The Top Grown Up Things to Do in Champaign-Urbana in January
The major holidays are finished, the presents are tucked away and school soon with be back in session. So let’s party!
Whether you’re looking for a date-night atmosphere or just a fun night out with friends, we’ve rounded up a list of the top places for adults to go in Champaign-Urbana and beyond in January. (Find fun things to do with your family HERE.)
The Champaign County Area Restaurant Week is back for it’s fourth year in 2020! This nine-day celebration (Jan. 24-Feb. 1) of local food will leave you craving more when you discover our award-winning food scene. Whether you crave authentic Italian dishes, Asian-inspired cuisine, or classic American dishes, Restaurant Week will satisfy all your hunger pangs.
Violinist Grace Park at Krannert Center on Jan. 26: Grace Park is the winner of the 2018 Naumberg International Violin Competition. Her remarkable resume includes performing solo Bach alongside Yo Yo Ma at New York City Center and collaborating with a variety of ensembles around the world.
Sleepy Creek Presents: C-U Comedy at the Winery: Veteran comedian Jesse Tuttle is the host for a night of laughs on Jan. 11 at Sleepy Creek Vineyards. Headlined by Joe Roderick with an opening by Matt Pflum. Tickets are $10.
Champaign County Restaurant Week: Now in its fourth year, Restaurant Week (Jan. 24-Feb. 1) is a celebration of local food. Dozens of restaurants will feature special menus (with special pricing), making it a great time to try places you’ve never been or renew acquaintances with those you haven’t visited in a while.
University of Illinois hockey Jan. 18, 24-25: The Illini take on Illinois State on Jan. 18 before Iowa State visits on Jan. 24-25. Illini hockey games are a high-energy affair for both fans and players.
One Night Only: A CUTC Gala: The Champaign Urbana Theatre Company hosts an evening celebrating the Roaring ’20s on Jan. 18, featuring hors d’ouerve, dessert reception, live entertainment, awards, dancing and a cash bar. 19s0s-themed attire is encouraged. Tickets available here.
Latin Dance Night at Urbana Dance Company: Tickets are $10 for a night of fantastic dancing on Jan. 10. From 8-8:30 p.m., receive a dance lesson to prepare; from 8:30-11, show off what you’ve learned!
Ties and Tennies: Feel like getting dressed up — from the shoes up? Ties and Tennies is a Champaign Park District fundraiser for the Jimmy John’s Youth Scholarship Program. Wear your favorite ties — and tennis shoes — while eating heavy hors d’oeuvres and enjoying music, a cash bar, a wine pull and raffle opportunities at the Virginia Theatre on Jan. 9.
Harlem Globetrotters: These basketball stars visit the State Farm Center on Jan. 31 with an all-new show dubbed “Pushing the Limits.” The whole family will enjoy it, but no one will judge you if you leave the kids at home!
Game Night at Pour Bros.: Titan Games CU will showcase the best board games in town on Jan. 7 for a night of fun and friendly competition. Also featured: the first Tumble ‘n Dice tournament. Winners will receive gift cards and swag from Pour Bros. and Titan Games.
More basketball … Meanwhile, the Illini host four Big Ten games in January, highlighted by a showdown against Purdue on Jan. 5 — a good time to visit the State Farm Center while the students are away! Rutgers (Jan. 11), Northwestern (Jan. 18) and Minnesota (Jan. 30) also come to C-U. Get tickets here.