If you like live outdoor concerts, you’ll love the event line-up this weekend in Champaign-Urbana

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

In addition to the ongoing Champaign County Fair and all of the other events happening throughout Champaign-Urbana this weekend, we have so many different concerts you can catch. We feature a handful below, also check out our comprehensive lists of outdoor concerts.

Don’t forget to check out all of our back to school articles as we countdown the days until our area students are back at their desks in the classroom. You can find those right here.

Urbana Park District – Crystal Lake Park Art Fair

Saturday, August 1 and Sunday, August 2 – 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

40 North and the Urbana Park District are thrilled to announce the 8th Annual Crystal Lake Park Art Fair in Urbana!

On August 1 and 2, Crystal Lake Park will be transformed with local and regional art vendors that will set up along the park road next to the large pavilion and the Lake House at Crystal Lake Park (206 W. Park) and feature paintings, textiles, ceramics, photography, jewelry, glass, mixed media and much more!

Children can enjoy a variety of activities, games, and crafts with Urbana Park District’s Urvana Mobile Recreation Unit!

Shop from over 40 regional and local artists!

For more information: Website

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.

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. 

Champaign Public Library

Sunday, August 2, noon – 3 p.m.

Come out to celebrate the close of the Summer Reading Challenge! Enjoy an all-ages community celebration with free icy treats and live music by accordionist Rob Sweedler and jazz by the Church Street Ramblers. Don’t forget to pick up your prizes by Aug. 15 for the Join the Party! Summer Reading Challenge.

For more information: Website

Land Conservation Foundation

Poetry at the Preserve
Saturday, August 1, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Attendees are invited to share meaningful poems or short pieces of literature of their choosing with the group if desired. This will take place in the woods – please make sure to dress and prepare accordingly. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own foldable chairs. After wrapping up the spoken word portion of the event, they will embark on a short hike and have an opportunity to write down their experiences while enjoying the surrounding landscape. Notebooks and writing utensils will be provided to attendees. Whether you’re an experienced poet or simply enjoy being outdoors, all are welcome.

Rain Date: Sunday, August 2 6:30-8:30 P.M.
Location: Sangamon River Corridor, 802 Allerton Road, Monticello

Led by: Mary Lucille Hays, author of the popular column, “Letter from Birdland” in the Piatt County Journal Republican and the News Gazette.

For more information: Reach out to Eric Mollahan at 217-303-3340 or ericmollahan@landconservationfoundation.org

Bluey’s Big Play at State Farm Center

Tuesday, September 1 and Wednesday, September 2
6:30 p.m.

Bluey’s Big Play The Stage Show is the first-ever theatrical adaptation of the television series. The play features an original story by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, new music by award-winning Bluey composer Joff Bush and brilliantly crafted life-size puppets and sets.

Buy tickets to see Bluey now.

The Land Connection

Shoppers with SNAP can use their benefits at local farmers markets and DOUBLE the value to get more fresh fruits and vegetables! Markets provide year-round access to fresh, local, and nourishing food. Visit The Land Connection’s website to see participating market locations across east central Illinois.

For more information: Website

iRead ● iCount®

Volunteer one hour weekly to help K–1 students build basic math skills for academic success. This fall’s iCount Program runs October 1–December 11. Choose a school and time that fits your schedule! Application deadline is August 28. To learn more, check out www.champaigncounty.org/iread-icount.

United Way of Champaign County

FREE developmental screenings are available for children from birth to age five in Champaign County, offering families helpful insights into how their child is growing and developing. These screenings look at areas like communication, social skills, and motor skills and are a simple way to check in on your child’s progress and connect with support if needed.

Offered through a partnership between Birth to Five Illinois, United Way of Champaign County, the Champaign County Home Visiting Consortium, and local schools, screenings are accessible and family-friendly.

Learn more and find out how to schedule a screening that works for you now.

For more information: Website