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Articles by Daron Walker
Family event calendar
November Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair Fri., Nov. 13, 5-8pm and Sat., Nov. 14, 9am-2pm. Find unique gifts, beautiful art and amazing crafts by local artisans. Includes bake sale and live music by local artists throughout the day. Free. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Rd, Springfield, IL 62711, 217-585-9550. MomCo’s 2nd Annual Pots & Pals Chili Cook Off Fri., Nov. 13, 6-8pm.
Illinois Times, the capital city's source of news, politics, arts, entertainment, culture
HISTORY | Movie features Eisenhower and his vision of U.S. highways This special showing is part of the upcoming Route 66 International Film Festival. After Ike: A Journey that Changed America traces then-Lt. Col. Dwight D. Eisenhower’s 3,251-mile journey from Washington to San Francisco along the Lincoln Highway in 1919.
Illinois Times, the capital city's source of news, politics, arts, entertainment, culture
THEATER | Drama charts path from grief to love and hope UIS Theatre presents David Lindsay-Abaire’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play about a happy suburban couple, Becca and David Corbett, whose lives are changed forever when their young son, Danny, is killed in an accident. Months later, according to Concord Theatricals online, “Becca wants to start afresh in a new home and give away their son’s possessions, but Howie wants to keep the memory of Danny alive.
November 5-11, 2026
Here we are, as promised, back with a Now Playing for the first full weekend of November in 2026. With the Best of Springfield behind us (until next year) and the elections over (are they ever, really), let’s see what’s about to commence in the world of local, live music. Speaking of BoS stuff, IT’s…
Dance to the “graveyard smash”
This Friday night, get in that costume and make this a Halloween to remember. All ages are welcome at this event presented by the Springfield Park District. Participants will enjoy delicious snacks, groovy tunes and plenty of candy. The event’s name recalls the famous “Monster Mash” song by Bobby “Boris” Pickett & The Crypt Kickers. And if it’s anything like the song, the dance also will be a “graveyard smash,” too. Register at bit.ly/SPD_Oct_Dance. The activity number is 370250.
October 29-November 4, 2026
WINNERS AND FINALISTS: MUSIC Bass playerTony Tarro, Brandy Kristin Bandfacebook.com/BrandyKristinandTheRevivalFinalists: Jeff Cunningham, Bruce Williams, Tyler O’Brien, Trey Tholen Choral groupGlenwood High School Titan Fever1501 Plummer Blvd., Chatham217-483-2424Finalists: Rochester High School Madrigals, Springfield Choral Society, The Capitol City Men’s Chorus, The Lincoln Troubadours Cover music bandBrandy Kristin Bandfacebook.com/BrandyKristinandTheRevivalFinalists: Deja Voodoo, The 66...
October 22-28, 2026
As we fly on through October like autumn leaves in a fall breeze, the festivals are finished, but the fun of it all keeps on moving and grooving as we have gigs galore with plenty of upcoming excitement ahead. Let’s get to it. First off we offer some very exciting and welcome news as the…
Learn how to gather histories, memories
Local history enthusiasts, this one is for you. This Saturday afternoon, don’t miss two free oral history workshops presented by the UIS Performing Arts Center and the Sangamon Experience. The workshops are “Story Harvest: Collecting Oral Histories (12:45-2:30 p.m.) and “Story Harvest: From Memory to Meaning (2:45-4:45 p.m.). In the first session, participants will learn how to gather oral history and memories and how professional historians conduct interviews.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular
FESTIVALS | Fall favorite will draw thousands to carillon Once again, hundreds of hand-carved, glowing jack-o-lanterns will light up the night this weekend at the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon. In addition, the carillon will be playing with special lighting and sound effects, adding to the experience. The event includes food vendors, too. The Spectacular attracts between 5,000 and 8,000 people each year. Proceeds benefit the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon.
Lego enthusiasts gather at fairgrounds
OK, Lego enthusiasts, this is your weekend. For the first time, the Springfield Brick Convention is coming to the Illinois State Fairgrounds. See massive models, meet professional Lego artists and build with thousands of bricks in hands-on building zones. This entertainment-packed family event is for children of all ages and builders and collectors of all skills and interests. It also will feature special guests, vendors and more. Buy tickets online at brickconvention.com/springfield.
October 8-14, 2026
My goodness, this is what we dream of for October weather with the reality being even better. Here’s hoping it holds on through this weekend full of fun, fests, fine times and who knows what, where and why as live music discoveries wait to be made if you choose to go find them. I have…
Illinois Times, the capital city's source of news, politics, arts, entertainment, culture
FUNDRAISERS | Awesome aircraft and cars on display in one place Like to check out cool cars and planes? See both in one place this weekend as EAA Chapter 770 of Springfield hosts this fourth annual event. More than 200 cars and more than 20 planes are expected. Converge on the Stellar Aviation Hangar for displays, exhibits and much more. This year a group of seven to nine Rutan Long-EZ homebuilt aircraft will fly in formation over the airport and then land and be on display.
Welch should apologize to Benton’s former staffer
Last month, House Speaker Chris Welch told WGN political editor Tahman Bradley during an interview, “I’m going to apologize for making her feel uncomfortable.” The woman he was referring to was former Rep. Harry Benton’s district office worker who quit after she said she was sexually harassed.
Fall Home & Garden Calendar
Illinois Product Farmers Fall Market Sat., Oct. 10, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Features Illinois meats, produce, baked goods and wine. Includes children’s events and live music. illinoisproductsfarmersmarket.com. State Fairgrounds, The Shed, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-524-9129. Old Capitol Farmers Market Wednesdays and Saturdays. Continues through Oct. 31. Springfield’s longest-running and most popular Farmers Market in downtown Springfield. Largest producer-only market in Illinois outside of Chicago.
Celebrate Route 66 anniversary at this popular event
It’s the centennial of Route 66! Once again, hundreds of street machines, muscle cars and hot rods will rumble into the heart of Springfield’s historic downtown followed by thousands of spectators for a weekend of family fun, live music and entertainment. The event begins with a huge cruise Friday night, downtown light show and performance by rockers Revel in Red. The main event is the car show from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m. to 2p.m. Sunday. But there’s more! A lot more.
Peaches, pears or apricots?
What is it about either or all, that sparks your interest or desire? What impact does each or either have upon your gustatorial delights? What impact does each or either have upon your digestive processes? In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addressed the matter of distinguishing the real from the unreal. He specifically focused on those persons who presented themselves in one manner, while actually performing in another.
Learn more about Pillsbury Mills
As Pillsbury Mills continues to be demolished, interest remains strong in the complex that employed thousands of Springfield residents. Here’s a chance for local residents to learn more. In this event hosted by the group Moving Pillsbury Forward, curator and artist Robert Mazrim will sign souvenir copies of his new book, Pillsbury Abandoned: Art & Ruin in the Industrial Midwest, a collection of photographs of the factory and art made at the site between 2022 and 2025.
Remember Sept. 11 this Friday
This Friday marks the 25th anniversary of the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The Springfield Fire Department is inviting the community to join firefighters, police officers and city staff members as they remember those who perished that day.
2026 Fall Guide Event Calendar
Ongoing Prairie Hikes Last Wednesday of every month, 8-9am. Through Oct. 28. Jamie Arntzen of the Illinois Audubon Society will share her expertise about the plants and species communities during guided monthly walks along the trails of the AWS prairie as it transitions through the seasons. Free. Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, 2315 E. Clear Lake Ave., 217-899-6150. “The Road to Adventure: Exploring Route 66” Wednesdays-Sundays, 9am-4pm. Through Dec. 31.
Illinois Times, the capital city's weekly source of news, politics, arts, entertainment, culture
Springfield Oyster & Beer Feztival Sat., Sept. 5, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Ansar Shrine 630 S. Sixth St. | 217-525-1771 FESTIVALS | Oyster and beer lovers to gather for annual event Enjoy oysters at this popular annual downtown event now featuring a new host and site. The Ansar Shrine and its members are leading the event into its 16th year. Thousands of oysters will be consumed at the “Feztival.” See what the shriners did there? They incorporated members’ traditional headwear into the name. Nice.
Balloons return to light up Lincoln sky
Nineteen balloons will return to Lincoln this weekend for the popular two-day Balloons Over 66 Weekend. The balloons will be a welcome sight, especially after event organizers canceled the event earlier this year. Never fear, though, the event is back with all the events participants love, especially the balloon launches and “glows.” Friday’s events include the two-day art fair, the dock dogs, launches from 12:30 pm to 5:30 p.m. and a balloon glow at Open Arms Lincoln.
Another harassment allegation
Yet another sexual harassment allegation has been made against an Illinois House Democrat. But this time, the House speaker’s operation is fully supporting its incumbent. Rep. Murri Briel’s former deputy chief of staff Laura Jackson claims that, among other things, Briel (D-Ottawa) sexually harassed her, supplied “unlimited” amounts of Adderall to her and the campaign staff and gave “bonuses in marijuana.” Jackson said she ultimately had a three-hour meeting with the legislative inspector general.
Illinois Times, the capital city's weekly source of news, politics, arts, entertainment, culture
CONVENTIONS | Comic book collectors gather this Sunday This long-running convention will return to Springfield on Sunday. A huge variety of new and old comic books will be for sale at the show as well as toys and related collectibles. Do you have comic books sitting around that are no longer wanted? This might be your chance to unload them. Dealers at this show are interested in buying old comic books, organizers say. Admission is free. For more info, call 309-657-1599 or visit epguides.com/comics.
Top state fair returns to north end
Yes, it’s that time again, Springfield! It’s time to get a corndog at Vose’s, see a Grandstand show or two and take that ride on the Sky Glider. The Illinois State Fair begins bright and early today at 7 a.m. Today’s big event, of course, is the Twilight Parade from Lincoln Park to the fairgrounds at 5:30pm. Once again this year, the Grandstand has a great lineup of shows with Bailey Zimmerman on Friday, Lainey Wilson on Saturday and Matchbox Twenty on Sunday.
Family event calendar
AUGUST Rumble Fish Sat., Aug. 8, 7:30pm. This stage version of S.E. Hinton’s (author or The Outsiders) classic novel explores the themes of gang culture and the search for identity. It tells the story of two brothers, brought up in social deprivation by their alcoholic father. Directed by Mark Buckholz. Theatre in the Park, Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, Petersburg, 15588 History Lane, 217-725-0239. Disney’s Frozen Sat., Aug. 8, 8:30pm. A tale of sisterly love and self-discovery.
Parent Fall 2026
Our annual Summerguide has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for local theater, musical performances, outdoor activities or family-friendly events – many of them free of charge – we’ve got all the details. Plus, there’s an expanded three-month calendar of activities to help you keep track of everything. The International Carillon Festival is being held…
Illinois Times, the capital city's weekly source of news, politics, arts, entertainment, culture
DANCE | Display those dance moves at downtown party Would you like to show your dance moves or learn how to dance? Here’s your chance to try some Latin dances including salsa, merengue and bachata. This free pop-up Latin dance party started last Saturday and will continue on Saturdays through Aug. 29. The event includes beginner-friendly lessons. “La Esquina del Movimiento” translates into “the corner of the movement.” La Esquina del Movimiento | Saturdays, 5-8 p.m. through Aug. 29 | Wild Rose 115 N.
Two nights of music on Y Block
Doc Robinson, Gold Maps | Thu., July 30, 6-9:15 p.m. | The Matchsellers, Bill Poss Fri., July 31, 6 p.m. | Y Block, north of Governor’s Mansion MUSIC | Two nights of music on Y Block What’s better than a Levitt AMP Springfield Music Series show? Easy. Back-to-back Levitt AMP shows two nights in a row, on tap this week to finish up the 10-week series. The fun begins Thursday when Doc Robinson will bring its indie pop/soul sound to Springfield. Local act Gold Maps will open.
Celebration to feature performance, giveaways
The Harris siblings invite the public to help their band, known as the longest-running sibling band in America, celebrate 60 years of performing together as a family. The Harrises, who began performing as The Little Big Shots, are Allan, lead guitar and vocals; Gwen, lead guitar, mandolin, congas and vocals; Max, drums and vocals; Shawn, lead guitar and vocals; Chris, bass and vocals; and John, keyboard and vocals.
July 23-29, 2026
Believe it or not (and I prefer to not) we’ve reached the last full weekend of July for 2026. August peeks in with the Illinois State Fair just ahead and the end of our summer season not far away. So, I say, get out there while you can and take part in it all, in…
Teens present new musical based on Alice in Wonderland
Step into a world of imagination with this touching musical presented by the Active and Creative Teen Theatre. Set in the chaos of World War II, this story follows a young girl, Alice Spencer, who takes shelter with a friend in a London Underground station during the Blitz. As bombs fall on London, Alice clings to her cherished copy of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, using its familiar characters and whimsical world as a refuge from the fear and uncertainty surrounding her.
July 9-15, 2026 - Illinois Times, the capital city's weekly source of news, politics, arts, entertainment, culture
Editor’s note: This article is a commentary on the BUILD plan as it existed in May. The plan has not yet been voted on, and it may undergo changes in the fall. The governor of Illinois recently came on the Strong Towns Podcast to talk about his administration’s BUILD initiative, a package of housing reforms that has received praise…
Former Cubs, Cardinals stars to play
See former Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals legends battle it out in this seven-inning game. Playing for the Cubs side will be former pitcher Kyle Farnsworth, Women’s Pro Baseball League star Amanda Gianelloni and actor Thomas Ian Nicholas, who starred as Henry Rowengartner in the movie Rookie of the Year. Representing the Cardinals will be Cardinals greats Jason Isringhausen and Ray Lankford and WPBL standout Kylee Lahners.
New home, new name for annual music fest
This popular annual music festival, which always packs some serious musical talent, has a new name and new home after previous stops at Sheedy Shores and Long Bridge Golf Course. This year’s event was organized by Tom Beverly, Geoff Ryan, Tom Noonan and Blake Samat. Now in its fifth year, it will feature Emily Perkins, Not Petty, Positively 4th Street and Zack Fedor. Beverly and Ryan take the stage with the Positively 4th Street combo.
217 BUY BLACK DIRECTORY
5th Street Gem 221 S. Fifth St. Lakeisha Purchase Lounge and food and event venue 217-416-9277 7’s Groceries 2520 E. Clear Lake Ave. Arriel Williams Grocery store 217-717-1683 710 Rippy G’s 2501 Wabash Ave. Jenita Harris Restaurant 217-572-1500 1221 Photography 504 S. Fourth St. Zach Adams Photography 217-303-2264 A’Shay Kreations Online Shayla Whitfield Retail 217-553-4721 Ace of Fadez Barbershop 210 W. Laurel St. David Lott Personal care 217-407-9596 Adams Heating & Cooling 1017 S. 25th St. Roy L.
217 BUY BLACK DIRECTORY 2026
5th Street Gem 221 S. Fifth St. Lakeisha Purchase Lounge and food and event venue 217-416-9277 7’s Groceries 2520 E. Clear Lake Ave. Arriel Williams Grocery store 217-717-1683 710 Rippy G’s 2501 Wabash Ave. Jenita Harris Restaurant 217-572-1500 1221 Photography 504 S. Fourth St. Zach Adams Photography 217-303-2264 A’Shay Kreations Online Shayla Whitfield Retail 217-553-4721 Ace of Fadez Barbershop 210 W. Laurel St. David Lott Personal care 217-407-9596 Adams Heating & Cooling 1017 S. 25th St. Roy L.
A new downtown festival is born
This inaugural, family-friendly event is a celebration of art, culture and community. It will feature more than 20 local artisans displaying their creations, musical and dance performances, children’s activities, craft areas, food and more.
Grogu is lazy and redundant, Ryan accomplishes its mission as thriller
Grogu stultifyingly dull I remember as a child, while playing with either my army men or action figures, the scenarios I would make up for them were pretty simple. A fight would take place and then a chase, followed by another fight with maybe the arrival of another figure and then another fight and … you get the picture. The mind of an 8-year-old isn’t attuned to plot intricacies or many variations at that age but it didn’t matter.
Organizers plan antiracism workshop
Advancing the calls to action: From community insight to accountability and implementation | Sat., May 30, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | BOS Center This workshop is aimed at empowering justice-oriented organizations and individuals interested in understanding systemic racism.
Legislation stalled as May 31 adjournment nears
Every year when the legislature arrives at mid-May, it’s always tempting to look around, see the absence of real bicameral movement on legislation and conclude that nothing’s gonna happen in time for the scheduled May 31 adjournment. Succumbing to that temptation this year may not be a bad bet, but things can change. Right now, though, evidence of major movement is super-slim.
Meet artist Niki Johnson as exhibit opens and participate in activities
This powerful mixed-media portrait series of first-time women voters created by artist Niki Johnson will be on display weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the library’s atrium from May 15 to May 29. And get this: At 10 a.m. May 15, Johnson will be at the library’s atrium for a combined artist talk and hands-on writing activity.
Meet the Navy SEAL who killed Osama bin Laden
Meet former Navy SEAL Rob O’Neill, known for firing the shots that killed terrorist Osama bin Laden, during this inaugural Heroes at Home Plate event. O’Neill, 50, will be the keynote speaker at the event. Heroes at Home Plate is designed to feature inspiring individuals who have shown courage, leadership and impact through their stories and experiences. O’Neill, a Montana native, participated in some of the most high-profile missions in U.S. military history and is highly decorated.
Springfield Comic-Con returns
Comic-Con is back and this year’s event features Joey Fatone from NSync, Tara Reid from the American Pie trilogy and other films, Austin St. John from Power Rangers, Amanda Bearse from Married With Children and many other celebrities. See the Facebook page for the complete list of celebrities who will be on hand. Event includes a video game contest, costume contest, tribute cars, cosplay groups and more than 130 vendors.
April 16-22, 2026
Anyone versed in the basics of economics knows that there is no such thing as a free lunch – unless you are shopping for a hotel to host your association’s next convention and you are plied with free tastings of dinner menus for your approval. The rest of us have to pay one way or…
Home & Garden Events
ONGOING Spring Migration Bird Hikes Tuesdays, 8-9 a.m., through May 12. Matt Hales of the Illinois Audubon Society will lead hikes looking for migratory species as well as resident species. Free. Adams Wildlife Sanctuary, 2315 Clear Lake Ave., 217-544-2473. April Nature Walks Saturdays in April, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Nature lovers can enjoy guided wildflower and bird walks on historic Elkhart Hill, enjoying the beauty of blooming flowers and the songs of returning birds. Lunch options available.
Author to talk about living in a Wright house in New York
Ever wonder what it would be like to live in a home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright? Here’s a chance to find out. Kim Bixler, the author of Growing Up in a Frank Lloyd Wright House, will speak at the April 17 annual dinner of the Dana-Thomas House Foundation. Bixler’s family owned Wright’s 1908 Edward E. Boynton House in Rochester, New York, from 1977 to 1994. According to a press release from the foundation, “Bixler will recount the pitfalls of owning and living in a Wright-designed home.
The promise of one world
We all know what a time waster surfing the internet can be yet, occasionally, something pops up which illustrates a truth, simply but profoundly. Sometime during the past year, I came upon such a story. It goes something like this. Somewhere in the U.S., a middle-aged man is standing in the checkout line at a grocery store. Behind him, a young woman is having a quiet conversation on her cellphone.
Spring guide calendar
ONGOING Lilacs and Letters Through April 8. The play is set at the Armory Square Military Hospital in Washington, D.C., in 1865. Poet Walt Whitman, a hospital volunteer, sits among the sleeping wounded as he reflects on national grief and puts the finishing touches on poetry eulogizing President Abraham Lincoln. Free with museum admission. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 212 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844. Washington Park Botanical Garden Spring Floral Show Through April 12.
Old State Capitol site of activities, presentations
Starting Saturday, history will come alive downtown at the Old State Capitol for spring break with a variety of family-friendly activities and presentations. On Saturday, participants can learn about toy making and crafts in the 19th century, hear the Gettysburg Address, enjoy live music by duo Peaches & Bacon and more.
New exhibit features Pillsbury artifacts
The old Pillsbury Mills plant is being razed on the north end. Meanwhile, artifacts from the plant have gone on display in a new exhibit at the ALPLM. Moving Pillsbury Forward, in conjunction with the ALPLM, developed this exhibit focused on the early years of the plant. “The exhibit represents an era in local manufacturing that provided hundreds of good jobs during the Great Depression and set the stage for future expansion at the plant in the 1950s and 60s.
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