Friday, May 26th
Take in the sites, smells, and sounds of Summer Camp, Summer Camp Music Festival, 10 a.m. to 4 a.m., $89.50 to $349.50
The first official day of the last Summer Camp Music Festival as we know it. Ian Goldberg‘s creation is toning it down starting next year, so this is your last chance to catch 150 bands on seven stages at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe. Notable acts include moe., Bob Marley’s former band The Wailers, and EDM icon, Excision. The festival makes a concerted effort to put on diverse music, so there is something here for everyone. (DP)
Receive training to be a Project READ tutor, Champaign Public Library, Robeson Room 3, 10 a.m., free
Parkland College’s Project READ is a program that helps adults with reading, writing, and math (in English). You can be a tutor — this training will provide that opportunity. Learners are adults who want some extra help, or people who have learned / are learning English as a second (or third!) language. (JH)
Go for a taco lunch, La Mixteca, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., $7.99
If you’re hungry for a cheap lunch, you need to try the taco lunch at La Mixteca in Urbana. The lunch comes with two tacos, rice, and beans, plus (of course) free chips and salsa. I like the pork here; the carnitas are deliciously salty and the pastor has chopped pineapple in it. Read Julia’s full review of the Mexican restaurant here. (AB)
Say farewell to Jodi Adams’ Carwash exhibit, Analog Wine, 6 to 9 p.m., free
After an almost month long residency, it’s your last chance to see this solo exhibition by Jodi Adams Photography. Catch the closing reception and see the new work from Adams’ Carwash series. Which is a collection of prints infused into metal showcasing the vibrant colors and patterns. There are also new prints from previous collections on display and available for purchase. (LKG)
Saturday, May 27th
Take the kids (and/or yourself) for a summer-y treat, Jarling’s Custard Cup, noon to 10 p.m., prices vary
Celebrate the start of summer break with a cold treat on these warm afternoons. Enjoy Jarling’s desserts on the patio tables or swing through the drive-thru. Not sure what to order? Read Matt’s review of Jarlings, or go for my favorite: a cup of chocolate with cold fudge and cherries. (AB)
Grab a burger or bratwurst, Martinelli’s Market, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (or until sold out), prices vary
It’s an actual requirement that you eat a burger or bratwurst (or hot dog) during Memorial Day weekend, right? If you stop by Martinelli’s on Saturday, you can check that off your list without even having to light your grill. They will be grilling Kilgus Farmstead Bratwurst, Berry Beef Burgers, and all-beef hot dogs, and will be featuring Italian sodas and a variety of bbq and hot sauces. Sounds like an easy Saturday lunch decision! (JM)
Cultivate a sense of safety and empowerment, Amara Yoga Studio, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., free but registration is required
Teacher training debuts are opportunities for participants to try yoga for free. This class, called Embodied Yoga, will be taught by Taylor Jules and focuses on grounding and mindfulness. Using gentle movement, breathing, and meditation Jules will guide the class towards developing awareness, regulation, and compassion for yourself. (LKG)
Drink a beer while watching some drones race, Riggs Beer Company, 12 to 4 p.m., free
Riggs Beer Company is hosting local drone pilots for a race this Saturday. Racers control camera-equipped drones while they attempt to complete a set course as quickly as possible. This event is free and open to the public, but beer and beverages are available for purchase as always. (SSO)
Check out an art show opening, Independent Media Center, 4 to 5 p.m., free
This Saturday, you can check out the opening of a new gallery show by artist Marilynn Dean Cleveland. Cleveland’s work depicts “landscapes, real and imagined characters, and Black American life.” On display will be her larger canvases, as well as pieces created on wood, glass, rocks, bottle caps, and popcorn. Cleveland’s show, My Soul Doesn’t Cast a Shadow, will be on display at the Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center from May 27th through June 17th. (SSO)
Sunday, May 28th
Have breakfast at Sammy’s Pancake House, 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., prices vary
This week my spouse and I treated ourselves to a nice weekday breakfast at Sammy’s. It’s one of my favorite breakfast spots in C-U; they have really good French toast. I had some this week, and frankly, I might go back next week for more! (JH)
Find out why it’s all about that bass, Rose Bowl Tavern, 4 p.m., free
Established in 2018, Taco Belles is a dynamic jazz ensemble originally put together by Crystal Rebone, a student at the University of Illinois. She was joined in this venture by her peers, Emma Taylor and Melinda Rodriguez, all of whom were motivated by their love for the album Super Bass and a shared goal to uplift women in the jazz genre. The current line-up includes Rebone, Taylor, and a new member, Andrew Binder. Their unique sound is characterized by overlaying vocal melodies on bass beats, with each member bringing their own distinct musical style to the mix through their contributions to songs and arrangements. (DP)
Pump your fist at a punk rock show, The Space, 7 p.m., $15
The Space is super pumped to bring one of their personal favorites, The Dopamines, to the stage at their awesome little venue. Space Age Zeroes, local punkers Mid Nite Leg and thrashers The Clichè are in support. It’s been very cool to see this venue packed at so many shows lately, so come on down and let off some steam. (DP)
Monday, May 29th
Hit the pool, Sholem Aquatic Center or Crystal Lake Park Family Aquatic Center, hours vary, cost varies
It’s pool season!! Both Sholem and Crystal Lake open for the summer on Saturday, and temps are going to be in the eighties this weekend. Perfect. Do you have a favorite? I gravitate towards Sholem because of the lazy river and snack bar (and proximity to my house). But I love the setting of Crystal Lake. Check their respective websites for hours and cost. If you don’t want to commit to a pass, but think you may go several times this summer, I love the punch pass option. (JM)
All event information is accurate to the best of our abilities, but sometimes we make mistakes and sometimes event information, times, prices, etc., change after we look them up. Whenever possible, we’ve provided a link to the original event page; you should always double-check the source before you make any firm plans. Thanks for your understanding.