Everyone has heard Julie Garland croon the tune, “Meet me in St. Louis, Louis, Meet me at the fair, Don’t tell me the lights are shining any place but there….” For those who w]]> No matter what your taste in theater might be, whether it’s light musical comedy, modern musical bombast, prize-winning drama, kid-friendly shows or Pythonesque parody, at least one of the regio]]> Paris, New Orleans, London – many fine cities around the world are built on rivers. And that’s also true in Illinois, where Peoria offers a great opportunity for a weekend getaway or day t]]> Decatur’s historic downtown is launching a new era. A new look, a hip attitude, fresh paved roads, restored storefronts and a refreshed self-image have made downtown Decatur the place to be any ]]> If you’re craving fun in the sun or a relaxing romantic rendezvous this summer, bypass the travel headache and head for a nearby central Illinois winery. The Illinois Grape Gr]]> There’s no better way to blow off steam and stay in shape than running or biking this fair city. And whether you need a little help working the winter kinks out of your joints, or you’re s]]> The sun is shining, the sky is blue and it’s time for summer family fun. Pack for a picnic and head out in the car for a fun day under the Illinois sky. Let Illinois Times and a black ribbon of ]]> Juneteenth CelebrationSaturday, June 15, and Sunday, June 16, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, making this year’s Juneteenth festivities]]> Sunshine, flowers and, of course, furry creatures make kids and adults alike light up. This year winter’s grip was a tight one, increasing our longing to shed the coats and head outside. In earl]]> The gallons of sweat, aching muscles and months of training have led to this: race day. You’re at the starting line with dozens, hundreds or even thousands of other people, your mind amped up an]]> Capital City Bicentennial CelebrationJuly 3-4 What happens when Abraham Lincoln meets the 21st century? The Capital City Bicentennial Celebration. The inaugural event fuses the Springfi]]> We know you audiophiles are mourning. Ameren’s Summer Serenades fizzled out and the Washington Street Jazz Festival is no more, but fear not. There’s still a hundred ways to rock your eard]]> With such mild and beautiful weather so far this year, it’s a great time to go outside and get some exercise. And while you’re at it, why not play in the mud?Springfield and the surroundin]]> Big Summer Events Excursions Benton and the Shawnee National Forest St. James Farm Activities Theater Children Illinois wine Sports Ultimate Frisbee Sw]]> It’s that time of year again. Yes, ’tis the season for summer barbecues, local festivals and a boat on the lake. It also marks the start of a magnificent summer of local theater in central]]> Open for the 2012 season, Rockome Gardens is an iconic place that brings back childhood memories for many. Today, under the management of the Rockome Gardens Preservation Inc., the popular tourist ven]]> More than 100 years ago, Illinois was the fourth largest wine-producing state in the nation. Now the Treasury Department holds Illinois responsible for just 72,000 of the more than 41 million gallons ]]> For a river adventure with a bit of history, fiction and mystery, take a weekend and hit two Missouri landmarks, Hermann and Hannibal. Start with the farthest point and head for Hermann, ]]> Old Capitol Farmers Market8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays through Oct. 30The excuses not to eat fresh, healthier and local just got fewer in number. Old Capitol Farmers Market spreads it]]>