Things to Do this Summer in Champaign-Urbana IL
Summer is in full swing here in Champaign-Urbana and there's little chance of finding yourself without something fun to do. There is plenty going on here throughout the summer for all ages. And a lot of it is free!
Here’s a sampling of things to do this summer in Champaign-Urbana, IL:
Movie Night
Stretch out on the lawn in the Green Street Courtyard of First Presbyterian Church in Urbana and enjoy some fantastic films on the big screen such as “How to Train Your Dragon,” “The Princess Bride,” and “The Wizard of Oz.” It’s fun for the whole family and it’s FREE! Mark your calendars for June 25, July 9, July 23, and Aug 13.
Farmers markets
Here in C-U we are fortunate to have not one, but TWO farmers markets each week! Historic North First Street Market in Champaign runs every Thursday from 3pm- 7pm and Urbana's Market at the Square goes from 7am-12pm on Saturdays. Each market showcases a variety of produce, crafts, baked goods, and more. So come on out and support our local businesses!
Neighborhood Nights
This series, sponsored by the Urbana Park District, features a musical performance each Wednesday evening by a local performing artist, and each event takes place at a different neighborhood park in Urbana. Check out the Urbana park district’s website to see when they’ll be in YOUR neighborhood! All concerts are free, so be sure to venture over to the other parks for their concerts, too.
Champaign Summer Concerts
On several weekends throughout the summer, the Champaign Park District will feature local musical performances in Hessel Park and on the street in downtown Champaign. Once again, this series is FREE to attend! Check out the Park District website for the complete list of performers and dates, and start planning your special night out, enhanced by a free concert downtown!
Cherry jam
On Fridays at 4pm, head over to Cherry Alley right next to the Urbana Free Library for a FREE musical performance! Then after Cherry Jam stick around downtown Urbana for "Urbana Nights" when businesses stay open a little later than usual so you can start your weekend right...with shopping and dining out, of course!
Festivals
If you missed Taste of Champaign last weekend, don't worry. There are still opportunities to get your fill of the summer festivals! In fact, the Blues, Brews, and BBQ Fest is going on right now in downtown Urbana! And later on this summer the Sweetcorn Festival will take place downtown Urbana, too. There's also the Downtown Festival of the Arts in downtown Champaign, a one-day event that you simply won't want to miss.
Thirteen Thursdays
What is Thirteen Thursday, you might ask? It's your opportunity to enjoy Campustown while the university crowds are gone for the summer! Each Thursday, many businesses are participating and offering discounts on services and goods such as haircuts, tattoos, printing and copying, Illini gear, and dining! Download your discount flyer and enjoy the savings!
If that isn’t enough to keep you occupied, you can also check out my list of 10 Things to Do in Champaign-Urbana IL for more ideas.
Keep cool, be safe, and have a wonderful summer, everyone!!!
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