April in Champaign-Urbana usually means FUN OVERLOAD. This year should be no different, and our challenge is to offer some unique and interesting picks for family fun. Here are our top picks, presented by the I Hotel and Conference Center.
Thanks to the I Hotel and Conference Center for presenting this list.
A contemporarily designed four-star property featuring 125 luxurious hotel room accommodations in Champaign, Illinois. The I Hotel and Conference Center is located on the south campus of the University of Illinois in the heart of The Research Park. The adjoining 70,500 square foot state-of-the-art Illinois Conference Center features 16 conference rooms; a modern 12,200 sq. ft. exhibit hall, two large ballrooms, and thirteen meeting rooms. Houlihan’s Restaurant + Bar features a vibrant atmosphere and irresistible American cuisine. Houlihan’s is located on the hotel’s main floor and it includes an energetic dining room, a bustling bar, and a cozy outdoor patio to dine al fresco during warmer weather. On April 14, stay a night in the hotel to enjoy mimosas and see The Other Guys perform a capella in the lobby; On April 14-15, Houlihan’s Mom’s Weekend features a special menu; On April 17-22, Houlihan’s features a special menu for Ebertfest Film Festival. On April 27-29, Houlihan’s is part of the Illinois Marathon Wooden Nickle restaurant list; visit the restaurant with your wooden nickle to get 10 percent off. Visit the website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Visit the Cherry Tree Blossoms in Urbana, early April
This one involves appropriate timing, as the blossoms in Urbana tend to peak during the first two weeks of April. We have a post that provides all the details on how to best enjoy “sakura,” the term for the blooming national tree of Japan.
Engineering Open House, April 1
It’s the world’s coolest science fair, and it’s right in our backyard. Even better, it’s free.
Inaugural Illini Esports Collegiate Invitational, April 1-2
Visit the State Farm Center from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. for this free event, a collegiate competition among more than 300 that will feature Rocket League, League of Legends and Super Smash Brothers. There’s even a free gaming section available. More details here.
Toddler Time: Soccer Planet Playtime and Free Development Screening, April 4
Toddlers and babies ages 0-5 and their caregivers are invited to Soccer Planet for playtime AND a free developmental screening from our partners at the Champaign County Home Visiting Consortium and the United Way. Note: The event is free and offered in both morning and afternoon times. Find more details here.
Easter Egg hunts, April 8
There’s a slew of Easter egg hunts today — and plenty more still to come. You can get a list of those events, plus others related to Easter, here.
Boneyard Arts Festival, April 14-16
A C-U staple, the Boneyard Arts Festival features a variety of events in the realms of music, dance, art and more. The schedule is extensive, with more than 90 venues involved. Visit the website.
Fairy Tale Ball at Urbana Free Library, April 14
Fairy tale lovers of all ages are invited to an evening of stories, crafts, games, and entertainment. Don your shiny suit of armor or sparkly ball gown, or dress like your favorite fairy-tale character, and enjoy an evening of fantasy and frivolity.
Industrial Donut’s Fourth Birthday Celebration, April 15
This free event celebrates the Savoy business’ third birthday. Enjoy face painting, balloon artists, giveaways and, of course, donuts. Some lucky person will win a Monticello Railway Donut Train Table for 4!
Earth Day for Everyone, April 22
Discover how to make a positive impact on the community and planet Earth while enjoying a springtime stroll through Meadowbrook Park in Urbana. There will be live music and art displays, activities and demonstrations by local community groups, and more.
Illinois Marathon Youth Run, April 29
It’s Illinois Marathon Weekend — there’s no actual marathon this year, rather a 10k and half-marathon — but our highlight annually is the Youth Run that takes place entirely in Memorial Stadium. For 10 and under. Get details here.
Outdoor Fun, all month (weather permitting)
It’s spring — go outside! The weather through the first week of the month holds great promise, so try biking, walking or hiking; visit a park or playground; fish, stomp, canoe and camp; or just breathe in the spring air. We have details on the perfect destinations here.