We love our kids but who doesn’t need an adult night out on the town every once in a while to remind us that being a grownup can be fun!
Whether you’re looking for a date-night atmosphere or just a fun afternoon with friends, we’ve rounded up a list of the top places for adults to go in Champaign-Urbana and beyond in May.
Dark Side of the Moon light show: Musical light shows are returning to Parkland’s Staerkel Planetarium. These are not laser shows but rather light shows and are not recommended for those with motion sickness. Join them at 9 p.m. on May 6.
Earth, Wind & Fire in concert: One of the hottest groups of the 1970s and ’80s visits the State Farm Center on May 6 to get your body moving to some sensational sounds from this group which is enshrined in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Tickets here.
Art of Science: Head over to Cafeteria & Company in Urbana on May 6 (4-8 p.m.) for Art of Science: Interdependencies. The program, by Illinois’ Institute of Genomic Biology, is a “celebration of the common ground between science and art. Images from Illinois research were the starting point for these works, which were created by scientists working in partnership with current IGB artist Julia Pollack.”
Dueling Pianos and Piato’s Catering at Hudson Farm: Enjoy dinner from Piato’s before listening to dueling pianos at Hudson Farm in Urbana on May 7. Get details and tickets here.
Whites of Spring: Sample white wines as you stroll, shop and sip through historic downtown Monticello. From 5-8:30 p.m. on May 7, with tickets available here. Wine sampling is reserved for ticketed guests but all are free to enjoy extended shopping hours and pop-up makers.
Borderline at the Station Theatre: Directed by Jackie Obando Carter, Borderline — showing through May 8 — is the harrowing stories of life on the border, real or imagined, that threaten those in their shadows.
Homemade Scrapbook Journals: Looking for something crafty? Champaign Public Library will host an event May 11 that helps you learn how to make your own journal by hand. No sewing experience necessary but you need to register by May 10. Details here.
Yoga and Wine: Now this combines two of our favorite things! Alto Vineyards in Champaign is the place to be on May 12 for an evening of relaxation. $15 gets you “a class and a glass (of wine).” Find more details here.
Saturday Beer and Board Games: Board game enthusiasts can find a home at Urbana’s Cafeteria & Company coffeehouse on May 14 (6-9 p.m.). Bring your own board game or play one at the shop — your choice. And bring a friend.
Barn Bash at Hudson Farm: The second-annual concert benefits the Urbana Parks Foundation and features music by The Boat Drunks on May 20. The fun includes a cash bar, food trucks and great music. Tickets ($20) are available here.