DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The weekend is upon us, and there are plenty of things to do and see across central Illinois.
Here is a selection of events, markets, concerts and more happening Friday, August 1 to Sunday, August 3, 2025.
Back to School Bash
The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is hosting their Back to School Bash! Hosted at Union Square Park, the morning is full of hands-on games and interactive learning activities.
The bash features animals brought by the Henson Robinson Zoo and special visits from first responders.
When: Saturday, August 02, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Where: Union Square Park, 500 E. Madison St., Springfield, IL
YMCA Backpack Attack
The Decatur Family YMCA will host their annual Backpack Attack. 2,000 school supply-filled backpacks will be handed out to students entering kindergarten through 6th grade. Students must be present to pick up their backpacks!
The Macon County Health Department will also be offering onsite vaccinations, dental screenings, and lead testing
Backpacks will be available for pickup from three locations:
- Decatur Family YMCA
- John's Hill Magnet School (Drive-Up Location)
- Macon County Health Department
When: Saturday, August 02, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Where: 220 W. McKinley Ave., Decatur, IL
Shrek at the Muni
Bring your own chair and come to the swamp! Catch the eye-catching, exciting musical featuring Shrek on a life-changing journey with a donkey and a princess. Shrek starts off just wanting to be left alone, but finds that love is much more rewarding. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
When:
Friday, August 1 through Saturday, August 9, 2025, 8:30 p.m.
Where: The Muni, 815 East Lake Shore Dr., Springfield, IL
August Crafter's Paradise
Time to get crafty! If you've got a knack for the arts, come create with like-minded artists! The August Crafter's Paradise is taking place this weekend at the Mt. Zion Convention center.
For $20 a person, each crafter gets a 6-ft table with power and Wi-Fi. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. Wagons, side tables, etc. are allowed.
When: Friday, August 1 through Sunday, August 3, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Mt. Zion Convention Center, 1400 Mt. Zion Parkway, Mt. Zion, IL
Vines & Vibes Fest
Get ready for a perfect day at Alto Vineyards with live music from PBS and The B-Sides, delicious wines and mouthwatering eats from Patty Daddy’s.
Whether you're a wine lover or just here for the vibes, this summer hangout has something for everyone. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door—don’t miss it!
When: Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Alto Vineyards, 4210 N. Duncan Rd. Champaign, IL
For other events in central Illinois check out the WAND Community Calendar.
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