The 2012 Summer Olympics are still a few weeks away (opening ceremony is on July 27). But with so much excitement around here with several local connections headed out to London, it’s hard not to catch the bug. And there are a few related events this weekend, including one with Olympic athletes competing right here in Champaign-Urbana. Here are our picks:
We've got Olympics fever! Photo by Jon Curnow on Flickr
What: Picnic Olympics at Urbana Free Library
When: Friday, July 6, 2 p.m.
Where: Urbana Free Library
How much: Free
Appropriate for: 6-12
Why you should go: Think you have what it takes to earn a medal at the picnic olympics? Come try out your skills in events like ant collecting with chopsticks, three legged race, wheelbarrow race and more. For kids ages 6-12. Snack and craft included.
What: Sparks in the Park
When: Friday-Saturday July 6-7; starts Friday at 5 p.m., events all day Saturday
Where: Ervin Park, Tuscola
How Much: free; some events ticketed, food available for sale
Appropriate For: all ages
Why You Should Go: Friday is the big attraction, with the parade at 5 p.m. (although fireworks have been cancelled). Enjoy inflatables, swimming, balloon artist, free music, a kiddie tractor pull and more.
What: Lights Up, Sound Down movie: Brave
When: Saturday, July 7, 10 a.m.
Where: Goodrich Savoy 16
How much: Regular matinee prices apply
Appropriate for: rated PG
Why you should go: A great opportunity to see the latest Pixar release in an environment that is suited for children and adults who don’t want to sit in a dark, loud movie theater.
What: Urbana Pops Concert: Made in the USA
When: Saturday, July 7, noon
Where: Lincoln Square, Urbana
How much: Free
Appropriate for: All Ages
Why you should go: Let the patriotic celebrations continue. Enjoy this celebration of music by American composers and a preview of the Urbana Summer Youth Musical. Featuring Aaron Romm and the cast of Lucky Stiff. Due to a generous grant from the Urbana Arts Commission, this concert will be free!
What: 7th Annual Gill Athletics Field Fest
When: Saturday, July 7, 3 p.m.
Where: Gill Athletics in Champaign (601 Mercury Drive)
How much: Free (concessions will be for sale)
Appropriate for: All Ages
Why you should go: The London Olympic Games are almost here! Watch some fantastic pole vault, discus and shot put action right here in Champaign-Urbana this weekend. The highlight will be the elite competition which gets underway at 3 p.m., complete with All-Americans and current Olympians.
Postoponed:
What: The Virginia Theatre News-Gazette Film Series in the Park: “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”
When: Saturday, July 7, sunset
Where: Dodds Park, 1501 N. Mattis, Champaign
How much: Free
Appropriate for: Common Sense Media says 6 and up; movie is 144 min long
Why you should go: Share this classic film with your kids and enjoy a movie in the park! Eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts (Dick Van Dyke) can’t seem to make ends meet. On a seaside outing with his children and girlfriend he spins a fantastic tale of a land where children are outlawed and an eccentric inventor and his magical car must save them. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs as no seating is provided.
What: Hessel Park Concerts: Jim Markum Swing Band (Swing)
When: Sunday July 7, 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. Bring a picnic dinner and relax!
Looking for more family-friendly things to do this weekend? Check our events calendar.
