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.)
Chambanamoms thanks Urbana’s Market at the Square for presenting this list.
Urbana’s Market at the Square is the place to shop when you want to shop local. Each week the Market features fresh-picked fruits and vegetables (some grown within Urbana City limits), beef, pork, chicken, bison, eggs, fresh flowers, baked goods, and food trucks. The Market also features the work of local makers including jewelry, soap, candles, ceramics, and paintings. There are musical performers and activities for kids each week. Urbana’s Market at the Square is a producer-only market which means everything is grown, made, or produced in Illinois by the people who are selling it.
For more information: Website, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter
40 North’s Friday Night Live, July 1
It’s the 11th year for Friday Night Live in downtown Champaign and, boy, are we ready for it. Plenty of great music from 6-8 p.m.
Summer Concerts in the Park, July 1
The Hessel Park series in Champaign rolls on with a performance by Samba Soul from 6-8 p.m. Bring your lawns chairs, refreshments, and an appetite for fun!
Great Annual Rocket Launch, July 1
This annual, purely-for-fun rocket launch, is for NAR Safety Code approved rockets only. Free rockets for kids while supplies last. Ribbons will be awarded for various unique and interesting divisions. Rain date is July 8. Get more details here.
All ages and abilities are welcome at the Urbana Park District’s free yoga program at Meadowbrook Park (9-10 a.m.) Meet at the Prairie Play Pavilion. Every Saturday through Aug. 19.
Champaign County Freedom Celebration Fireworks, July 4
We’ve waited a whole year for these fireworks! You better believe they’ll be worth the wait. But make no mistake: There are plenty of places this week 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 7-8
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.
Christie Clinic Presents: Safety Night at Colbert Park, July 18
Spend at evening at Colbert Park in Savoy with Chambanamoms and Christie Clinic to enjoy a free touch-a-truck style event. See fire, police and emergency vehicles up close, play on the playground, grab a snack from a food truck and more!
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.
Champaign County Fair, July 21-29
July 25 is Kids Day, but every day is a good day for some fair fun. Admission is $8 for 13-and-up, $2 for ages 6-12 and free for those under 6. And parking is free, too.
Free Summer Movies at Savoy 16, July 25-27
Savoy 16’s summer of free morning movies on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays reaches its penultimate week with showings of Sing 2 and Clifford the Big Red Dog.