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, October 24 to Sunday, October 26, 2025.

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, October 25, 1:00pm and Sunday, October 26, 1:00pm

Where: 71 S Country Club Rd, Decatur, IL, United States, Illinois

Flannel Fest

Grab your flannel and head to West Side Park for Flannel Fest — the ultimate fall hangout filled with live music, lumberjack showdowns, and fiery contests that'll keep the energy high all day long.

From hot peppers to mustaches, DJs to BBQ, it's a full day of cozy chaos and autumn fun you don't want to miss.

When: Saturday, October 25, 11 a.m.

Where: West Side Park 400 W. University Ave, Champaign, IL

Urbana Firefighters Trunk or Treat

Get ready for a frightfully fun time with the Urbana Firefighters Local #1147 at their annual Trunk or Treat event!

On October 26, the Lincoln Square Mall parking lot transforms into a festive Halloween zone filled with decorated cars, sweet treats, and smiling faces.

Families are invited to enjoy a safe and exciting trick-or-treat experience alongside Urbana's hometown heroes. Firefighters will be on hand to pass out candy, show off their trucks, and celebrate the spooky season with the community.

When: Sunday October 26, 1100am

Where: Lincoln Sq Mall Parking Lot, Urbana, IL 

Hallopalooza at Kidzeum 

Step into a world of spooky science and hands-on fun at Kidzeum's annual Hallowpalooza!

This Halloween celebration transforms the museum into a wonder-filled playground of glowing experiments, sensory surprises, and creative crafts that blend learning with laughter.

Families can roam three floors of themed adventures — from eerie exhibits to interactive play — all designed to spark imagination and curiosity. Come dressed in your best costume!

When: Saturday, October 25, 9:00am

Where: 412 E. Adams St, Springfield, IL

Illinois Governor's Mansion Candy Giveaway

Celebrate Halloween in spooky style at the Illinois Governor's Mansion on Saturday! Kids can meet the Governor and First Lady—both in costume—while collecting candy and exploring all the fun on the mansion grounds.

Enjoy hands-on crafts with the Illinois State Museum, check out a real Springfield Fire Department engine, and trunk-or-treat with Central Baptist Church. Don't forget to snap a photo with the mansion's annual pumpkin display, glowing with fall spirit and family-friendly fun!

When: Saturday, October 25, 1:00pm

Where: Illinois Governor's Mansion 410 E. Jackson St, Springfield, IL


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

Copyright 2025. WANDTV. All Rights Reserved.