Summer is officially here, and July is packed with PLENTY to do around around Champaign-Urbana. So to keep it all straight, we’ve picked out a few of our many favorites and listed them here so you will make sure not to miss them. They’re listed chronologically. (For info on area fireworks, go here. For other July 4 events, go here.)
Thanks to Busey Bank for presenting this list.
Our picks for family fun in July around Champaign-Urbana
Pies and Sparklers, by Marcy McAnally, State Farm Agent, July 2
Free pie? Yep. Free sparklers? Yep. Get a free bag of goodies, courtesy of McAnally, via contactless pickup, available all day long. Click here for more details.
40 North’s Friday Night Live, July 2
It’s the first Friday Night Live of the summer and, boy, are we ready for it. Plenty of great music from 6-8 p.m., and a balloon artist for the kids to enjoy. Details here.
Champaign County Freedom Celebration Fireworks, July 4
We’ve waited 24 months for these fireworks! You better believe they’ll be worth the wait. But make no mistake: There are plenty of places this weekend to view fireworks. We have the scoop here.
Pick blueberries, until mid-July
Early July is perfect blueberry-picking time. We have a list of prime spots to pick blueberries in Central Illinois. Remember: The blueberry season typically extends no later than mid-July. So don’t dawdle.
Balloons over Vermilion, July 9-10
Hot air balloons launching and tethering, mass ascents, fly-ins and balloon glows will populate the Vermilion County Regional Airport. Plus inflatables, face painting, chalking and a variety of kid-friendly events.
Great Annual Rocket Launch, July 10
This annual, purely-for-fun rocket launch, is for NAR Safety Code approved rockets only. Ribbons will be awarded for various unique and interesting divisions. Get more details here.
Curtis Orchard Opening Day, July 20
The apple donuts are back! Curtis Orchard opens for the season on July 20, although you’ll have to wait a bit for its signature fall activities. But the Flying Monkey Cafe will be open starting July 30.
Champaign County Fair, July 22-31
July 26 is Kids Day, but every day is a good day for some fair fun. Admission is just $5 for adults and free for those under 12. And parking is free, too.
Free Summer Movies at Savoy 16, July 27-29
Savoy 16’s summer of free morning movies on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays comes to a close with showings of Abominable as well as How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.