5 Things to do this weekend

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The weekend is upon us, and there are plenty of things to do and see across central Illinois.

Here are a selection of events, markets, concerts and more happening Friday, August 15 to Sunday, August 17, 2025.

Cirque Italia Water Circus

Come one, come all! Cirque Italia Water Show is here in Springfield this weekend.

The show is the first traveling water circus in the United States. With performers from across the world, guests will experience death-defying acts like never before! 

The show hosts a wide variety of acts like fire, trampoline, rope and swing acts to name a few.

When: Friday, Aug. 15 - Monday, Aug. 18 at 7:30pm

Where: 2501 Wabash Ave Springfield, IL 62704

Illinois State Fair Events

Summer's not over yet! Soak up the last few days at the Illinois State Fair, and catch some of the events lined up for this weekend. Saturday is Park District Conservation Day!

Members of more than 45 Park Districts from throughout Illinois entertain fairgoers across the grounds and host activities in Conservation World.

Sunday is Family Day at the fair, bringing families out to enjoy the last day of the fair. Over at the Grandstand, Def Leppard takes the stage Saturday evening at 8:00pm, with the Turnpike Troubadours ending the Illinois State Fair on Sunday at 8:00pm.

When: Saturday, Aug. 16 and Sunday, Aug. 17 

Where: 801 Sangamon Avenue Springfield, IL 62706

Apple Dumpling 31st Anniversary Festival  

Hope you're hungry! It's the 31st anniversary of the Apple Dumpling festival this weekend. Enjoy the wide variety of food vendors while walking the street checking out the wide variety of vendors.

Then sit back and enjoy entertainment on the main stage, and the wonderful Apple Dumpling Hometown Pride Parade.

When: Saturday, Aug. 16 at 12pm

Where: N Main St, Atwood, IL 61913

Illinois Run For The Fallen  

A moment to honor and remember those who served our country. Participants can walk/run in the Illinois Run for The Fallen at no cost.

The event is strictly a memorial event, it is not competitive. Simply walk/run one mile for a fallen service member (or more if you choose). 

When: Saturday, Aug. 16 at 7am

Where: Linder Sports Complex, 2924 Community Drive, Charleston, IL 

Pony Express Days

Get ready for the ultimate weekend of family fun, thrilling activities, and unforgettable live music at the 44th Annual Mt. Zion Lions Club Pony Express Days! ️

Whether you're a local or visiting, Pony Express Days is the place to be! Enjoy your favorite carnival foods, shop from local vendors, and feel the adrenaline rush at the Mud Drags, where trucks, ATVs, and Side by Sides race through the mud.

When: Saturday, Aug. 16 and Sunday, August 17

Where: 1595 W Main St, Mount Zion, IL


For other events in central Illinois check out the WAND Community Calendar.

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