Football, fairs and all kinds of fall fun happening this weekend

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

Looking for fall fun? We have oodles of ideas! From fairs and festivals to parades to outdoor family fun, there are more things to do during fall in Champaign-Urbana than you can possibly imagine. How about apples, pumpkins and corn mazes? Nothing captures fall fun like a pumpkin patch, freshly picked apples or getting lost in a corn maze. Of course, we have Illini football this weekend, too. No matter what you choose, this new season is upon us.

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the fact that Halloween is only 51 days away! Halloween events and activities are pouring into our event calendar submissions inbox, and we encourage you to start penciling dates on your family’s calendar for spooky season!

Chambanamoms thanks Arcola Broomcorn Festival for presenting this weekend’s planner

Amazing Arcola is hosting the 55th Annual Broomcorn Festival on September 11-13. Three fun-filled days of vendors, food, brooms, music and more! They kick off the weekend with the National Broom Sweeping Contest that you can enter. Register for the 5K/10K race Saturday morning, then come out for the HUGE parade at 3 p.m. Stick around for a FREE concert from American Ride (Toby Keith Tribute Band) on Sunday. In the midst of all those activities, you can eat, shop and grab a locally made broom at the broom tent. Make sure to visit the newly-opened Broom Palace before you leave!

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. 

Champaign Gymnastics Academy

Big movement, growing confidence, and lots of reasons to smile! CGA’s preschool gymnastics classes are designed to help children build strength, coordination, balance, and confidence. Their coaches create a positive, encouraging environment where kids can learn new skills, take on challenges, and feel proud of who they are and what they can do.

Give your tiny human a place to move, grow, and discover just how awesome they are this fall!

For more information: Website

Featured Event – Christie Clinic Presents: Toddler Time at PrairiePlay

Wednesday, September 16, 9 – 10:30 a.m.

Come play with chambanamoms at PrairiePlay at Meadowbrook Park!

Join Christie Clinic and chambanamoms.com at PrairiePlay at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana on Wednesday, September 16, from 9 – 10:30 a.m. Come to play with friends on the new playground, play with chalk and bubbles, and enjoy some games!

Grown-ups: Bilad Al-Sham Coffee Co. will be at this event selling their delicious coffee!

Thanks to Christie Clinic for sponsoring our Toddler Time events.

For more information: Facebook

Beetlejuice

Wednesday, September 16, 7:30 p.m.

It’s showtime! Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With an irreverent book and a score that’s out of this Netherworld, BEETLEJUICE is “SCREAMINGLY GOOD FUN!” (Variety). And under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!

For more information and tickets: Website

Kids’ Sidewalk Chalk Contest at West Side Arts | Register by Sept. 12

Kids ages pre-K through 8th grade are invited to join in for a FREE sidewalk chalk contest during West Side Arts on Sunday, September 13 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cash prizes will be awarded in all 3 age categories.

Pre-register by 8 p.m. on Saturday, September 12 to secure a spot. Walk-ups will be limited. Chalk is provided.

Check-in 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Finish by chalk art by 3 p.m.

For more information: Register now

Girl Scouts of Central Illinois

Girl Scouts offers hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and confidence. From Kindergarten through 12th grade, she’ll make new friends, discover new passions, and enjoy fun activities – all supported by a caring community that helps her build lifelong skills to thrive. Become a Girl Scout today and find what’s within!

For more information: Website

Urbana’s Night Market at the Square

Come out for Urbana’s Night Market at the Square. Enjoy food, shopping, and live music. Bring a chair, sit back and relax, and enjoy performances by local and regional bands. The Night Market will take place Thursdays in September from 6 – 8 p.m. Night Market is at the corner of Illinois St. and Vine St. in the SW parking lot of Lincoln Square – right where the Saturday market takes place.

For more information: 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