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 Dick’s House of Sport.
Thanks to Dick’s House of Sport for presenting this list. Visit the website to view a list of April events at Dick’s Champaign location.
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. However, with this spring’s early arrival combined with hard freezes, it will also involve some luck. 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 5-6
It’s the world’s coolest science fair, and it’s right in our backyard. Even better, it’s free.
Beckman Institute Open House, April 5-6
Speaking of open houses … guests of all ages can do hands-on demos and activities, solve a science scavenger hunt, and meet the people behind world-changing scientific discoveries.
Central Illinois Youth Chorus Preschool Singalong, April 6
Central Illinois Youth Chorus is offering FREE drop-in singalongs for ages 5 and under and their caregivers at local libraries. Join the group at 10 a.m. at Champaign Public Library. (But there are more times later in April and May as well.)
Solar eclipse, April 8
In case you’ve been stuck under a heavy object … there’s a total solar eclipse happening on April 8. In C-U, we won’t get the “total” part, but we’ll get pretty darn close, about 98 percent coverage of the sun. Numerous eclipse-related events are happening, so we’ll point you to our events calendar to pick out your favorite.
Boneyard Arts Festival, April 12-14
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. Or browse the family-friendly events we’ve highlighted here.
Fairy Tale Ball at Urbana Free Library, April 19
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.
Earth Day for Everyone, April 20
Discover how to make a positive impact on the community and planet Earth while enjoying a springtime stroll through Crystal Lake Park in Urbana. There will be live music and art displays, activities and demonstrations by local community groups, and more.
Illinois 2024 Race Weekend Youth Run, April 27
It’s the 2024 Illinois Race Weekend, bringing the long-awaited return of the 26.2 mile marathon run as the crown jewel of the race weekend. Our highlight annually is the Youth Run that takes place entirely in Memorial Stadium. For ages 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.