Summer is officially here, and July is packed with PLENTY to do around around Champaign-Urbana. So to keep it all straight, we’ve picked out a few of our many favorites and listed them here so you will make sure not to miss them. They’re listed chronologically. (For info on area fireworks, go here. For other July 4 events, go here.)
Chambanamoms thanks Dick’s House of Sport for presenting this list. Check Dick’s events calendar to observe all of the things to do at the House of Sport.
Christie Clinic Presents Swim Under the Stars at Sholem Aquatic Center, July 1
Join Chambanamoms and Christie Clinic at Sholem Aquatic Center for a free evening of swimming under the stars. From 8-10 p.m., bring the family for an evening of swimming with glow sticks. Concessions will be open for purchasing snacks, and the pool will be staffed with lifeguards. You do not need a pool pass to attend this evening swim. Thanks to Christie Clinic for sponsoring this event, and to Sholem Aquatic Center for hosting.
Champaign County Freedom Celebration Fireworks, July 4
We’ve waited a whole year for these fireworks! You better believe they’ll be worth the wait. But make no mistake: There are plenty of places this week to view fireworks. We have the scoop here.
40 North’s Friday Night Live, July 5
It’s the 12th year for Friday Night Live in downtown Champaign and, boy, are we ready for it. Plenty of great music from 6-9 p.m.
Pick blueberries, until mid-July
Early July is perfect blueberry-picking time. We have a list of prime spots to pick blueberries in Central Illinois. Remember: The blueberry season typically extends no later than mid-July. So don’t dawdle.
Grease Sing-a-Long, July 11
Remember the 1978 hit movie? If so, you probably remember the words to all of those catchy tunes. Head over to the Virginia Theatre on July 11 to sing along to those hits; admission is $7.
Balloons over Vermilion, July 12
Hot air balloons launching and tethering, mass ascents, fly-ins and balloon glows will populate the Vermilion County Regional Airport. Plus inflatables, face painting, chalking and a variety of kid-friendly events.
Christie Clinic Presents: Safety Night at Colbert Park, July 16
Spend at evening at Colbert Park in Savoy with Chambanamoms and Christie Clinic to enjoy a free touch-a-truck style event. See fire, police and emergency vehicles up close, play on the playground, grab a snack from a food truck and more!
Champaign County Fair, July 19-27
July 22 is Kids Day, but every day is a good day for some fair fun. Admission is $8 for 13-and-up, $2 for ages 6-12 and free for those under 6. And parking is free, too.
Curtis Orchard Opening Day, July 20
The apple donuts are back! Curtis Orchard opens for the season on July 20, although you’ll have to wait a bit for its signature fall activities.
Free Summer Movies at Savoy 16, July 23-25
Savoy 16’s summer of free morning movies on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays reaches its penultimate week with showings of Super Mario Bros. Movie and Dolittle.