The much-anticipated return of the Illinois High School Boys Basketball State Finals to Champaign is almost here. And with it comes a special attraction for kids of all ages.
The KidsZone, presented by Chambanamoms.com, will offer a variety of activities inside the State Farm Center during the March 10-12 tournament. The event, which moved from Champaign to Peoria in the mid 1990s, returns to State Farm Center this year after it was originally slated to return for 2021 (canceled because of COVID-19).
Now March has arrived.
“We’re absolutely thrilled,” said Terri Reifsteck, vice president of marketing and community engagement for Visit Champaign County, which was instrumental in getting the winning bid for the tournament. “We had no idea what to expect with some of the changes with COVID; I think we’ll see more people attending than we initially planned on.”
Some important notes if you’re attending the games or KidsZone at State Farm Center:
- According to University of Illinois policy, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test is no longer required for entrance. Additionally, masks are not required inside the building though they are encouraged.
- All concessions feature cashless vendors. Credit, debit, or NFC-enabled devices with Google Pay, Apple Pay, or Samsung Pay are accepted forms of payment.
- The UI’s clear bag policy remains in place.
Below is the schedule, along with pertinent details, of the Chambanamoms KidsZone; there is no additional fee for these activities as they are included with the cost of a ticket to the tournament.
The KidsZone is located in the Orange Krush Club (north side of the building). There will be a fun photo spot, button-making, a scavenger hunt and plenty of activities to enjoy.
Thursday, March 10 | 9:30–11:30 a.m. and 2–4 p.m.
9:30–11:30 a.m. — Wild Style Design Company Glitter Tattoos & Face-Painting
2–4 p.m. — Dan Wild Caricatures
Friday, March 11 | 9:30–11:30 a.m. and 2-4 p.m.:
9:30–11:30 a.m. — Wild Style Design Company Glitter Tattoos & Face-Painting
2:00–4:00 p.m. — Dan Wild Caricatures
Saturday, March 12 | 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5–8 p.m.
10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Dan Wild Caricatures
12:00–2:00 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. — DJ Silkee Dance Party
5–7 p.m. — Wild Style Design Company Glitter Tattoos & Face-Painting
TechZone
Located in the Traditions Club (East side of State Farm Center)
Thursday & Friday, March 10–11
9 a.m.–2:30 p.m. — Innovation Studio & VR Lab 5-minute virtual reality experience
10 a.m.–7 p.m. — Illini eSports mini-games
Saturday, March 12
10 a.m.–7 p.m. — Illini eSports mini-games
Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) Historical Display
Located in the Upper Concourse of the State Farm Center
The IBCA will display memorabilia, historical information, and other interesting visuals celebrating their 50th Anniversary of serving our state’s basketball community.
University of Illinois College Fair
Located in the Upper Concourse of the State Farm Center
Learn more about admissions to the University of Illinois during the college fair on Friday, March 11 from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Talk directly with various colleges on-hand to learn about their programs and areas of study.
Wheelchair Tournament
The IHSA Wheelchair Basketball Tournament will be March 11-12 at the Activities & Recreation Center on the UI campus. Click here for times and more information. Admission is free.