Every week here at Weekend Planner we offer you a good number of free events. But this weekend we’ve heard there’s a lot of free stuff to be had in and around Champaign County — free plane rides; free root beer floats; free bagel breakfast and much more. So if you’re into free, here are some of the places to be this weekend.
What: Lender’s free bagel breakfast at Bagelfest
When: Saturday, July 17, 8 to 10 a.m.
Where: Peterson Park, Mattoon
How much: Free
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: Because it’s the 25th anniversary of Bagelfest in Mattoon. And the parade starts at 10:30.
What: Paxton Airport Drive-In/Fly-In
When: Saturday, July 17, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Paxton airport; west of the Paxton Interstate 57 exit on Illinois 9
How much: Free
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: The Experimental Aircraft Association Young Eagles program will give free plane rides to children and youths ages 8 and up, with parental permission. Also see hot air balloons, car show and more.
What: Kids Paint Free
When: Saturday, July 17, 10 a.m. to ?
Where: Pottery Place, 1808 Round Barn, Champaign
How much: Free
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: Part of the Local Luxury sale event which includes some of our favorite Chambana boutiques; check out all of the deals/stores participating here.

The Family Bike Ride on Saturday in Urbana features several stops at local busineses offering free food or drinks. Photo by eyeliam on flickr
What: Health and Wellness Family Bike Ride
When: Saturday, July 17, 9 a.m. to noon
Where: Starts at Urbana’s Market at the Square Bike Rodeo
How much: Free
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: Sponsored by many Urbana businesses and organizations, this free self-guided ride features free stuff at the many stops and an opportunity to win great prizes at the end. Free stuff includes free drinks and food. Preregistration available, or register at the event.
What: Free Root Beer Floats
When: Saturday, July 17, Noon to 3 p.m.
Where: Schnucks, 1301 Savoy Plaza Center Savoy, IL
How much: Free
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: Free. Root. Beer. Floats. It’s Customer Appreciation Day at the Savoy location.
Not Free, But Worth It:
What: Captain Rat and the Blind Rivets BLOCK PARTY
When: Saturday, July 17, 8 p.m.; gates open at 6
Where: Cowboy Monkey Parking Lot
How much: $5/ticket
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: This fundraiser for the Champaign County YMCA Strong Kids Campaign is being marketed as family-friendly; keep the kids out past their bedtime and enjoy some fun tunes (or call in the babysitter and enjoy a night on the town).
Weekend Planner features only a few of the wonderful events happening in our area. For a full list, please visit our Events Calendar.
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