Holiday season is off and running and this weekend may have more holiday-themed events than we have ever seen in one weekend in Champaign-Urbana (but just wait until next weekend)

Families can choose from a myriad of events and activities this weekend in Champaign-Urbana

We were blown away when we saw all the places jolly old Santa Claus was going to be showing up this weekend! Not just that, but parades, lights around C-U and literally everything holiday-themed is happening in Champaign-Urbana this weekend. Choose wisely and pick whatever fits your budget and preferences.

Sign up today for “Home for the Holidays”, our daily email for all things holidays in Champaign-Urbana, running four weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. You will NOT automatically receive this daily email unless you sign up, so take a moment to do that now. 

chambanamoms.com thanks Champaign Park District for presenting this weekend’s planner

Next weekend is a quadruple holiday treat with Champaign Park District! Enjoy Santa’s Workshop, a free holiday event with a Santa meet & greet at Douglass Community Center on Saturday, as well as the Season of Giving Gift Giveaway at Martens Center (must register to receive gifts by Friday, December 1).

On Sunday, check out Holiday in Whoville at the Virginia Theatre, where they’ll be screening the original How the Grinch Stole Christmas cartoon and offering hot chocolate, pictures with Santa, and trolley rides!

Also, enjoy Winter Nights at Prairie Farm, a free, accessible light experience in Centennial Park throughout the weekend.

For more information: Website, Facebook or Instagram

A few events to check out this weekend

Looking for something to do with your family? You’ve come to the right place! Our events calendar aggregates family-friendly events happening in the Champaign-Urbana metro area. We know you’re busy and looking for a bang for your buck, so we put an emphasis on including free and low-cost events that you can plan to attend on the fly. Please note that events are subject to change without notice.

Remember, many sporting events and outdoor activities are subject to change without notice or at the last minute. Check with event organizers when in doubt before heading out to an event. 

Thank you to OSF HealthCare for presenting the chambanamoms events calendar. For more information, visit OSF here.

Find the complete chambanamoms.com event calendar by clicking here now.

Saturday, December 2, 2023

St. Joseph Christmas Tree Lighting
Time: 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
St. Joseph-Stanton Fire Protection District

Sunday, December 3, 2023

Sinai Temple Gift Shop Chanukah Showcase
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Sinai Temple

Santa Cares Day: A Sensory-Friendly Santa Event | Reservations Required
Time: 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Marketplace Mall

CU Ballet

The holiday magic returns with Champaign Urbana Ballet’s beloved holiday classic, The Nutcracker on November 30-December 3 at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. Nutcracker regulars and first-timers alike can ring in the holiday season with this joyous tradition featuring intricate stagecraft with expertly designed and locally inspired scenery, beautifully hand-crafted costumes, and, as always, the artistry and athleticism of CU Ballet’s extraordinary dancers. This time-honored community tradition is a time for making memories as we wait in anticipation for the most beautiful season of the year. From the opening notes of the overture, to Clara’s farewell to her Nutcracker Prince, CU Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker is an experience you’ll treasure.

For more information: Website or Facebook

DICK’s House of Sport

X CROCS U of I Athlete Appearance – Sunday, December 3, 6 – 8 p.m.

Come out for an exclusive event that brings together top U of I football players and the coolest kicks in town.

Step into the world of football glamour as Luke Altmyer (Starting QB), Clayton Bush (DB), and Keion Battle (WR) from the U of I team descend upon DICK’s House of Sport. These gridiron heroes aren’t just here to play – they’re here to shop, engage, and create memories with you!

But that’s not all! Brace yourself for an interactive football activity with the players themselves. Get ready to catch passes, show off your best moves, and experience the thrill of playing alongside U of I’s finest. It’s a unique chance to connect with the athletes in a fun and dynamic setting.

Cap off the evening with the ultimate fan experience – an autograph session with Luke, Clayton, and Keion. Bring your gear, memorabilia, or pick up a special item at the store for them to sign. It’s a fantastic opportunity to make lasting memories and have a piece of U of I football history in your collection.

For more information: Website

Illini Tutoring

Illini Tutoring has been serving students in Champaign-Urbana since 2010. Students trust Illini Tutoring’s certified teachers and tutors to help them excel in their math and science classes. Illini Tutoring offers one-to-one tutoring for the SAT and ACT. It also offers one-to-one tutoring for math and science courses and college app essays. Moms who want their kids to succeed in school – and in life – trust its tutoring services year after year, and Illini Tutoring can’t wait to welcome you into its family of creative thinkers and problem solvers. Illini Tutoring is a mom-owned company with a big heart for the community. It donates thousands of dollars each year to support the local public schools and other community projects.

For more information: Website, email, or call (217) 714-8395

Soccer Planet

Soccer Planet offers training for all skill levels and ages, from recreational to competitive. Whether you are trying soccer for the first time, looking to push your game to the next level, or interested in elite skill specific training…they have a program for you!

How to enroll: Call (217) 367-9999, register in-person, or register online.

Location: 2310 N. Willow Road, Urbana

For more information: Website, email or call (217) 367-9999.