The 49th Rennick Art Show, sponsored by the Peoria Historical Society, continues at Peoria Public Library Main Library (located at 107 NE Monroe Street in Peoria in the lower level gallery) through May 30th. Admission is free. The gallery is open Monday – Saturday from 9 am – 6 pm for viewing.

Enjoy a Girls Night Out tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 7 pm at Wines ‘N More (located at 151 South Main Street in Morton) featuring a free wine tasting. Local vendors will be displaying their unique merchandise and there will also be free massages, facials, a wellness coach and wine tasting. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-291-0899.

The Kiwanis Club of East Peoria will host an Art Auction and Wine Pull to benefit the Fondulac District Library tonight (Thursday from 6 – 8:30 pm at the Eastport Banquet Center (located at 703 Mariners Way in East Peoria). Featuring an auction of artwork created by students from East Peoria and Metamora high schools, most pieces will be offered via silent auction with select pieces being offered in a live auction starting at 7 pm.  Tickets are $25 per person and include event entry, auction paddle and hors d’oeuvres are and available in advance from East Peoria Kiwanians or at Fondulac District Library (located at 140 East Washington Street in East Peoria). A cash bar and wine pull tickets will be available at the event.

The 105.7-The-X-Tec-E-Cig Spring Fling Concert featuring Stone Sour, Papa Roach, All That Remains, Sick Puppies and In This Moment will take place tonight (Thursday) beginning at 6 pm in the Peoria Civic Center Arena. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 the day of the event and are available at all Ticketmaster locations, Ticketmaster.com and at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office. Special $100 VIP Tickets can be purchased at www.1057thexrocks.com

Out of Order continues tonight (Thursday) at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield and runs through June 2. On Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, doors open at 6 pm, buffet is at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm. On Sundays, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $33 for Thursdays, $35 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $37 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com 
Find a Coupon for $5 Off Per Couple on Peoria-Deals.com!

Ryan Singer will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm and on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $14 except for the Thursday 8 pm and Friday & Saturday 10:30 pm performances, which are $12. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The First Christian Church (located at 6400 N University in Peoria) will host a Garage Sale on Friday from 8 am – 4 pm and Saturday from 8 am – 12 pm. Admission is free.

The 28th Annual Arts In Education Spring Celebration will be held on Friday and each weekday through May 24 at the Peoria County Courthouse Plaza from 11 am – 1:30 pm. The Spring Celebration highlights the talents of Pre-K through 12th grade students from seven Central Illinois counties. Over 12,000 students perform, exhibit and demonstrate their talents in the Fine Arts and Applied Arts during the six-week event. Check out www.springcelebration.org for complete information and updated schedules.

The Contemporary Art Center will feature Judy Page & Speak Easy on Friday beginning at 5:30 pm. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Salsa at the Contemporary Art Center will feature a dance lesson on Friday from 8:30 – 9:30 pm and open dancing to DJ Matt Vasquez from 9:30 pm – 12:30 am. A cash bar will be available. Admission is $3 for members or $6 for non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

Zootini, a fundraising event for the Peoria Zoological Society, will take place at the Peoria Zoo on Friday beginning at 5:30 pm.  A variety of martinis will be served by local celebrity bartenders at an after-hours event in Africa! Taste the signature “Zebratini” and walk the boardwalk with friends for tastings, appetizers, sushi, event-themed desserts, Zoo entry and live entertainment which are included with the ticket price. Tickets are $45 at the door and are available along with more information by calling 309-681-3500 or visiting www.peoriazoo.org

Enjoy a night of Vegas-style entertainment at Play for the Promise 2013 on Friday at Brewer’s Distributing (located at 2421 W Townline Rd. in Peoria) beginning at 6 pm. The third annual benefit for Peoria Promise includes food, drinks, gaming, performers, a silent auction, raffle and more fun. Tickets cost $35. For tickets and more information, call 309-256-9752 or visit www.peoriapromise.org

The Peoria Chiefs will take on the Clinton LumberKings on Friday and Saturday beginning at 6:30 pm and Sunday beginning at 2 pm at Dozer Stadium. Individual tickets are $10 for club box seating ($11 on Fireworks nights) and $7 for lawn seats and are available at the Peoria Chiefs Box Office, by calling 309-680-4008 or online at www.PeoriaChiefs.com  Season tickets and other packages are also available.
Find a Coupon for $3 Off Club Seats in May on Peoria-Deals.com!

Sky Pro Wrestling will present “Limitless” on Friday at Bellvue Plaza (located at 325 S. Bellevue in Peoria) with bell time at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $10 for adults $5 for children 5-12 and free for children 4 and under. Card to be announced. For more information, click HERE

The Clyde West Fishing Derby will take place on Saturday at the Glen Oak Lagoon (located within Glen Oak Park off Prospect Road in Peoria) from 9 am – 3 pm. Toss in a line and see if you can reel in one of the specially tagged fish to win a prize. Schedule is ages 5 years and under from 9 – 10 am, 6 – 9 years from 10 – 11 am, 10 – 12 years old from 11 – 1 pm and for ages 50+ and those with disabilities from 1 – 3 pm. Admission is free. Fishing equipment will be available at no charge.

The Illinois Housing Development Authority will present the State of Illinois Homebuyer Expo at the Peoria Civic Center on Saturday from 9 am – 2 pm to educate area homebuyers and homeowners on state programs that can aid in obtaining an affordable mortgage or preventing foreclosure. Local lenders will be on hand to pre-qualify homebuyers for up to $10,000 in down payment assistance, determine eligibility for more than $18,000 in federal tax credits and more. Call 312-836-5200 or register online at www.ihda.org

Offshore Adventures host and OCEARCH (Ocean Research) expedition leader Chris Fischer will hold a Q&A Presentation on Saturday in the Peoria Riverfront Museum Giant Screen Theater beginning at 10 am, followed by a “meet and greet” in the main lobby at 1 pm. Learn about the ocean’s giants and Fischer’s adventures in tracking sharks aboard the Caterpillar-sponsored M/V OCEARCH. Admission is free for this event. For more information, call 309-686-7000 or visit www.peoriariverfrontmuseum.org  For more information on OCEARCH, visit www.ocearch.org

Greater Peoria Honor Flight will host an Armed Forces Day Celebration on Saturday from 11 am – 5 pm at Junction City Shopping Center (located at 5901 Prospect Road in Peoria). Current and vintage military vehicles and weapons will be on display along with Central Illinois WW2 re-enactors and Peoria law enforcement vehicles. There will also be a Kid Zone with a space walk, inflatables, face painting, Unique Twist Balloons and more. Donations for Operation Santa will also be collected:  please bring toothbrushes, toothpaste, or lip balm for our troops oversees.  A $5 wristband donation requested for entrance with proceeds benefiting the Greater Peoria Honor Flight on June 4th. For more information, visit www.greaterpeoriahonorflight.org

A River Spirit Flute Circle will be held from 1 – 2 pm on Saturday at Forest Park Nature Center (located at 5809 Forest Park Drive in Peoria Heights). Lsten to Native American flute music or try playing this beautiful wooden instrument yourself. All levels are welcome and the circle is open to the public. No previous musical experience is necessary. Randy Starnes, a local flute maker, is the leader of the group and will have flutes for you to borrow or purchase. Bring your own flute if you have one. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-686-3360.

The Jabali Acrobats will perform on Saturday at the ICC Performing Arts Center on the East Peoria campus beginning at 7:30 pm.  Direct from Kenya, these phenomenal acrobats combine the artistry of fast-paced movement, music, dance and incredible acrobatics.  Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students and are available at the ICC Box Office, by calling 309-694-5136 or online at www.ArtsatICC.com

River City Latinos will present a May Latin Dance on Saturday beginning at 8 pm at the Peoria Civic Center. DJ Cornona, one of Chicago’s premiere DJs featuring spinning norteno, banda, bachata, merengue, tribal, cumbias and more. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for kids aged 10 – 15 and ladies pay $15 from 8 – 9 pm. For more information or to make a table reservation, call 309-232-9199 or visit www.facebook.com/rivercitylatinos

Stargazing at the Northmoor Observatory (located on the Donovan Golf Course at 5805 N. Knoxville Ave. in Peoria) will be open to the public for stargazing on Saturday from dusk until 11 pm (If the skies are cloudless). Volunteers will be on hand to aid you in viewing the night sky through the telescope and locating planets and constellations. Admission and parking is free. Parking is available in the golf course parking lot (accessible from Knoxville Avenue) – the Observatory is a short walk across the golf course towards Proctor Hospital. For more information, visit the Peoria Astronomical Society at astronomical.org

The Peoria Motorcycle Club will host their Spring Poker Run, an easy-pace motorcycle ride over country roads, selected to avoid heavy traffic and to provide scenic views, on Sunday beginning at 10 am at PMC Race Park (located at 605 S Cameron Ln. in Bartonville). Riders follow a set route using a navigation sheet and draw a playing card to add to their poker hand at each check point . At the end of the ride, the best poker hand wins. Payout is $200 based on 100 entries. Entry fee is $10 per person. First bike leaves at 11 am. For more information, visit http://www.peoriamotorcycleclub.net

The Grand Tour of Homes of the West Bluff will take place on Sunday from Noon – 5 pm. Featuring six West Bluff homes as well as the Grand Army of the Republic (the GAR) Hall, this is the 30th year of the tour. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at any of the homes the day of the tour.  Funds raised by the tour are used to beautify the West Bluff.  For more information including advance ticket sales locations, click HERE

The popular New Orleans Jazz Band led by Carl Anderson will perform on Sunday in the Starting Gate Banquet Room (located in Landmark Recreation Center at 3225 N. Dries Lane in Peoria) beginning at 7:15 pm. The CIJS house Band led by Larry Harms will open beginning at 6 pm. Admission is $5 for members, $7 for non-members and students are free. For more information call 309-692-5330 or visit www.peoriajazz.com

Enjoy a Girls Night Out tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 7 pm at Wines ‘N More (located at 151 South Main Street in Morton) featuring a free wine tasting. Local vendors will be displaying their unique merchandise and there will also be free massages, facials plus a wellness coach. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-291-0899.

Out of Order opens tonight (Thursday) at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield and continues through June 2. On Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, doors open at 6 pm, buffet is at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm. On Sundays, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $33 for Thursdays, $35 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $37 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com 
Find a Coupon for $5 Off Per Couple on Peoria-Deals.com!

The Peoria Chiefs will take on the Cedar Rapids Kernels tonight (Thursday) beginning at 6:30 pm at Peoria Chiefs Stadium.  They play again on Friday at 11 am and Saturday at 1 pm.  Individual tickets are $10 for club box seating ($11 on Fireworks nights) and $7 for lawn seats and are available at the Peoria Chiefs Box Office, by calling 309-680-4008 or online at www.PeoriaChiefs.com  Season tickets and other packages are also available. Please check prior to the games for possible rain cancellations.

The Peoria Area World Affairs Council will present “Brazil as a Rising Power: An Insider’s Perspective” featuring ICC Fulbright Scholar Ana Josil Montenegro at the IVY Club (located at 5102 N Galena Rd. in Peoria Heights) tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7 pm. Admission is $10 for adults and free for students. Register online at www.artstix.artspartners.net  For more information, call 309-677-2454 or visit www.pawac.org

Morton High School will present Once Upon a Mattress at the Bertha Frank Performing Arts Center tonight (Thursday) through Saturday at 7 pm and on Sunday at 3 pm. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and are available at the door.

Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) continues at the Performing Arts Center Studio Theatre on the East Peoria ICC campus tonight (Thursday) and Friday & Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm and at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for students and seniors citizens and are available at the ICC Box Office, by calling 309-694-5136 or online at www.ArtsAtICC.com

The Bradley University Theatre Department continues their production of One Third of a Nation tonight (Thursday) through Saturday beginning at 8 pm and at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for Bradley faculty, staff and senior citizens and $7 for students and are available at the Bradley box office, by calling 309-677-2650 or online at http://slane.bradley.edu/theatre-arts/single-performance-reservation

Auggie Smith will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm and on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $13 for the Thursday and Friday & Saturday 10:30 pm performances and $15 for the other performances. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The 28th Annual Arts In Education Spring Celebration will be held on Friday and each weekday through May 24 at the Peoria County Courthouse Plaza from 11 am – 1:30 pm. The Spring Celebration highlights the talents of Pre-K through 12th grade students from seven Central Illinois counties. Over 12,000 students perform, exhibit and demonstrate their talents in the Fine Arts and Applied Arts during the six-week event. Check out www.springcelebration.org for complete information and updated schedules.

Dress For Success of Peoria will host “The Purse and Suit of Happiness“, a fundraiser for their program, at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria on Friday from 11:30 – 12:30 pm. Congressman Aaron Schock will be the guest speaker. Tickets are $40 per person and are available online at http://dressforsuccess.org/peoria

Help raise awareness of child abuse by joining “Hands Around the Courthouse” at the Peoria County Courthouse Plaza on Friday beginning at 12 pm. Advocacy and justice officials will speak at the sixth annual event to draw attention to the more than 1,000 pending child abuse and neglect cases in Peoria County. Participants are encouraged to wear blue to show their support of Child Abuse Prevention Month. For more information, call 309-669-2939.

The Contemporary Art Center will feature The Boss Trio on Friday beginning at 5:30 pm. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Salsa at the Contemporary Art Center will feature a dance lesson also on Friday from 8:30 – 9:30 pm and open dancing to DJ Matt Vasquez from 9:30 pm – 12:30 am. A cash bar will be available. Admission is $3 for members or $6 for non-members. For more information on either event, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

A Tribute to the Stars of St. Jude will take place at the Par-A-Dice Hotel with cocktails beginning at 6 pm and dinner at 7 pm with live music by The Orchestra 33 plus a silent auction. Black tie is optional.
Tickets are $150 per person and are available online at http://www.stjude.org/tributetothestars  For more information about the event, call 309-679-4580.

Corn Stock for Kids continues with its production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. beginning at 7:30 pm on Friday, Saturday & Sunday and at 2:30 pm on Saturday & Sunday at the Corn Stock Theatre Center. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for children aged 12 and younger and are available at he Corn Stock Box Office, by calling 309-676-2196 and online at www.CornStockTheatre.com    Tickets are extremely limited in availability.

Eastlight Theatre will present Dream Girls at the East Peoria High School Auditorium beginning at 7:30 pm Friday and Saturday and Sunday at 2 pm. Tickets are $19 for adults, $14 for ages through high school and $17 for senior citizens aged 60+. Adult tickets are available online at http://www.eastlighttheatre.com/tickets.htm  For more information, call 309-699-SHOW (7469) or visit www.eastlighttheatre.com

The Peoria Ballet will present Snow White, a ballet in one act, at Five Points Washington (located at 360 N. Wilmor Rd. in Washington) beginning at 7 pm on Friday and at 2 pm & 7 pm on Saturday. Tickets are $24 and $10 for students and are available at the Peoria Ballet office or online at http://fivepointswashington.org  For more information, call 309-690-7990 or visit www.peoriaballet.com

Money Smart Week, a national event, will be hosting a series of free financial education classes, events, seminar and activities throughout the Peoria area beginning Saturday and running through the following Friday (April 26). For more information, visit http://www.moneysmartweek.org

Illinois Central College will host an Earth Day Recycling Event on Saturday from 9 am – 1 pm on the East Peoria campus in the Lawrence Hall parking lot where you can bring old computers, flat screen tvs, copiers, cell phones, radios or other electronics that you would like to discard. There is no charge for this event. For a complete list of acceptable recyclables, visit www.icc.edu

The Children’s Dyslexia Center of Peoria will present  “That’s Bazaar”!, a craft and product benefit fair featuring more than 90 vendors, on Saturday from 9 am – 3 pm at the Scottish Rite Cathedral (located at 400 NE Perry Ave. in Peoria). For more information, call 309-679-1888.

A Civil War Spring Drill will take place at Sommer Park (located at 6329 N. Koerner Rd. in Edwards) on Saturday & Sunday from 10 am – 2 pm each day. Admission is $2 per person. Experience the daily life of men and women during the Civil War era and watch them in action and perhaps be a part of daily drill. Civil War enthusiasts from the Midwest will bring to life the joys and sorrows of the time. Bring a camera and have your picture taken with the soldiers.

Theresa Caputo, psychic medium and star of the hit TLC show, Long Island Medium, will appear live at the Peoria Civic Center Theater on Saturday for two performances: one at 3 pm and one at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $38.75, $48.75, $58.75 and $85 and are on sale now at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling 800-745-3000 or online at www.Ticketmaster.com

The 9th Annual Earth Day Celebration will be held at Forest Park Nature Center (located at 5809 Forest Park Dr. in Peoria Heights) on Saturday from 11 am – 4 pm where you will be able to peruse booths, locate local resources and learn what you can do to make a difference for the environment. Enjoy live music, great local food, educational materials and hands-on demos, kids crafts, face painting and much more. There will be a raffle door prizes and the annual Earth Day. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged.

The Hope in a Hangar fundraising event for LifeLine Pilots will take place at the Byerly Aviation Terminal in the General Downing International Airport on Saturday with doors opening at 4 pm and a sit-down dinner beginning at 5:30 pm. A live & silent auction will take place throughout the evening as well as a champagne raffle featuring a blue topaz and diamond bracelet donated by Jones Bros Jewelers as the grand prize. Speakers will be passengers and family members of passengers that have flown with LifeLine. Cost is $50 per person or $75 a couple. To make a reservation or for more information, visit http://lifelinepilots.org

The 2013 Tri-County Urban League Black & White Gala will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Ballroom on Saturday beginning at 5:30 pm with a silent auction followed by a 7 pm dinner and a 8:30 pm concert. For more information, call 309-672-4354. Tickets for the Concert can be purchased at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office or at www.Ticketmaster.com

The Hult Center for Healthy Living will host the 15th annual Spirit of Living Dinner on Saturday at the Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino beginning at 6 pm. Enjoy cocktails, an awards presentation, silent auction, entertainment, and a tribute to Michel McCord. Tickets are $150 per person and are available by calling 309-692-6650 or visiting http://www.hulthealthy.org

The Peoria Rivermen finish their season against the Charlotte Checkers at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Saturday beginning at 7 pm and against the Milwaukee Admirals on Sunday beginning at 5 pm. Individual game tickets range in price from $13 – $28 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, by calling 309-676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659

Party for the Planet will take place at the Peoria Zoo on Sunday from 11 am – 2 pm. From recycling to butterfly gardens, explore what simple ways you can help make the planet a better place. There will be animal encounters, games and earth-friendly treats the animals will receive throughout the day. Regular admission applies: $9 for adult (aged 13 and over), $5.25 for children (aged 3-12), $8 for senior citizens (aged 65 & over) or free for kids aged 2 & under. For more information, visit http://www.peoriazoo.org

The ICC Hard Bop Jazz Band, a 14-piece jazz big band directed by Larry Harms, will perform at the Starting Gate Banquet Room in Landmark Recreation Center (located at 3225 N. Dries Lane in Peoria) on Sunday beginning at 7:15 pm. The Central Illinois Jazz Society house band will perform beginning at 6 pm. In recent years, the ICC band has won several honors at college jazz festivals. Admission is $5 for members, $7 for non-members and students are free. For more information call 309-692-5330 or visit www.peoriajazz.com

The Band Perry will perform at the Renaissance Coliseum on Bradley University’s campus on Sunday beginning at 8 pm. The opening act is the Kari Lynch Band. Tickets are $30 for the general public, $15 for students and $20 for Bradley faculty & staff and are available at the Coliseum Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets or by phone at 800-745-3000. The show is hosted by the activities counsel of Bradley University. For more information, call 309-677-2625 or visit www.acbu.org

The 2013 Clean Water Celebration kicks off on Sunday at the Gateway Building (located on Water Street on the Peoria Riverfront) beginning at 4 pm. Admission is free. The dinner and lecture will take place at the GAR (located at 416 Hamilton Boulevard in Peoria) also on Sunday beginning at 5:30 pm. Stiv Wilson will be the speaker and will discuss the plastic pollution problem Dinner and lecture are $25 or lecture only is $15. Reservations are required and may be made by calling 309-246-8403 or online at http://www.sunfoundatin.org  The school celebration will be held on Monday in the Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Hall from 9 am – 2 pm. For more information about school registration, call 309-697-1325 or 309-231-7451.

The Luthy Botanical Annual Lily Show continues through March 31st from 10 am – 5 pm on Tuesdays through Saturdays and from 12 – 5 pm on Sundays. Admission is $2.50 for ages 13 and up and children 12 and under and Garden members are free. The Garden is closed on Mondays.

Enjoy a Girls Night Out tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 7 pm at Wines ‘N More (located at 151 South Main Street in Morton) featuring a free wine tasting. Local vendors will be displaying their unique merchandise and there will also be free massages, facials, a wellness coach and wine tasting. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-291-0899.   Extended hours and special discounts will be offered by Eli’s Coffee, LuLu’s, Pumpkin Patch and Leaves N Beans also located in downtown Morton.

Unnecessary Farce continues tonight (Thursday) at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield and runs through April 14. On Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, doors open at 6 pm, buffet is at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm. On Sundays, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $33 for Thursdays, $35 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $37 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com 
Find a Coupon for $5 Off Per Couple on Peoria-Deals.com!

Godspell continues at Peoria Players Theatre at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday) through Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for patrons 18 and under and are available at the Peoria Players Box Office, by calling 309-688-4473 or online at www.PeoriaPlayers.org

The Contemporary Art Center will feature Change Up on Friday beginning at 5:30 pm. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Enjoy Swing Dance at the Contemporary Arts Center also on Friday from 8:30 – 9:30 pm for the dance lesson and 9:30 pm – 12:30 am for open dancing to DJ Matt Vasquez. Admission is $3 for CAC Members and $6 for non-members.  For more information on either event, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

Carnivale 2013 to benefit central Illinois Multiple Sclerosis Center patients will take place on Friday at the Par-A-Dice Hotel from 6 pm – Midnight where you can enjoy the flair of a Brazilian-style Carnivale celebration featuring traditional fare, live-auction, silent auction, and local band, JammSammich. The Brazilionaires, local Latin music band featuring Dr. Benoit will kick-off the evening beginning at 6 pm. Cost is $100 per person. To reserve your space, call 309-566-5670. Attire is business/cocktail.

Gospelfest Ministries will present Saviour at Five Points Performing Arts Center (located at 360 N. Wilmor in Washington) on Friday beginning at 7 pm. Special guests include Gaither Vocal Band tenor Wes Hampton, Homecoming artists Reggie & Ladye Love Smith, central Illinois favorite Jairo Arvizu, and ISU voice faculty member John Koch. They will be joined by a 70-voice choir and 35-piece orchestra. Tickets are $20 in advance or $23 at the door, and students ages high school and under are $10 and are available at Five Points Washington, Hoerr’s Berean Bookstores in central Illinois, Grace Church in Morton and online at www.gospelfestradio.com

Etta May will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $16 or $15 with cash payment except for the Friday 10:30 pm performance, which is $13 or $12 with cash payment. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

Wildlife Prairie Park will host “The Spring Wake-Up: Butterflies, Birds, and Bears! Oh, My!” on Saturday from 9 am – 4:30 pm with free admission to see what’s new at the park for 2013. There will be special activities surrounding the Park’ s new butterfly habitat and aviary, an introduction to Molly, the Park’s newest black bear plus a guided hike of the upcoming facilities for 2013, crafts for the kids, raptors on display, educational booths, and a variety of programs throughout the day. For more information, call 309-676-0998 or visit www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org

Take a tour of the St Jude Dream Home (located at 3011 W. Wessex Dr. in Peoria) from 9 am – 5 pm on Saturdays and from Noon – 5 pm on Sundays through April 7. Admission is free. Estimated value of the home is $335,000 and it features four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, is approximately 2,400 square feet with an upstairs laundry room and open floor plan with a great room with a fireplace. The Dream Home is a fundraiser for the local St. Jude affiliate. Tickets for the raffle are $100 each and are available by calling 800-390-3196 or in person at Kroger locations in Peoria and Tazewell County. The winner will be drawn on Sunday, April 14. No tours will be held on Easter Sunday (March 31st). For more information, visit https://www.stjude.org/dhpeoria

The Easter Bunny will be at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie (located at 5201 W. War Memorial Dr. in Peoria) on Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm to welcome spring with a celebration hosted by Bethany Baptist Church and The Shoppes. Admission is free. Festivities include live music, children’s games and activities, bouncy houses, Easter eggs, balloon animals, prizes from participating stores and photos with the Easter Bunny. Activities will be available rain or shine in Suite 320, located near Center Court. For more information, call 309-692-3672.

The Peoria Zoo (located at 2218 North Prospect Road, inside Glen Oak Park in Peoria) will host its Annual Easter Egg Celebration featuring an Easter Egg Hunt for children through 9 years old on Saturday beginning at 10:30 am for ages through 3 years, at 10:50 am for ages 4-6 years and at 11:10 am for ages 7-9 years. Cost is $6.50 for non-member children, $3.50 for member children and $8.50 for non-member adults. For more information, call 309-686-3365.

Kids Rock will be hosted by the Peoria Public Library North Branch (located at 3001 W. Grand Parkway in Peoria) with Pint Sized Polkas on Saturday from 1 – 2 pm .  Singer/Songwriter Cliff Eberhardt will perform at the PPD North Branch on Sunday from 2 – 4 pm. Admission is free for both events:  for more information on either, call 309-497-2120.

The Snow White Event will take place on Saturday  beginning at 6 pm at WeaverRidge Golf Club (located at 5100 WeaverRidge Boulevard in Peoria). Tickets are $75 each and all proceeds benefit the Peoria Ballet. The event includes a cocktail hour, plated dinner, preview performance of the Snow White Ballet, dance and live music provided by the West MacQueen Street Band and more. Donations are accepted in lieu of attendance. To purchase tickets, call 309-690-7990 or visit http://PeoriaBallet.com

Join the Peoria Zoo and Peoria Zoologocial Society for a night of fun and hockey at the Peoria Rivermen this Saturday beginning at 7 pm at the Peoria Civic Center. Special give-aways and Peoria Zoo coupons will be part of the fun.  A portion of the profits from your ticket will benefit The Power of Play Campaign. Tickets are a discounted $15 per person and are available by calling 309-681-3500. All tickets purchased through the Civic Center Box Office will not be discounted and will not benefit The Power of Play.

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Chicago Wolves at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Saturday beginning at 7 pm and the Toronto Marlies on Sunday beginning at 5 pm. Individual game tickets range in price from $13 – $28 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, by calling 309-676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659

Sunday Brunch at Wildlife Prairie State Park will be available this Sunday from 10 am – 2 pm. The cost is $19.95 for adults, $8.95 for children ages 3 to 12 and free for children ages 2 and under and includes admission to the park. Members of the park get a 10% discount. Call 309-676-0998 to make reservations.

Central Illinois Jazz Society will perform on Sunday at Landmark Recreation Center (located at 3225 N. Dries Lane in Peoria) beginning at 6 pm with the Central Ill. Jazz Train, ICC’s Big Band led by Larry Harms. David Hoffman and Friends following at 7:15 pm. David spent 13 years working and playing trumpet with Ray Charles. Members are $5, non-members are $7and students are free. For more information call 309-692-5330 or visit www.peoriajazz.com

Damon Williams will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club for one performance only on Sunday beginning at 8 pm. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 the day of the show. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

A Valentine’s Day Dinner Event will take place tonight (Thursday) at the Cornerstone Building (located at in downtown Peoria from 5 – 10 pm. The evening includes a four-course dinner, a champagne toast, professional ballet and opera performances plus dancing. Ballet dancers who will perform include Rebekah von Rathonyi and Joshua Gullett. Opera vocalists will be Saundra DeAthos and Harold Meers. The event is a fundraiser to support the Cornerstone Academy for Performing Arts. Tickets are $65 for a single or $120 for a couple or a table of 8 people $440 and are available by calling 309-620-3164.

Beer for Breakfast continues at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield tonight (Thursday) and runs through February 24. On Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, doors open at 6 pm, buffet is at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm. On Sundays, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $33 for Thursdays, $35 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $37 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

Comedian Rodney Carrington will perform at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7:30 pm. Ticket are $50, $45 and $25 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including the U.S. Cellular Coliseum Box Office, www.ticketmaster.com, select Walmart locations, or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. For more information, visit http://www.uscellularcoliseum.com

The 2006 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi, Jersey Boys, will be presented at the Peoria Civic Center Theater tonight (Thursday) at 7:30 pm, at 8 pm on Friday, at 2 pm & 8 pm on Saturday, and at 1:30 pm and 7 pm on Sunday.  The show runs through Saturday, February 23. Tickets start at $47 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, www.Ticketmaster.com or charge at 1-800-745-3000.

Bradley University’s Theatre Department will present Eurydice in the Blythe O’Sullivan Studio Theatre in the Hartmann Center on the Bradley campus beginning at 8 pm tonight (Thursday) through Saturday and at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $12 adults and $10 faculty and seniors, $9 students and are available at the box office or by calling 309-677-2650. For more information, visit http://slane.bradley.edu/theatre-arts

Chris Porter will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm and on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $13 or $12 with cash payment for the Thursday and Friday 10:30 pm performances and $16 or $15 with cash payment for the other performances. This show is rated R. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

IHSA State Individuals Events Speech Finals will be held at the Peoria Civic Center beginning at Noon on Friday and all day Saturday featuring the best high school performers and speakers from throughout the state of Illinois. The events that individuals can participate in include: dramatic duet acting, humorous interpretation, dramatic interpretation, oratorical declamation and special occasion speaking among other categories. For more information, visit http://www.ihsa.org

The Contemporary Art Center will feature Doran and the Soul Mystics on Friday beginning at 5:30 pm. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Salsa at the Contemporary Art Center will feature a dance lesson from 8:30 – 9:30 pm and open dancing to DJ Matt Vasquez from 9:30 pm – 12:30 am also on Friday. A cash bar will be available. Admission is $3 for members or $6 for non-members. For more information on either event, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

Cabin Fever Camp In 2013 will take place at the East Peoria Event Center (located at 4200 E Washington Street in East Peoria) Friday – Sunday with doors opening at 3 pm and music beginning at 5 pm on Friday. With two stages featuring over 34 hours total of music, attendees can also sleep in the separate camping area. Tickets are $65 for a 3 day pass with children 10 and under admitted free with a paid adult and are available at Autumn Bloom Hydroponics in Pekin, Feeling Groovy in Peoria, Co-op Records in Peoria & East Peoria. For more information, visit http://www.cabinfevercampout.com

Arc Light Productions will present Songs for a New World on Friday and Saturday at the Waterhouse (located at 619 SW Water Street in Downtown Peoria) with a buffet dinner beginning at 6:30 pm and the show following at 8 pm. Tickets are $35 per person and may be reserved by calling 309-455-4095: seating is very limited. The show is a fundraiser to benefit the Arc Light Productions Building Fund.

The movie Marriage Retreat will be screened on Friday beginning at 7 pm at the Peoria First Church of the Nazarene (located at 5504 N. University St. in Peoria) Admission is free. For more information, visit www.pureflix.com

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Abbotsford Heat at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Friday beginning at 7 pm and the San Antonio Rampage on Saturday beginning at 7 pm.  Tickets range in price from $13 – $28 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, by calling 309-676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659

Hedwig and the Angry Inch continues at the Corn Stock Theatre Winter Playhouse on Friday & Saturday at 7:30 pm at the Corn Stock Theatre Center (located in upper Bradley Park). Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students through college with ID and are available at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office, by calling 309-676-2196 or online at www.CornStockTheatre.com

Rock Your Babe will be held at the Gateway Building (located in downtown Peoria on the Riverfront) featuring a night of Blues featuring The Kilborn Alley Blues band on Friday from 8 pm – Midnight.  A cash bar will be available. Tickets are $10 per person and may be reserved by calling 309-689-3019 or 309-494-6713.

Bethany Baptist Church will host a free Marriage Enrichment Seminar open to all couples in the community on Saturday from 8:30 – 11:30 am at the Church (located at 7422 N. Heinz Lane in Edwards). Dr. Ritch Boerckel, Senior Pastor at Bethany Baptist Church, will discuss the issue of “Strengthening Your Marriage Friendship” and Pastor Art Georges, Senior Pastor of Living Hope Community Church in Bartonville will examine “Intimacy with God as the Foundation for Intimacy in Marriage”.  Admission is free & childcare is provided with advance registration. To register, call 309-692-1755 or visit http://www.bethanycentral.org

The Children’s Hospital of Illinois will host “A Sunny Day” Jamboree with Julie K beginning at 11 am on Saturday at the Embassy Suites Hotel Ballroom in East Peoria. Enjoy a festive lunch, children’s fashion show and a concert by award winning singer-songwriter Julie K. Reserved seating is $35 for adults and $15 for children. Tables of 10 can be reserved for $350. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 309-566-5666. All proceeds of this event benefit the Children’s Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Bradley Men’s Basketball will take on Indiana State at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Saturday beginning at 1 pm. Tickets are $8, $15 and $22 for the general public, $4, $7.50 and $11 for Bradley faculty & staff and $1 for Bradley students and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations or by calling 800-745-3000.

Juggler Steve Russell will perform at the at the Peoria Public Library North Branch (located at 3001 W. Grand Pkwy. in Peoria) on Saturday from 1 – 2 pm. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-497-2120.
Music in the McKenzie will present The Waymores, also at the Peoria Public Library North Branch (located at 3001 W. Grand Pkwy. in Peoria) on Sunday from 2 – 4 pm. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-497-2120 or visit www.waymores.net

Romance at the Peoria Zoo will take place on Saturday from 2 – 4 pm where the staff will take a closer look at romance in the animal kingdom from courtship to everything that comes after. Light refreshments will be served. Admission is $15 per person or $25 per couple. Registration is required and may be made by calling 309-686-3513.

The Central Illinois Jazz Society (CIJS) House band will perform beginning at 6 pm with the Peoria AllStars taking the stage on Sunday at 7:15 pm at Landmark Recreational Center (located at 3225 N. Dries Lane in Peoria). The Peoria Jazz AllStars is an all-city “big band” comprised of dedicated students from Manual, Peoria High and Richwoods, and ranks among the top 40 in the entire US. Admission is $5 for members, $7 for guests and students are free.  Food and beverages are available for purchase.  For more information, call 309-692-5330 or visit www.peoriajazz.com

Luke Bryan with special guests Thompson Square & Florida Georgia Line will perform at the US Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington on Sunday beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $53 and $28.25 and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, the U.S. Cellular Coliseum Box Office, www.ticketmaster.com or by calling at 1-800-745-3000. For more information, visit http://www.uscellularcoliseum.com

Beer for Breakfast continues at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield tonight (Thursday) and runs through February 24. On Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, doors open at 6 pm, buffet is at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm. On Sundays, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $33 for Thursdays, $35 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $37 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

Costaki Economopoulos will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm and Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $15 except for the Thursday 8 pm and Friday & Saturday 10:30 pm shows, which are $12. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The IMEA State Music Education Conference is taking place at the Peoria Civic Center through Saturday.  Concerts open to the public include the All-State Jazz Concert which will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Theatre on Friday beginning at 7:30 pm. The All-State Concert featuring the All-State Orchestra, Chorus & Band will begin at 1 pm in the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Saturday. And the Honors Concert featuring the Honors Orchestra, Chorus & Band will take place on Saturday beginning at 3 pm in the Peoria Civic Center Arena.   Tickets for each concert are $5 and are available at the door.  For more information, visit http://www.ilmea.org/events/13imec

A Bridal Bash hosted by Behind Every Bride will take place at the Embassy Suites (located at 100 Conference Center Drive in East Peoria) on Friday from 5 – 8 pm and on Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm . The largest bridal expo in central Illinois, nearly 70 wedding professionals will be on hand including design galleries, a vintage wedding market and more. A fashion show by Cloud Nine Bridal Boutique + Fine Paper will take place on Friday beginning at 6:30 pm. Entertainment will be provided by DJ4U. Admission is free. Pre-register and find more details at www.behindeverybride.com

The Contemporary Art Center will feature State of Mind (R&B, jazz) on Friday beginning at 5:30 pm. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Enjoy Swing Dance at the Contemporary Arts Center also on Friday from 8:30 – 9:30 pm for a dance lesson and 9:30 pm – 12:30 am for open dancing to DJ Matt Vasquez. Admission is $3 for members and $6 for non-members.  For more information on either event, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

The Bethany Fellowship of Churches will host Reality Check, a two-day women’s conference focusing on Colossians 3 at Bethany Baptist Church (located at 7422 North Heinz Lane in Edwards) from 6 – 9 pm on Friday and from 8:30 am – 12:30 pm on Saturday. For women ages 18 and up, there is a $5 fee for the event to cover the cost of lunch on Saturday and childcare is available for $5 per child. Register online at www.bethanycentral.org or call 309-692-1755.

An Owl Prowl will take place on Friday at Wildlife Prairie Park from 6 – 7:30 pm. There will be a short presentation with live owls and the opportunity to  learn about their unique calls.  You’ll also venture outdoors to try to call in a wild owl. Admission for members is $2 for children and $4 for adults and for non members, admission is $5 for children and $7 for adults. To make reservations, call 309-676-0998 ext 6758 or email saramackey@wildlifeprairiestatepark.org

The Peoria Riverfront Museum will host Wine & Cheese Under the Stars on Friday from 7- 9 pm. Host, Sheldon Shafer, VP & Curator of the Solar System, will lead a guided tour of the universe with the state-of-the-art Zeiss planetarium equipment as you relax with a glass of wine. Admission is $25 for members or $30 for non-members. Refreshments will be provided. Call 309-686-7000 or visit http://www.peoriariverfrontmuseum.org

Jimmy Nick & Don’t Tell Mama will perform as part of the River City Blues Society on Friday beginning at 7:30 pm at Goodfellas (located at 1414 N. 8th St. in Pekin). Admission is $3 for members and $5 for non-members. For more information, visit http://www.rivercityblues.com

Kids Rock, the new musical series just for kids and their families, will present Julie K on Saturday from 1 – 2 pm in the Peoria Public Library North Branch McKenzie Room. Admission is free.  For more information, call 309-497-2120.

International award winning magician, inspirational speaker and self improvement authority, Mitch Williams, will host a Book Signing event for his new book, ” A Call to Magic – the Artful Science of Transforming Self and World” on Saturday from 1 – 3 pm at I Know You Like a Book in downtown Peoria Heights. Admission is free.

An Easter Seals Spaghetti Dinner will be held at CountrySide Banquet Hall (located at 659 School Street in Washington) on Saturday from 5 – 10 pm. There will be 50/50, raffles and auction items plus  the Denim Blue Band will provide live entertainment. The cost is $10 for adults, $7 for children 4-7 and 3 and younger are free. Meet families from Easter Seals who will share their stories about what Easter Seals has done for them. 100% of donations go to help children with disabilities through Easter Seals.

The Peking Acrobats will perform at Five Points Washington (located at 360 N. Wilmor in Washington) on Saturday beginning at 7 pm. Since their Western debut more than 25 years ago, the Peking Acrobats have redefined public perceptions of Chinese acrobatics.  Tickets are $25 and $35 for adults and $15 and $25 for ages 18 & under and are available by calling 309-444-8222 or online at http://www.fivepointswashington.org

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Milwaukee Admirals at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm. Individual game tickets range in price from $13 – $28 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, by calling 309-676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659

Draft Culture, the female fronted cover band, will perform at the Fieldhouse (located at 1200 West Main St. in Peoria) beginning at 9 pm. There is no cover charge, however you must be 21 or older. The band will also be playing original music in addition to their 80s &90s rock. For more information call 309-494-9600 or visit http://www.facebook.com/draft.culture.9

The Comprehensive Bleeding Disorders Center will host a LOTUS Women’s Event at the Ruffle Room at Heaven on Earth at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie on Sunday from 1 – 4 pm. Admission is free.  The event is for girls and women who suspect they might have a blood disorder or with known blood disorders including but not limited to Anemia, Hemophilia, ITP or von Willebrand Disease. Food and beverages will be provided along with gift bags for the first 50 attendees. For more information and to sign up, call 309- 688-1345 or visit www.compbleed.com

Winter Jam 2013 will be live in concert at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Sunday beginning at 6 pm. The show will be headlined by GRAMMY®-winning, multi-platinum recording artist TobyMac and will also feature RED, Matthew West, Jamie Grace, Sidewalk Prophets and Royal Tailor with a message from national speaker Nick Hall. In addition, the Youth Music Vault Pre-Jam Party will include performances from Jason Castro, OBB and Capital Kings. Admission is $10 at the door.

The Central Illinois Jazz Society will present Speakeasy, featuring Judy Page on vocals, at the Starting Gate Banquet Room (located at Landmark Recreation Center, 3225 N. Dries Lane in Peoria) on Sunday beginning at 7:15 pm. Playing jazz and R&B, the CIJS House Band kicks off at 6 pm. Admission is $5 for members, $7 for non-members and students are free. Food and drink will also be available. For more information, call 309-692-5330 or visit www.peoriajazz.com

Sky Harbor’s 31st Annual Holiday Wine Tasting will feature Local Wines and Wine experts from Willetts Winery and Kickapoo Creek Winery will take place from 5 – 9 pm Tonight (Thursday) with complimentary tasting and a question & answer session. There will also be a cheese tasting courtesy of Ludwig Farmstead Creamery, chocolate by Fannie May plus live music by poet/songstress Shannon Moore beginning at 7 pm. The full menu will be available during regular dining hours of 4 – 10 pm. Reservations are suggested.

Home for the Holidays opens at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield tonight (Thursday) and runs through December 31. On Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, doors open at 6 pm, buffet is at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm. On Sundays, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $34 for Thursdays, $36 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $38 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

Enjoy a Girls Night Out tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 7 pm at Wines ‘N More (located at 151 South Main Street in Morton) featuring a free wine tasting. Local vendors will be displaying their unique merchandise and there will also be free massages, facials, a wellness coach and wine tasting. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-291-0899.

Community Children’s Theatre will present Roger and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella Enchanted Edition” at Peoria Players Theatre beginning at 7 pm Tonight (Thursday) through Saturday and also at 1:30 pm on Saturday & Sunday. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for senior citizens and children and will be available at the door.

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra will perform tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7:30 pm at the Peoria Civic Center. Tickets are $33, $40.50, $50.50 and $60.50 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, online at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 800-745-3000.

Spooky Dog & the Teen-Age Gang Mysteries continues at the ICC Performing Arts Center in East Peoria beginning at 7:30 pm Tonight (Thursday) through Saturday and at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $7 for adults & $5 for students & senior citizens and are available at the ICC Box Office or by calling 309-694-5136.

The Philadelphia Story continues at the Bradley University Theatre Department at Hartmann Center on the Bradley campus beginning at 8 pm tonight (Thursday), Friday & Saturday and at 2:30 on Sunday. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for faculty & staff, $12 for senior citizens and $7 for students and are available at the Bradley University Box Office or by calling 309-677-2650.

Josh Blue will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $19 or $18 with cash except the Thursday and Friday 10:30 pm show, which are $16 or $15 with cash. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The 37th Annual Community Thanksgiving Luncheon will take place on Friday at the Par-a-Dice Hotel & Casino in East Peoria beginning at 11:45 am. Tickets are $45 per person for Chamber members or $65 per person for non-members and are available by calling 309-495-5970. For more information, visit www.peoriachamber.org

Live at the Five Spot at the Contemporary Art Center will feature Change Up (R&B, jazz) beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Salsa at the Contemporary Art Center will take place on Friday featuring a dance lesson from 8:30 – 9:30 pm and open dancing from 9:30 pm – 12:30 am. A cash bar will be available. Admission is $3 for members or $6 for non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

Enjoy a holiday tradition of Candlelight Walks at Luthy Botanical Garden (located at 2520 N. Prospect (corner of Prospect & Gift in Peoria) from 6 – 9 pm. The Poinsettia Show under the warm glow of hundreds of candles is enhanced with live performances of holiday music. Admission is waived during the holidays, although donations are always accepted. For more information, visit www.peoriaparks.org

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Chicago Wolves on Friday at the Peoria Civic Center Arena beginning at 7 pm. Individual game tickets range in price from $13 – $28 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, by calling 309-676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659 Season tickets are also available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office or by calling 309-676-1040.

George Jones will perform at the Peoria Civic Center Theater on Friday beginning at 8 pm. Tickets are $35, $45 and $65 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 800-745-3000. Tickets purchased for the original concert (March 24, 2012) will be honored for the rescheduled date – no exchange is necessary. If you cannot attend the rescheduled date, tickets may also be refunded at the point of purchase.

The Home Party Bazaar will take place at the RiverPlex in downtown Peoria on Saturday from 9 am – 2 pm. Get a jump on your Holiday shopping with homemade craft vendors and home party companies. Admission and parking are free. Visit http://www.riverplex.org/arena-birthdays-special-events-rentals for a complete list of Bazaar companies. For more information, call 309-282-1508.

The Northminster Learning Center (located at 10720 N. Knoxville Ave. in Peoria) will host its first Holiday Fair on Saturday from 9 am – 3 pm. The offerings will include jewelry, beauty products, handbags, household decor, gourmet cooking items, children’s accessories and toys, and much more. Breakfast, Lunch and snack items will be available for purchase throughout the day. All proceeds from the fair will go toward the early childhood programs at the center. For more information, call 309-691-6322 or 309-256-8059.

History comes to life at Sommer Park (located at 6329 N. Koerner Road in Edwards) as Civil War soldiers construct Winter Quarters and prepare for their winter encampment on Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm Admission is $5 per vehicle.

The Shoppes at Grand Prairie will present a Grand Day of Giving on Saturday from 10 am – 9 pm. Bring in gently used coats, new unwrapped toys, or non-perishable foods to the Shoppes Office, you’ll receive a wristband to wear all day during the Grand Day of Giving which will give you special discounts plus a chance to enter and win prizes at participating stores. All donations will benefit Coats for Kids, Toys for Tots, and local food pantries.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive via carriage also on Saturday at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie in the Center Court from 4:30 – 6:30 pm. Arriving all the way from the North Pole, Santa and Mrs. Claus will begin the celebration by lighting the tree in Center Court and opening Santa’s Grand Holiday Village – a Winter Wonderland filled with a stocking-stuffer store, holiday vendors, and many more magical surprises (like carriage rides, cookies and cocoa). For more information, visit www.shoppesatgrandprairie.com

Meet author of the Iron Fey series, Julie Kagawa, at the Lakeview Branch of the Peoria Public Library (located at 1137 W. Lake Ave. in Peoria) on Saturday from 1- 3 pm. Admission is free. Kagawa’s new book, The Lost Prince, is a continuation of that series and explores the world of the faery through the eyes of Ethan Chase over a decade after the adventures of his sister Meghan. Enjoy snacks, prizes, and a chance to ask the author about her books and her life as an author. Copies of The Lost Prince will be available for sale and signing. Call 309-497-2150 to reserve a copy of the book.

The 28th Annual Festival of Lights Parade will take place in East Peoria on Saturday beginning at 5:45 pm. The parade begins at the intersection of East Washington Street and Dolans Lane. For more information including a map of the parade route, visit http://cityofeastpeoria.com/festival-of-lights/displays/parade-of-lights

Draft Culture will perform at Dizzy Dean’s (located at 1109 West Garfield Avenue in Bartonville) on Saturday beginning at 9 pm. There is no cover charge. Draft Culture is a female fronted, 80 & 90s rock cover band. For more information, call 309-697-0554.

The Peoria Train Fair will take place at the Illinois Central College East Peoria Campus on Sunday from 10 am – 3 pm. Sponsored by the Illinois Valley Model Railroad Club in Peoria and Pekin’s River City Model Railroad Club, the event is a fundraiser that will feature several operating model railroad layouts, swap meet tables, photos, books, railroad memorabilia, videos and more. Admission is $3 for adults and kids aged 12 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. Refreshments will be available.

The 42nd Annual Peoria Turkey Trot will take place on Sunday from 1- 3 pm at Detweiller Park. Peoria’s oldest running race, the 4-mile run’s top two finishers in each division receive a trophy and a turkey, compliments of Kroger. All entrants receive a Turkey Trot t-shirt. A 1/2 mile youth fun-run will take place immediately before the start of the run. Fee is $18 or $2 for the Youth Fun Run (does not include t-shirt). For more information, visit http://www.peoriaparks.org/running

Peoria Riverfront Museum Director of Collections Kristan H. McKinsey, will conduct a Guided Tour of the Collections Gallery on Sunday beginning at 2 pm. Exhibitions include 50 Years of Studio Art Glass and Southwest Moments: selections from the Charles and Jeanette Gilchrist White Collection. The guided tour is free with paid admission which is free for members and $11 for adults, $10 for senior citizens aged 60 and over and $9 for ages 3-17. Peoria county residents receive a 15% discount off of admission price. For more information, visit http://www.peoriariverfrontmuseum.org

The Central Illinois Jazz Society will present the Illinois Central Jazz Train at the Starting Gate Banquet Room (located in Landmark Recreation Center at 3225 N. Dries Lane in Peoria) on Sunday beginning at 7:15 pm. The CIJS House Band will open at 6 pm. Admission is $5 for members, $7 for non-members and students are free. For more information call 309-692-5330 or visit www.peoriajazz.com

Chonda Pierce, The Queen of Clean, will perform at the Peoria Civic Center on Sunday beginning at 6 pm. Tickets are $22 and $27 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, online at Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 800-745-3000.

“The Nightmare Before Christmas” Chrysanthemum Show continues daily at Luthy Botanical Garden.  Hours are 10 am – 5 pm on Tuesdays – Saturdays and from Noon – 5 pm on Sundays through November 4th. Cost is $2.50 for adults (ages 13 and up) or free for children aged 12 and under and Garden Members.

Enjoy a Girls Night Out from 5 – 7 pm tonight (Thursday) at Wines ‘N More (located at 151 South Main Street in Morton) featuring a free wine tasting plus vendors will be displaying their unique merchandise.  There will also be free massages, facials and a wellness coach. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-291-0899. Extended hours and special discounts will be offered by Eli’s Coffee, LuLu’s, Pumpkin Patch and Leaves N Beans also located in downtown Morton.

The OSF Saint Francis Centers for Breast Health will host the Breast Cancer Survivor Celebration at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria beginning at 5:30 pm tonight (Thursday) featuring author Lillie Shockney. Breast cancer survivors and their support persons are encouraged to attend. A light dinner will be served. Cost is $10:  reservations are requested and may be made by calling 309-683-5324 or 309-683-5328.

Dream Center Peoria will host “A Night to Honor History Makers” in celebration of Jim Maloof’s 93rd birthday beginning at 6 pm tonight (Thursday) at their facility (located at 714 Hamilton Boulevard  in Peoria). Tickets are $200 per person. The event will feature music from six-time Grammy winner Amy Grant, hors d’oeuvres and a gallery exhibit of Maloof’s life and accomplishments. All proceeds benefit the programs of Dream Center Peoria. For more information, call 309-676-3000 or visit http://www.dreamcenterpeoria.org

Hayrides and Hotdogs will take place tonight (Thursday) at Sommer Park from 5 – 7 pm. Enjoy food and drinks plus a Hayrack ride and mid-1800s Autumn Play Party activities. Children and adults costumes are strongly encouraged. Cost is $6 for ages 11+, $4 for ages 3-10 with a $25 maximum per family.

Move Over Mrs. Markham continues tonight (Thursday) at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield and runs through November 11.  On Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, doors open at 6 pm, buffet is at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm and on Sundays, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $32 for Thursdays, $34 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $36 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com For a $5 Off per couple coupon, visit Peoria-Deals.com!

Bradley University will hold its fall Robison Lecture, featuring Time magazine columnist and author Joe Klein tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7:30 pm in the Michel Student Center Ballroom. Klein will present the lecture “Politics Lost: Searching for Sanity in an Era of Political Consultants, Talk Radio, Cable News, and the Blogosphere.” Admission is free and open to the public.

Rock of Ages returns to the Peoria Civic Center beginning at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday). Tickets are $39, $49 and $59 and are now on sale at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster.com or charge at 1-800-745-3000. Recommended for ages 13+ due to mature language and situations.

Roy Wood, Jr. will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $16 or $15 with cash except for tonight’s 8 pm and the Friday & Saturday 10:30 pm shows which are $13 or $12 with cash. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The Central Illinois Green Expo will take place on Friday the ICC North Campus (located at 5407 North University Street in Peoria) from 8 am – 4:30 pm. Guests will learn about energy efficiency and sustainability practices while enjoying locally grown food and exploring exhibitor booths on a variety of “green” topics. Admission is free, but registration is required. For more information, visit www.cigreenexpo.org

A Downton Abbey Season 2 Marathon will be held from 10:30 am – Noon on Friday at the North Branch of the Peoria Public Library (located at 3001 W Grand Pkwy. in Peoria) Every Friday an episode from Season 2 will be presented from this program that explores the impact of WWI on the people of Great Britain. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served. For more information, visit www.peoriapubliclibrary.org

The Peoria Historical Society Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War Tour Trolley Tour takes place on Friday beginning at 10:30 am leaving from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street in Peoria). Also, the Grandview Drive and Springdale Cemetery Trolley Tour will take place on Saturday from 10:30 am – Noon leaving from Harp & Thistle (located at 4605 N Prospect Road in Peoria Heights).
And don’t miss the Haunted Peoria Tour which takes place from 1 – 2:30 pm on Saturday leaving from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street in Peoria). The cost for each tour is $11 or free for seniors 65 and older with proof of age plus a regular ticket purchase. To reserve tickets, call 309-673-6000.

The All Saints Greek Orthodox Church will host their annual Ethnic Food Fest & Bake Sale at the church (located at 1812 N. Prospect Road in Peoria) from 11 am – 8 pm on Friday & Saturday. Dinners that will be available include roasted lamb, Athenian chicken, spanakopita (spinach pie) and gyro. Appetizer plates and gyros sandwiches plus Greek & Lebanese pastries and desserts will also be available. For more information, call 309-682-5824.

Wildlife Scary Park will take place Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 5 – 9 pm each night. From 5 – 7 pm each night is for Merry-Not-So-Scary which is designated for younger visitors that do not want to be scared. Then from 7 – 9 pm things are get scary with a spooky train ride through the Haunted Forest, trick-or-treating door to door, the troll bridge, refreshments, photo opportunities (bring a camera), carnival rides, movies, hay rack rides and more. Admission is $7 for members and $8 for non-members. For more information, call 309-676-0998 or visit http://www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org For a $1 Off Coupon, visit Peoria-Deals.com!

The Contemporary Art Center presents Live at the Five Spot featuring Full Flavor beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Salsa at the Contemporary Art Center will feature a dance lesson from 8:30 – 9:30 pm and open dancing from 9:30 pm – 12:30 am. A cash bar will be available. Admission is $3 for members or $6 for non-members. For more information on either event, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

The Peoria Zoo will host Howl-Zoo-Ween from 5:30 – 8:30 pm on Friday and Saturday featuring a trick or treat trail through Africa, magic shows, a costume contest at 7 pm and more. Admission is $5 for members and $6 for non-members. Ages 1 & up require paid admission. For more information, call 309-686-3365 or visit http://www.peoriazoo.org

The Fondulac Farm Park Witches Walk (located at 305 Neumann Drive in East Peoria) will take place from 6 – 8 pm on Friday & Saturday.   Admission is $2.50 for children through 15 years old and $3 per adult (16 years & older). For more information, call 309-694-2195 or visit www.fondulacpark.com

Spider Hill continues at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe on Friday & Saturday with gates opening at 6 pm for ticket sales and scares beginning at 7 pm. Tickets are sold until 11 pm. Tickets are $8 per person per attraction. Wristbands for unlimited scares are $20 each. Group parties welcome and group rates available. For more information, visit http://www.threesisterspark.com/General/spider-hill.aspx

The Haunted Infirmary at the Bartonville Insane Asylum (located on Enterprise Drive in Bartonville) will be open from 7 pm – Midnight on Friday and from 6 pm – Midnight on Saturday. Tickets are $20 each an are available in advance online at http://thehauntedinfirmary.org to ensure that wait times are as short as possible. Each ticket will gain you access to both the Haunted Infirmary and to the hay rack ride around the grounds of what used to be the Old State Hospital. The event is hosted by the Limestone JFL.

The Dungeon of Darkness (located at 3531 Court St. in Pekin) will be open from 7 pm – Midnight on Friday & Saturday. Admission is $10 per person and children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, email info@dodpekin.com

Spook Hollow & MC Manor (located at 613 Lasalle Blvd in Marquette Heights), hosted by the Marquette Heights Men’s Club, will be open from 7 – 11 pm on Friday and Saturday featuring the MC Manor and Spook Hollow Trail. Admission is $20. For $10 per person, a Speed Pass is also available which lets you skip the lines at M.C. Manor, Spook Hollow Trail and all attractions within Spook Hollow Trail. For more information, visit www.spook-hollow.com

The Bradley Braves Volleyball Team will take on Illinois State at 7 pm on Friday and Indiana State at 4 pm on Saturday at the Renaissance Coliseum (located at 1601 W. Main Street in Peoria). Ticket prices are $6 for adults, $3 for K-12, and $14 for a family 4-pack (2 adults and 2 youth).  For more information, visit bradleybraves.com

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Rockford IceHogs at the Peoria Civic Center Arena Friday beginning at 7 pm. Individual game tickets range in price from $13 – $28 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, by calling 676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659

PARC’s 2nd Annual Boo Run will take place on Saturday beginning at 8 am at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie in Peoria. This Halloween-themed event features a Competitive 5K Run & Roll, a One-Mile Fitness Walk, and a Kids’ Fun Run, Walk & Roll. Fees are $25 for the 5K run, $10 for the Kids Fun Run, Walk & Roll, $60 for a Family Team of 4 and $25 for the One Mile Fitness Walk. Registration is available online at https://bit.ly/Mojxku All proceeds from this event will benefit PARC’s children’s services.

32nd Annual Spin-In – It’s All About Lace, the annual convention of the Bishop Hill Fiber Guild, will take place at the East Peoria Events Center (located at 4200 East Washington Street in East Peoria) on Saturday from 9 am – 4 pm. The event will feature sheep shearing, workshops to explore new techniques, vendors of both supplies and finished one-of-a kind items, and expert instruction on spinning and weaving. Those who wish to spend the day spinning or knitting can enjoy the day in the Guild Circle. Cost is $15 at the door. Children are welcome but must pay full entry fee and be supervised by an adult at all times. For more information, visit www.bishophillfiberguild.org

Beta Sigma Phi will host a Craft Show on Saturday from 9 pm – 3 pm at Galva High School (located at 1020 North Center Avenue in Galva). Admission is $2. Please, no pets or strollers. For more information, email joycebaskovic@yahoo.com

The Auxiliary of IAFF 1498 (EPFD) will host a Vendor Show from 9 am – 2 pm on Saturday at the East Peoria Festival Building (located at 201 West Washington Street East Peoria). Vendors that will be on display include Thirty One, Scentsy, My Cutesies Hair bows, JustJen82, Baby Diaper Cakes by Jennifer Orton, Park Lane, Hardrocks by Sara, Lia Sophia, Mary Kay, Essential Whimsy, Usborne Books, Pampered Chef, Ewe Nique Yarns and Tupperware. There will also be a bake sale. Admission is free. Visit http://www.facebook.com/#!/events/1004060253067440/ for more information.

The Peoria Riverfront Museum Grand Opening will take place beginning at 10 am featuring a planetarium, a Giant Screen Digital Theatre, the Illinois River encounter, the Peak Performance Center, The Street (a historical exhibit about the Peoria area), Discovery Worlds, the Fine & Folk Arts Gallery, International Features Gallery and an Interactive Learning exhibit. For more information, call 309-686-7000 or visit peoriariverfrontmuseum.org

The Spirit of Peoria will host a Fall Foliage Brunch Cruise with boarding at 10:30 am and cruise from 11 am – 1 pm on Saturday & Sunday. The cruise features a hot lunch buffet, live entertainment plus the best view of Illinois’ fall colors. Tickets are $39 for adults and $19.50 for kids ages 4 – 12 and reservations may be made by calling 309-637-8000 or online at http://www.spiritofpeoria.com

Punkin Chuckin’ will take place at 16339 Springfield Road in Pekin on Saturday beginning at Noon. Parking is $5, but the Chuckin excitement is free. There will be food, Punkin Chuckin shirts, hats and memorabilia, fall decorations and games for the children. Bring lawn chairs as seating is scarce. For more information, call 309-266-5135

The St. Anthony’s Italian Buffet Dinner will be held on Saturday from 3:30 – 7:30 pm in the Parish Hall (located at 2525 South Skyway Road  Bartonville). The all you can eat buffet includes spaghetti, lasagna, mostaccioli, Italian beef, seafood pasta and more. Ticket prices are $14 for adults, $13 for senior citizens aged 62+), $8 for children aged 5-12 and free for kids under 5. A bake sale and raffle baskets will also be available. For more information, call 309-697-0645.

The Peoria Push – Monster Smash will take place at the Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Hall with doors opening at 5 pm and bout starting at 6 pm. Celebrate Halloween – derby style – come in your most monstrous Halloween costume to participate in the costume contest. Tickets are $10 in advance available online at http://peoriarollerderby.org and $13 at the door. Children under 6 are free. A portion of the proceeds from this bout will benefit the Diabetes Association. For more information, visit http://peoriarollerderby.org

The Peoria Barbershop Chorus and Quartets will perform on Sunday beginning at 2:30 pm at Northminster Presbyterian Church (located at 10720 N. Knoxville Ave. in Peoria). This year’s theme is “That Good Ol’ Barbershop Style” and featured guests are “Main Street, U.S.A.”, a quartet from the Heart Of Illinois Sweet Adelines. Tickets are $10 in advance (or $12 at the door), $8 for senior citizens (or $10 at the door) and $5 for children aged 5 – 17. For more information, call 309-472-1413 or email bbshp4all@yahoo.com

The Central Illinois Jazz Society House Band will perform beginning at 6 pm with the Bradley Jazz Ensemble also performing at 7:15 pm in the Starting Gate Banquet Room (located in Landmark Recreation Center at 3225 N. Dries Lane in Peoria). Admission is $5 for members, $7 for non-members and students are free. For more information, call 309-692-5330 or visit www.peoriajazz.com

The 46th Annual Morton Pumpkin Festival will take place through Saturday in downtown Morton featuring lots of pumpkin food specialties. There will also be a carnival, live entertainment, a pumpkin pancake breakfast, a parade, the Pumpkin Idol contest, a business expo, craft fair, 10K/2 mile run/walk, bags tournament, pie eating competition, art & photography show plus much more. For complete details, visit http://www.mortonpumpkinfestival.org

Keep Peoria Beautiful will recognize the 2012 Orchid Award and Beautification Award winners at its annual reception at Luthy Botanical Garden tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 7pm. The event will feature a wine tasting and light hors d’oeuvres. Tickets cost $20 per person and $160 for a table of eight. For more information and to make reservations, call 309-672-6288.

An Evening with Patsy Cline continues at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield through September 23. On Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, doors open at 6 pm, buffet is at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm. On Sundays, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $34 for Thursdays, $36 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $38 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

9 to 5 the Musical continues at Peoria Players Theatre beginning at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday), Friday and Saturday and on Sunday at 2 pm. Tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for patrons 18 and under and are available at the Peoria Players Box Office, by phone at 309-688-4473 or online at www.PeoriaPlayers.org

Eastlight Theatre continues their YouthLight production of Aida in the East Peoria High School auditorium beginning at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday), Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $19 per person and are available online at http://tickets.eastlighttheatre.com or by calling 309-699-7469.

Wendy Liebman will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $15 except for the Thursday and Friday & Saturday 10:30 pm shows, which are $12. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The Voices for Illinois Children will hold its 2012 Illinois Kids Count Symposium “Investing in Opportunities for Children Now” at the Peoria Civic Center on Friday from 9 am – noon. Community leaders and advocates will explore the impact of the budget crisis on Peoria children with a presentation, panel discussion and more. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is recommended. Sign up at action.voices.org For more information, email mmeighen@voices4kids.org or call 312-516-5551.

The Contemporary Art Center will host its Live at the Five Spot featuring Rewind beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

The Prairie Center of the Arts (located at 1506 SW Washington St. in Peoria) will host an opening reception for the exhibit “The Sateré Mauwé,” a visual narrative by Gary N. Will, on Friday from 6 – 8 pm. Admission is free. The exhibit will be on display through September 28th.  For more information, visit prairiecenterofthearts.blogspot.com

Jammsammich will perform on the CEFCU Stage on Friday night with gates opening at 7:30 pm. Admission is $7 per person at the gate. The Landing Bar will be open.

The RiverFront Market takes place on the Peoria riverfront every Saturday morning through September from 8 am – Noon in Liberty Park (at the corners of Liberty and Water Streets) featuring local produce, meats, cheeses, breads, flowers and much more! Plus local art, live music and demonstrations each week. Chef Demonstrations take place the first and 3rd Saturday of each month beginning at 10 am. For more information, visit http://www.peoriariverfront.com

The annual Illinois River Clean Up Day will begin Saturday with meeting at Forest Park Nature Center for registration from 8- 9 am and the Sweep from 9 am – Noon. Gloves and trash bags will be provided. For more information and to register, call 309-686-3360.

An Open Fishing Day from the well-stocked waters of Lake Davis will be held at Camp Wokanda (located at 620 E Boy Scout Rd. in Chillicothe) on Saturday from 9 – 11 am. Fish from the shore for free or rent a canoe for $5. Poles can be rented for $1. This program is catch and release only.

The 15th Annual Lobster Boil will be held on Saturday at the Hult Center (located at 5215 N. Knoxville in Peoria) with doors opening at 6 pm. Price is $100 per person and includes a full Lobster dinner with dessert. Tables of 10 and sponsorships are available. There will also be hundreds of silent auction items available. All proceeds benefit healthy living programs at the Hult Center.

A Sightseeing Cruise will take place on Saturday on the Spirit of Peoria with boarding at 12:30 pm and the cruise running from 1 – 2:30 pm. Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for senior citizens, $10 for kids 4-12 and free for infants and are available at the dock or online at www.spiritofpeoria.com For more information or to reserve your seats via phone, call 309-637-8000.

The 8th Annual Grand Cruise-In, PARC n’ Play, will be held on Saturday at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie from 4 – 9 pm. See over 200 classic cars and enjoy food, raffles, live entertainment plus activities for kids. All proceeds from this event will benefit PARC programs for people with disabilities and their families.

The Peoria Historical Society and Institute for Principled Leadership at Bradley University will host the first annual Henri de Tonti Celebration at the Peoria Civic Center on Saturday starting at 6 pm. Tickets are $150 per person and $1,200 for a table of eight. Reserve your spot by calling 309-674-1921 or visiting peoriahistoricalsociety.org

Anthem Lights and Moriah Peters will perform in concert on Sunday at Grace United Methodist Church (located at 601 N. 4th Street in Pekin) beginning at 7 pm. Tickets are $8 advance and $10 door. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/#!/events/448730371824421/

The Central Illinois Jazz Society will present Kevin Hart on Vibes with Carlos Vega on Sax, playing Latin and other Jazz styles at Landmark’s Starting Gate Banquet Room (located at 3225 N. Dries Lane in Peoria). The CIJS House Band kicks off the show on Sunday at 6 pm with the Tribe at 7:15 pm. Food and Drink available. Admission is $5 for members, $7 for non-members and students are free. For more information, call 309-692-5330 or visit www.peoriajazz.com

The Illinois State Fair continues on the Illinois State Fairgrounds from 7 am – Midnight tonight (Thursday) through Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults (ages 13 – 59), $3 for children (ages 5-12), free for children under 5), and $3 for senior citizens (ages 60 and older). Vehicle Parking per day is $7. Also available are coupon books with 10 admissions for $45 for adults & $20 for children & senior citizens. For complete information on fair activities, entertainment and carnival prices and specials, visit http://www.agr.state.il.us/isf

The annual Maui Jim Maka Maka Fun Run for Peoria Friendship House will begin tonight (Thursday) at 6 pm at Maui Jim’s corporate headquarters (located at One Aloha Lane in Peoria). The 3-mile fun run/1.5 mile walk will benefit the Peoria Friendship House. Registration for the event is $40 and can be done online at www.tinyurl.com/makamaka

Junction City and the Peoria Art Guild will host the first annual Wine Walk Fundraiser tonight (Thursday) from 4 – 9 pm. The event will feature a wine tasting, food sampling, live music, free passes to the Fine Art Fair plus a sneak peak of artist selections for that event. For more information, visit www.peoriaartguild.org

The Exhibition “K’NEX Building Thrill Rides” will take place through Sept. 1 at Lakeview Museum (located at 1125 W. Lake Ave. in Peoria) from 10 am – 5 pm Monday -Saturday (until 8 pm on Thursdays) and from Noon – 5 pm on Sunday. Use K’NEX rods and connectors to build a thrill ride of your own, which will help you understand the different properties of physics such as centrifugal force, kinetic energy, and motion. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for youth, $5 for senior citizens or free for members. For more information, call 309-686-7000.

Wines n More (located at 151 S. Main St. in downtown Morton) will host a Girls Night out tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 7 pm featuring a variety of wines. They will also host a Wine Tasting on Saturday from 4 – 6 pm featuring 8 different wines and gourmet appetizers.  Admission is free for both events.  For more information, call 309-291-0899 or visit www.winesnmore.net

Funny Business presented by Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield is in its final weekend with doors opening at 6 pm, the buffet dinner begins at 6:30 pm, and the show at 8 pm tonight (Thursday), Friday & Saturday .  On Sunday, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $32 for Thursday, $34 for Friday and Sunday brunch and $36 for Saturday. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com
Find a $10 discount per couple coupon on Peoria-Deals.com!

CEFCU, the Peoria Park District and the Central Illinois Jazz Society proudly present Thursday Night Jazz featuring David Hoffman and Friends at the CEFCU Center Stage tonight (Thursday) at the Landing on Peoria’s RiverFront from 7 – 9 pm. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.facebook.com/riverfrontevents

It’s Family Night at DragonLand Water Park (located at located at 193 Red Bud Drive in Pekin) tonight (Thursday) from 7 – 8:30 pm. The park includes a zero depth, play/entry area, two water slides and “Dude” the dragon slide with mushroom waterfall geyser. Admission is $8 per family of 4 plus $1 for each additional family member (families residing in the same household).

The Peoria Chiefs will take on the Burlington Bees tonight (Thursday) and Friday beginning at 7 pm each night at Peoria Chiefs Stadium (located at 730 SW Jefferson in downtown Peoria). Tickets are $7 for lawn seats and $10 for club box seats and are available at the Chiefs Box Office, by calling 1-866-MYTICKET or online at https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/team.asp?SponsorID=4041

Danny Bevins will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $12 for the Thursday and 10:30 pm shows on Friday and Saturday and $14 for the Friday and Saturday 8 pm shows. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

A Sightseeing Cruise will take place on the Spirit of Peoria on Friday and Saturday with boarding at 12:30 pm and the cruise running from 1 – 2:30 pm. Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for senior citizens, $10 for kids 4-12 and free for infants and are available at the dock or online at www.spiritofpeoria.com For more information or to reserve your seats via phone, call 309-637-8000.

The Contemporary Art Center will present Live at the Five Spot featuring Spring Creek Station (country, pop) beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Salsa at the Contemporary Art Center on Friday will feature a dance lesson from 8:30 – 9:30 pm and open dancing to DJ Matt Vasquez from 9:30 pm – 12:30 am. A cash bar will be available. Admission is $3 for members or $6 for non-members. For more information on either event, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

The River City Soul Fest will be held on the Peoria riverfront on Friday and Saturday with gates opening at 6 pm each night.   The Soul Fest celebrates Gospel music with national headliners Isaac Carree and Byron Cage. Carree and Cage.  Tickets for the Friday night performances are $10 in advance or $15 the night of the show. Also, a limited number of VIP tickets including a meet n greet with Byron Cage and a seat in a special section for the show are available for $30.  Saturday will feature local talent on stage to open for the classic headlining act, The Spinners, who were nominated for multiple Grammy Awards and inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  Advance tickets for the Spinners are $15 or are $20 the night of the show.  All tickets are available at all local Co-Op Records Stores, the Riverfront Visitor’s Center or online at http://jaytv.com

Draft Culture, the female fronted, 80s & 90s rock cover band, will perform on Friday at Knickerbocker’s Bar & Grill (located at 80 Sunnyland Plaza in Washington) beginning at 9 pm. The cover charge is $2. For more information, call 309-745-9050 or visit http://www.facebook.com/draft.culture.9

The RiverFront Market takes place on the Peoria riverfront every Saturday morning through September from 8 am – Noon in Liberty Park (at the corners of Liberty and Water Streets) featuring local produce, meats, cheeses, breads, flowers and more plus local art, live music and demonstrations each week. Chef Demonstrations take place the first and 3rd Saturday of each month beginning at 10 am. For more information, visit http://www.peoriariverfront.com

The Hike for Hunger to benefit the South Side Mission will take place on Saturday at Forest Park Nature Center (located at 5809 N Forest Park Dr. in Peoria Heights) beginning at 8:30 am. Fee to participate is $ $20 or $50 per family. For more information or to register, visit http://www.southsidemission.org

An Open Fishing Day will be held at Camp Wokanda (located at located at 620 E Boy Scout Rd. in Chillicothe) on Saturday from 9 – 11 am. Enjoy the well-stocked waters of Lake Davis where you can fish from the shore for free or rent a canoe for $5. Poles can be rented for $1. This program is catch and release only. For more information, call 309-579-2157.

The Rocky Glen Fundraiser will be held on Saturday from 10 am – 6 pm at Jimmy’s Bar (located at 2801 Farmington Road in Peoria). Admission is free. There will be free hikes to Rocky Glen all day plus a free pancake and sausage breakfast and a free hot dog lunch. Learn abut this natural area and see it for yourself. Wear pants and good shoes for the hike. For more information visit the website www.friendsofrockyglen.org or call 309-676-5237.

The 21st Annual Reptile & Amphibian Fair will be presented by the Central Illinois Herpetological Society from 10 am – 5 pm on Saturday and from Noon – 5 pm on Sunday at St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral (located at 3601 N. North Street in Peoria) in Gillette Hall. This annual educational exhibit features living frogs, turtles, lizards and snakes and allows participants to mingle with hobbyists and learn more about habitats, habits, and health. Admission is $3 per person. CIHS is a not-for-profit organization and a section of the Peoria Academy of Science. Profits are donated to organizations and projects that support Conservation, Education, Research, and the Preservation of reptiles and amphibians.

Farm Heritage Days Antique Tractor & Equipment Show will take place on the Stark County Jr. Fairgrounds in Wyoming from 9 am – 5 pm on Saturday and from 9 am – 4 pm on Sunday including antique tractor pulls on Sunday beginning at 11 am, steam engines, a shingle mill, a saw mill, plowing demonstrations, threshing plus a silent auction and raffles, kids activities, an antique tractor and equipment display. Admission is free and camping is available for $15 per night. For more information, visit www.citractorclub.com

The Peoria Art Guild will host an Artist Reception for Heather Brammeier for her exhibit “Via Alternate Descriptions” and Dan Mrva for his exhibit “Bent” on Saturday from 6 – 8 pm at the Art Guild (located at 203 Harrison in Peoria). Admission is free. For more information, call 309-637-2787.

The ICC Guest Artists Series will host the Rhythm Rockets at the ICC Performing Arts Center in East Peoria beginning on Saturday at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for students and are available at the ICC Box Office or by calling 309-694-5136. This is the first show for the 2012-13 ICC Guest Artist Series featuring 5 shows throughout the season. Season tickets are $90 for adults and are available at the ICC Box Office or by calling 309-94-5136. For more information on this show and the others in the series, visit http://www.artsaticc.com/2012/07/2012-13-guest-artists-series

Sing for a Cure for Cystic Fibrosis will take place at Pitch Karaoke Bar (located at 631 W. Main Street in Peoria) on Sunday from 2 – 10 pm. There will be a 50/50 drawing, a raffle plus all of the bartenders tips will be donated to the Peoria Chapter for Cystic Fibrosis. Enjoy the “Rockstar Karaoke Contest” where members from Jammsammich, The Willies, Bubblegum Jack, Uncle Pucker, Generations and Phat Kitti will have a “sing off” beginning at 2:30 pm. For more information about the event, visit www.pitch-karaoke-bar.com and for more information on cystic fibrosis, visit www.cff.org

Plan your wedding in one afternoon at the Behind Every Bride Bridal Showcase at the Par-A-Dice Hotel in East Peoria from 11 am – 3 pm on Sunday.  Fashion shows will take place at Noon and 2 pm presented by Adore Bridal & Specialty. See over 40 wedding professionals all in one place from caterers to florists to dresses to cakes. Admission is free and all brides will receive a swag bag. For more information or to pre-register, visit www.behindeverybride.com

The Shoppes at Grand Prairie will host Performances on the Prairie from 12 – 3 pm on Sunday in the Center Court. Admission is free. This month’s featured artists are Banjovi & Potts. The duo consists of Jim Bonnett and Jim Potts, who have played in a variety of bluegrass and rock bands in Central Illinois for over 20 years. For more information, visit http://www.shoppesatgrandprairie.com/events

The annual India Fest will take place on Peoria’s RiverFront on Sunday with gates opening at 3 pm. This year’s festival will feature dances, non-stop entertainment, arts & crafts and more plus authentic cuisine and ice cold beverages. Admission is $5 for adults and children 12 and under are free.

The Central Illinois Jazz Society (CIJS) will host the Romaniacs at Landmark Recreation Center (located at 3225 N. Dries Lane in Peoria) on Sunday from 6 – 8:15 pm. The CIJS House Band will play during the first set, led by Larry Harms. The Romantics begin at 7:15 pm. Admission is $5 for members, $7 for non-members and students are free. Food and drink available. For more information call 309-692-5330 or visit www.peoriajazz.com

Brimfield Old Settler’s Days will take place tonight (Thursday) through Saturday featuring food, a beer garden, a 5K Walk/Run, carnival rides, an arts & crafts fair, kid’s bicycle races, a bags tournament, a parade plus live entertainment including Rex Allen Jr., Chris Krause and Jammsammich. For more information, call 309-444-3908.

The Illinois State Fair will be held on the Illinois State Fairgrounds from 7 am – Midnight tonight (Thursday) through Sunday, August 19. Admission is $7 for adults (ages 13 – 59), $3 for children (ages 5-12), free for children under 5), and $3 for senior citizens (ages 60 and older). Vehicle Parking per day is $7. Also available are coupon books with 10 admissions for $45 for adults & $20 for children & senior citizens. For complete information on fair activities, entertainment and carnival prices and specials, visit http://www.agr.state.il.us/isf

The Exhibition “K’NEX Building Thrill Rides” will take place through Sept. 1 at Lakeview Museum (located at 1125 W. Lake Ave. in Peoria) from 10 am – 5 pm Monday -Saturday (until 8 pm on Thursdays) and from Noon – 5 pm on Sunday. Use K’NEX rods and connectors to build a thrill ride of your own, which will help you understand the different properties of physics such as centrifugal force, kinetic energy, and motion. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for youth, $5 for senior citizens or free for members. For more information, call 309-686-7000.

Wines n More (located at 151 S. Main St. in downtown Morton) will host a Free Wine Tasting tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 7 pm featuring a variety of wines. For more information, call 309-291-0899 or visit www.winesnmore.net

Funny Business presented by Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield continues this weekend:  tonight (Thursday), Friday & Saturday, doors open at 6 pm, the buffet dinner begins at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm.  On Sunday, doors & the buffet open at noon, and the show is at 1:30 pm. Prices are $32 for Thursday, $34 for Friday and Sunday brunch and $36 for Saturday. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com
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CEFCU, the Peoria Park District and the Central Illinois Jazz Society proudly present Thursday Night Jazz featuring Change Up at the CEFCU Center Stage at the Landing on Peoria’s RiverFront from 7 – 9 pm. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.facebook.com/riverfrontevents

It’s Family Night at DragonLand Water Park (located at located at 193 Red Bud Drive in Pekin) tonight (Thursday) from 7 – 8:30 pm. The park includes a zero depth, play/entry area, two water slides and “Dude” the dragon slide with mushroom waterfall geyser. Admission is $8 per family of 4 plus $1 for each additional family member (families residing in the same household).

Private Lives, the 1930 comedy of manners in three acts by Noël Coward, will be presented by Corn Stock Theatre (located in upper Bradley Park) tonight (Thursday) through Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm each night. Tickets are $12 for adults & $10 for students aged 18 & under and are available at the Corn Stock Box Office, by phone at 309-676-2196 or online at www.CornStockTheatre.com
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Eastlight Theatre presents Legally Blonde the Musical at the East Peoria High School auditorium beginning at 7:30 pm Friday and Saturday night and on Sunday at 2 pm. Tickets are $19 per person and are available online at http://tickets.eastlighttheatre.com or call 309-699-7469.

Peoria Players presents its youth production, The Wedding Singer, beginning at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday) through Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for patrons aged 18 & under and are available at the Peoria Players Box Office, by calling 309-688-4473 or online at www.PeoriaPlayers.org
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The Illinois Shakespeare Festival will present “Othello” at Ewing Manor in Bloomington tonight (Thursday) at 7:30 pm. The Festival will also present Sheridan’s “The Rivals” on Friday at 8 pm and “As You Like It” on Saturday at 8 pm.   Tickets range in price from $27 – $47 for adults & $23 – $43 for students and are available by calling 309-438-2535 or at http://www.ticketmaster.com/venue/57373 Season and group tickets are also available. Visit http://thefestival.org/tickets/index.shtml for more information and a schedule.

Lakeview Aquatic Center (located at 1017 West Lake Avenue – Lakeview Park – in Peoria) will host a Family Swim Night under the lights tonight (Thursday) from 7:30 – 9:30 pm. Admission is $12 for a family of 4 with additional children $2.25 each. Children 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, call 309-686-3377.

Brett Erickson will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm and Friday and Saturday at 8 pm and 10:30 pm. Tickets are $10 on Thursday and $12 on Friday and Saturday. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

A Sightseeing Cruise will take place on the Spirit of Peoria on Friday and Saturday with boarding at 12:30 pm and the cruise running from 1 – 2:30 pm. Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for senior citizens, $10 for kids 4-12 and free for infants and are available at the dock or online at www.spiritofpeoria.com For more information or to reserve your seats via phone, call 309-637-8000.

The Contemporary Art Center will present Live at the Five Spot featuring Ambient beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday. Admission is $7 for members, $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.  For more information , call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

Splashdown Family Friday Fun Nights will take place at Splashdown Water Park in East Peoria on Friday from 7 – 9:30 pm. Enjoy a live DJ from Sound Illusions, a balloon artist from Unique Twist Balloon Creations and kid giveaways. Cost is $15 for a family of four and $3 for each additional family member. Season passes will be honored. For more information, call 309-694-1867 or visit www.fondulacpark.com/?q=splashdown

A Concert to Benefit WCBU-FM 89.9 will begin at 7 pm on Friday at the Glen Oak Amphitheatre featuring many local favorites. Admission is $10 for adults and free for children 17 and under accompanied by an adult.  Parking is free. Food and drink may be brought in or purchased in the Amphitheatre Concession Building. Alcohol is not allowed in the park. For more information, visit http://wcbu.bradley.edu

The Boat Drunks will perform on the CEFCU Stage at The Landing on the Peoria Riverfront on Friday beginning at 7:30 pm. Admission is $7 per person at the gate.

Enjoy a Free Movie in Fon du Lac Park (located at 123 Par 3 Lane in East Peoria) featuring “The Muppets” on Friday night with gates opening at 7:30 pm and the movie beginning at 8:20 pm. It is suggested that you bring your own snacks, chairs and blankets.

N.E.R.O. Peoria, a chapter of the N.E.R.O. Live Action Role Playing Game system, will host a role playing event at Camp Wokanda (located at 620 East Boy Scout Road in Chillicothe) beginning at 8 pm on Friday night and running through Sunday morning at 11 am. Cost to register is $40 per person to participate or free to watch the action. Registration and more information is available at http://neropeoria.com

The RiverFront Market takes place on the Peoria riverfront every Saturday morning through September from 8 am – Noon in Liberty Park (at the corners of Liberty and Water Streets) featuring local produce, meats, cheeses, breads, flowers and more plus local art, live music and demonstrations each week. Chef Demonstrations take place the first and 3rd Saturday of each month beginning at 10 am. For more information, visit http://www.peoriariverfront.com

The Budweiser Grand Nationals will take place on Saturday at Peoria River Front Park. Tickets are $15 in advance and at the gate prior to 6 pm (or $20 at the gate after 6 pm) and are available at the Peoria Riverfront Visitors Center, all Coop ticket outlets, Shandi’s locations and at http://grandnationalsweekend.com/tickets.html
This year’s central Illinois’ leading motorcycle event will feature musical entertainment on 2 stages. There will be a motorcycle parade from PMC race park to benefit the Downed Riders Association, an antique and custom bike show, 4 free showings of the world class BMX stunt show, a swap meet with motorcycle parts and apparel, a fashion show at the party tent, and food court.

A Kids in Motion Triathalon will take place at the Reagan Center on the Eureka College Campus beginning at 8 am on Saturday. Competitions will take place in swimming, bicycling and running and will be divided into 5 age groups. The entry fee is $25 per child. The event is a fundraiser for the Eureka Athletics Department. For more information, call 309-467-6370.

An Open Fishing Day from the well-stocked waters of Lake Davis will be held at Camp Wokanda in Chillicothe on Saturday from 9 – 11 am. Fish from the shore for free or rent a canoe for $5. Poles can be rented for $1. This program is catch and release only.

The Peoria Ballet will host an Open House on Saturday from 10 am – 3 pm at their studios (located at 809 W. Detweiller Drive in Peoria) where you can try a class, meet the staff, sign up for classes, enjoy free refreshments plus watch a small performance. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.facebook.com/PeoriaBallet

The 5th Annual Washington IL Fine Arts Festival will be held on Saturday and Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm in Washington Park. Hosted by the Washington Fine Arts Society, the event is free as is parking. For more information, call 309-444-4887.

Local performer, Mike Reams, will perform in a Solo Cabaret, Out of Obscurity: Song of Forgotten Broadway, at Peoria Cabaret Theatre (located within the Waterhouse at 619 SW Water Street in downtown Peoria) on Saturday with doors opening at 6 pm and dinner & show following. Tickets are $28 per person and reservations may be made by contacting the Peoria Cabaret Theatre box office at 309-494-9100 or http://www.peoriacabarettheatre.com

The Italian-American Society of Peoria will host its 83rd Annual Summer Festa picnic on Sunday from noon to 7 pm at Hickory Grove Park (located off Illinois Route 40 north of Peoria). The event features Italian food, beverages, gift booths, music, children’s activities, a spaghetti-eating contest, scholarship awards, and bocce ball. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.ItalianAmericanSociety.com Proceeds benefit the Italian-American Society scholarship programs

The Shoppes at Grand Prairie will host Performances on the Prairie on Sunday from 12 – 3 pm in the Center Court. Admission is free. For more information, visit http://www.shoppesatgrandprairie.com/events This month’s featured artists are Banjovi & Potts, who have played in a variety of bluegrass and rock bands in Central Illinois for over 20 years.

The Children’s Ballet, Alice in Wonderland, will be performed Sunday at the ICC Performing Arts Center beginning at 3 pm. Cast members are aged 3 – 18.  Tickets are general admission and are $12 for adults, $10 for senior citizens and $ for children and students. For more information, call 309-620-3164 or visit www.cornerstoneballetpeoria.com

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform at the Glen Oak Park Amphitheatre on Sunday beginning at 7 pm. Guest vocalists will also perform. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.peoriamunicipalband.com