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
40 North’s Friday Night Live, July 1
It’s the 10th year for Friday Night Live in downtown Champaign and, boy, are we ready for it. Plenty of great music from 6-8 p.m. Details here.
Summer Concerts in the Park, July 2
The Hessel Park series in Champaign rolls on with a performance by Anika Emily from 1-3 p.m. Bring your lawns chairs, refreshments, and an appetite for fun!
Great Annual Rocket Launch, July 2
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.
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 8-9
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.
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.
Toddler Time at Hessel Park, July 19
Toddlers ages 5 and under and their caregivers are invited to Hessel Park in Champaign from 9-10:30 a.m. for a science-themed Toddler Time! Do an experiment with us, meet new friends, play with the giant parachute, and more! Meet our partners from OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center and enjoy a morning at the park with chambanamoms.
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.
It’s the 31st annual Youth Summer Theatre Performance at Parkland College. Based on the 1992 Disney film. Multiple performances and kids 12 and under are just $7. Details here.
Champaign County Fair, July 22-30
July 25 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 26-28
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.