 15, 6pm. Jazz funeral, brass band parade and concert. Part of the biennial Liturgical Arts Festival of Springfield. lafspringfield.org. Free. First Christian Church Springfield, 700 S. Sixth St., 528-3407.

King Richard

May 20. A look at how tennis superstars Venus and Serena Williams became who they are after getting coached by their father, Richard Williams. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Part of the Movies in the Park series. Begins at sunset. Free. Velasco Tennis Center, 2500 S. Grand Ave. W., 217-753-6225.

Springfield PrideFest

May 21, 12-10pm. Bringing it “Back to the Streets” on the gayest of days. A day of embracing diversity and celebrating the local LGBTQ community. Kid’s area, live entertainment, great vendors and food and drinks. Organized by the Phoenix Center. phoenixcenterspringfield.org. Downtown Springfield, Fifth and Capitol streets, 217-528-5253.

Springfield Old Capitol Art Fair

May 21-22. Sat., 10am-5pm. Sun., 10am-4pm. Set against the backdrop of the Old State Capitol, the art fair is the jewel of the Midwest. This tradition of fine art has brought artists and shoppers from across the country flocking to downtown Springfield’s two-day outdoor art gallery for 60 years. socaf.org.

Old Capitol Farmers Market

May 21-Oct. 30. Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8am-1pm. Local cheese, produce, meats, art and more. downtownspringfield.org. Downtown Springfield. Adams Street between Fifth and Second streets, 217-544-1723.

“Weird Al” Yankovic

May 22, 7-9pm. $39-$329. The Unfortunate Return of the Ridiculously Self-Indulgent, Ill-Advised Vanity Tour. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Disney’s Descendants: The Musical

May 27, 7pm and May 28-29, 2pm and 5pm. The Hoogland Teens and Kids are back. Based on the popular Disney Channel Original Movies, featuring the beloved characters and hit songs from the films. hcfta.org. $16. Hoogland Center for the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.

“NOIR: The Migration”

May 27-Sep. 3. A showcase of art depicting the migration of Black Americans. Co-curated by national artists Michelle Smith and Kas King. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.

The Spongebob Musical

May 27-29, 8:30pm and June 1-5, 8:30pm. SpongeBob, Patrick, Sandy, Squidward and all of Bikini Bottom face total annihilation, until a most unexpected hero rises to take center stage. Reserved seating $20. Lawn seating $13. Children 5 and under are free on the lawn. For tickets, call 314-534-1111 or visit metrotix.com. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr., 217-793-MUNI.

JUNE

Artist on the Plaza

Every Wednesday, June through Sep. 2, 12-1pm. Featuring local performers. Accessible. Seating available or bring your own. Food and drink available for purchase. Sponsored by the Springfield Area Arts Council. Free. Old State Capitol Plaza, Downtown, 217-753-3519.

Region XI Arabian and Half Arabian Championship Show

June 1-5. A showcase for the horse breed preferred by so many distance riders. aha11.com. Free. Coliseum, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E. Sangamon Ave.

Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series

A variety of outstanding music acts perform Thursdays from June 2 through August 4, 6-8:30pm. Hosted by the Springfield Area Arts Council. Visit springfieldartsco.org for an up-to-date lineup. Free. downtownspringfield. org. Downtown Springfield, Y Block north of the Governor’s Mansion. 217-544-1723.

An Officer and a Gentleman

June 2, 7:30pm. A sweeping romance that lifts you up where you belong. $24-$89. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

International Carillon Festival

June 2-5. Begins at 6:30pm each evening. Fireworks at dusk on Friday. Lauded as one of the world’s most important and prestigious carillon events, the festival has an unsurpassed tradition of presenting the finest carillonneurs from around the world. carillon-rees.org. Free. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-306-1838.

Legacy of Giving Music festival

June 3, 5pm-12am and June 4, 12pm-12am. Over 60 music acts on five stages. Two days of music, arts, crafts, kid’s entertainment, food trucks and sporting events. All proceeds benefit local charities. logmusicfest.org. Old State Capitol Plaza, between Sixth and Fifth streets at Adams Street, 217-361-5678.

42

June 3. The inspirational true story of Jackie Robinson and how he became the first African American baseball player allowed to play in the major league. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Part of the Movies in the Park series. Begins at sunset. Free. Robin Roberts Stadium, 1415 N. Grand Ave. E., 217-753-0700.

8K Trail Race

June 4, 7:30am. Race over the scenic trails and pathways of the historic garden, along the trails next to Lake Springfield and throughout the Ostermeier Prairie Center grounds. Kids can participate in a Fun Run for $5. No race-day registration. $30 or $35 after April 15. Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-529-1111.

National Convention and Truck Show

June 9-11. Presented by the American Truck Historical Society. Three full days of shows, presentations, vendor expos, trucking stories (bet there’ll be some doozies) and truck history. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.

Sangamon County Fair

June 15-19. A classic Midwestern county fair with livestock shows, a queen contest, midway, bootscootin’ music and other top-notch entertainment. sangcofair.com. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, 316 W. Birch, New Berlin, 217-488-2685.

Space Jam

June 17. A group of aliens arrive in Loony Tune world and challenge the inhabitants to a battle for the ownership of that world. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Part of the Movies in the Park series. Begins at sunset. Free. Comer Cox Park, Capitol Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, 544-1751.

Ragtime the Musical

June 17-19, 8:30pm and June 22-26, 8:30pm. An epic that captures the American experience of three diverse families and follows them as their lives intertwine at the turn of the 20th century. Reserved seating $20. Lawn seating $13. Children 5 and under are free on the lawn. 314-534-1111. metrotix.com. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr., 217-793-MUNI.

Summer Frolic

June 18, 10am-4pm. Celebrate frontier heritage with period-clothed interpreters demonstrating throughout the historic village. Demonstrations include blacksmithing, coopering, weaving, cooking, period games and more. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.

Juneteenth Celebration Weekend

June 18-19. A community-wide celebration with a variety of family friendly events, music and special displays at area museums. Find more information on the Juneteenth Inc. Springfield, IL Facebook page. 217-572-0234.

Anastasia the Musical

June 23. 7:30pm. This dazzling show will transport you from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, following a brave young woman who sets out on a journey to discover the mystery of her past. $24-$89. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

My One and Only

June 24-26, July 6-10, July 13-17 and July 20-24. The s’wonderful Gershwin musical. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.

Paint the Street

June 25. Reserve a 6 ft. x 6 ft. square and get to painting beginning at 12pm. Live music will begin at 7pm and food will be available. Admission is free, squares are $30-$35. Paint the Driveway is also an option this year for a fee of $20-$25. Springfieldart.org. Downtown Springfield, Washington Street. 217-523-2631.

JULY

History Comes Alive

July through September, on Saturdays at 1:30pm. A weekly presentation series that delves into our past. Visit the website for up-to-date schedule information. spiaahm.org. Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.

Independence Day Celebration

July 1, 2 and 5.10:00am to 4:00pm. Get your 19 th century patriot on. Period demonstrations and the reading of the Declaration of Independence each day. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.

Rock the Dock

July 1, 6pm. Food trucks, live music by Off the Wall. Fireworks at dusk. Lake Springfield Marina, 17 Waters Edge Blvd., 483-3625.

Knight’s Fireworks Extravaganza

Mon., July 4, 9:30pm. Should be a bang-up time. Knight’s Action Park, 1700 Knights Recreation Dr., 217-546-8881.

Luca

July 8. A coming-of-age story about a young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Part of the Movies in the Park series. Begins at sunset. Free. Veterans Memorial Pool, 2700 Ely St., 753-3030.

Disney’s Newsies the Broadway Musical

July 8-10 and July 13-17, 8:30pm. Set in 1899, a courageous group of New York City newsboys become unlikely heroes when they team up to fight an unscrupulous newspaper tycoon. Based on a true story. Reserved seating $20. Lawn seating $13. Children 5 and under are free on the lawn. 314-534-1111. metrotix.com. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr., 217-793-MUNI.

Women’s Distance Festival

July 9, Sat, 8am. Bring your mother, daughter, sister or friend and run or walk this beautiful two-mile course through the park. For women and girls of all ages, whether you are a competitive runner or just plan to take a stroll. Registrants get a race shirt and an awesome swag bag. srrc.net. Washington Park, 1501 S. Grand Ave. W., 217-544-1751.

Memorial Health Championship presented by LRS

July 14 and 15 7am-7pm, July 16, 7am-6pm and July 17, 7am-7pm. A PGA Tour-sanctioned event on the Korn Ferry Tour, presented by LRS. This four-day, 72-hole competition features 156 players from around the world vying for a total purse of $750,000. MemorialHealthChampionship.com. Panther Creek Country Club, 3001 Panther Creek Dr., 217-670-2910.

Children’s Day

July 15, 10am-4pm. Interpreters will introduce 1830s life with a focus on involving children in many demonstrations. From period games to historic blacksmithing, there will be something for children of all ages to enjoy. Gift bags will be given away while supplies last. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.

Chatham Jaycees Sweet Corn Festival

July 15, 5-11:30pm and July 16, 10am-11:30pm. Live music, food, vendors and children’s activities. A big shout out to the local cows’ contributions to that perennial favorite, the Illinois Championship Cow Chip Throw. Chatham Community Park, Chatham, 731 S. Main St.

Driving Miss Daisy

July 22-23, 8pm and July 24, 4pm. Presented by the Spencer Theater Company. This play won the 1988 Pulitzer Prize for drama. hcfta.org. $18-$20. Hoogland Center for the Arts, Theatre 3, 420 S. 6th St., 523-2787.

Downhome Music Festival

July 29-30. With local artists and performers, over 100 craft beers and fantastic food vendors, this could be the best Downhome so far. Downtown Springfield, Seventh and Washington streets, 217-622-1374.

Matilda the Musical

July 29-31, 8:30pm and Aug. 3-7, 8:30pm. Matilda is an extraordinary girl who, armed with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, dares to take a stand and change her destiny. Reserved seating $20. Lawn seating $13. Children 5 and under are free on the lawn. 314-534-1111. metrotix.com. The Muni, 815 E. Lake Dr., 217-793-MUNI.

Stoneman Sprint Triathlon, Abe’s Olympic and Route 66 Half Triathlon

July 30. One day, three races. Staggered start times. Winners of the Stoneman Sprint and Abe’s Olympic Triathlons qualify for the National Championship in August in Milwaukee. triharderpromotions.com. Lake Springfield Beach House, 100 Long Bay Dr., 217-341-1309.

AUGUST

Soul

Aug. 5. After landing the gig of a lifetime, a New York jazz pianist suddenly finds himself trapped in a strange land between Earth and the afterlife. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Part of the Movies in the Park series. Begins at sunset. Free. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-585-1821. Free. Kiwanis Park, Stanton Street.

Powerlight Abe Lincoln Car Show

Aug 5-6. Super Cruise on Friday at 7:30pm from the Y Block to Knight’s Action Park. Car Show Spectacular 8am-4pm on Saturday. Free. Knight’s Action Park, 1700 Knights Recreation Dr., 217-553-5271.

Illinois State Fair

Aug 11-21. Every kind of food imaginable, the sounds of pulsating music and concert-goers’ cheers at the grandstand shows, a midway with all the bells, whistles and whirls, harness-racing horses kicking up the dust on the track, tons of agricultural shows and lots of 10-gallon hats and cowboy boots. Visit the Facebook page for event updates and admission info. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.

Abe’s Amble

Aug 21. 10K/5K race. On the last day of the Illinois State Fair, hundreds of runners from Illinois and surrounding states take to the streets covering the fairgrounds, Lincoln Park, Oak Ridge Cemetery and back. This challenging 10K course is USATF-certified and a lot of fun. Certified 5K course option available. srrc.net. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.

Jumanji

Aug. 26. Two kids play a magical board game that releases a man trapped in it for years and a host of dangers. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Part of the Movies in the Park series. Begins at sunset. Free. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-585-1821.

Old Capitol Blues and BBQ

Aug. 26-27. The best and bluesiest summer fest. Featuring top blues bands, unbeatable award-winning BBQ, cold drinks and first-rate fun. Old State Capitol Plaza, between Sixth and Fifth streets at Adams, 217-523-1455.

Hoop Skirt and Haber-DASH 5K Fun Run

Aug. 27, 8am. Race back to the 19th century. Fun costuming is encouraged. Dress like you just stepped out of a haberdashery or in a big hoopskirt. A prize will be awarded for the best dressed of the bunch. springfieldart.org. $30. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.

Jubilee Regional Championship Morgan Horse Show

Aug. 31-Sep. 3, 9am-10pm. The stamina and spirit of the Morgan, combined with its build and way of traveling, contributed greatly to the formation of other American breeds. Coliseum, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E. Sangamon Ave.

SEPTEMBER

Springfield Mile 1 and 2

Sep. 3. The annual Labor Day weekend doubleheader of the world’s premier flat track motorcycle racing series. You just now imagined the sound of all those motorcycles zinging past the grandstand, didn’t you? Ticket prices will increase the week of the event. $20-$150. Children 12 and under $5-$25. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.

Springfield Oyster and Beer Festival

Sep 3, Sat,12-5pm. This event has raised more than $87,000 for area charities. Features over 5,000 gourmet oysters and 130 different types of craft beers to wash them down. Live music and local food trucks. Having a good time is much easier when it’s for a great cause. sobfestival.com. The Inn at 835, 835 S. Second St., 217-523-4466.

Bluegrass Concerts and Traditional Music Festival

Sep 9-10, 6:00pm to 10:00pm. Bluegrass performers from all over the Midwest will be playing in the Kelso Hollow outdoor theater. At the Traditional Music Festival on Saturday, musicians are invited to participate in impromptu jam sessions from 10am-4pm. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.

Spinning

Sep. 9 and10. For both new and experienced spinners. Numerous wheels will be available for practice or lessons. Visit the website for more information. jubileefarm.info. Fee TBD. Jubilee Farm, 6760 Old Jacksonville Road, 217-787-6927.

Capital City Century Ride

Sep 10. One of the oldest and most popular recreational bicycle rides in Illinois. A scenic, one-day ride on lowtraffic roads. Five route options. Hosted by the Springfield Bicycle Club. spfldcycling.org. Centennial Park, 5529 Bunker Hill Road. 217-899-9175.

Art Spectacular

Sep 10-11. A juried fine art and craft fair, ranked by Sunshine Artist Magazine as one of The Best 200 Art Fairs in the United States for over five years. Free. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-306-1838.

9/11 Ride to Remember

Sep 11. Line up begins at Hall’s Harley Davidson at 9am, ride begins at 10am and ends with a ceremony at the State Capitol. Free. Hall’s Harley Davidson, 2301 N. Dirksen Parkway, 217-528-8356.

Edwards Place Fine Art Fair

Sep 17, 10am-5pm and Sep 18, 10am-4pm. Shop over 70 different art vendors, take tours of Edwards Place Historic Home and join in other fun family activities. springfieldart.org. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.

Leanne Morgan: Big Pantry Tour

Sep. 17, 7pm. Leanne’s style of comedy combines her southern charm and hilarious story telling about her own life. $39.50-$49.50. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Fall Festival

Sep 17-18. A local favorite with music, food, crafts, children’s activities and historic buildings to tour. clayville.org. Clayville Historic Site, 12828 State Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 217-481-4430.

International Route 66 Mother Road Festival

Sep. 23-25. Hundreds of street machines, muscle cars and hot rods will rumble into the heart of Springfield’s historic downtown, followed by thousands of spectators for a weekend of family fun, live music and entertainment. route66fest.com. 217-553-5271.

Chatham Jaycees Oktoberfest

Sep. 30, 5-11:30pm and Oct. 1, 11am-11:30 p.m. Traditional (well, sort of) Oktoberfest celebration. Food, fun, and German and American music. Chatham Community Park, Chatham, 731 S. Main St.

OCTOBER

“Growing Up X”

Oct. 1-May 13. Learn about the cultural touchstones that shaped Gen. X youth, the last generation to have had an analog childhood. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.

Candlelight Walk

Oct 7-8, 7-9pm. A wonderful opportunity to experience village life at night. Period-clothed interpreters will be inside many of the log homes and shops to talk about life in 19 th century Illinois. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.

Youth Charity Horse Show

Oct. 7-9. Class sessions are 8am-10pm Friday and Saturday and 8am-6pm Sunday. The organization donates its annual proceeds to area charities. Free. Coliseum, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-494-1215.

Kinky Boots the Musical

Oct. 14-16, Oct.19-23, Oct. 26-30. A sizzling, high-spirited musical that is bound to put cheer in your heart. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

Oct. 14-15. Nothing quite compares to this Halloween tradition. Carillon music, lighting and sound effects, a unique Tree of Lights and food vendors. Adults $7, children age 4-11 $5 and ages under 4 are free. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.

Whose Live Anyway?

Oct 15, Sat, 8pm. Improvised comedy and song all based on audience suggestions. $35-$69. uispac.com. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.

Prairieland Classic Cluster of Dog Shows

Oct. 20-23. AKC Conformation dog shows. Hundreds of dogs in four shows by regional kennel clubs. Dog supply vendors. Free. Illinois State Fairgrounds Exposition Building, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-621-5169.

National Fossil Exposition

Oct. 21-23. Hosted by the Mid-American Paleontology Society, it is the largest show in the world that exhibits fossils exclusively. You read that right. A show for novices and experts alike. midamericapaleo.org. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-725-8047.

Fall Festival

Oct. 22, 10am-4pm. Period-clothed interpreters will demonstrate daily tasks throughout the historic village such as candle dipping, soap making, blacksmithing, spinning wool, gardening, and natural dyeing. lincolnsnewsalem.com. Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg, 217-632-4000.

NOVEMBER

Weaving workshop

Nov. 4-6. For beginner and advanced weavers. Visit the website for more information. jubileefarm.info. Fee TBD. Jubilee Farm, 6760 Old Jacksonville Road, 217-787-6927.

Memorial Holiday Fest

Nov. 26 and Dec. 3. Held in conjunction with the Old Capitol Holiday Walks. Celebrate the season in the heart of the community this year. Visit downtown Springfield to experience a winter wonderland with decorated trees and wreaths, arts and crafts and more at participating locations. Check the Facebook page for up-to-date information.

Christmas tree lighting

Nov. 26. Hosted by Downtown Springfield, Inc. Old State Capitol Plaza, between Sixth and Fifth streets at Adams. 217-544-1723.

Old Capitol Holiday Walks

Nov. 26 and 30, continuing each Wednesday and Saturday through Dec. 21. Presented by Downtown Springfield Inc. The whole family can enjoy a variety of special events downtown through the holiday season. downtownspringfield.org. 217-544-1723.

DECEMBER

Christmas with Santa

Dec 3, Clayville Historic Site, 12828 State Route 125, Pleasant Plains, 217-481-4430.

Holiday Lights Parade

Dec 3, A dazzling event for the season with a possible sighting of the jolly old elf himself. Hosted by the Springfield Jaycees. Parade begins at dusk. Downtown Springfield, Jefferson Street to Fifth Street to Monroe Street to Sixth Street. 217-544-1723.

Candlelight Christmas

Dec 9-10. Experience the sights and scents of Christmases long ago in the candlelit historic buildings. If you catch a chill from the nippy weather, warm up by the crackling fire in the stone fireplace. Clayville Historic Site, Pleasant Plains, Route 125, 217-481-4430.

First Night Springfield

Dec 31. An annual celebration of the arts with live music, dance and art exhibits at various downtown venues. A family-friendly, handicapped-accessible, and affordable event. Snacks available for purchase. $20, children $5. Hosted by the Springfield Area Arts Council. springfieldartsco.org. Downtown Springfield, 217-753-3519.