visitspringfieldillinois.com
AUGUST
Illinois State Fair
Aug. 7-17. Massive annual fair features every kind of food imaginable, the sounds of music and concertgoers’ cheers at the Grandstand shows, a midway, harness-racing events and tons of agricultural shows and more. The fun begins Aug. 7 with the Twilight Parade. See the fair’s website for complete schedule. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave.
Camp Sunshine
Fri., Aug. 8, 7:30-9:30pm and Sat., Aug. 9, 7:30-9:30pm. Written by Ken Bradbury and Roger Wainwright, Camp Sunshine is a musical telling the story of some young people who attend a camp that’s not so typical … or maybe it is. Sure to be charming show for old, young, and most significantly, the young at heart. theatreinthepark.net. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, Petersburg, 15588 History Lane, 217-725-0239.
Shrek: The Musical
Fri., Aug. 8, 8:30pm and Sat., Aug. 9, 8:30pm. This musical features Shrek, the Ogre, who is on a life-changing journey with a donkey and a princess. Shrek starts off just wanting to be left alone, but finds that love is much more rewarding. LaDonna Wilson will direct the show. The Muni, 815 East Lake Shore Drive, 217-793-6864.
A Harvest of Buttons on the Illinois Prairie
Fri., Aug. 8, 10am and Sat., Aug. 9, 10am. Collectors and dealers from the U.S., Canada, Europe and Japan will descend on Springfield to immerse themselves – and the public – in all things buttons. Celebrate the history, beauty and infinite variety of antique and vintage buttons. Will feature more than 30 antique and vintage button dealers. $5. Crowne Plaza Springfield, 3000 S. Dirksen Pkwy., 217-529-7777.
Illinois Product Artisan Market
Aug. 8-10. This three-day event features Illinois artisans and producers. Taste the flavors of Illinois, connect with the artisans behind the products and discover one-of-a-kind finds. Don’t miss the Fire Department Coffee fire truck on display. Sip and shop Illinois wines available on-site. illinoisproductsfarmersmarket.com. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-558-0788.
Thematic Concert Series – Classical to Modern featuring Caleb Melamed
Fri., Aug. 8, 6:30pm. Each week, the Carillon comes to life with a unique musical theme. This week it ranges from classical to modern music featuring Caleb Melamed. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic and enjoy the sounds of summer under the stars. carillon-rees.org. Free. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.
Rapunzel
Fri., Aug. 8, 7-8pm and Sat., Aug. 9, 3-4, 5-6pm. In this enchanting children’s ballet retelling of this tale, young dancers bring the beloved fairy tale to life. Set in a magical forest, the ballet follows Rapunzel, a girl with long, golden hair locked away in a tower by a jealous sorceress. With whimsical choreography and charming costumes, the performance captures her longing for freedom, her secret friendship with a dashing outlaw, and her daring escape. Rapunzel celebrates courage, love and the power of hope. Crafts and games before the show. Presented by the Springfield Dance Theatre. $30 in advance, $35 day of show, $28 for seniors. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence Ave., 217-528-9760.
Dual Piano in Concert
Fri., Aug. 8, 7pm, Sat., Aug. 9, 7pm and Sun., Aug. 10, 2pm. Damien Kaplan and Mark Gifford will work their magic on the music as only they can do! A couple of guys, a couple of grand pianos and a couple of hours of delight – that’s Dual Piano! hcfta.org. $20-$22. Hoogland Center for the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Statewide: Illinois Artist Showcase
Mondays-Fridays, 9am-5pm and Saturdays, 10am-3pm. Through Aug. 30. This exhibit highlights the work of talented professional artists, ages 21 and above, who are living and working in Illinois.springfieldart.org. Free. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Junior Historians: Getting Hands On Through Art
Sat., Aug. 9, 9am-12pm. A guided activity based on the tactile elements of the “Lincoln: Sight, Sound, and Touch” exhibit. Participants will have an opportunity for hands-on expression after touring the interactive gallery exhibit. For first- through fifth-graders, but older students welcome to join. Advance registration required. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Free. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
Back 2 School Community Day and Health Fair
Sat., Aug. 9, 10am-1pm. Welcome the new school year by attending their community day and health fair. Expect a school supply giveaway, music, food and more. Presented by Northside Church of Christ and Made Wright. Free. Northside Church of Christ, 2400 N. Grand Ave E., 217-361-4661.
EAA Young Eagles Rally
Second Saturday of every month, 10am-2pm. Through Sep. 19. Free airplane rides for children 8-17 years old. Preregistration for flights required. yeDay.org. Free. LLCC’s Levi, Ray & Shoup Aviation Center, Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, 815 South Airport Drive, 217-483-3238.
1st Annual Route 66 Sneaker Convention
Sat., Aug. 9, 12-5pm. The ultimate sneaker extravaganza celebrating all things kicks along the iconic Route 66. Find back to school deals on sneakers, clothes, crafts and more. Tickets on eventbrite.com. $5, children younger than 12 free. Route 66 Hotel and Conference Center, 625 E. St. Joseph St., 217-553-5529.
Pack the Buzz: A School Supply Drive
Sat., Aug. 9, 12-3pm. Fill Floyd Imports’ all-electric VW ID Buzz with donations. Items will be distributed to students through Boys & Girls Club of Central Illinois. Items sought include backpacks, notebooks, No. 2 pencils, pens, crayons, highlighters, washable markers and dry erase markers, folders, binders, paper, glue sticks, Kleenex and Clorox. Includes pictures with Buzz, music and free refreshments. See Facebook page for more info. Free. Floyd Imports, 2320 Prairie Crossing, 217-585-1214.
Mansion Tours
Saturdays, Sundays, 1:45-2:45, 3-4pm. Illinois Department of Natural Resources trained staff and volunteers lead this tour of the official residence of Gov. JB and first lady MK Pritzker. Tour focuses on the history of the mansion. No self-guided tours are permitted. Reserve a spot on eventbrite.com. Free. Illinois Governor’s Mansion, 410 E. Jackson St., 217-782-6450.
ArtVenture Awaits ~ Red, White and You Week
Mondays-Thursdays, 9am-12pm. This summer camp features small classes, big imagination and a “yes you can” spirit. Camp helps children from kindergarten through 12th grade build confidence through creativity, community and fun. After the first class, enjoy easy drop-off and pick-up while your child explores art in a safe, supportive space. See the Facebook page for more info. $35 single class, $120 four sessions. Studio on 6th, 215 S. Sixth St., 217-220-5334.
Springfield International Folk Dancers
Mondays, 7-9pm. Experience the joy of folk dancing from many cultures. All skill levesl welcome and no partners necessary. Free. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-793-8035.
Back to School Bash
Tue., Aug. 12, 4-8pm. Music, entertainment, games, giveaways, free haircuts and more. Free. Comer Cox Park, Capitol Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, 544-1751.
Mini Explorer’s Club
Tuesdays, 9:30-10:15am. Through Aug. 26. Mini Explorer’s club is the Illinois State Museum’s newest engaging, musical, and hands-on 45-minute class for young children aged 18 months to 5 years. Mini Explorer’s Club aims to creatively introduce all the wonders of Illinois to the state’s youngest citizens. Each Explorer’s Club class will teach a new aspect of Illinois history, science or art. Explorers will sing, move and create as they learn all about Illinois’ cultural and natural resources. Free. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-6623.
Cirque Italia Water Circus
Aug. 15-18. Cirque Italia will present a captivating story about Rafael, a farm boy swept away by a tornado who lands in the heart of a city’s chaos. Experience this extraordinary journey of self-discovery. cirqueitalia.com. White Oaks Mall, 2501 Wabash Ave., 941-704-8572.
Yart Sale
Sat., Aug. 16, 9-3am. The SAA’s annual sale of supplies and equipment in metals, ceramics, painting, photography, photography, paper arts and more. As people clean out their closets and donate supplies and equipment from a forgotten hobby, the SAA offers them to the public at low prices. springfieldart.org. Free admission. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Abe’s Amble 2025
Sun., Aug. 17, 7:30am. On the last day of the Illinois State Fair in August each year, hundreds of runners from Illinois and surrounding states take to the streets covering the fairgrounds, Lincoln Park, Oak Ridge Cemetery and back. srrc.net/abesamble. TBA. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Powerlight Fest
Sun., Aug. 17, 2pm. American Idol star Colton Dixon headlines the show at 8pm. The festival begins at 2pm with praise and worship with Hope Church. One God, One Church performs at 3:30pm, Rare of Breed at 5pm. and Emerson Day at 6:30pm. See the Facebook page for more info. Free with admission to fair. The Lincoln Stage, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-553-5271.
Balloons Over 66 Weekend
Aug. 22-24. More than 35 balloons will be launched from locations throughout Lincoln. The weekend includes the annual Lincoln Art Fair, dock dogs, vendors, live music and more in the downtown area. Untethered balloon rides can be purchased. Downtown Lincoln.
2025 Lincoln Art Fair
Fri., Aug. 22, 5-8pm and Sat., Aug. 23, 10am-5pm. Held in the heart of downtown Lincoln, this event is part of the Balloons over 66 Weekend, one of Lincoln’s premier events. Artisans are welcome to apply for the fair. Visit the website for more info. lincolnartinstitute.com. Downtown Lincoln, 309-287-3744.
Danny Funderburk and Anticipation
Fri., Aug. 22, 7pm. An evening with Gospel Hall of Fame member Danny Funderburk and family gospel group Anticipation. Free, donations accepted. Ashland First Baptist Church, Ashland, 221 W. Washington St., 217-883-1651.
Bridging the Gap
Sat., Aug. 23, 11am-2pm. Event brings the community and first responders together in a spirit of unity, trust and fun. Includes barbecue. Presented by The Outlet in partnership with the Springfield Police Department. This is the event’s 10th year. Free. Jaycee Park Pavilion, Monroe Street and White City Boulevard, 217-843-7475.
Kitten Circus
Sat., Aug. 23, 12-5pm. Kittens of all ages and sizes perform daring acts of love and cuteness. Fun for the whole family. Adoption fee is just $25. Adoptions by appointment. Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Road, 217-544-7387.
Land of Lincoln Chorus
Sun., Aug. 24, 5pm. Ice Cream Social Series Concert. Special guests: Sound Celebration Chorus. Sherman Village Park Amphitheater, Sherman, 1200 Rail Fence Drive, 217-737-3359.
Neighborhood Block Party
Sun., Aug. 24, 5-7pm. Connect with neighbors, local businesses and community groups at this event hosted by Douglas Avenue UMC. Includes hot dogs and cotton candy, bounce house, foam machine, games, prizes, crafts, face painting, baby goats, school supply swap and live music. Bring a non-perishable food item for the MicroPantry for a prize ticket. douglasavenue.org. Free. Douglas Avenue United Methodist Church, 501 S. Douglas Ave., 217-546-4631.
Monthly Prairie Hikes
Last Wednesday of every month, 9-10:30am. Through Oct. 29. Join Illinois Audubon Society’s director of land stewardship, Jamie Arntzen, as she shares her expertise on guided hikes through the prairie. See something new every month in this evolving, dynamic landscape. springfieldaudubon.org. Free. Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, 2315 Clear Lake Ave., 217-303-1996.
Raymond Celebration
Aug. 28-30. This annual event features live music, carnival rides, food, children’s events, fireworks, parades and prizes. Raymond Celebration, Raymond, Broad Street, 217-313-3757.
Pride on the Eastside
Fourth Thursday of every month, 5:30-6:30pm. A social group and support meeting for LGBT and people of color. Phoenix Center OUT East, 704 S. Dirksen Pkwy., 217-528-5253.
Springfield Mile
Sat., Aug. 30, 12pm and Sun., Aug. 31, 12pm. 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 roaring past the Grandstand, didn’t you? americanflattrack.com. $20-$150. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-632-0277.
Downtown Springfield Community Cleanup Day
Last Sunday of every month, 1-3pm. Through Sep. 28. Meet at the DSI office. Snacks and supplies will be provided. downtownspringfield.org. Downtown Springfield, Inc., 3 W. Old State Capitol Plaza, 217-544-1723.
SEPTEMBER
Prairieland Chautauqua – Greetings from Jacksonville, 1825-2025
Fri., Sep. 5, 6-9pm and Sat., Sep. 6, 10am-5pm. This year’s theme is centered around the city of Jacksonville in celebration of Jacksonville’s bicentennial. Nichols Park, Jacksonville, 110 Holkenbrink Drive, 217-479-4641.
Tour de Heartland
Sat., Sep. 6, 8am-1pm. Pedal for preservation of the Marbold Farmstead at the 2nd annual Tour de Heartland bike ride hosted by the Historic Marbold Farmstead Association. This event raises funds to restore the farmstead. Cyclists can choose between a scenic 14-mile ride or a challenging 40-mile course, both starting at Greenview High School with a rest stop at Country Hills Golf Course. Register at runsignup.com. historic-marbold-farmstead.org. $40 for 14-mile ride, $45 for 40-mile ride. Historic Marbold Farmstead, Greenview, 21722 State Hwy 29, 720-838-0498.
Historic Marbold Farmstead Heritage Festival
Sat., Sep. 6, 9am-3pm and Sun., Sep. 7, 9am-3pm. Step back in time for two days of history, community and entertainment. Experience live bluegrass music, historic demonstrations, artisan goods, delectable food vendors and guided tours of the Marbold home. Highlights include a pie contest, a presentation on picture postcards and The Corn Crib activity center for kids. historic-marbold-farmstead.org. Adults $6, Family $10. Historic Marbold Farmstead, Greenview, 21722 State Hwy 29, 720-838-0498.
Downtown Springfield Family Fun Fest
Sat., Sep. 6, 11am-3:30pm. A day packed with joy, laughter and endless entertainment, all while supporting Prevent Child Abuse Illinois. Includes inflatable obstacle courses, tasty treats from food trucks, special character appearances, interactive games and non-stop action on the main stage, ending with a foam party. preventchildabuseillinois.org. Free. Y Block, north of the Governor’s Mansion, 217-522-1129.
Vinegar Hill Neighbohood Block Party
Sat., Sep. 6, 12-3pm. A family-friendly event. Features food, entertainment and children’s activities. Free. Vinegar Hill Mall, 107 W. Cook St., 217-522-3123.
Westside Farmers Market
First Sunday of every month, 2-5pm. Through Oct. 5. Enjoy live music, Kidz Corner, chalk and face paint and fresh produce, flowers, handmade goods and boutique clothing. Located at the Papo’s Cafe Strip Mall. Free. Papo’s Cafe, 3290 W. Iles Ave., 217-502-2007.
Rock and Run for Mental Health
Sun., Sep. 7, 9am-12pm. Event features 5K run, 1K fun run/walk, food trucks, paint party and art show and live music. Partial proceeds to benefit nonprofit mental health organizations. rock4mentalhealth.com. $30. Rochester Community Park, Rochester, 90 Wild Rose Lane.
St. Cabrini Fall Festival
Sun., Sep. 7, 10:30am-5pm. Features music, food and beverages, children’s games and much more. The Jonnie Concaroo Band plays at 2pm. Proceeds benefit the parish. Free. St. Frances Cabrini Parish, 1020 N. Milton Ave., 217-522-8555.
Capital City Century
Sat., Sep. 13, 7am-5pm. Five distances from which to choose. Curated routes and low-traffic roads for the seasoned cyclists and beginners alike. Presented by the Springfield Bicycle Club. Register online. $25-$45. Sherman Athletic Club, Sherman, 300 S. First St., 217-899-9175.
Night Glow Festival
Thu., Sep. 18, 6-9pm. As the sun sets, watch the sky come alive with a breathtaking hot air balloon glow at dusk. Besides glowing balloons, event includes food truck and beautiful park views. $5 admission, cash only. Southwind Park, 4965 S. Second St., 217-585-2941.
Clayville Fall Festival
Sat., Sep. 20, 9am-4pm and Sun., Sep. 21, 9am-4pm. A local favorite! Event includes music, food, crafts, children’s activities and historic buildings to tour. See the Facebook site for more info. Free. Clayville Historic Site, Pleasant Plains, Route 125, 217-481-4430.
Mini Chess Tournament
Sat., Sep. 20, 10am-2pm. Chess play for all ages and skill levels. Three games minimum, more if time permits. Register 10-10:25am, play begins at 10:30am. Open to the public, beginners welcome. Bring a chess set. springfieldchessclub.com. Free. Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh St., 217-726-2584.
Edwards Place Fine Art Fair
Sat., Sep. 20, 10am-5pm and Sun., Sep. 21, 10am-4pm. Artwork from artists across the country gather to show their work. Support them, as well as the SAA, by coming out to shop at the best fall art fair in Springfield. Free admission. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
56th Prairie Land Steam Show & Fall Festival
Sep. 26-28, 8am-5pm. See horse-powered equipment, antique tractors, gas and steam engines, demonstrations on bailing, blacksmithing and more. Includes steam train rides, flea market and food. $10, children 12 and under are free. Prairie Land Heritage Museum, Jacksonville, 1005 W. Michigan Ave., 217-243-7262.
Route 66 Mother Road Festival
Fri., Sep. 26, 6-10pm, Sat., Sep. 27, 9am-10pm and Sun., Sep. 28, 9am-12pm. 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. Huge cruise Friday night with car show 9am-10 p.m. Saturday and 9am-noon Sunday. Don’t miss the popular burnout competition. route66fest.com. Free for spectators. Old State Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, 217-553-5271.
Annual Artisan Market
Sat., Sep. 27, 9am-4pm. This year’s event features over 30 local and regional artists showcasing unique works. See the Facebook page for more info including an artisan list, directions, latest announcements and more. Free. Illinois State Fairgrounds Commodities Pavilion, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.