We say goodbye to August, and with it, the final bits of summertime in Chambana

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. With Labor Day as late as it can possibly be, you’re going to have to wait one week longer for a three day weekend. This weekend, you can still jump in the pool, catch the final Friday Night Live of the year or take in any one of a number of festivals. Enjoy your weekend and soak up the last bit of summer!

Chambanamoms thanks United Way of Champaign County for presenting this weekend’s planner

Parenting is a journey, and you don’t have to do it alone. Every child grows and learns at their own pace, and the little moments you share each day can make a big difference. Read together, talk, sing, ask questions, and play—simple activities can help build language, thinking, social, and emotional skills.

Learn about developmental milestones and discover what to look for as your child grows. Find free, easy activities and helpful tips you can use at home, with no special materials needed.

Visit Read Talk Play Every Day! to learn more, find free resources, and feel supported as you help your child grow, learn, and thrive.

For more information: Website or Facebook

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. 

Horizon Hobby, LLC

Get ready for a full day of RC excitement as RC Fest returns to Eli Field in Monticello, Illinois on August 29!

Take the controls at their Try-Me Flying Area, Crawler Course, NASCAR Track and Bash Area, where guests of all ages can get hands-on with RC vehicles and aircraft. Watch incredible Airshows featuring warbirds, giant scale aerobatics, and 200mph turbine jets, plus other RC demonstrations, connect with fellow hobbyists, and discover new ways to enjoy the hobby. Catch the “Ramdemption” monster truck car crush at 6 p.m. Parking is just $10 per vehicle, and every paid parking pass includes a $15 coupon redeemable at the on-site hobby store, making your admission pay for itself and more.

For more information: Website

Krannert Center for the Performing Arts

Opening Night Party – Thursday, Sept. 3, all evening long beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Krannert Center’s Opening Night reflects the diversity found right here in Champaign-Urbana. Come out on Thursday, September 3 for live music, food and drink, family-friendly activities, and lots of fun. Kick off the Opening Night Party with a procession starting in the Student Union Plaza led by Mucca Pazza and the Chicago International Puppet Festival. FREE entertainment continues all night long, with Mucca Pazza, Antibalas, Dr. Nativo, Funkadesi, DJ Silkee and more.

For more information: Website 

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.

DICK’s House of Sport – Tailgate Takeover

Sunday, August 30, 2 – 4 p.m.

Come out for a Football Season Kickoff Tailgate Party!

DICK’s House of Sport is inviting the entire community to stop by on August 30 from 2 – 4 p.m. for an in-store celebration that brings all the fun of game day right to your neighborhood.

Enjoy games, giveaways, team spirit, and special game-day discounts throughout the store. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love the excitement of football season, this event is for you!

Wear your favorite team’s gear, bring your friends and family, and kick off the season in true tailgate fashion. They can’t wait to see you there!

Register now: Website

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