Krannert Center’s Outside at the Research Park plays upon a simple concept: great music, fresh food, and a green state of mind in an open, relaxed environment. The performance space and seating area are located just south of the Atkins Building at the corner of First Street and St. Mary’s Road in Champaign. The tree-lined, grassy space has hosted thousands of audience members each summer since the inception of Outside in 2007. So pack up a picnic, load up the kids, and head out to Research Park on July 21 for the summer event you won’t want to miss.
It’s another jam packed weekend on fun in Champaign-Urbana. Looking to keep cool? Check out these 8 FREE Air-Conditioned Family Outings in Champaign-Urbana. Looking to cool off in a pool? We have a guide for that! Don’t forget to save the date for our next Summer Playdate at Colbert Park in Savoy, on July 25.
Thank you to Krannert Center’s OUTSIDE at the Research Park for sponsoring this edition of Weekend Planner.
Our weekend picks:
What: Champaign County Fair
Where: Champaign County Fairgrounds, Urbana (behind Carle Foundation Hospital). Free parking is available.
When: Friday, July 21 through Saturday, July 29. Hours vary by day, but gate admission is charged starting at 3 p.m. on weekdays (on weekends, admission is charged all day).
How much: $5 per adult 13 and over; children 12 and under free; season pass for adults $25. Grandstand events are charged separately from the Gate. You can now buy tickets online.
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: It’s time for the Champaign County Fair! Haven’t been yet? Now is your chance. Make sure you ride the Ferris Wheel! See our Champaign Country Fair Pocket Guide for our tips and recommendations before you head to the fair, including how to make the most of your fair budget!
What: OUTSIDE at the Research Park
Where: UI Research Park, Champaign
When: Friday, July 21, outdoor concert from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
How much: FREE
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: We LOVE this fun family outdoor concert event. There will be food trucks, outdoor music, and space for you to unroll your picnic blankets and unwind. This concert will feature Elvin Bishop Big Fun Trio and Mank N Sass. This OUTSIDE concert, a University of Illinois Sesquicentennial event, will feature a Green Fair, children’s activities and more!
What: Seussical: Presented by Urbana Park District Summer Youth Theatre
Where: Parkland College’s Harold and Jean Miner Theatre, Champaign
When: Thur-Sat, July 20-23, 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, July 23, 2 p.m.
How much: $14 Adult/$10 Students and Seniors/ $7 Children 12 and under (buy online here)
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: All of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters are brought to life by the talented youngsters of the UPD Summer Youth Theatre.
What: Illinois Amish Heritage Center’s Inaugural Steam Threshing Show
Where: Located in Amish Country of Illinois between Arcola and Arthur on Rt. 133.
When: All day Friday, July 21 and Saturday, July 22. For an event schedule, click here.
How much: Admission: $10.00 per adult, $20 per family, children 12 and under are FREE.
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: Bring the kids for the LIVE demonstrations with 20 acres of wheat threshing, discing with Amish horses, and antique tractors. Plus: Wagon rides, animal retting, pony rides, and a lunch tent with your favorite Amish good & homemade ice cream! Proceeds will fund the Illinois Amish Heritage Center, that preserves two historic Amish houses including the oldest Amish house in Illinois, the 1865 Moses Yoder house.
What: Sholem Movie Night at the Pool
Where: Sholem Aquatic Center, Champaign
When: Friday, July 21, 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
How much: Free admission to pool pass holders. The general public will pay $6 resident. $9 non-resident, separate from any previous admission paid, even earlier that day.
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: Join the Sholem Aquatic Center for an evening of fun in the water accompanied by a favorite water-themed movie, Finding Dory. Lay out on the beach, rest in a deck chair, or swim in the lap pool, and enjoy the film. Concessions will be open and serving favorite movie foods during this swim-in movie event. Can’t make the Friday night movie, and but love the idea of watching a movie in the pool? You can catch Finding Dory at the Monticello Aquatic Center on Saturday, July 22 at 8:00 p.m.
What: Live! Music for Kids: Jeanie B at Champaign Public Library
Where: Champaign Public Library
When: Saturday, July 22, 3:00-3:45 p.m.
How much: FREE
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: Come ready for fun with Jeanie B! Jam-packed with dancing, sing-alongs, and interactive music. Jeanie B’s high energy shows encourage kids to get up and move to the beat while exploring topics universal to younger audiences.
The post Champaign-Urbana Weekend Planner July 21-23 Sponsored by Krannert Center’s OUTSIDE at the Research Park appeared first on ChambanaMoms.com.
