December is typically a time associated with family fun, but that doesn’t mean you have to skip date night this month. Far from it — we’ve come up with a list of things to do without the kids.
Jewels Gala 2019, We all Dream in Gold: Here’s a night to honor those who have worked tirelessly to help contribute to the lives of others. There is music, a silent auction, dinner, a cash bar and plenty of fellowship. Money raised goes to scholarships for those in need, through the Zeta Xi Lambda chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. Dec. 7 at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $44.06.
Classic Christmas movies at the Virginia Theatre: Let’s face it — kids probably aren’t interested in old Christmas flicks. But these are classics. Miracle on 34th Street, A Christmas Carol, It’s a Wonderful Life, White Christmas, Christmas in Connecticut … they’re all showing at the Virginia in December.
Ultimate New Year’s Eve Mash-Up Bash: The Feudin’ Hillbillys and ’90s Daughter headline the party at The City Center in Champaign. Multiple ticket options available.
Wigs and Waffles Drag Brunch: Tickets are $25 for a fun afternoon of brunch at Clark Bar in Champaign, with an afterparty downstairs at Glowcu with DJ Tim Williams. Tickets include a brunch buffet, bottle of champagne and drag show.
Girls Rock C-U at The Rose Bowl: Celebrate some women of country music and raise money for the 2020 Girls Rock C-U camp on Dec. 13. The music of Tammy Wynette, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn, Lucinda Williams and Patsy Cline will be performed by local singers. Cover is $10.
It’s a Wonderful Life Live at the Station Theatre: Travel back to Christmas Eve in 1946 with George Bailey and all of the folks in Bedford Falls to hear (and see) a live radio performance of It’s a Wonderful Life. Performances are Dec. 5-21.
Hops and Hymns Holiday Edition: Sing all of your favorite carols at Riggs Taproom in Urbana on Dec. 15. Open to all, regardless of faith, age or singing ability. Riggs beer will be available along with other beverages for purchase.
Hibeernation 2019: And speaking of beer … Pour Bros. in Champaign will host a special event on Dec. 7 featuring 17 taps of barrel-aged offerings, including stouts, IPAs, sours, cider, mead and more. Live music begins at 8:30 p.m.
12 Beers of Christmas: And more beer! (Sensing a theme?) Visit Esquire Lounge in Champaign on Dec. 7 to benefit Toys for Tots in Champaign County. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door.
German Christmas Market at Riggs: Running every weekend (Thursday-Sunday) until Christmas, the market features a beer garden with local vendors, German food, hot spiced wines beer and plenty of other fun. A unique event you won’t find anywhere near C-U.