Friday, August 4th
Do some U of I campus stuff, Campustown, all weekend, prices vary
The University of Illinois students move in soon, so now is the time to do any dining and shopping in and around the campus. I’m particularly fond of Sakanaya, but there are a bunch of other places like Cracked, Spoon House, Cocomero, and Caffe Paradiso. Walk the quad, check out some new construction. If you’re an alum, reminisce about how it used to be and shake your head and fist at the youngins who just don’t understand. Enjoy yourself! (JH)
Spend some time at Sholem, Sholem Aquatic Center, noon (11:30 a.m. for passholders) to 6:30 p.m., $6-9
Sholem will be open for just two more weekends, so take advantage of a hot sunny day and get some pool time. Fridays are cheaper, you pay the “twilight” rate the entire day! These summer days are slipping away, so get your fun summer things in now. (JM)
Party with the sunflowers, Clearview Farm, 5 to 8 p.m., entry with a donation to the Eastern Illinois Food Bank
Clearview Farm is having their 3rd annual sunflower celebration. This year there will be live music, ice cream from Crowridge ice cream, Mama Dukes, and La Paloma food trucks, local honey, and of course the amazing sunflower maze. Don’t forget your camera and walking shoes! (LKG)
See a play with a wild premise, Twin City Theatre Co, 7 p.m., $12-15
I recently wrote about my excitement for the upcoming production of My Little Titus Andronicus, staged by Twin City Theatre Co. and being performed at University Laboratory High School’s theater. The play combines My Little Pony with the absolutely brutal Shakespeare play, Titus Andronicus. I have no idea how they will combine those two things, but it’s sure to be a memorable experience. Please note, despite the inclusion of My Little Pony, this is not a play for children. (SSO)
Saturday, August 5th
Attend an art fair, Crystal Lake Park, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., free, but you can buy things
This weekend is the fifth year for the Crystal Lake Art Fair, hosted by 40 North 88 West and the Urbana Park District. You can browse artwork for sale from more than 40 regional and local artists, including paintings, glass, jewelry, ceramics, and more. There will be food trucks on site, along with art projects available for kids to complete. (SSO)
Sip kombucha and eat a burger, Farren’s Pub, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., $7 for the ‘booch and $12+ for a burger
Downtown Champaign has its Toast to Taylor Street this Saturday night with live music performances. Catch a good view from a table at Farren’s Pub with a pint of Cloud Mountain Kombucha’s award-winning lemon balm ginger kombucha and a burger. There’s build-your-own burgers, and Rafay’s favorite: the fire burger. If you want something besides a burger, go for the pork nachos, grilled scallop salad, fried portobello mushrooms, the Motherclucker, or check out Caitlin’s review of a family dinner at Farren’s. (AB)
Exchange some books, Greener Goods Shop and Refillery, 11:30 a.m., free but bring a book or books to swap
Greener goods is continuing their swap series with books this time. Bring in your books from any genre that are in excellent condition, pick up tokens, and find some new-to-you books. The swapping officially starts at 11:40 (get your tokens before then) and any extra books will be donated to Daily Bread at the end of the weekend. (LKG)
Celebrate a farmer’s birthday, Rose Bowl Tavern, 8 p.m., $20 advance, $25 door
Gear up for a distinctive night of top-notch folk tunes as we toast to Cody Diekhoff’s 45th trip around the sun. Diekhoff, a.k.a. the Chicago Farmer, combines his rural upbringing with the rough edges of city life, dishing out a signature style that’s both refreshing and nostalgic. Inspired by Midwest music legend John Prine, Diekhoff’s performances feel like a John Steinbeck yarn spun into a melody — capturing the heart and soul of rural living and elbow grease. (DP)
Sunday, August 6th
Pick up some peach-y things, Okaw Valley Orchard, 12 to 5 p.m., prices vary
Last weekend I spent the day in Sullivan, about an hour south of us, and one of my stops was Okaw Valley Orchard. They have delicious items like apple and peach slushies and peach fritters and doughnuts for enjoying there, as well as tons of homemade items to bring home. I’ve been thoroughly enjoying my peach butter and sweet potato butter, and made a killer peach bread with their peaches this week. (JM)
Tour the Allerton mansion, Allerton Park and Retreat Center, Monticello, 2 to 3 p.m., $10 and registration is required
Take a tour of the Allerton Park mansion, once owned by Robert Allerton. Public tours are about 45 to 60 minutes, and you’ll learn about the man and the estate. While you’re out there, you can tour the grounds, too. There’s plenty of other stuff to do in Monticello; here are some suggestions. (JH)
Drink a hatchet cocktail and play bingo, The Axe Bar, 7 to 8 p.m., $12 for the drink but bingo is free
On Sunday, The Axe Bar will host a bingo night. There will be nine games, and prizes include cash, gift cards, a television, and more. If you go, try the Hatchet cocktail, which has vodka, Chambord berry liqueur, lime, and topped with Sprite. Check out the event on Facebook here, and follow Axe Bar on Instagram for more events at the axe-throwing venue. Also, find the bingo host on Instagram for more bingo opportunities around the area. (AB)
Bring your brothers and your mothers to see The Brother Brothers, Rose Bowl Tavern, 7 p.m., $15
Get ready to enjoy the serene melodies of The Brother Brothers, identical twins known for their captivating harmonies and rich Americana sound. RightHereMusic brings this remarkable experience to Rose Bowl Tavern, promising a memorable evening of music. The event also features an opening set by local songwriter, Clayton Burke, offering his unique acoustic stylings. Don’t miss out on this quiet yet stirring musical journey. (DP)
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