DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) -Â 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, festivals and more happening Friday, Oct. 17, to Sunday, Oct. 19!
Boo at the Zoo
Bring the whole family for a wildly good time at the zoo the last two weekends of October! Enjoy sweet treats, festive decorations, a spin on the carousel and a not-so-scary train ride—all while supporting the zoo. It's a Halloween tradition that's fun for every creature in your pack!
When: Saturday, Oct. 18, 1 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 19, 1 p.m.
Where: Scovill Zoo, 71 S Country Club Rd, Decatur, IL
Fall Book Sale
Book lovers, get ready to fall into a good read! The Mattoon Public Library's Fall Book Sale is happening Saturday, Oct. 18, from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with shelves full of books, movies and more for all ages.
Everything is available by donation, so you can stock up your shelf and support the library at the same time.
When: Saturday, Oct. 18, 7:30 a.m.
Where: 1600 Charleston Ave, Mattoon, IL
Downtown Decatur Fall Family FestivalÂ
Get ready to celebrate fall, Decatur-style. The Downtown Decatur Fall Family Festival is taking over the streets with fun for all ages—from inflatables and firetrucks for the kids to craft beer, live music and a $500 bags tournament for the grown-ups.
With local brews, food favorites and music. This is one fall festival you won't want to miss.
When: Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m.
Where: Merchant Street, Decatur, IL
HalloThanksMasÂ
Kick off the holiday season at the HalloThanksMas Artisan Market at the Orr Building in Springfield. Shop local vendors, snack on sweet treats, snap photos with Santa (and maybe even The Grinch!) and enjoy live music all day long.
With festive fun for all ages, it's the perfect way to celebrate all your favorite holidays in one magical market day.
When: Saturday, Oct. 18, 8 a.m.
Where: Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds
Fright Night at Prairie FarmÂ
Get ready for a spooktacular evening at Fright Night at Prairie Farm. From hayrack rides and pumpkin decorating to a cozy bonfire with s'mores and a costume contest, there's fun for every little monster.
Stick around after dark for an outdoor screening of "Hotel Transylvania"—the perfect way to wrap up a night of Halloween magic!
When: Saturday, Oct. 18, 5 p.m.
Where: 2200 W Kirby Ave, Champaign, IL
For other events in Central Illinois, check out the WAND Community Calendar.
Copyright 2025. WANDTV. All Rights Reserved.
