Free Summer Fun!

This summer gather your friends, family, and neighbors for our Hessel Park Concerts! Audience members are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, snacks, and refreshments.

• June 1 | 6-8p
• July 6 | 6-8p
• August 3 | 6-8p

Location: Hessel Park

Tots, put your toy trucks away – it’s time to touch the real thing! Climb in, hop on, and honk the horns of some really big trucks and other vehicles during Touch-A-Truck Day! Tow trucks, fire trucks, police cars, and more will be available for kids to explore. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic too!

Date: May 8
Time: 9a – 1p (Sensory hour from 9-10a)
Location: Centennial Park

The Central Illinois Aerospace Model Rocket Club invites you to join us for exhilarating rocket launches twice a month, all year round!

Typically scheduled on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays, our launches offer enthusiasts and spectators alike the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring sight of model rockets taking flight.

While most launches occur at Dodds Park, we occasionally explore alternate locations for added variety and excitement.

Come be a part of our thrilling launches and experience the thrill of aerospace exploration!

Date: May 11 – August 10 (Every second Saturday of the month)
May 25 – August 24 (Every fourth Saturday of the month)
Time: 12-6p
Location: Dodds Park

Join us at the Martens Center for University of Illinois Extension Day. Explore a wealth of educational opportunities and community resources. Engage in interactive cooking demonstrations at 1:15pm and 2:15pm, enjoy free face painting, sweet treats like cotton candy and Kona Ice, and bounce with joy on the inflatables. Community Vendor booths will be onsite, offering a diverse array of services and information, with exciting giveaways and endless learning opportunities. Don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of community and knowledge!

Date: May 11
Time: 1-3p
Location: Martens Center

This summer, join us for an unforgettable series of Jazz in the Park concerts, where friends, family, and neighbors come together to enjoy live music in the great outdoors. Experience the magic of jazz in a different neighborhood park each month as talented musicians take the stage to serenade the crowd. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and refreshments, and get ready to relax and unwind as you soak up the soulful sounds of jazz under the open sky.

• May 23 | Clark Park
• June 20 | Mattis Park
• July 25 | Commissioners Park
• August 22 | Powell Park

Time: 6-8p

Come one, come all to our exciting Day in the Park event, where fun knows no bounds and admission is free! Step into a carnival atmosphere filled with games, music, delicious food, and endless entertainment. From classic carnival games to toe-tapping tunes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to experience a day of pure fun and excitement at the park!

• May 26 | Robert C. Porter Family Park
• June 23 | Turnberry Ridge Park
• July 28 | Robeson Park
• August 25 | Eisner Park

Time: 1-3p

Co-sponsored by the Optimist Club of Champaign-Urbana for children who love to fish! Prizes will be awarded and a free hot dog lunch will be served. Bring your own fishing tackle/bait will be provided. A parent/guardian should accompany their child(ren) and fill out a permission form for each participant, available on-site at the event. 

Date: June 1
Time: 9a -12p
Location: Kaufman Lake

Grab your blankets and get ready for a magical evening under the stars with our Thursday Night Flicks! Join us once a month during the summer for an unforgettable outdoor movie experience. Sit back, relax, and enjoy as we screen a variety of films while the sky darkens. We’ll provide the popcorn, sweet treats, and drinks, so all you need to do is bring your family and friends for a night of entertainment. Movies begin at dusk, so don’t be late to claim your spot and settle in for a cinematic journey under the open sky.

• June 6 | Johnston Park
• July 11 | West Side Park

Time: 9:15p

Celebrate Juneteenth, the oldest known celebration marking the abolition of slavery in the United States, at our unforgettable event! Join us for a day filled with music, cultural enrichment, and community spirit as we honor this significant holiday. Explore various vendors offering unique wares and learn more about the history and significance of Juneteenth. While adults engage in meaningful conversations, children can immerse themselves in arts and crafts, bounce around on inflatables, or cool off in the splash pad. With something for everyone to enjoy, Juneteenth promises to be a memorable and educational experience for the whole family. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate freedom and unity together!

Date: June 15
Time: 12 – 3p
Location: Douglass Park

Join us, alongside members of the Champaign-Urbana Astronomical Society, Inc., for a celestial experience on select Saturdays! Immerse yourself in an evening under the stars and behold the wonders of the universe through the largest public telescope in East Central Illinois. Please note that all skywatch sessions are subject to cancellation in the event of cloudy weather. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the cosmos and expand your horizons with us!

Date: June 15, July 13, August 10
Time: 8:30 – 10:30p
Location: CUAS Observatory, 926 Country Road 700E, Champaign

Join us for the Great Annual Rocket Launch at Dodds Park on Saturday, June 29th, from 10 am to 4 pm!

Witness the sky come alive as hundreds of model rockets soar into the atmosphere. Whether you’re a rocket enthusiast with your own model or simply want to marvel at the spectacle, this event promises excitement for all.

In case of inclement weather, the rain date is scheduled for Saturday, July 13th. Don’t miss out on this exhilarating display of aerospace ingenuity!

Date: June 29
Time: 10a – 4p
Location: Dodds Park

Join us for Lakeside Brews, Beats & Eats, an adults-only event for ages 21 and up at Heritage Park on June 29th from 5pm to 10pm. Enjoy a food truck rally, live music, and local beer and cocktails.

As a gesture of support, we kindly suggest a $5 donation at the entrance, with proceeds dedicated to the youth scholarship fund, ensuring a brighter future for our community’s aspiring talents.

 Purchase tickets onsite for alcohol beverages. Food available for purchase via cash or card.

Date: June 29
Time: 5 – 10p
Location: Heritage Park

Get ready to celebrate the vibrant Chambana community as Champaign-Urbana Days approaches! Join us for this cherished 30+ year tradition, as we come together to honor our shared heritage and culture. This event offers an incredible opportunity for community exposure and connection. Delight in live music performances, indulge in tasty food from local vendors, and partake in a variety of activities for both children and seniors alike. Champaign-Urbana Days promises to be an unforgettable celebration of unity and togetherness. Don’t miss out on this chance to join in the festivities and embrace the spirit of our wonderful community!

• August 9 | 5 -8p
• August 10 | 11a – 8p

Location: Douglass Park

Mark your calendars for September 15th, as the West Side Arts event is set to take place at West Side Park. Presented by the Champaign Park District and 40 North, this free juried art festival is a celebration of local and regional talent. Art enthusiasts and curious minds alike are invited to immerse themselves in a diverse array of mediums, as artists showcase their masterpieces available for purchase. It’s a golden opportunity to engage with the artistic pulse of the region while supporting its talented creators. Don’t miss out on this enriching experience that promises to ignite inspiration and appreciation for the arts!

Date: September 15
Time: 10a – 5p
Location: West Side Park

Join us for an exciting series of classes hosted by OSF HealthCare, where children will discover fun and innovative ways to improve mental health through exercise, healthy eating, and managing screen time. Each class will feature brand new activities designed to engage and inspire young minds, including fun obstacle courses, creative art projects, and enlightening introductions to nutritious drink options. Don’t miss out on this opportunity for children to learn and grow in a supportive and engaging environment!

Date: June 4 – July 30
Day: Every other Tuesday
Time: 10 – 11a
Fee: FREE
Location: Martens Center

FREE but registration is required

Get ready for a deliciously fun after-school cooking class designed especially for teens! Embark on a culinary journey to learn essential cooking techniques and cultivate healthy eating habits. 

Led by a dynamic instructor fluent in both English and Spanish, this class offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for all participants. Whether you’re a budding chef or just starting your culinary adventure, you’ll discover new skills and recipes to inspire your inner chef. 

From mastering basic cooking methods to exploring nutritious and flavorful ingredients, each session promises to be a delightful blend of learning and creativity. Get ready to whip up mouthwatering dishes and make lifelong memories with friends! 

Date: June 17 – August 5
Day: Monday
Time: 4 – 5p
Fee: FREE
Location: Martens Center

Discover the thrill of model rocketry with our introductory session! Join us for a brief presentation where we’ll delve into the exciting world of building and flying model rockets. Learn everything you need to know about this captivating hobby and how you can easily get involved. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or completely new to the scene, this is your chance to embark on a journey of excitement and exploration. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to ignite your passion for model rocketry!

Date: May 7
Time: 7-9p
Fee: FREE
Location: Martens Center

Welcome to Community Tech Time – your one-stop destination for free technical support, internet access, and community online instruction! 

At Community Tech Time, we’re here to help with all your tech needs, whether it’s troubleshooting your phone, laptop, or any other device. Our knowledgeable staff is dedicated to assisting you in accessing social services, searching and applying for jobs online, and providing guidance on a wide range of tech-related inquiries. 

But that’s not all – we also offer exciting opportunities like 3D printing and more! If you need assistance with anything else, don’t hesitate to stop by. We’re here to lend a helping hand and see if we can find a solution together. 

Date: March 7 – August 29*
No Program*: July 4
Day: Tuesday/Thursday
Time: 5 – 8p
Fee: FREE
Location: Martens Center

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with the University of Illinois Extension Staff! Join us for an engaging series of seven classes covering a diverse range of Food and Nutrition topics. 

Led by our knowledgeable staff, each class is designed to inspire and educate participants on the principles of healthy eating and nutrition. From interactive cooking demonstrations to engaging activities, you’ll have the opportunity to learn practical skills and have fun along the way. 

Discover the secrets to preparing delicious and nutritious meals that nourish both body and soul. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or new to the kitchen, there’s something for everyone in this exciting series. 

• June 11 – July 23 | Tu | 6 – 7p
• June 13 – July 25* | Th | 5 – 6p

No Program*: July 4
Fee: FREE
Location: Martens Center

Join us for an invigorating walking experience with “Walk This Way,” our senior walking group dedicated to promoting health and wellness for older adults.

Step into a healthier lifestyle for enjoyable walks, camaraderie, and wellness benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned walker or new to the activity, everyone is welcome to stride towards better health with us!

Date: May 3 – August 27
No Program*: May 17, July 19, August 30
Time: 9:30 – 10:30a
Fee: FREE
Location: Martens Center
Questions: veronica.cousett@champaignparks.org

Presenting Better Health: Your Guide to Wellness After 50! 

Are you ready to embrace a healthier lifestyle and unlock the secrets to vitality in your golden years? Better Health is here to support you on your journey with a wealth of nutrition information, mouthwatering yet budget-friendly recipes, and valuable tips for maintaining physical fitness. 

Tailored specifically for seniors, each session of Better Health is thoughtfully designed to address the unique needs and interests of individuals aged 50 and above. Whether you’re looking to enhance your nutrition knowledge, discover delicious new recipes, or explore ways to stay active, our classes offer something for everyone. 

Be part of an enriching experience where you’ll learn new and valuable information in every session. Feel free to attend one class or as many as you’d like – the choice is yours! 

Date: May 8 – August 14
Day: Every other Wednesday
Time: 10a – 12p
Fee: FREE
Location: Martens Center

Smart Meals is a program designed to provide awareness and education on buying affordable, healthy foods that can be easily prepared at home. Each Smart Meal kit includes a recipe card, shelf-stable ingredients, a shopping list, and other educational materials. Each Smart Meal recipe is uniquely created by a registered OSF dietician. All meals are high in fiber and low in fat and sodium.

Date: May 9 – June 20
Day: Every other Thursday
Time: 11a – 12:30p
Fee: FREE
Location: Martens Center

Relax, restore, re-center. This beginner yoga is the perfect blend of gentle flow for a restorative workout. Class will be held in Spanish, but welcome to all who would like to attend.

Relájate, restaura, vuelve a centrarte. Este yoga para principiantes es la combinación perfecta de flujo suave para un entrenamiento reparador. La clase se llevará a cabo en español, pero son bienvenidos a todos los que deseen asistir.

• May 6 – June 24* | Monday | 6:30 – 7:15p
• July 1 – August 19 | Monday | 6:30 – 7:15p

No Program*: May 27
Fee: FREE
Location: Martens Center
Questions: david.galvin@champaignparks.org