Listen to Kimberly Schofield and Adelyn Mui talk about weekend events on IPM News AM 580 and FM 90.9 – Wednesdays at 6:45 and 8:45 a.m., and Thursdays at 5:44 p.m.
Thursday, October 10
An Evening with Ken Liu
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Champaign Public Library
Details: Award-winning author Ken Liu, known for speculative fiction and the Dandelion Dynasty series, will speak as part of the Great Authors at the Library series. Don’t miss this chance to hear from one of the genre’s best!
Champaign-Urbana Jazz Festival Opening Night Party
Time: 5 p.m. Uncorked with Twin Talk | 7:30 p.m. Trio M
Location: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, Urbana
Details: The 10th annual CU Jazz Festival kicks off with a night of jazz. Enjoy wine and jazz with Twin Talk, followed by a performance from the innovative Trio M. The festival runs through the weekend.
The Great Cover Up
Time: 8 p.m.
Location: Rose Bowl Tavern, Urbana
Details: The 32nd year of this beloved tradition where local musicians cover famous bands or artists. The festival runs through Saturday, October 12. Proceeds go to GIRLS ROCK! C-U, supporting music education for girls in the community.
Friday, October 11
Grease at Harvest Moon Drive-In
Time: 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
Location: Gibson City
Details: Meet the cast members and enjoy a special showing of Grease at the Harvest Moon Drive-In. A perfect night for fans of the classic musical!
Saturday, October 12
Flannel Fest
Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: West Side Park, Champaign
Details: Celebrate fall at Flannel Fest! Enjoy a lumberjack show, mustache contest, hot pepper eating challenge, and local music from Kickflip!, Ian (The Space), and Hootenanny (Clayton Burke Band). Family-friendly fun for all!
Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra Season Opening
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, Urbana
Details: The CUSO opens its 65th season with “Music and Majesty,” featuring pieces by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Mendelssohn, and Dvořák. The University of Illinois Oratorio Society and Chamber Singers will join for a performance of Te Deum.
Sunday, October 13
S’mores Social and Stroll
Time: 3 p.m.-5 p.m.
Location: Crystal Lake Park, Urbana
Details: Enjoy a relaxed afternoon strolling through Crystal Lake Park with s’mores and hot chocolate around the fire. Perfect for families or anyone wanting a cozy Sunday experience.
The Great Cover Up (Final Night)
Time: 8 p.m.
Location: Rose Bowl Tavern, Urbana
Details: The final night of this annual fundraiser for GIRLS ROCK! C-U. Musicians wrap up with incredible covers of legendary bands and artists.
CU Jazz Festival (Closing Day)
Time: All day
Location: Various venues
Details: The CU Jazz Festival concludes with a series of performances across Champaign-Urbana. Check the festival website for detailed scheduling.