We’re so glad to say hello to October, as we feel like fall really takes off

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

There are a few events happening on the U of I campus this weekend, from the much-loved Vet Med Open House to everything related to Homecoming. We have the scoop on everything happening on campus AND in the surrounding off-campus community as well in this weekend’s planner.

While you’re on campus, you might be looking for somewhere to eat. We have ideas for you on the food front, too!

Click here for 15+ great Campustown places to eat

Chambanamoms thanks College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign for presenting this weekend’s planner

Don’t miss “Camp Vet Med,” the 2026 Open House at the College of Veterinary Medicine. It’s a chance for animal lovers of all ages to feed their curiosity about all things veterinary medicine.

Put on by hundreds of current veterinary students, Open House features more than 40 fun and educational exhibits and demonstrations. Encounter animals from cows and cats to snakes and hawks. Watch demonstrations of horseshoeing and animal rehabilitation. Find out how veterinarians care for animals’ hearts, teeth, eyes, and more.

There are lots of hands-on activities for kids and opportunities for aspiring veterinarians to ask questions about going to vet school.

The event is free and does not require registration. Open House takes place on Sunday, October 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s located at 2001 S. Lincoln Ave. in Urbana.

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. 

BOS Champaign Banking Center

Meet the bank that helps you Bank Boldly! Visit the BOS Champaign Banking Center at 1015 W. Windsor Road. Check them out at bankwithbos.com or call 217-261-0961.

For more information: Website, Facebook or Instagram

Village of Camargo Woolly Worm Festival

Saturday, October 3

The Camargo Woolly Worm Festival is a community celebration held at Opal Thompson Park in Camargo, IL. The festival features vendors, food, inflatables, live music, and kids’ activities. Highlights include the Kiddie Tractor Pull, Bingo, face painting, magic show, and the Woolly Worm Race.

For more information: Facebook

Clue – Live on Stage at State Farm Center

Wednesday, October 7, 7:30 p.m.

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Was it Mrs. Peacock in the study with the knife? Or was it Colonel Mustard in the library with the wrench? Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

Note: This is not a musical. 

Get your tickets now: Website

Just Do MAMA

MAMA is a virtual early childhood enrichment program where little ones can sing, move, create, and learn from home! Holly Broadbent, an Urbana parent, created MAMA with busy caregivers in mind. MAMA brings playful music, movement, stories, and simple art activities right into your living room, with no special supplies or complicated prep required.

For more information: Website

Sugarland – Ride or Die Tour at State Farm Center

Thursday, Oct. 8, 7 p.m.

GRAMMY® Award-winning duo Sugarland has announced the Ride or Die Tour, a 26-city U.S. tour celebrating the 20th anniversary of Enjoy the Ride, the landmark album that cemented Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush as one of music’s most beloved duos.

Since the band’s inception in 2002, Sugarland has sold nearly 10 million albums. Achieving an astounding seven No. 1 singles and nearly 2 billion streams to date, some of their most iconic songs include PLATINUM-certified “All I Want to Do” and “Stay,” 2X PLATINUM “Stuck Like Glue,” as well as GOLD-certified “Baby Girl,” “It Happens,” “Settlin’,” “Something More,” and “Want To.”

Get your tickets now: Website

Champaign-Urbana Youth Hockey Association

The Champaign Urbana Youth Hockey Association (CUYHA) Learn to Play program offers new players an introduction to the game of hockey. This 8 week program is designed for kids ages 5-9 and includes practices that focus on foundational skating and hockey skills. No prior skating experience is required. Fall and Winter sessions are available. CUYHA also offers a separate house hockey program for skaters ages 5-14.

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