So what are the three F’s? Festivals, Fairs and Fireworks! That’s what’s in store starting this weekend … enjoy the hoopla as Farmer City and Monticello celebrate 175 years, Tolono celebrates Fun Day and many more good times ahead.
What: Tolono Fun Day
When: Saturday, June 30 (all day!)
A lone candy sits on the pavement, waiting for parade goers to pick her up. Photo by somegeekintn on Flickr
Where: West Side Park
How much: Free admission; various games/features may have charges
Appropriate for: All Ages
Why you should go: The Tolono Fun Day parade is probably the parade of the year in Champaign County. Bring bags, folks, because there is plenty of candy and swag to be had. Take lawn chairs! The parade starts at 11 a.m. You can make a whole outing of it — there are inflatables, a petting zoo, and pony rides available starting at 10 a.m. And, there will be fireworks at dusk.
What: Celebrating 175 Years of Monticello
When: Saturday, June 30, all day
Where: downtown Monticello
How much: free admission; food for sale; some activities may be ticketed
Appropriate for: All Ages
Why you should go: Who doesn’t love a birthday party? Parade at 1 p.m.; walking tours; antique tractor show; face painting; stagecoach rides 2-3 p.m.; watermelon eating contest; free music; restaurant cookout. Back to the Future shown at 8 p.m. for free.
What: Farmer City 175th Birthday Celebration
When: Friday, June 29 – Sunday, July 1 (and beyond)
Where: Various locations around Farmer City, most events on Main St. and City Square.
How much: free admission; free inflatables; food vendors on site at most events
Appropriate for: All Ages
Why you should go: Wow. This is going to the 175th birthday party to end all birthday parties. Parade June 30 at 2 p.m.
What: Take Me Fishing at the Champaign County Forest Preserve
When: Saturday June 30, 9 a.m. – noon
Where: Homer Lake
How much: Free
Appropriate for: 2 and up
Why you should go: : Did you know that fishing promotes healthy minds and bodies? Bring the family and friends out for some free fishing fun! First-timers and experienced anglers alike welcome. There will be kids’ activities, prizes, and more! Basic fishing instruction will be available. The Illinois fishing license requirement has been waived for this event. Cane poles are available to borrow, but you are welcome to bring your own. Bait provided. Adult supervision of children is required. Free. For more information, (217) 896-2455 or shampson@ccfpd.org.
What: Hessel Park Concerts: Gavin Stolte Project (Rock)
When: Sunday July 1, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Hessel Park
How much: Free
Appropriate for: all ages
Why you should go: Cap off the weekend with a free concert in the park.
Weekend Planner features only a few of the wonderful events happening in our area. For a full list, please visit our Events Calendar.
