This week we learned that Maize’s Green Street location is officially closed, as the building will be demolished to make way for new development. Don’t worry, though, you can still get your Maize fix at …
Posts by Jessica Hammie:
Happy Pride Month!
Happy Pride Month! June is one of the best times to be in Champaign-Urbana, with lots of live music, Pride celebrations (in Danville, too), good weather, and restaurant patios (which I’ve mentioned in previous newsletters). …
It is officially unofficial summer in C-U
This weekend marks the unofficial start to the summer. It’s time to break out your white pants, open-toed shoes, and your bathing suits as both Champaign’s Sholem and Urbana’s Crystal Lake pools open this weekend. …
Time’s Up with Kimberly Mack
While many of us at Smile Politely could be considered scholars and fans of Champaign-Urbana, there are more traditional scholars at the University of Illinois who are doing academic work around their interests and fandoms. …
We must continue to support the businesses we love
Earlier this week, we shared the news that Afghan Cuisine restaurant has permanently closed. Among Smile Politely editors, this is terribly sad news. The restaurant’s food was absolutely delicious. We hope that the owners are able to land …
It’s a busy weekend in Champaign-Urbana
This weekend many people in Champaign-Urbana will celebrate Mother’s Day and / or commencement at the University of Illinois. It’s a busy, busy weekend for local restaurants; if you don’t have a reservation, well, good luck (there …
Outdoor market season is here
When the outdoor farmers markets open for the season, you know summer in Champaign-Urbana is on its way. We’re lucky to have two outdoor markets in C-U: the Tuesday afternoon market in Downtown Champaign and …
It’s marathon weekend
April is quite the busy month in Champaign-Urbana. On April 6th, the University of Illinois School of Art & Design MFA students celebrated the completion of their degrees with an opening reception at Krannert Art …
KCPA’s Youth Series Preview and Educator Appreciation event is April 30th
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts invites all teachers, school district administrators, and parents who homeschool their kids to visit and learn more about their programming for young people for the 2024-25 academic year. The …
Handcut chips (and burgers) make everything better
As the week closes out, readers have determined a winner in our 2024 March Food + Drink Tournament, and our Spring Donation Campaign is nearing its end. While the opportunity to vote for your favorite foods in …