Congratulations to: (you must be a subscriber of the ExplorePeoria.com
newsletter to see who won!. Sign up now on the right!) this week’s
$50 Gas Card Winners courtesy of ExplorePeoria.com & MacDonald’s Shell.
If you are one of this week’s winners, please contact us at
admin@explorepeoria.com to claim your gas card by supplying us your
mailing address! ExplorePeoria.com must receive a response from
winners by Midnight Wednesday, July 9 in order to claim their gas card.

Tonight is the annual Independence Day Fireworks Spectacular at
the Glen Oak Park Amphitheatre. The event kicks off at 4 pm with
Mid-Central Cheer, Community Children’s Theatre and Great
Expectations Show Chorus, followed by more musical entertainment
until 8 pm when the Peoria Municipal Band will perform patriotic
favorites. The fireworks will begin at dusk. For more
information, call 681-2854.

RiverFront Entertainment welcomes Cheap Trick tonight to the
Festival Park stage on the Peoria RiverFront. Timeless classics
like “I Want You To Want Me”, “Surrender”, and the 80’s lighter
waving favorite, “The Flame”, made Cheap Trick a musical
institution. Special guest The Avatars, begin at 8 pm: doors
opening at 7 pm. Tickets at the door are $35.

The 25th Annual Cornerstone Festival continues this weekend in
rural Bushnell running through Saturday. It includes performances
by a lengthy number of Christian bands, seminars, kids programs,
games and much more. Camping, RVs and boats are allowed plus
bathrooms & showering facilities are available. For complete
information including directions and ticket prices, go to
http://www.cornerstonefestival.com/index.cfm?sID=13

“It Runs in the Family” at the Barn II Theatre also continues this
weekend. Shows run Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays with doors
opening at 6 pm, buffet at 6:30 pm, show at 8 pm and on Sundays
doors & buffet open at noon, show at 1:30 pm. Prices are $30 for
Thursdays, $32 for Fridays & Sunday brunch & $34 for Saturdays. The
show runs through July 27. For more information, go to
http://www.barn2.com/.

The Complete Works Wm Shakespeare (Abridged) is on the docket
at the Shakespeare Festival tonight and Sunday. The show is
fast-paced and funny and is suitable for adults and children over 10.
Tickets range in price from $20 to $40 and are available at all
Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 438-2535 or toll free at
866-IL-SHAKE or online at www.Ticketmaster.com. Performances
begin at 7:30 pm. For more information about the Festival, go to
http://www.thefestival.org/.

On Friday, celebrate the 4th with the Red, White & Boom Sky Concert
‘08, the annual Independence Day celebration and fireworks display
set to music at Peoria ’s Downtown Riverfront. Enjoy food,
beverages, music and fun for the entire family. Admission is free.
Additional viewing areas at RiverFront Park in East Peoria .
Festivities begin at 5 pm. For more info, call 637-3700. Several
other surrounding Peoria areas will also be celebrating the 4th
with various festivities. For more information on local
attractions, go to www.ExplorePeoria.com/pages/EventsCalendar.

The classic battle of the sexes, Taming of the Shrew, is on stage
at the Shakespeare Festival on Saturday. It’s a fun, physical
comedy—suitable for adults and children over 10. Tickets range in
price from $20 to $40 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets,
by phone at 438-2535 or toll free at 866-IL-SHAKE or online at
www.Ticketmaster.com. Performances begin at 7:30 pm. For more
information about the Festival, go to http://www.thefestival.org/.

Find fresh produce locally grown and brought directly from farms
and gardens, local meats, cheeses and breads at the RiverFront
Market on Saturday from 8 am to Noon. There’s also pottery, blown
glass, jewelry, wood turned items, candles, soaps and more all
handcrafted by local artists plus music and food demonstrations.
For more details, or call 671-5555.

Lincoln: His Life, His Letters, His Legacy premieres Saturday at
the Pettengill-Morron House Museum located on Moss Ave. Tours are
at 1 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm each Saturday through July. This exhibit
draws the viewer into Lincoln ’s life - a life that was and is the
ideal of what it means to be an American. Tickets are $5 for
adults and $2 for children. For more information, call 674-1921.

On Saturday, country music heavy-weight Diamond Rio performs at The
Landing on Peoria’s RiverFront. Diamond Rio ’s rich vocal harmonies
are evident in songs like “Meet In The Middle”, “In a Week or Two”,
and “One More Day.” Special guest Tin Horse will open for Diamond
Rio at the CEFCU Center Stage. Doors open at 7 pm with the concert
starting at 8 pm. Tickets at the door are $30.

Music fills the air in historic downtown Pekin with Summer
Concerts on Court this Saturday from 6-10 pm . Bring your lawn
chair and enjoy the live entertainment. This is a family event,
although alcohol will be sold. Admission is free. For more
information, call 353-3100.

On Sunday, Wildlife Prairie State Park presents Art in the Park.
On the first Sunday of every month from 10 am to 4:30 pm, multiple
local artisans will be demonstrating and selling their crafts in
the Park. Regular general admission rates apply. The month of July
will feature the Peoria WoodCraft Store employees and the Central
Illinois Wood Turners. For more information, call 676-0998.

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform Sunday at 7:30 pm at the
Glen Oak Amphitheatre. There are park benches or you can bring your
own lawn chairs and blankets. The concerts are free and open to
people of all ages and are a terrific family event.

Congratulations to: (you must be a subscriber of the ExplorePeoria.com newsletter to see who won!. Sign up now on the right!) this week’s $50 Gas Card Winners courtesy of ExplorePeoria.com & MacDonald’s Shell. Please contact us at info@explorepeoria.com to claim your gas card by supplying us your mailing address! ExplorePeoria.com must receive a response from winners by Midnight Wednesday, June 26 in order to claim their gas card.

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The Producers continues tonight through Saturday at 7:30 pm at Eastlight Theatre. Following the hysterical Mel Brooks’ classic comedy film, The Producers is a modern, outrageous, truly “boffo” stage hit. Winning a record twelve Tony Awards - it is sure to entertain audiences night after night. Tickets are $16 for adults and $8 for students 18 & under. Call 699-SHOW for tickets.

The Odd Couple also continues through Saturday at 7:30 pm each night at Corn Stock Theatre. Tickets are $11 for adults and $9 for students and are available at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office or by calling 676-2196.

The Complete Works Shakespeare (Abridged) opens tonight and continues on Saturday & Sunday at the Illinois Shakespeare Festival in Bloomington. Covering 37 plays in 97 side-splitting Shakespearean minutes, it’s fast-paced and funny—suitable for adults and children over 10. Tickets range in price from $20 to $40 for individual shows or $60 to $108 for season tickets for adults and $16 to $36 or $48 to $96 for season tickets for students and senior citizens. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 438-2535 or toll free at 866-IL-SHAKE. Performances begin at 7:30 pm, except on Friday, which begins at 8 pm.

Brush up on your ballroom and country line dancing on Peoria ’s only outdoor dance floor with Dancing Under the Stars. It happens tonight at 7 pm at the Glen Oak Amphitheatre. This week’s live entertainment is Jim Markum Swing. Admission is free.

The CEFCU Jazz Series continues tonight on the Peoria RiverFront. Don’t miss the season’s 2nd show, featuring a live jazz performance by Change Up from 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm.

Old Glory Days kicks off tonight in downtown Peoria Heights . The festival will have rides, food and music from 1 pm - 10 pm each night through Saturday. For more information, call 685-4812.

The Peoria Chiefs take on the Kane County Cougars at 7 pm on Friday, Saturday night at 6:30 pm, Saturday at 2:30 pm, and Monday at 6:30 pm. Tickets for all games are $6, $9, & $10 and may be purchased at the Chiefs’ box office by calling 680-4008.

On Friday, the Thomas Jefferson Banquet will be held in Meeting Rooms 220-222 at the Civic Center . Cocktails begin at 6 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. A cash bar will be available. This year’s speaker is Joanne Glasser, President of Bradley University. Tickets are $40. Call 309-671-4900 to purchase tickets or for more information.

Preston Jackson & Friends performs at the Contemporary Art Center ’s Live at the Five Spot Friday night from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Tickets are $7 for members and $10 for non-members. For more information on either event, call 674-6822.

On Friday and Saturday, fight back against cancer by participating in Relay for Life in Peoria. To take part, join the Peoria Jaycees team or make a donation. The event for the Peoria Jaycees team will be held at Northwoods Community Church . Call 370-5429 for more information.

Universal Rhythm Assembly will take place at Riverfront Festival Park beginning Friday night. This two-day music festival will present a variety of music and an opportunity for people to listen “outside the box.” To enhance the experience, many different special interest groups involving everything from the ecosystem we live in to issues that involve the world as we know it will be showcased. There’s also great food from around the world, including specialty food and beverages. For both days, gates open at 3 pm.

Another opening night for the Illinois Shakespeare Festival in Bloomington is The Taming of the Shrew on Friday night beginning at 8 pm. Tickets range in price from $20 to $40 for individual shows or $60 to $108 for season tickets for adults and $16 to $36 or $48 to $96 for season tickets for students and senior citizens. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 438-2535 or toll free at 866-IL-SHAKE.

The 41st Annual Itoo Shish-Ka-Bob is Saturday & Sunday at the Itoo Hall on Farmington Road. Enjoy your favorite Lebanese goodies including shish-ka-bob, cabbage rolls, Lebanese salad and pita bread. Eat in or carry out - serving hours are 3-8 pm on Saturday and Noon-7 pm on Sunday. For more information, call 676-9725.

The Peoria Pirates take on the Lexington Horsemen Saturday at the Civic Center Arena beginning at 7:05 pm. Tickets range in price from $11 to $60. Season & group tickets are also available.

The 17th Annual Parade of Homes is this Saturday and Sunday from 1 pm - 5 pm both days. The event is sponsored by the Home Builders Association of Greater Peoria and features 45 homes in the Peoria area that showcase the talent and craftsmanship of 27 local builders. Admission is free. Pick up a free Parade Tour Book at any CEFCU or Associated Bank location or click HERE to find the home closest to you and pick up a booklet when you tour that home. For more information, call 699-5500.

The 5th annual Rhapsody in Bloom is a celebration of art, music, food and blooms at the Luthy Botanical Garden this Saturday & Sunday. Kids can enjoy art activities in the Children’s Garden and the event will also show off its newly designed Rose Garden. Saturday the garden will be open from 10 am - 5 pm, and Sunday it will be open from noon - 5 pm. Admission is $3 for adults, children 5 & under are free. For more information, call 686-3362.

Prairie a la Carte is Saturday at Wildlife Prairie State Park . The event is free to the public with paid admission. Come in and savor the flavors of Illinois , along with food and wine at its finest while listening to local musicians. For more information, call 676-0998.

The 15th Annual Mental Health Mile Race/Walk starts at 8 am Saturday morning at Detweiller Park with the Women’s Run followed by the Men’s Run. A combined one-mile walk starts immediately after both races finish. The race/walk is major fundraiser for the National Alliance on Mental Illness Tri-County. Refreshments will be served. Registration is $20 the day of the run/walk. For more information, call 219-3884.

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform Sunday at 7:30 pm at the Glen Oak Amphitheater. There are park benches for seating or you can bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. The concert is free and open to people of all ages and is a terrific family event.

The Proctor Cycling Classic, an Illinois State Criterium Championship is on Sunday in downtown Peoria. There are several divisions: the first race is Junior 15-18 beginning at 8 am with the last race of the day beginning at 5:05 pm.

Congratulations to: (you must be a subscriber of the ExplorePeoria.com
newsletter to see who won!. Sign up now on the right!) this week’s
$50 Gas Card Winners courtesy of ExplorePeoria.com & MacDonald’s Shell.
Please contact us at info@explorepeoria.com to claim your gas card
by supplying us your mailing address! ExplorePeoria.com must
receive a response from winners by Midnight Wednesday, June 26 in
order to claim their gas card.

__________________________________________________________________

The Peoria Chiefs take on the Beloit Snappers at 7 pm tonight,
Friday night at 6:30 pm, Saturday at 6:30 pm, and Sunday at 2:30
pm. Tickets for all games are $6, $9, & $10 and may be purchased
at the Chiefs’ box office by calling 680-4008.

Brush up on your ballroom and country line dancing on Peoria ’s
only outdoor dance floor with Dancing Under the Stars. It happens
every Thursday evening at 7 pm at the Glen Oak Amphitheatre. This
week’s live entertainment is the Aristocrats. Admission is free.

The American Guild of Handbell Ringers Convention will be held
this weekend: today from 10 am – 9 pm in the Civic Center Exhibit
Hall. The convention continues Friday from 8 am – 10 pm and
Saturday from 8 am – 9 pm. The American Guild of Handbell Ringers
presents the “Peoria Rings My Bells” Handbell Concert in the Arena
at 8 pm on Saturday. Admission is free.

Holy Holms performs at the Contemporary Art Center ’s Live at the
Five Spot Friday night from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Tickets are $7 for
members and $10 for non-members. On Saturday night, the CAC hosts
their Salsa Night from 7 – 11 pm, which include Latin dance lessons
followed by an open dance session. Admission is $2 for members and
$5 nonmembers. For more information on either event, call 674-6822.

The Producers opens Friday and continues Saturday & Sunday at
Eastlight Theatre. Following the hysterical Mel Brooks’ classic
comedy film, The Producers is a modern, outrageous, truly “boffo”
stage hit. Winning a record twelve Tony Awards - it is sure to
entertain audiences night after night. Performances are at 7:30 pm
except for the Sunday performance which begins at 2 pm. Tickets are
$16 for adults and $8 for students 18 & under. Call 699-SHOW for
tickets.

Also opening Friday is the Odd Couple at Corn Stock Theatre.
Performances begin at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $11 for adults and $9
for students and are available at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office
or by calling 676-2196. The show runs until June 28th.

Bottle of Justus continues the ’08 CEFCU Center Stage summer
concert series Friday night on the Peoria Riverfront. Gates open at
7:30 pm: show time is 8:30 pm. Admission is $7. For more
information, call 689-3019.

The superstars of Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling brings TNA
Live! to the U.S. Cellular Coliseum Friday at 8 pm. Tickets are
available at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum.

Find fresh produce locally grown and brought directly from farms
and gardens, local meats, cheeses and breads at the RiverFront
Market on Saturday from 8 am to Noon. There’s also pottery, blown
glass, jewelry, wood turned items, candles, soaps and more all
handcrafted by local artists plus music and food demonstrations.
For more details, click HERE or call 671-5555.

The River City Bags Classic to benefit the St. Jude Children’s
Research Hospital is coming to Kelleher’s on the Riverfront this
Saturday and Sunday. There will be plenty of prizes to win plus
fun, food, beer and a live concert by the band Waterstreet.

The Folk Art Festival at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe is
Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm. Admission is free. For more
information, call 274-8837.

The ’08 CEFCU Center Stage summer concert series continues Saturday
night with JammSammich. Peoria ’s party band will get you on the
dance floor with their infectious blend of classic funk, disco,
pop, rock, and some of today’s favorites. Gates open at 7:30 pm:
show time is at 8 pm. Tickets are $7 per person.

Easter Seals Wines & Polo on the Prairie is Saturday night from 6
- 11 pm. It’s an evening of fine wine tasting and specialty food
sampling in conjunction with a polo match to benefit Easter Seals
at Weaver Angus Farm, Route 150 West, Peoria . Individual tickets
are $80 or tables of 10 can be purchased by calling Easter Seals at
686-1177 ext. 2321. Money raised goes directly to programs and
services for children and adults with disabilities served by Easter
Seals.

Experience the Olde English Faire which runs from noon on Friday
through 6 pm on Sunday at Jubilee State Park. Admission is $6 for
ages 16 and older and free for ages 15 and under. There is also a
$3 SCA non-member surcharge. For more information, call 469-4091.

The Central Illinois Jazz Society Presents the Manny Lopez Quintet
from 6 pm – 9:30 pm at the Radisson Hotel in the Mozart Room on
Sunday. Tickets are $5 for members, $7 for nonmembers, and free to
children 14 & under. For more information, call 692-5330.

Pioneer Days is Sunday at Sommer Park from 1– 4 pm. Experience the
daily life of a rural Peorian in the mid-19th century by
participating in blacksmithing, woodworking, gardening, and other
activities. Admission is $2 per person, which includes hayrack
rides. For more information, call 691-8423.

The Old Time Folk and Country Jam is also on Sunday at Forest Park
Nature Center from 3:30 pm - 5 pm. Meet other musicians and learn
some new songs. Music lovers of all ages are encouraged to come,
listen and enjoy. Admission is free; however, donations are
requested. For more information, call 686-3360.

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform Sunday evening at 7:30 pm at
the Glen Oak Amphitheater as part of the Sunday in the Park event.
There are park benches or you can bring your own lawn chairs and
blankets. The concert is free.

Check out our new Coming Attractions video preview the upcoming
production of The Producers at Eastlight Theatre HERE.

——————————————————————–

Congratulations to: (you must be a subscriber of the ExplorePeoria.com
newsletter to see who won!. Sign up now on the right!) this week’s
$50 Gas Card Winners courtesy of ExplorePeoria.com & MacDonald’s Shell.
Please contact us at info@explorepeoria.com to claim your gas card
by supplying us your mailing address!

ExplorePeoria.com must receive a response from winners by Midnight
Wednesday, June 18 in order to claim their gas card.

——————————————————————–
Happy Father’s Day!
——————————————————————–
Country music sensation Reba McEntire along with special guest
Lady Antebellum will perform tonight at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum
beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets, are $75, $52.50 and $42.50 and are
available at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum box office, by phone at
866-891-9992.

Brush up on your ballroom and the country line dancing on Peoria ’s
only outdoor dance floor with Dancing Under the Stars. It happens
every Thursday evening at 7 pm at the Glen Oak Amphitheatre. This
week features the Bill Hardesty Band. Admission is free.

Tonight through Saturday is the Steamboat Festival at the Peoria
riverfront featuring a carnival, bands, a children’s area, sporting
events, clowns and speed boat races. Hours are Thurs. 4 pm - 11 pm,
Fri. Noon - Midnight, Sat. 7 am - Midnight.

On Friday night, the Peoria Chiefs take on the Burlington Bees at 7
pm. They meet again Saturday at 6:30 pm, and Sunday at 2:30 pm.
Tickets for all games are $6, $9, & $10, and may be purchased at
the Chiefs’ box office by calling 680-4008.

Rob Williams & the Soggy Bottom Blues Band perform at the
Contemporary Art Center ’s Live at the Five Spot Friday night from
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Tickets are $7 for members and $10 for
non-members. For more information, call 674-6822.

The 17th Annual Cruise-In car show in Jones Park in Downtown Canton
is tomorrow beginning at 5 pm. Music will be provided by D.J.
Kendall Miller and there will be balloon art & face painting for
children, food vendors and a 50/50 drawing. Admission is free.
For more information, call 647-2677.

Friday night, Cowboy Crush, an all-female band with a blend of
country and honky-tonk rock, kicks off the 2008 season of Ameren’s
popular free concert series Summer Serenades. Held at Lakeview
Museum on the lawn, the performance begins at 7 pm.

The Peoria Pirates take on the Louisville Fire Saturday at the
Civic Center Arena beginning at 7:05 pm. Tickets range in price
from $11 to $60. Season & group tickets are also available.

The Steamboat Classic takes place at the Peoria Riverfront
beginning at 7 am on Saturday morning with a 4 mile and 15k race.

Find fresh produce locally grown and brought directly from farms
and gardens, local meats, cheeses and breads at the RiverFront
Market on Saturday from 8 am to Noon. There’s also pottery, blown
glass, jewelry, wood turned items, candles, soaps and more all
handcrafted by local artists plus music and food demonstrations.
For more details, call 671-5555.

Join the fight against ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) by participating
in the Peoria 2008 Walk to Defeat ALS on Saturday. Registration
begins at 9 am with the walk begining at 10 am at O’Brien Field in
downtown Peoria . The walk is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
For more information, call 1-888-873-8539.

The First Annual Canton Chamber of Commerce Tractor Show and Pull
is Saturday at the Friendship Festival Grounds on East Linn Street
in Canton from 9 am to 3 pm. All makes and models welcome.
Admission is free. Call 647-2677 or 778-2453 for more information.

Rockin’ for TAPS is this Saturday from 4-11 p.m. at the Pekin Boat
Club. Bands Phat Noiz and Loose Shoes will perform plus there will
be a “Rockin’ Dog” contest featuring dogs dressed as their favorite
rocker. Admission is $5.

Things Money Can’t Buy will take the Civic Center stage Saturday
night at 8 pm. The show is a hilarious look at three siblings - a
money hungry brother, a penniless preacher and a sassy sister - as
they overdose on drama. Tickets are $29 in advance, $32 the day of
the show and are available at the Civic Center Box Office, all
Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 676-8700.

Small Potatoes, a Chicago based folk duo with Jacquie Manning and
Rich Prezioso will play at the Forest Park Nature Center from 7-9
pm. Admission is $7 for adults and $6 for children 12 and under.
For more information, call 686-3360.

The 28th Annual Moss Avenue sale is Saturday from 8 am - 3 pm. It
features antiques and collectibles from local dealers plus “fair”
food on historic Moss Avenue. For more information, call 676-7900.

Saturday is Free Urban Fishing Derby Day at Wildlife Prairie State
Park from 11 am to 4 pm. Activities include: local fisheries
biologists from 11 am to Noon, photo contest & fishing contest.
Learn to bait a hook, identify several common species of fish, and
catch, handle and release fish. Rods, reels, tackle and bait
provided. This event is free to participate in, but
does require pre-registration. Call 676-0998 Ext. 6758 to register
and for more information.

Also on Saturday, tour Wildlife Prairie State Park with a
photographer and get great tips on how to achieve that perfect
shot. Photos taken may be submitted into our monthly photo contest.
Times will vary due to subjects and lighting. For tour details,
call 676-0998. Tours are FREE to the public with
paid admission to the park: Adults 13 & over: $5.50, Children 4 -
12: $3.50, Children 3 & under and park members are free.

On Sunday, treat Dad to Brunch at Wildlife Prairie State Park plus
the Classic Car Cruise-In. Hours are 9:30 am to 2:30 pm with the
last seating at 1:30 pm. Adults (ages 13+) are $12.99, Children
(ages 4-12) are $8.99 and ages 3 & under are free. General
admission rates apply: Adults (ages 13+) are $5.50, Children (ages
4-12) are $3.50 ages 3 & under and park members are free. Receive a
$2 off coupon good toward that day’s brunch with paid admission.

In honor of Father’s Day, the Peoria Zoo offers free admission for
all fathers accompanied by a paying child on Sunday. Special
events will take place throughout the day to help celebrate animal
dads. Standard admission will apply. For more information, call
686-3365.

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform Sunday at 7:30 pm within
the Glen Oak Amphitheater. Seating is on park benches or you can
bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. The concert is free and
open to people of all ages and is a terrific family event.

The Peoria Motorcycle Club presents the National TT Races with
Twins International this Sunday. Gates open at 8 am, racing begins
at 1 pm. Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the gate, children
under 12 are free (with parent). The event will take place at PMC
Race Park. Call 635-1662 for more information.

To find out who are $50 Gas Card Winners are for this week, you must be an
ExplorePeoria.com e-newsletter subscriber - you can sign up for our contest HERE.

Have you downloaded your copy of the 2008 Peoria Area Guide to
Summer Fun yet? Get it HERE

——————————————————————–

All Shook Up opens tonight at Peoria Players at 7:30 pm. It tells
the all-new story of a square little town in the middle of a square
state in the middle of a square decade where a lonely young girl
dreams of hitting the open road. Featuring many Elvis favorites,
performances continue Friday and Saturday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at
2:30 pm. Tickets are $16 for adults & $11 for students 18 & under
and are available at the Peoria Players Box Office, by calling
688-4473.

Corn Stock Theatre’s adaptation of Singin’ in the Rain continues
tonight through June 8 at 7:30 pm Most performances are sold out,
however the Sunday, June 8 performance has just been added and
tickets are available for that show at this time. Tickets are $17
for adults and $12 for students. For more information or to order
tickets, call 676-2196.

It Runs in the Family at the Barn II Theatre also opens tonight.
A night of zany medical mishaps will keep you in “stitches”. The
hospital becomes a madhouse filled with an epidemic of unbridled
lunacy. Shows run Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays with doors
opening at 6 pm, buffet at 6:30 pm, show at 8 pm and on Sundays
doors & buffet open at noon, show at 1:30 pm. Prices are $30 for
Thursdays, $32 for Fridays & Sunday brunch & $34 for Saturdays. The
show runs through July 27.

The Peoria Bach Festival 2008 continues tonight through Sunday and
brings together top flight local, regional, and national musicians
for a week of concerts and celebrations. All events will be held at
Trinity Lutheran Church. For more information, call 676-4609.

Tonight, the Peoria Chiefs take on the Clinton Lumber Kings at 7
pm. They meet again Friday at 7 pm, Saturday at 6:30 pm, and
Sunday at 2:30 pm. Tickets for all games are $6, $9, & $10, and
may be purchased at the Chiefs’ box office by calling 680-4008.

The Central Illinois Kiss-a-Pig Gala for the American Diabetes
Association takes place Friday night at the Paradice Hotel. It’s a
“black-tie optional” dinner and cocktail event with a live and
silent auction where the winner gets to kiss the pig. Tickets are
$60 or $500 for a table of 10. For more information, call
888-342-2383 ext 6640.

Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Peoria Pops Orchestra at the
Glen Oak Amphitheatre Friday evening at 7:30 pm. Admission is $6
and free to students with ID. Call 681-2861 for more information.

Celtricity performs at the Contemporary Art Center ’s Live at the
Five Spot Friday night from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Tickets are $7 for
members and $10 for non-members. For more information, call
674-6822.

The New Invaders will also be performing Friday night at the CEFCU
Center Stage from 8 pm – 11 pm. They are considered to “The
Ultimate 60’s Flashback.” Tickets are $7 per person. For more
information, call 689-3019.

Three Sisters Park Bluegrass Music Festival begins Friday and
features 3 fun days with 10 different bluegrass bands from all over
the United States . Daily rates are: $12 for Friday night, $18 for
Saturday for both the 1 pm & 7 pm shows, $12 for just the 7 pm show
Saturday night, $3 for the 10 am Sunday show and a weekend pass for
all shows is $25. Camping is available. For more information, call
274-8837.

Friday night kicks off the Tremont Turkey Festival which includes
carnival rides, BBQ turkey sandwiches, strawberry shortcake, live
entertainment, bed races, a horse shoe tournament, merchant tent,
and crafts. Held at the City Park in Tremont, hours are 11 am - 10
pm on Friday, 6:30 am - 11 pm on Saturday and 11 am - 4 pm on
Sunday. For more information, call 925-5269.

The Peoria Pirates take on the Louisville Fire on Saturday at the
Peoria Civic Center beginning at 7:05 pm. Tickets range in price
from $11 to $60 plus season & group tickets are also available.

Kim’s Academy of Dance presents Rocking the Red Carpet at the
Civic Center Theater at 6 pm on Friday. Tickets are $6 - $18 and
all proceeds benefit St. Jude Midwest affiliate.

The annual Elmwood Strawberry Festival will be held this Saturday
from 7 am – 6 pm. . Enjoy strawberry delicacies as well as pork
chops and other delicious foods at this annual festival. Other
activities include all day entertainment, a car show, a 3-on-3
basketball tourney, and crafts. Held in Elmwood’s Central Park
Square, admission is free. For more info, call 742-8272.

The RiverFront Market kicks off this Saturday and is a great way
to start your morning… the local market offers fresh produce,
local meats cheeses, breads and more. Plus great artists, musicians
and demonstrations each week all located along Peoria ’s beautiful
RiverFront! The market runs from 8 am – Noon every Saturday until
September 27. For more information, call 671-5555.

The Central Illinois Wine Festival is this Saturday and Sunday the
Mackinaw Valley Vineyard. Eight Illinois wineries will offer tastes
of their delicious wines along with live music and fun activities
on Saturday from 10 am - 10 pm and Sunday from Noon - 7 pm.
Admission is $15.

On Saturday and Sunday, the Peoria Art Guild and Junction City
Shopping Center present the Junction City Art Fair, a juried fair
showcasing artists from Central Illinois (within a 100 miles
radius). The fair runs from 10 am – 4 pm both days. For more
information, call 637-2787.

The Old Time Folk and Country Jam takes place this Sunday at the
Forest Park Nature Center from 3:30 - 5 pm. Meet other musicians
and learn some new songs. Music lovers of all ages are encouraged
to come, listen and enjoy. Admission is free; however, donations
are requested. For more information, call 686-3360.

Also this Sunday the Gigs in the Garden Concert Series begins at
Luthy Botanical Garden . Bring a blanket and a picnic dinner or
settle in the chairs we’ll provide and enjoy true quality time with
your family and friends. This week Bogside Zukes will play from 5
pm – 7 pm. Tickets are $5 per person, $15 per family, and children
12 & under are free. For more information, call 686-3362.

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform Sunday evening at 7:30 pm at
the Glen Oak Amphitheater as part of the Sunday in the Park event.
There are park benches or you can bring your own lawn chairs and
blankets. The concert is free and open to people of all ages and is
a terrific family event.

To find out who are $50 Gas Card Winners are for this week, you must be an
ExplorePeoria.com e-newsletter subscriber - you can sign up for our contest HERE.

Have you downloaded your copy of the 2008 Peoria Area Guide to
Summer Fun yet? Get it HERE!

——————————————————————–

Tonight, the Peoria Chiefs take on the Cedar Rapid Kernels at 6:30
pm. They will face off again Friday at 6:30 pm and again Saturday
at 6:30 pm. Tickets for all games are $6, $9, & $10, and may be
purchased at the Chiefs’ box office by calling 680-4008.

Also tonight, enjoy the last day of the Washington Cherry Festival
which includes a carnival, car show, fireworks, mainstage
entertainment, Christian concert, community dinner, contests,
crafts, merchants, kids events and much more. For more
information, call 444-9921.

Comedian Greg Lausch will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club
tonight at 8 pm for $8. He returns Friday and Saturday night with
shows at 8 pm and 10:30 pm for $14.

On Friday, the Creve Coeur American Legion will host a Spaghetti
Dinner from 5:30 - 7:30 pm and a dance from 7 - 10 pm, with live
music by the Dynamics. For more information, call 648-8648.

Debby’s School of Dance presents Follow Your Dreams at the Civc
Center Theater at 6 pm on Friday. Tickets are $6-$18, and all
proceeds benefit St. Jude Midwest affiliate.

A Photo Documentary of Peoria Past to Present, by Lynn Swigart,
professional photographer, is now being displayed at the Peoria Art
Guild. The Peoria Historical Society will collaborate with
programming around this exhibition. Hours are Monday-Thursday from
10 am - 6 pm and Friday & Saturday from 10 am - 5 pm. Admission
is $2.

Kevin Hart and the Vibe Tribe performs at the Contemporary Art
Center ’s Live at the Five Spot Friday night from 5:30 - 7:30 pm.
Tickets are $7 for members and $10 for nonmembers.

Also on Friday, Air Supply performs at the Par-a-dice Hotel
Ballroom beginning at 8 pm. Tickets are $30 and are on sale at the
Pair-a-Dice Gift Shop. Call 694-5813 for more information.

Corn Stock Theatre’s adaptation of Singin’ in the Rain, opens
Friday at 7:30 pm complete with rain (inside the tent).
Performances continue at 7:30 pm through June 7th. Tickets are $17
for adults and $12 for students. For more information or to order
tickets, call 676-2196.

Peoria Business Women Expo is Saturday in the Civic Center Grand
Ballroom beginning at 10 am. With over 80 exhibitors, there will
be lots of free business software plus information on branding,
QuickBooks, and tax responsibilities. Tickets are $5 at the door.
For more information, call 224-9665.

Saturday marks the 17th Annual Return to Pimiteoui Pow Wow, a
gathering of Native and Non-Native Americans from all over the
country, where they’ll sing, dance, and socialize. The event takes
place at Sommer Park Saturday from 10 am - 9 pm and will continue
on Sunday from 10 am - 4:30 pm. For more information, call
691-8423.

The Lakeview Museum Fundraiser is Saturday from 11 am - 4 pm.
Listen to musical entertainment, mingle with friends, enjoy a tasty
selection of food and bid on unique silent auction and raffle items
plus exprience our helicopter golf ball drop.

On Saturday, the Salvation Army Corps collect bikes for needy
area children as part of the 11th annual Bikes for Kids event at
their Community Center (2903 W. Nebraska) . Gently used bicycles,
or those needing only minor repairs will be accepted between 9 am
and 3 pm. Donation receipts will be available. Helmets will be
available, courtesy of the Under Cover Helmet program from the
Children’s Hospital of Illinois .

Also on Saturday, the Playhous Jr Crew will be at the Shoppes at
Grand Prairie from 10:30 am - 2 pm adding construction, murals, and
a picnic table to the gazebo. The Junior League of Peoria will be
there to help celebrate these wonderful new additions.

The Miracle Mile 2008 will take place this Sunday at the RiverPlex
Recreation and Wellness Center on the Peoria Riverfront with
check-in beginning at 1:30 pm. Entry fee is just $5 per child or
$20 for a family with 5 or more children if registered before June
1st or $6 for a child and $22 for a family the day of the event.
While pledges are not required for participation, the child raising
the highest amount will receive a FREE BICYCLE, courtesy of Little
Ade’s.

Sunday in the Park takes place from 5:30 - 9 pm at the Glen Oak
Amphitheater on Sunday evening. Don’t miss the official kick off
to summer, which includes live music, food, and fun activities.

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform Sunday evening at 7:30 pm
at the Glen Oak Amphitheater as part of the Sunday in the Park
event. There are park benches or you can bring your own lawn chairs
and blankets. The concert is free and open to people of all ages
and is a terrific family event.

Now in its sixth season, the Peoria Bach Festival 2008 will once
again bring together topflight local, regional, and national
musicians for a week of concerts and celebrations Monday, June 2
through Sunday, June 8. All events will be held at Trinity Lutheran
Church (135 NE Randolph Ave.). For more information, please call
(309) 676-4609.

Editor’s Note: You must be an ExplorePeoria.com e-Newsletter subscriber
to participate in our $50 Gas Card Contest - see ExplorePeoria.com for details
and to sign up!

Morton Civic Chorus presents Encore 2008 at Bradley’s Hartmann
Center Theater tonight at 7:30 pm with performances continuing
Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 pm, and Sunday at 2 pm. Tickets
are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors. All proceeds from this
event benefit the Central IL Memorial Kidney Fund. For more
information, call 677-4966.

Comedian Dan St. Paul will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club
tonight at 8 pm for $8. He returns Friday and Saturday night with
shows at 8 pm and 10:30 pm for $14.

On Friday, the Peoria Chiefs take on the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers
at 6:30 pm. They will face off again Saturday at 6:30 pm and
Sunday at 2 pm. Tickets for all games are $6, $9, & $10, and may
be purchased at the Chiefs’ box office by calling 680-4008.

Also on Friday, the Louie Louie Festival happens at the CEFCU
Center Stage. Bring your kazoo and your most creative outfit down
to the Peoria Riverfront from 3– 11 pm. Enjoy the warm breeze and
a cold beverage and admission is free. For more information, call
689-3019.

Change Up performs at the Contemporary Art Center ’s Live at the
Five Spot Friday night from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Tickets are $7 for
members and $10 for non-members. For more information, call
674-6822.

The 34th Annual World Championship Old-time Piano Playing Contest
features songs written from 1890 to 1929. Junior and Regular
division contestants will compete at the Hotel Père Marquette on
May 24th. Regular division competition will continue on May 25th.
Weekend events also include: PianoStravaganza aboard the Spirit of
Peoria riverboat, New Rag Contest, workshops “Ragtime to
Swingtime”, entertainment by the Sweet Adeline “Hearts of Illinois
Chorus”, the world’s largest Sing-a-long, and Afterglow parties
each evening. For more information, call 217-428-2403.

Opening on Friday, this year’s Summer Camp Music Festival at Three
Sisters Park in Chillicothe will feature 3 days of music, over 45
bands on 3 stages, late night shows, on site camping, unique
vendors, great food and lots of good beer. 3-day tickets including
camping for Friday, Saturday & Sunday are $140 in advance, $170 at
the gate. Single Day Moonshine (Main) Stage passes are $45 in
advance, $55 at the gate.

The Peoria Pirates take on the Iowa Barnstormers on Saturday at the
Peoria Civic Center beginning at 7:05 pm. Tickets range in price
from $11 to $60 plus season & group tickets are also available.

Zoo Fest is this Saturday at the Peoria Zoo from 11 am – 3 pm.
Enjoy rides, games and animal shows while visiting your favorite
zoo animals! Don’t miss the annual Tortoise Trek at 1 p.m., when
George, the Aldabra tortoise, makes the move to his summer home.
Regular admission applies. For more information, call 686-3365.

On Saturday night, Dance Connection presents “Follow Your Dreams”
in the Civic Center Theater at 6 pm. Tickets are $6-$18, and all
proceeds will benefit St. Jude Midwest affiliate.

Old Time Folk and Country Jam takes place this Sunday at the
Forest Park Nature Center from 3:30 pm - 5 pm. Meet other
musicians and learn some new songs. Music lovers of all ages are
encouraged to come, listen and enjoy. Admission is free; however,
donations are requested. For more information, call 686-3360.

On Sunday, come down to the JukeBox to enjoy Get Your Laff Back, which
includes comedy by Damon Williams, Muhammad, Bad Boys of Comedy,
Kevin Williams, and more! Doors open at 7 pm and tickets are $15
in advance or $20 at the door.

Win a $50 Gas Card courtesy of ExplorePeoria.com & MacDdonald’s
Shell.

Get extra entries into the contest by referring your friends -
for every 10 people who list you as their referrer and confirm
their registration, you’ll get another entry into the contest, so
tell all your friends!

Send them to: http://www.explorepeoria.com/pages/gascardcontest

All the details & rules are listed there. Please note: You must
open your weekly e-newsletter to see if you’re one of our winners
each week.

Tonight the Peoria Chiefs take on the Quad River City Bandits at
6:30 pm. Tickets for all games are $6, $9, & $10, and may be
purchased at the Chiefs’ box office by calling 680-4008.

Also tonight, the Itoo Hall presents Donna Weghorst & Friends as
part of their Ballroom Dancing series. Doors open at 6 pm and open
dancing will be from 7 pm to 10 pm. For more information, call
676-9725.

Comedian Costaki Economopoulos will perform at the Jukebox Comedy
Club tonight at 8 pm for $8. He returns Friday and Saturday night
with shows at 8 pm and 10:30 pm for $14. He is best known for his
countless celebrity impressions, and his shows are rated R.

Rave Motion Pictures continues their series of the San Francisco
Opera Broadcast with the performance “Il Trittico,” tonight at 7:30
pm. Tickets are $20 for the general public. For more information,
call 693-0689.

The 2008 PARC Annual Award Banquet tonight at 5:30 pm at the
Paradice Hotel ballroom. This year’s keynote speakers are Laura &
Tom McNeal, the prize-winning authors of short stories, essays, and
five novels, including four for young adults. Individual
reservations are $30 per person, senior citizen cost is $25 per
reservation. Tables of 10 are $300. For more information or
tickets, call 689-3608.

The East Peoria Carnival continues tonight at the East Peoria
Riverfront behind the Wal-Mart SuperCenter , which runs through
Sunday. Carnival hours are 5 - 10 pm Thursday and Friday, 1 - 10
pm Saturday, and 1 - 5 pm Sunday. Ride tickets are $1.25 each with
family packs available at 20 tickets for $20. All rides take two or
more tickets. The carnival rides and games are provided by CDAC,
which each year donates the use of a Ferris wheel for the giant
lighted wreath during the Festival of Lights.

The Bill Porter Project performs at the Contemporary Art Center ’s
Live at the Five Spot Friday night from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm. Tickets
are $7 for members and $10 for nonmembers. On Saturday night, the
CAC will host their Salsa Night from 7 pm - 11 pm, which include
Latin dance lessons followed by an open dance session. Admission
is $2 for members and $5 nonmembers. For more information on
either event, call 674-6822.

The Peoria Jazz AllStars Banquet will be at the Holiday Inn City
Center on Friday from 6 pm - 10 pm. The evening will include jazz
and entertainment, delicious desserts, the annual fundraiser,
silent auction at 6:30 pm, the Roosevelt Jazz Band at 6:30 pm, and
the AllStars will perform at 7 pm. Tickets are $12 per adult, and
$6 per student. For more information, call 672-6748.

The Central Illinois Jazz Ensemble hosts their “Silver Spotlight
Gala” on Friday from 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm at the Packard Plaza .
Cocktails will begin at 6:30 pm and dinner will be served at 7:30
pm. Black tie is optional. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for
students with ID. For more information, call 693-6725

The Clyde West Fishing Derby is this Saturday at the Glen Oak
Lagoon. The lagoon will be stocked with 2,000 pounds of fish.
Ages 9 & under will fish from 9 am - 11 am, ages 10 - 13 will fish
from 11 am - 1 pm, seniors from 1 pm - 3 pm. The event is free.
For more information, call 681-2854.

The Peoria Park District and Indo-American Society hosts India
Fest on the RiverFront this Saturday from 11 am - 11 pm. Tickets
are $5 in advance or $6 at the gate. For more information, call
689-3019.

The Hubbard Street 2 Dance Company performs this Saturday at the
ICC Performing Arts Center in East Peoria beginning at 7:30 pm.
Tickets are $16 for the general public and $14 for senior citizens
and students. For more information, call 694-5136.

Meet and greet East Peoria artist Tom Gross and enjoy his artwork
on display at the Kickapoo Creek Winery. The exhibit will be open
Saturday from 11 am - 6 pm and Sunday from 12 pm - 6 pm. For more
information, call 495-9463.

The Illinois Mennonite Heritage Center will present a “Spring
Program” this Saturday from 10 am - 2 pm. Topics of discussion
will include the importance of agriculture to local heritage and
emerging challenges and opportunities of modern agriculture. A
light lunch will be provided. The event is free; however, there
will be a free will offering. For more information, call 367-2551.

Tour 5 West Bluff homes and Converse Marketing during the annual
West Bluff Grand Tour of Homes on Sunday from Noon to 5 pm. The
homes will be decorated by local florists. Funds raised are used to
beautify the West Bluff area. Call 673-2504 or 672-1831 for
locations to purchase tickets which are $12 in advance and $15 the
day of the tour.

Pioneer Days is this Sunday at Sommer Park from 1 pm - 4 pm.
Experience the daily life of a rural Peorian in the mid-19th
century by participating in blacksmithing, woodworking, gardening,
and other activities. Admission is $2 per person, which includes
hayrack rides. For more information, call 691-8423.

Carl Anderson and His New Orleans Jazz Band present Dixieland
style music Sunday at the Radisson Hotel from 6 pm - 9:30 pm. The
Jazz Society House Band will play the middle set. Tickets are $5
for members and $7 for nonmembers. For more information, call
692-5330.

Tonight, the Itoo Hall presents Jim Park & The Starlighters as
part of their Ballroom Dancing series. Doors open at 6 pm and open
dancing will be from 7 pm to 10 pm. For more information, call
676-9725.

Urinetown continues at Peoria Players tonight, Friday and Saturday
evening at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm. Tickets are $16 for
adults and $11 for students. For more information and to buy
tickets, call 688-4473.

The Sunshine Boys also continues tonight, Friday and Saturday at
The Barn II Theatre in Goodfield. Doors open at 6 pm, buffet at
6:30 pm, show at 8 pm Thursday - Saturday and on Sunday doors &
buffet open at noon, show at 1:30 pm. Prices are $30 for Thursday,
$32 for Friday & Sunday brunch & $34 for Saturday. Price includes
dinner, tax & show. The Sunshine Boys runs through June 1st.

Comedian Bob Jay will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight at
8 pm for $8. He returns Friday and Saturday night with shows at 8
pm and 10:30 pm for $14. He is best known for his countless
celebrity impressions, and his shows are rated R.

Preston Jackson & Friends performs at the Contemporary Art Center
’s Live at the Five Spot Friday night from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm.
Tickets are $7 for members and $10 for non-members. For more
information, call 674-6822.

Also on Friday night, the Peoria Area Civic Chorale Youth Chorus
will perform at the First Christian Church from 7 pm - 9 pm.
Tickets are $5. For more information, call 693-6725.

The Illinois Central College Prairie Wind Ensemble will perform
Friday at 7:30 pm at the ICC performing Arts Center . Admission is
$7 for the general public and $5 for senior citizens and students.
For more information, call 694-5136.

Chicago, the final show in this year’s Broadway Series, opens
Friday at 8 pm and continues Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday 7 pm at
the Civic Center Theater. Tickets are $41.50, $53.50 and $59.50
and are available at the Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster
outlets, or by phone at 676-8700.

The Owens Center Annual Ice Show is this weekend at Owens Center
where the skating school will perform along with the University of
Illinois Synchronized Skate Team. The event runs Friday and
Saturday at 7 pm. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $6
for senior citizens and children. For more information, call
686-3368.

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is Saturday at the Metro
Centre with aerobic warm up beginning at 7:10 am. The women’s 5K
competitive/timed Run begins at 7:55 am and the men’s 5K
competitive/timed run begins at 8:05 am. The one mile family walk
begins at 8:15 am. For more information about this year’s Race,
check out the ExplorePeoria.com Events Calendar.

The 12th Annual Ride for the Cure parade kicks off at Noon on
Saturday from The Shoppes at Grand Prairie and ends at Exposition
Gardens for an afternoon celebration including lunch, music,
entertainment, and both live and silent auctions. There is no entry
fee to attend the post-ride event.

The 4th Annual Peoria Heights Art Fair begins right after the Race
for the Cure in downtown Peoria Heights. There will be special
promotions running at the stores in the Heights throughout the day
also. For more information, call 681-1865.

The Johnny Burnett Trio will be at Po Boys on Saturday from 8:30
pm to 12:30 am with Bill Keyes and his harmonica as featured guest.
Admission is $4 after 7 pm.

The Peoria Pirates take on the Green Bay Blizzards this Saturday at
the Peoria Civic Center at 7:05 pm. Tickets range in price from
$11 to $60 plus season & group tickets are also available.

Also on Saturday, Traveler’s Dream will perform at the Forest Park
Nature Center at 7 pm. Traveler’s Dream’s performances comprise of
lively Irish jibs and reels, French-Canadian voyageur songs, sea
shanties, Scottish bagpipe tunes and songs that capture the heart
and history of diverse cultures. Admission is $7 for adults and $6
for children 12 and under. For more information, call 686-3360.

The Apollo Theatre presents Jungle Man and Swamp Fire as part of a
double feature starring actor Buster Crabbe this Saturday at 7 pm.
Tickets are $5 for adults and $4 for children. For more
information, call 673-4343.

On Saturday, tour Wildlife Prairie State Park with a photographer and
get great tips on how to achieve that perfect shot. Photos taken
may be submitted into our monthly photo contest. Times will vary
due to subjects and lighting. For tour details, call 676-0998.
Tours are FREE to the public with paid admission to the park:
Adults 13 & over: $5.50, Children 4 - 12: $3.50, Children 3 & under
and park members are free.

The Chautauqua Refuge will host an open house Saturday from 9 am -
3 pm where you and the family can take part in a bird walk around
the refuge and take part in the open house activities. Admission
is free; however, the event will be canceled if the river levels
exceed 16 feet. For more information, call 535-2290.

On Sunday, the Emerald Express will present the musical concert
“Trios a la Carte” at 3 pm at the Universalist Unitarian Church .
Admission is free; however, there will be a free will offering.
For more information, call 688-5608.

In honor of Mother’s Day, the Peoria Zoo will offer free admission
for all mothers accompanied by a paying child on Sunday. Special
events will take place throughout the day to help celebrate animal
mothers. Standard admission will apply. For more information,
call 686-3365.

Luthy Botanical Garden will also be celebrating Mother’s Day with
an Orchid Show and their kick off to the Gigs in the Garden Concert
Series. Admission into the conservatory is free for mothers and
grandmothers. Admission into the concert is $5 per person or $15
per family. For more information, call 686-3362.

Win 2 tickets to see Chicago on Friday, May 9 at the Peoria Civic
Center. Go to ExplorePeoria.com to register!

The Peoria Area Civic Chorale presents their Silver Memories &
Golden Dreams concert at Riverside Community Church tonight and
Friday evening at 7:30 pm and at Dunlap Community High School on
Sunday afternoon at 2:30 pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10
for students. For more information or ticket availability call
693-6725.

Dunlap High School presents Seussical The Musical toinght & Friday
in the school auditorium (Stage 323) at 7:30 pm each night. Tickets
are $8 for adults, $6 for senior citizens and $5 for children and
are available at the door.

ArtSmart, the annual exhibit of work from the Peoria Art Guild
Studio School students and instructors, is taking place now through
May 10 at the Peoria Art Guild. Approximately 80 pieces of art
will be displayed in all media. Hours are Monday-Thursday from 10
am - 6 pm and Friday & Saturday from 10 am - 5 pm. Admission is
$2.

Accidental Death of an Anarchist resumes tonight at Bradley’s
Hartmann Center for the Performing Arts at 8 pm. Performances
continue Friday and Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday afternoon at 2:30
pm. Tickets are $14 for the general public, $12 for faculty,
staff, and senior citizens, and $7 for students. For more
information, call 677-2660.

Peoria Players Theatre kicks off their production of Urinetown
Friday night at 7:30 pm. Performances continue Saturday evening at
7:30 pm and Sunday afternoon at 2:30 pm. Tickets are $16 for
adults and $11 for students. For more information and to buy
tickets, call 688-4473.

Robin Crowe Band performs at the Contemporary Art Center ’s Live at
the Five Spot Friday night from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Tickets are $7
for members and $10 for non-members. For more information, call
674-6822.

The Hotel Pere Marquette will host the 2008 Peoria Promise Benefit
Gala on Friday evening. Cocktails, hors d’oevres and a silent
auction will begin at 6 pm, entertainment by Michael Isreal will
begin at 7 pm, the ceremonial dinner will start at 8 pm, and the
live auction will begin at 9:30 pm. Tickets are $150 per person or
$1250 for a table of 10 and the attire is casual. For tickets or
more information, call 866-376-8886. A portion of the ticket sales
will benefit the Hotel Pere Marquette Charitable Fund at the
Community Foundation of Central Illinois.

The Young Professionals Organization Lunch will take place Friday
at 11:30 pm at the Par-A-Dice Hotel. Afternoon workshops at the
River Station are from 2 pm – 4:30 pm and a reception will follow
till 6:30 pm. For more information, call 495-5914.

On Friday, the Great Lakes Valley Softball Championship kicks off
at EastSide Community Center in East Peoria . Eight schools out of
the NCAA Division II will be competing and the games which continue
through Sunday. Tournament passes are available for $15 per person.

Illinois Central College will host the Centennial Drive Vocal Jazz
Performers Concert on Saturday at 7 pm at the ICC Lecture/Recital
Hall. Admission is free.
On Sunday, the Philharmonic Chorale will perform at the ICC
Performing Arts Center at 3 pm. Tickets are $7 for the general
public and $5 for senior citizens and students. For more
information on either event, call 694-5136.

On Saturday evening, the Central Illinois Chapter of the
Alzheimer’s Association will host a Kentucky Derby-themed gala,
“Run for the Roses”, beginning at 5 pm at the Peoria Country Club.
Tickets are $75 plus $25 to partake in the Derby Bar. For more
information, call 681-1100.

The Community Children’s Theatre Annual Drama Festival will take
place at the Corn Stock Theater Tent this Saturday from 10 am – 4
pm. Plays will be performed throughout the day by local students
and the winners of the One-Act Playwriting Competition will also be
announced. Admission to the event is free.

Also this Saturday, the Arthritis Foundation presents the seventh
annual Arthritis Walk, a three-mile walk or one-mile fun walk, from
9 am - 11 am starting at the Peoria RiverPlex. The event includes
display booths, family fun, door prizes and refreshments. For more
information, call 682-6600.

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is hosting a Household
Hazardous Waste Event on Saturday from 8 am - 3 pm at Expo Gardens.
Residents may drop off oil-based paints, aerosol products, lawn
and garden chemicals, household batteries, old gasoline, used motor
oil and compact fluorescent light bulbs. For more information or a
list of acceptable items, call 681-2550.

On Sunday, Bradley University presents their Music Scholarship
Concert Series featuring Dr. Edward and Mrs. Janet Kaizer. The
concert begins at 3 pm at Dingeldine Music Center . Admission is
$5 for the general public and free to students. For more
information, call 677-2650.

Comedian Jeff Dunham is live in concert at the Civic Center Arena
Sunday at 7:30 pm. Jeff Dunham’s undeniable talents have
transcended the art of ventriloquism and transformed it into a
revolutionary comedy experience. Tickets are $43 and are on sale
at the Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, or by
calling 676-8700.