DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) -Â 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, September 12, to Sunday, September 14, 2025.
Smoke on the Ridge Annual BBQ Cookoff
Think you've got the best chicken, ribs, or secret recipe? Enter the competition for just $45—plus, don't miss the People's Choice showdown. The day also brings a car show, live bands, and food trucks—plus donations will support Saving Orphaned Animals
When: September 13, 2025, at 11:00am
Where: 1796 N 1475 East Road, Shelbyville, IL, United States, Illinois 6256
Ride to Remember 9/11 Parade
Springfield will honor the lives lost on 9/11 with a Memorial Parade and Ceremony on Sunday, September 14th.
The procession begins at Hall's Harley-Davidson at 10:40 a.m., following a brief ceremony, and will make its way to the Illinois State Capitol grounds.
The event is free, open to all vehicles, and the public is encouraged to line the route to show that We Will Never Forget.
When: Sunday, September 14, 2025, 9:00am
Where: 2301 N Dirksen Pkwy, Springfield, IL 62702-1403
Toast to Taylor Street Block Party
Follow the music to Downtown Champaign for a night packed with live performances, local talent, and pure energy. Stroll through a marketplace buzzing with makers and one-of-a-kind finds you won't see anywhere else.
Then fuel up with eats and drinks from Champaign's best restaurants and bars.
When: Saturday, September 13, 2025 , 5:00pm
Where: Downtown Champaign
Caterpillar Decatur Family DayÂ
Caterpillar employees and their families will celebrate manufacturing at the Decatur facility on Saturday, September 13.
A special ceremony begins at 10 a.m., featuring the unveiling of two permanent equipment displays—the Cat 994 Large Wheel Loader and the Cat 657 Wheel Tractor-Scraper—at the front entrance.
Guests are welcome to stay for Family Day activities until noon.
When: Saturday, September 13, 10:00am
Where: 3000 N. 27th Street, Decatur IL
217 Foodies Festival at The RailyardÂ
Springfield’s first-ever 217 Foodies Festival is set for Saturday, September 13, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at The Railyard on 66.
The all-day event will feature Railyard favorites along with a lineup of local vendors serving everything from Korean fusion to Jamaican cuisine — all offered in tasting plates so you can sample it all.
Guests can also enjoy free face painting, live music, and entertainment throughout the day.
When: Saturday, September 13, 2025, 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Where: 2242 S 6th Street, Springfield, ILÂ
For other events in central Illinois check out the WAND Community Calendar.
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