This Labor Day Weekend also brings us the Illini home opener at Memorial Stadium

 

Families can choose from many events and activities happening this weekend in Champaign-Urbana

Now that we have been in school for a couple of weeks, your kids may be eager for a day off while you are still feeling like treading water to keep up with the new school routine. No matter how you feel about these transition weeks, we know that many families welcome a day off with open arms (and silenced alarms).

But this weekend is about more than a day off school and work. It’s a time to reflect on those who toiled before us and fought for our rights, like the eight-hour workday. This weekend, as you fire up the barbecues and gather with family and friends to send off summer, let’s take a moment to pause and remember why we have this day on our calendar.

This weekend also brings us the Illini football home opener! Kickoff is at 6:30 p.m., so Grange Grove festivities begin at 3:30 p.m. with inflatables, a balloon artist and face painting. The Marching Illini drumline will perform at 4 p.m., followed by the Illini Walk at 4:15 p.m. High five the players on their way into Memorial Stadium. Find the complete list of gameday events here. If you want to simplify your pre-game experience, check out our tips on taking the MTD to Grange Grove for $1 each way!

We have all the tips for you on how to enjoy Illini sporting events, like this Friday’s football game, as a family right here. Go Illini!

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Chambanamoms thanks Chesser Financial for presenting this weekend’s planner.

Join Terri Wetzel and Scott Olthoff of Chesser Financial for “Money Matters: Financial Strategies for Women” at Lodgic (1807 S Neil St, Champaign) on Thursday, Sept. 4 from 12:00-12:45 p.m.

Among the topics to be discussed: Why we need to be proactive with savings; why we need to begin with the end in mind when it comes to retirement; and why we need to take control of our finances.

RSVP to Christy@chesserfinancial.com

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A few events to check out this weekend

Looking for something to do with your family? You’ve come to the right place! Our events calendar aggregates family-friendly events happening in the Champaign-Urbana metro area. We know you’re busy and looking for a bang for your buck, so we put an emphasis on including free and low-cost events that you can plan to attend on the fly. Please note that events are subject to change without notice.

Thank you to Herriott’s Rents, Tents & Events for presenting the chambanamoms events calendar. 

Find the complete chambanamoms.com event calendar by clicking here now.

Remember, many sporting events and outdoor activities are subject to change without notice or at the last minute. Check with event organizers when in doubt before heading out to an event. 

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Champaign Public Library

The Champaign Public Library is thrilled to be adding weekend and evening storytimes for ages birth to 5! Starting September 2, put on your pajamas and come out for stories, songs, and fun at the Douglass Branch Library! Pajama Storytime will be offered on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6:30 p.m.

Looking for a new weekend storytime? Beginning September 6, you can come out on Saturday mornings for 30 minutes of stories, music, and movement with an emphasis on pre-reading skills and activities. Saturday Storytime will be offered every week at 9:45 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. at the Main Library.

Library events are always free! Find event information at champaign.org/events.

For more information: Website, Facebook or Instagram

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Top Tier Lessons

Sunday, September 1, 3 – 4:30 p.m.

At this exclusive clinic, participants in 8th grade and younger will learn real D1-level drills focused on dribbling, shooting, and passing, led by current college athletes. The session will also include:

• A Q&A with college players
• Fun competitions
• The chance to win awesome prizes!

Whether your child is just starting out or looking to strengthen their game, this is an incredible opportunity to learn from top-tier athletes in a supportive and high-energy environment. Spots are limited, so register today!

Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit toptierlessons.com/events to sign up.

For more information: Website

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Krannert Center for the Performing Arts

ELLNORA | The Guitar Festival celebrates 20 years this season! This year’s Opening Night Party at Krannert Center is also the first night of the ELLNORA Guitar Festival! Featuring FREE performances by:

• Grace Bowers and the Hodge Podge
• The Marel Hidalgo Jazz Quartet
• BERTHA: Grateful Drag
• The Messthetics with James Brandon Lewis

ELLNORA will be held September 4 – 6, with performances happening all weekend long. Get your tickets now!

For more information: Website, Facebook or Instagram

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Urbana’s Night Market at the Square

Arts & Culture and Urbana’s Market at the Square are partnering up for a vibrant, unique evening experience in Downtown Urbana on Thursday nights for a limited time during late summer. Join them at the Lincoln Square Mall parking lot at the farmers market location!

There will be food trucks, art/maker vendors, live painting, and live music performances from local and regional bands. Unwind, bring chairs, blankets, grab dinner, shop local and enjoy live music!

*WEATHER PERMITTING*
Night Market runs from 6 – 9 p.m., weather permitting.

For more information: Facebook

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Champaign Gymnastics Academy

For 13 years, CGA has helped kids build strength, confidence, and connection through the sport of gymnastics. Families choose CGA for our inclusive approach, positive coaching, and lasting impact—on the mat and beyond the gym.

For more information: Website, Facebook or Instagram

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Carle

Did you forget to schedule your child’s physical? There is still time. Make a connection.

For more information: Website

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iRead ● iCount®

Volunteer Now! It’s Not Tutoring. It’s Transformation. One hour a week to change a child’s life.

For more information: Website, Facebook or Instagram

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Herriott’s Rents, Tents & Events

Elevate any venue with rentals from Herriott’s! Decorate your backyard, living room, or rented venue with backdrops, tables, chairs, linens, and more to set the scene for your next birthday celebration. Don’t see exactly what you’re looking for? No problem! With their custom packages and special ordering, they can get the items you want. If you can imagine it, they can make it happen. With customer pickup or delivery and installation, they are here to help make your next celebration a success!

For more information: Website, Facebook or Instagram

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