May
"STATE OF SOUND: A World of Music from Illinois" Through Jan. 23, 2022. Open during museum hours. From Muddy Waters to REO Speedwagon, Cheap Trick to Earth Wind and Fire and Chance the Rapper, the Land of Lincoln has produced some of the most highly celebrated music in rock. PresidentLincoln.Illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 212 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
Vintage stringed instruments exhibit Through June 19 during regular library hours. Rick Greer, a musician for over 50 years, is displaying his collection of stringed instruments – lap steel guitars, acoustic guitars, banjos, ukuleles and others. Free. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce, 217-483-2713.
"Fresh Produce" Through June 3 during gallery hours. See what local juried artists have been growing – freshly produced artwork as well as artwork about produce. Free. SAA Collective Gallery, 105 N. Fifth St., 217-544-2787.
An American Marriage Thu., May 27, 12-1pm. Michael Burlingame, Chancellor Naomi B. Lynn distinguished chair in Lincoln Studies at UIS, will discuss his research and new book on why Lincoln had good reason to regret his marriage to Mary Todd. This is a Facebook event. Free. 217-206-8663.
Illinois Products Farmers Market Thu., May 27, 4-7pm. Stop by every Thursday for local products and goods that are grown or produced here in Illinois. Illinois State Fairgrounds, The Shed, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-558-0788.
Museum Dialogues Thu., May 27, 11am-12pm. A discussion on the transcontinental dialogues among museums and between museums and communities to ensure the return of tangible and intangible heritage to the places where they belong. Part of the Global Conversations on the Return of Cultural Heritage Series. Online. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Free with registration. 217-782-7386.
History bike tours Fri., May 28. Wednesdays and Fridays through June 11. Casual and easy-paced neighborhood-style bicycle tours of area historic sites. 5-mile tours 1-2:30pm and 8-mile tours 10am-12pm. Helmets required and water bottles recommended. Get tickets at historicspringfield.dnr.illinois.gov. Free. Capitol Complex Visitors Center, 425 S. College St., Springfield, IL 62704, 217-785-7960.
"Noir" Fri., May 28 through Sun., July 25. The exhibition is a collaboration with Springfield's Juneteenth, Inc., featuring works by artists of color from Illinois, Missouri and Texas. Free. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-7386.
"Playing with Fire" Fri., May 28. A family comedy. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Film begins at dusk. Part of the Movie in the Park Series. springfieldparks.org. Free. Lincoln Park, Fifth Street and Sangamon Avenue, 217-544-1751.
The Beat Goes On - Cher Tribute Sat., May 29, 7pm. Featuring Lisa McClowry. $15-$25. The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, Decatur, 620 E. Riverside Dr., 217-619-8025.
Old Capitol Farmers Market
Sat., May 29, 8am-12pm. Every Wednesday and Saturday. Shop for fresh local produce, baked goods and products. Health guidelines will be followed. downtownspringfield.org. Old Capitol Farmers Market, Fourth and Adams streets, 217-544-1723.
June
Comedy open mic night Wed., June 2, 6:30pm. You'll have five minutes to give it your best shot. Good luck. donniebs.com. VFW Post #755, 2211 Old Jacksonville Rd., 217-546-9515.
Moonlight Market Wed., June 2. First and third Wednesdays of every month, 6-9pm. Highlighting local crafters, farmers, artists and artisans from around the central Illinois area. Live music. On Jackson Street between Fifth and Sixth streets. 217-670-0627.
Aldlai Stevenson II Thu., June 3, 12-1pm. Join ALPLM and Midwest studies historian Dr. Jacob K. Friefeld as he takes a closer look at the life of the celebrated statesman from Illinois. Part of the Tales from the Vault Series. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
International Carillon Festival Thu.-Sun., June 3-6. Begins at 6pm each evening. Lauded as one of the world's most important and prestigious carillon events, the festival has earned 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.
Levitt AMP Music Series Thu., June 3, 6pm. Soultru opens with his poetic and lyrical talents, followed by recording artist Kaleb Mitchell and Christian hip-hop artist Dominique Stevenson at 7pm. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
Acrylic art class Fri., June 4,10am-12pm. Every Friday through June 25. Class size is limited. Pre-registration by phone is required. Temperature check and COVID-19 screening questionnaire will be administered prior to entry, and masks are required. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
Heritage Days Fri.-Sun., June 4-6. Kids' area, carnival, food, raffles and live music. Captain Geech and the Shrimp Shack Shooters on Friday, and Taylor June and Lick Creek on Saturday. Visit the website to buy tickets. little-flower.org. Church of the Little Flower, 800 Stevenson Dr, 217-529-1606.
"Wicked Waltz: The Boston Dip and 1871 Springfield" Fri.-Sat., June 4-5, 7-8:30pm. Adapted from a one-act screwball comedy from 1873, this play explores societal reactions to challenging and rapidly developing pop culture trends, all set in 19th century Springfield. A virtual play. Visit edwardsplace.org for ticket information. $5 per household. 217-523-2631.
American Red Cross blood drive Sat., June 5, 9am-2pm. All donors will receive a free COVID antibody test and a T-shirt, while supplies last. The event is at Green Hyundai Certified inside White Oaks Mall, on the lower level. White Oaks Mall, 2501 Wabash Ave., 1-800-733-2767.
Busy Bugs Super Saturday Sat., June 5,10am-4pm. Humans aren't the only creatures that go to work. Learn about the amazing jobs bugs do with fun activities. See the museum bug collection and hunt for bugs on the lawn. Free activity kits will be available to take home. illinoisstatemuseum.org. free. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-6044.
Chicken Fry Sat., June 5, Blue Ridge Club, 411 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-529-1431.
Here Come the Mummies Sat., June 5, 7pm. With special guest Astrofix. $15-$30. The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, Decatur, 620 E. Riverside Dr., 217-619-8025.
Prairie Days Sat., June 5, 12-4pm. An open house with outdoor activities and events for the whole family, such as bird banding and tours with area experts highlighting birds, wetlands and flowers. Hosted by the Friends of Sangamon Valley and Monarch Landscaping and Garden Center. Nipper Wildlife Sanctuary, Loami, 9560 Withers Road, 217- 525-1410.
Refuge Ranch Partner Up Trivia Night Sat., June 5, 5-8pm. $20 per person, tables of eight. Raffles, photo booth, prizes for best dressed, best decorated table and trivia winners. Includes food. No alcohol allowed. Proceeds benefit a unique mentored horsemanship program. Find the event on Facebook. Refuge Ranch, Rochester, 9350 Cascade Road, 498-7679.
Small Town Dreamers Outdoor Market Sat., June 5. First Saturday of every month. Shop locally owned businesses while enjoying great live music and great food and drinks. Farmersville Square, Farmersville, Downtown.
Why Study African-American History Sat., June 5, 1:30pm. With Kathryn Harris, James Lewis and Nell Clay. Part of the History Comes Alive Series. Call to make a reservation. Space is limited. spiaahm.org. Free. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
"Carnival of the Animals" Sun., June 6, 2-5pm. Presented by the Springfield Youth Ballet company, featuring live symphonic music. Free children's activities before and after the show. Performances at 2:00, 3:00, 3:30 and 4:30pm. Free. Duncan Park, 400 N. MacArthur Blvd.
Rochester Farmers Market Sun., June 6,12-3pm. Rochester Public Library, Rochester, 1 Community Dr., 217-498-8454.
Summer skate school Mon.-Fri., June 7-Aug. 6. Weekdays. Open to beginners through advanced skaters, ages 3+. Classes include both high and low edge/movement, jumps, playing with the basics, power (high) and all levels of spins. Visit the Springfield Park District website for the schedule. springfieldparks.org. Nelson Center Ice Arena, Lincoln Park, 1601 N. Fifth St., 217-525-2589.
Museum Bootcamp Mon., June 7 is the deadline to register for the June 24-25 event. Dive into the art and science of making an exhibit. Go behind the scenes to learn how an exhibit is made and get the chance to create your own. Ages 11-14. illinoisstatemuseum.org. $40-$50. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-6044.
Levitt AMP Music Series Thu., June 10, 6pm. Acoustic trio The Deep Hollow followed by songwriter, gambler and singer Esmé Patterson at 7pm. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
Lincoln's Love of Music Thu., June 10, 7-8pm. Historian Christian McWhirter will explore Lincoln's taste in music and how Lincoln shaped the music of his time. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum Facebook page at the appointed time and scroll to the post highlighting the live event. Free. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
Pawnee Prairie Days Thu.-Sat., June 10-12. Carnival, food vendors and live music. Pawnee Prairie Days, Pawnee Square, 971-6110.
"Sizzlin'at 105°" and "Wabi-Sabi" opening reception Thu., June 10, 5:30-7:30pm. Check out these two exciting art exhibitions side by side – a juried artist exhibition and a show of the work of local visual and bonsai tree artists. Several artists will be present to discuss their collaborations. Refreshments provided. Masks required. SAA Collective Gallery, 105 N. Fifth St., 217-544-2787.
"Field of Dreams" Fri., June 11. A 1989 sports supernatural drama film. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Film begins at dusk. Part of the Movie in the Park Series. springfieldparks.org. Free. Bergen Golf Course, 2900 E. Clear Lake Ave., 753-6211.
Virtual Star Parties Fri., June 11, 8:30pm. John Martin, UIS associate professor of astronomy/physics, will give tips for identifying planets and constellations and answer astronomy questions submitted live. Visit the website or call for more info. go.uis.edu/summerstarparties. 217-206-8342.
Aqua Fest Fri.-Sat., June 11-12. Aqua Sports Club, 1 Club Area, 217-529-2431.
The Pharmac Gallery's 10th Anniversary Fri.-Sat., June 11-12, 6-9pm. Celebrate 10 years of art exhibits, collaborative art events, art education and outreach and more. View the exhibit "Tranquility in Flight: A Multisensory Installation." The Pharmacy Gallery and Art Space, 623 E. Adams St., 801-810-9278.
The Butterfly Lady Sat., June 12, 10am-2pm. Rhonda Brady, who's on a mission to save the monarch butterflies, will pay a visit with her butterfly bus, a colorful classroom and greenhouse on wheels. See the village's new native plant habitat at the village entrance. Event includes a mini pollinator pocket giveaway, craft tables and food vendors. Village of Elkhart, Elkhart, 209 Governor Oglesby St., 217-947-2083.
Florida Georgia Line Sat., June 12, 9:30pm. Gates open at 7pm. $68 per car. route66-drivein.com. Route 66 Twin Drive-In, 1700 Recreation Dr., 217-698-0066 or 217-546-8881.
Little ART on the Prairie Sat., June 12, 10am-5pm. A socially distanced outdoor art fair featuring 15 local and regional artists. Masks required. Free. Kristin's Pumpkin Patch, 6300 Wind Tree Road, 847-533-7829.
"Negro League Beisbol" discussion Sat., June 12, 1:30pm. Discussion led by Carolyn Farrar. Part of the History Comes Alive Series. Call to make a reservation. Space is limited. spiaahm.org. Free. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
Second Saturday Open Studio Sat., June 12. Second Saturday of every month. Watch Pharmacy member artists at work, ask questions to learn about their process and also see the exhibit, "Transformation." Masks and social distancing are required. Free. The Pharmacy Gallery and Art Space, 623 E. Adams St., 801-810-9278.
Summer Book Roundup Sat., June 12, 9am-1pm. Accepting book donations and DVDs, CDs or albums. Simply pull your vehicle into the alley on the north side and volunteers will unload your vehicle for you. If you are unable to make this event, the lobby is also open for your book donations. Free. Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh St., 217-753-4900, ext. 5602.
Virtual genealogy chat Sat., June 12, 2-3:30pm. Meet with other genealogists and discuss your family history search, obstacles or exciting new discoveries. This program will take place via Zoom and registration is required. chathamlib.org. Free. 217-483-2713.
Sunset Tour Sun., June 13, 7pm. Second Sunday of every month. Experience the prairie as day fades to night and see the land conservation efforts of The Friends of the Sangamon Valley. An easy walk on mowed paths through the prairie. The nature center is air conditioned and has restrooms. Led by FOSV director Vernon LaGesse. Free. Donations welcome. Nipper Wildlife Sanctuary, Loami, 9560 Withers Road, 217-525-1410.
ALPLM Reading Club Mon., June 14, 4-5pm. Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly begins on the first day of summer vacation and follows the journeys of four individuals as the universe brings them together after a prank goes wrong. A virtual discussion by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Visit presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
Abraham Lincoln and the Illinois Supreme Court Wed., June 16, 7pm. Abraham Lincoln's most important work as a lawyer occurred at the Illinois Supreme Court. John Lupton and Samuel Wheeler will discuss Lincoln's legal career and appellate practice. Funded in part by the Illinois Arts Council Agency. Livestreamed on Looking for Lincoln's Facebook page and YouTube Channel.
Sangamon County Fair Wed.-Sun., June 16-20. Carnival, contests, nationally recognized entertainment, agricultural exhibits and more. Admission. sangcofair.com. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin, 316 W. Birch St., 488-2685.
Sangamon County Fair Queen Pageant Wed., June 16, 7pm. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin, 316 W. Birch St., 488-2685.
Springfield Poets and Writers open mic Wed., June 16. Third Wednesday of every month, 6-8pm. Read some poetry, prose or nonfiction, whether your original work or the work of a favorite author. You can also just relax and listen. Get the Zoom link at springfieldpoetsandwriters.com. Free. 217-725-9058.
Black Hawk's View of Illinois History Thu., June 17, 6-7pm. Storyteller and historian Brian "Fox" Ellis weaves true Illinois history with folklore to create a tapestry of symbolic language, drawing the audience into the worldview of Black Hawk, a respected leader of the midwestern Sauk Native American tribe. Via Zoom and registration is required. chathamlib.org. Free. 217-483-2713.
Levitt AMP Music Series Thu., June 17, 6pm. Local artist Debbie Ross opens and rules with her strong, soaring vocals and powerful stage presence. Followed at 7pm by Nelly's Echo, whose captivating storytelling and high-energy performances have made him a sought-after musician all across the United States and overseas. Brandon Alexander Williams is also playing. Williams will deliver a high energy spoken-word performance, accompanied by original music via beatbox and looper pedal. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
Nelly Thu., June 17, 7pm. One of only seven rappers to date to receive Diamond Selling status. sangcofair.com. $35. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin, 316 W. Birch St., 488-2685.
Brushville Fri., June 18, 9:30pm. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin, 316 W. Birch St., 488-2685.
Juneteenth Celebration Weekend Fri.-Sun., June 18-20. A community-wide Juneteenth celebration with a variety of family friendly events, music and special displays at area museums, plus food and craft vendors. Find more information on the Juneteenth Celebration- Springfield, IL Facebook page. Comer Cox Park, Capitol Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, 217-572-0234.
Riley Green Fri., June 18. Show opens with Nashville singer-song-writer Troy Cartwright and the St. Louis metro band Borderline. $35. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin, 316 W. Birch St., 488-2685.
Botanical drawing and journaling Sat., June 19, 3-5pm. Brush up on your botany skills and get inspired to write and draw. Space is limited. Reservations are required, as are masks. Free. Donations welcome. Nipper Wildlife Sanctuary, Loami, 9560 Withers Road, 217-525-1410.
Chicken Fry Sat., June 19.Firefighters-Postal Lake Club, 940 W. Lake Shore Dr., 217-622-0099.
Fred Britenstine Memorial Car Show Sat., June 19, 8am-12pm. Cruise-in style show. Food and vendors. Virden Square, Virden, Downtown.
ITPA Truck and Tractor Pulls Sat., June 19, 6pm. $15. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin, 316 W. Birch St., 488-2685.
Juneteenth Experience Sat., June 19, 1:30pm. Part of the History Comes Alive Series. Call to make a reservation. Space is limited. spiaahm.org. Free. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
Demo Derby Sun., June 20, 4pm. $15. Sangamon County Fairgrounds, New Berlin, 316 W. Birch St., 488-2685.
In Her Footsteps: Ida B. Wells Tue., June 22, 6:30-7pm. Ida B. Wells-Barnett – investigative journalist, civil rights activist and suffragist – gained national recognition for her journalistic investigations of lynchings in the American South. Presented by Jenn Edginton, director of interpretation. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Free with registration. 217-782-7386.
Chris Vallillo Wed., June 23, 7pm. Chris brings his brand of music and stories to the historic village. Presented by Looking for Lincoln. Clayville Historic Site, Pleasant Plains, Route 125, 217-481-4430.
Levitt AMP Music Series Thu., June 24, 6pm. Henhouse Prowlers. In the thirteen years since their inception, this Chicago bluegrass powerhouse has forged its own path through music and across the globe. Followed by Dusk and their slow-dripped twang. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
Art + Science + Play! Summer Camp Fri., June 25 is the deadline to register for the July 7 event. For ages 5 and 6. From fun art projects to cool science experiments — learn through play, the very best way. Visit the website for registration information. illinoisstatemuseum.org. Register by June 25. $20-$25. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-6044.
Camp Discovery Fri., June 25 is the deadline to register for the July 12-16 event. Discover the world of art and science this summer. Try your hand at wacky science experiments, amazing art activities and museum adventures. Ages 7-10. Members $100; non-members $125. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-6044.
The Oak Ridge Boys Fri., June 25, 7pm. With special guest Jimmy Fortune. $20. The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, Decatur, 620 E. Riverside Dr., 217-619-8025.
Paint the Street Sat., June 26. Reserve a 6 ft. x 6 ft. square and getting to painting. Live music will be playing and food will be available. Masks required. Paint the Driveway is also an option this year. You provide the driveway, the art association provides the supplies. $30-$35. Washington street between Fifth and Sixth streets, 1 Old Capitol Plaza North, 217-522-1129.
Veronica Betts portrays Rebecca Woods Sat., June 26, 1:30pm. Part of the History Comes Alive Series. Due to limited space, please call to make reservations. spiaahm.org. Free. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
Summer Camps 2021
Mon.-Fri., June 26-July 30 and Aug. 2-6. In-person camp in small groups. Each group will prepare and perform their own one-act play. Springfield Theatre Centre, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
July
Levitt AMP Music Series Thu., June 24, 6pm. Dusk with their slow-dripped twang, followed by Henhouse Prowlers. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
Fireworks Fri., July 2, at dusk. Lake Springfield Marina, 17 Waters Edge Blvd., 483-3625.
Legacy of Giving Fri-Sat., July 2-3. The largest party of the year. Over 60 musical acts, children's area and food trucks. All proceeds benefit local charities. logmusicfest.org. Old State Capitol Plaza, between Sixth and Fifth streets at Adams, 217-361-5678.
"Robots, UFOs, Off-Planet Aliens" show opening Fri.-Sat., July 2-3. Dim Art House, 1613 S. MacArthur Blvd.
Morgan County Fair Mon.-Sun., July 5-11. Livestock shows, carnival, exhibits, stage shows and food. Morgan County Fairgrounds, Jacksonville, 110 N. Westgate, 217-245-6800.
Levitt AMP Music Series Thu., July 8, 6pm. Cuarteto Bendito, a newly formed trio of Illinois musicians who specialize in Latin Jazz, followed by audience favorite Tito Puente Jr. at 7pm. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
BB King Experience with SmoothTimes Band Fri., July 9, 7pm. The original members of BB's band along with additional seasoned blues musicians $5-$30. The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, Decatur, 620 E. Riverside Dr., 217-619-8025.
"Flipper" Fri., July 9. A family adventure film. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Film begins at dusk. Part of the Movie in the Park Series. springfieldparks.org. Free. Veterans Memorial Pool, 2700 Ely St., 753-3030.
"The Music Man" July 9-11, July 14-18, July 21-25 and July 28-Aug. 1. Wed. and Thu. at 7pm, Fri. and Sat. at 8pm and Sun. at 2pm. A fast-talking traveling salesman brings trouble to River City, Iowa when he cons the townspeople into buying instruments for an imaginary band – but his plans are foiled when his heart is stolen by the town librarian. atthelegacy.com. $25-$30. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence Ave., 800-836-3006.
Virtual Star Parties Fri., July 9, 9pm. John Martin, UIS associate professor of astronomy/physics, will give tips for identifying planets and constellations and answer astronomy questions submitted live. Visit the website or call for more info. go.uis.edu/summerstarparties. 217-206-8342.
Nance Legins-Costley Sat., July 10, 1:30pm. Portrayed by Patricia James Davis. Part of the History Comes Alive Series. Due to limited space, please call to make reservations. spiaahm.org. Free. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
Mid-Summer Blast Sat., July 10. Prop Club, 264 Maple Grove Lane, 529-4901.
Women's Distance Festival Sat., July 10, 8-10am. Bring your mother, daughter, sister or friend and run or walk this beautiful 2-mile course through Washington Park. This race is for women and girls of all ages, whether you are a competitive runner or just plan to stroll through the park. Shirt guarantee deadline is June 17. Additional swag is available while supplies last. $20-$25. srrc.net. Washington Park, 1501 S. Grand Ave. W., 217-971-1656.
Levitt AMP Music Series
Thu., July 15, 6pm. Central Illinois reggae band, Loud Clouds followed by Grammy award winner Gizzae at 7pm. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
Memorial Health Championship Thu.-Sun., July 15-18. Official PGA Korn Ferry Tour golf tournament. memorialhealthchampionship.com. Panther Creek Country Club, 3001 Panther Creek Dr., 217-416-1535.
Race for Life Fri., July 16, 6pm. Riders raise funds every year for this worthwhile cause. The series was started in 1981 to help a fellow BMXer who was diagnosed with leukemia. Springfield BMX Raceway, 4115 Sandhill Road. 217-931-2680.
Botanical drawing and journaling Sat., July 17, 3-5pm. Brush up on your botany skills and get inspired to write and draw. Space is limited. Reservations are required, as are masks. Free. Donations welcome. Nipper Wildlife Sanctuary, Loami, 9560 Withers Road, 217-525-1410.
Conversations with a Civil Rights Soldier Sat., July 17, 1:30pm. With Robert Davis. Part of the History Comes Alive Series. Due to limited space, please call to make reservations. spiaahm.org. Free. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
Spi Tri Kid's Triathlon Sat., July 17, 8:30-11am. Safe, exciting and fun mini tri for participants ages 5-6 and ages 6-13. All activities are in Lincoln Park. Entrants receive a T-shirt, goodie bag, finisher medal and refreshments. $20. Nelson Center, 1601 N. Fifth St., 217-525-2589.
Summer Fest Sat., July 17. Lake Press Club, 13 Club Area, 217-529-1221.
Levitt AMP Music Series Thu., July 22, 6pm. Enrique Molina Ortiz followed by Fulanito at 7pm. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
African American Marshalls Sat., July 24, 1:30pm. With Robert Moore. Part of the History Comes Alive Series. Due to limited space, please call to make reservations. spiaahm.org. Free. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
Afrochella Illinois Sat., July 24, 10am. This festival highlights the rising appeal of Afro culture through the arts, cuisine, Afrobeatz and business. $20. Chatham Community Park, Chatham, 731 S. Main St., 217-210-1752.
Gin Blossoms Sat., July 24, 7pm. With special guest Blessid Union of Souls. $5. The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, Decatur, 620 E. Riverside Dr., 217-619-8025.
Sangamon Valley Iris Society Sale Sat., July 24, 1-4pm. Free admission. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
"They are selling my things" Wed., July 28, 7pm. A look back at the July 1943, six-day auction of Susan Lawrence Dana's belongings. On the anniversary of one of the auction days, virtually enter the auction tent, see some of the items sold and hear what happened to them. Where is the famed baby layette set? Email for more information. [email protected].
Levitt AMP Music Series Thu., July 29, 6pm. Listen to Kapital Sounds' Motown vibe, followed by the soulful melodies and funk-inspired grooves of Bassell and the Supernaturals at 7pm. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
Stoneman Sprint Triathlon, Abe's Olympic and Route 6 Half Tri
Sat., July 31. One day, three races. Staggered start times. triharderpromotions.com. Lake Springfield Beach House, 100 Long Bay Dr., 217-341-1309.
August
Black Artists Matter Month Sun., Aug. 1-Mon., Aug. 31. Open during normal gallery hours. In partnership with Garvey Tubman Arts and Cultural Research Center. Featuring artist John Crisp. Events throughout the month include poetry, live music, an artist reception and more. dimarthouse.com. Dim Art House, 1613 S. MacArthur Blvd.
Levitt AMP Music Series Thu., Aug., 5, 6pm. The indie rock of Nectar followed by Ratboys from Chicago at 7pm. Free. levitt.org. Y Block, Fourth and Jackson streets, 217-544-1723.
"Avengers: Endgame" Fri., Aug. 6. A 2019 American superhero film. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Film begins at dusk. Part of the Movie in the Park Series. springfieldparks.org. Kiwanis Park, Stanton Street.
Powerlight Abe Lincoln Car Show Fri.-Sat., Aug. 6-7. Super cruise on Friday and car show spectacular on Saturday. Free admission. Knight's Action Park, 1700 Knights Recreation Dr., 217-553-5271.
Chicken Fry Sat., Aug. 7. Anchor Boat Club, 407 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-529-1174.
Central Illinois daylily sale Sat., Aug. 7, 12-3pm. Many different sizes, colors and forms will be available. Members will be happy to give growing tips and help. Please wear a mask and maintain the suggested social distance. Free. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Civil Rights Laws Sat., Aug. 7,1:30pm. Presented by Jim Lewis. Part of the History Comes Alive Series. Due to limited space, please call to make reservations. spiaahm.org. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
Illinois State Fair Thu., Aug. 12-Sun., Aug. 22. So much to do it's impossible to list everything. Food, entertainment, grandstand shows, midway, exhibit, agricultural shows and more. Admission. Visit the Facebook page for events updates. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Sammy Hagar and The Circle Thu., Aug. 12. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Virtual Star Parties Thu., Aug. 12, 8:30pm. Join John Martin, UIS associate professor of astronomy/physics in viewing the Perseid meteor shower. Visit the website or call for more info. go.uis.edu/summerstarparties. 217-206-8342.
Kane Brown with Restless Road Fri., Aug. 13, 8pm. $38-$83. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Decatur Airport 75th Anniversary Airshow Sat.-Sun., Aug. 14-15. Demonstration team, parachute team, aerobatics and other performers. Free. Decatur Airport, Decatur, 910 S. Airport Road.
Dogs of Society: The Ultimate Elton Rock Tribute Sat., Aug. 14, 7pm. $10-$25. The Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater, Decatur, 620 E. Riverside Dr., 217-619-8025.
Gabriel Iglesias Sat., Aug. 14, 8pm. $26-$71. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Toby Keith Sun., Aug. 15, 7:30pm. $39-$84. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
The Traveling Salvation Show Mon., Aug. 16. A Tribute to Neil Diamond. Free. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Chris Young Tue., Aug. 17, 8pm. $27-$72. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
I Love The 90s Tour Wed., Aug. 18, 8pm. $14-$59. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Kelsea Ballerini Fri., Aug. 20, 8pm. $25-$70. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
USAC Bettenhausen 100 Sat., Aug. 21, 1pm. $25. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E Sangamon Ave, 217-899-9175.
Abe's Amble Sun., Aug. 22. 10K/5K race. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
ARCA 100 & Sportsman Nationals Sun., Aug. 22, 12pm. $25. Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E Sangamon Ave, 217-899-9175.
George Thorogood & The Destroyers Sun., Aug. 22, 7:30pm. $14-$59. Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., 217-782-6661.
Riverton/Spaulding Fall Festival Sat., Aug. 28, 4:30-10pm. Music provided by Schroeder's DJ Service. Fireworks at dusk. Food, kids' activities and more. Field of Dreams, Riverton, 6237-6269 Riverton Road.
