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

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!

The Peoria Chiefs will take on the Lake County Captains tonight (Thursday) beginning at 6:30 pm and again on Friday at 11 am at Peoria Chiefs Stadium. They take on the Fort Wayne Tincaps at 6:30 pm on Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday also.  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.

The Central Illinois Herpetological Society will meet at Forest Park Nature Center tonight (Thursday) at 7 pm featuring a speaker, raffles, announcements of trips and exhibits and opportunities for hobbyists to interact with one another. Admission is free. Membership to the CIHS is $20 per year which includes the quarterly newsletter, Herp Alert. The Society meets the first Thursday every month at this time at Forest Park Nature Center

Whisper & Shout at the Contemporary Art Center is an open mic for sharing and inspiring poetry and takes place tonight (Thursday) with doors opening at 7:30 pm, show beginning at 8 pm. Admission is $4 for members or $7 for non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6822.

Carrie Underwood brings her “Blown Away Tour” to the US Cellular Coliseum tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets range in price between $43.50 and $63.50 and are available at the US Cellular Box Office, at all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling 800-745-3000 and online at www.Ticketmaster.com

Tim Wilson 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 tonight’s (Thursday’s) and the Friday & Saturday 10:30 pm performances and $18 (or $17 with cash payment) for the other shows. 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.

The CIAO First Fridays Artists’ Tour will take place on Friday from 5 – 9 pm at 10 different locations in downtown Peoria including The Mill, Murray Center for the Arts, the Contemporary Art Center, and the Peoria Art Guild where visitors can view artist demonstrations as well as purchase pieces. For a complete map of the locations, visit http://ciaopeoria.com

The Contemporary Art Center will feature Bill Porter 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

The Peoria Art Guild will host “Poignant Slippers”, a young artist extravaganza in conjunction with the Peoria Ballet & Bradley University beginning with performing artists from the Peoria Ballet on Friday beginning at 5 pm in the small main floor gallery at the Guild (located at 203 Harrison St in downtown Peoria). St. Philomena will provide guided tours of their exhibit in the upstairs gallery from 5 – 9 pm plus an Artist Reception for the P.R.E.M.I.E.R. program through District 150 will also be held in the large main floor gallery from 6 – 8 pm. Admission is free.  For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/PeoriaArtGuild

The Friends of the Children of Haiti 5k will take place at Festival Park’s Gateway Building (located at 200 N. E. Water St. in downtown Peoria) on Friday with the race beginning at 6 pm and party from 6:30 – 9 pm which will include a silent auction. Entry cost is $30 per adult or $50 per adult with one child (under 18) and includes a tech shirt, chip timing and all event festivities including a post-race party with a live steel-drum band. All proceeds will benefit the medical clinic on Haiti’s rural southern coast, serving thousands of impoverished patients. Participants are invited to bring new or gently used running shoes to donate for patients in need. For more information, call 309-369-2634 or visit http://fotcoh.org

The Peoria Riverfront Museum will host “FORE the Fun of It,” an evening of miniature golf, culinary delights and drinks plus live music on Friday from 6 -10 pm. Fourteen Peoria-area restaurants and caterers will each provide one or two of their signature dishes for guests to enjoy as they putt around a specially-made miniature golf course set up inside the museum. The evening begins with a cocktail hour and silent auction from 6 -7 pm then golfing, and live music by the Sally Weisenburg Trio runs through 10 pm. Raffle tickets are $10 each, 5 for $45 or 10 for $80. Tickets for the event are $55 for a single, $100 for a couple, and $190 for a foursome. Reservations can be made online at www.PeoriaRiverfrontMuseum.org  For more information, call 309-863-3010.

Peoria Players Theatre will present Fiddler on the Roof at 7:30 pm on Friday & Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for ages 18 and under and are available  at the Peoria Players Box Office, by calling 309-688-4473 or online at www.PeoriaPlayers.org

The 7th Annual Run to Remember honoring fallen police officers includes a 5k and 1 mile walk to benefit the Illinois chapter of C.O.P.S. (Concerns of Police Survivors) and will take place on Saturday beginning at 8 am at Junction City shopping center (located at the corner of Prospect Rd and Knoxville in Peoria). Registration fee is $25 per person. To register or for more information, visit http://runtorememberpeoria.com

The Children’s Community Theatre (CCT) Annual Drama Festival will take place at the Corn Stock Theatre tent (located in upper Bradley Park in Peoria) on Saturday from 10 am – 4 pm. The annual drama festival of award winning TEC school plays performed by Peoria students is a day of live entertainment and surprises. Bring your lunch or enjoy snacks and drinks from the concession stand. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-681-2861.

A Mother’s Day Shopping Event to benefit the Relay For Life of East Peoria Team Queen Bees/Worker Bees will take place on Saturday at Stoney Creek Inn (located at 101 Mariner’s Way in East Peoria) from 10 am – 3 pm. Vendors include Tupperware, Paparazzi, 1 Of A Kind Crafts, Scentsy, QLuvsYaBaby, Frames From Scratch, Jockey Person to Person, The Gourmet Cupboard, Mary Kay, Hovering Dragonfly, Miche, Tastefully Simple and Thirty One. Gift wrapping will be available for a small donation. Admission & parking are free.

The Chillicothe Rugby Football Club (CRFC) will host “Rugby for Research” benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation JDRF at the Chillicothe Elementary Center (located at 914 W. Truitt Rd in Chillicothe) on Saturday beginning at 10 am including 6 local high school rugby teams and 3 matches.  There will be a live auction as well as a silent auction with many items from local businesses available. Grilled food and concessions will also be available. Enjoy a fun filled day and help support juvenile diabetes research.

Bucky Covington will perform at the Avanit’s Dome (located at 3401 Griffin Ave. in Pekin) on Saturday beginning at 7 pm. The American Idol star will share the stage with Chicago teen Althea Grace & Peoria musician Brian Dennison. Tickets are $20 the day of the show or $15 in advance at all Avanti’s locations, the Avanti’s Dome, Twisted Spoke Saloon, Co-Op Records stores and Shandi’s Music. For more information, call 309-346-3663.

The Peoria Area Civic Chorale Spring Concert will be held on Saturday at Grace Presbyterian Church (located at 8607 Route 91 in Peoria) beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $24 for adults, $12 for students, and $20 for groups of 10 or more and are available at the Peoria Civic Chorale box office by calling 309-693-6725. Enjoy an uplifting evening of music when the Peoria Area Civic Chorale presents their spring concert “A Grand and Glorious Day” under the direction of their new Artistic Director, Dr. Tim Fredstrom, presenting music that celebrates the splendor of morning, joy of friendship, and hope for the future.

The “A Century of Beautiful Brides” Exhibit will be open on Sunday from 1 – 4 pm at Peoria Historical Society’s John C. Flanagan House Museum (located at 942 NE Glen Oak Ave. in Peoria). Featuring an exhibit of exquisite bridal fashions, finery, and portraitures spanning 1870 – 1970 from private and Society collections, the revamped and expanded the antique tool room plus a complementary wedding reception, punch and sweets will be provided.
The Peoria Historical Society’s Pettengill-Morron House Museum (located at 1212 Moss Avenue in Peoria) will host “Miss Morron’s World Travels Exhibit” celebrating  the travels of Miss Jean Morron, a lady who appreciated learning about various cultures as she traveled, also on Sunday from 1 – 4 pm. The exhibit features her 1957 four-and-half month around the world cruise including her favorite United States destinations such as New York City, Boston and other cities along the Eastern Seaboard plus Paris, London and other European cities. Cost for each tour is $7 for adults and $3 for children or tour both of the Society’s historic homes in one day for $10. For more information, call 309-674-1921 or visit the PHS website at www.peoriahistoricalsociety.org

A Mother’s Day Tea at the Peoria Zoo will be held on Sunday from 2 – 3 pm.  Enjoy tea and sandwiches along with crafts for the kids, animal encounters and scheduled talks throughout the Zoo. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for members. Space is limited: call 309-681-3559 to purchase your tickets. For more information, call 309-686-3365 or visit http://www.peoriazoo.org

The Philharmonic Chorale will present an exciting program of 20th Century music on Sunday beginning at 3 pm at the ICC Performing Arts Center on the East Peoria campus. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $8 for students and senior citizens and are available at the ICC Box Office, by calling 309-694-5136 or online at www.ArtsatICC.com  Refreshments will be provided after the concert.

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.

Unnecessary Farce continues tonight (Thursday) at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield and completes the run of this show on Sunday. On Thursday, Friday & Saturday, doors open at 6 pm, buffet is 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 $33 for Thursday, $35 for Friday and Sunday brunch and $37 for Saturday. 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!

Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson will be presented by the Eureka College Theatre Department in Pritchard Theatre on the Eureka campus tonight (Thursday) through Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm each night. Tickets are $5 with cash or check only and reservations are available by calling 309-467-6363 or at the door. The show is rated R for violence, language, and subject matter: no one under 18 will be admitted. For more information, visit www.eureka.edu/arts/theatre/theatre.htm

The Bradley University Theatre Department will present 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

Tim Meadows will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm and on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $15 or $16 with cash for the Thursday and Friday 10:30 pm performances and $20 or $21 with cash for the other performances. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The Contemporary Art Center will feature South Side Cindy & the Slip Tones 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.

A Celebration of Mayor Maloof’s Legacy to the Arts will be held at Riverside Community Church (located at 714 Hamilton Blvd. in downtown Peoria) on Friday beginning at 6:30 pm. Admission is free and it will feature live musical performances by Mayor Maloof’s granddaughters, Markie and Michy Maloof, a special preview performance of the Peoria Ballet’s upcoming production of Snow White, the ICC Jazz Ensemble and a full performance of the 2013 ICC Readers’ Theatre show, entitled, “It’s OK 2 B U!”. As a salute to Mayor Maloof’s commitment to fighting childhood cancer, a goodwill offering will be collected from the audience to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Sky Pro Wrestling: Ignition will take place on Friday at Bellevue Plaza (located at 325 S Bellevue Ave. in Peoria) with doors opening at 7 pm and the first bell at 7:30 pm. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 5-12 and free for children 4 and under.

The Peoria Magicians Assembly will present “An Evening Of Magic” with a show on Friday beginning at 7:30 pm and a show on Saturday at 3 pm and at 7:30 pm all at the Expo Gardens Opera House. Cost for the Friday and Saturday evening shows is $10 for adults which includes a free ticket for a child through age 12, additional children are $5 each and for the afternoon show on Saturday, admission is $5 per person. For more information, visit http://www.peoriamagicians.com

Corn Stock for Kids will present Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. beginning at 7:30 pm on Friday & Saturday 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

Goodnight Desdemona (Good Morning Juliet) will be presented by the ICC Theatre Department on Friday & Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm and at 2:30 pm on Sunday in the Performing Arts Center Studio Theatre on the East Peoria ICC campus. 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

Peoria Players Theatre will host a Vintage Clothing Sale in the lobby of the theatre (located at 3200 N. University in Peoria) on Saturday from 8 am – Noon. Admission is free. Many unique items, along with costumes and clothing in all sizes and from all eras, will be available. For more information, call 309-688-4473.

The 18th District Congressional Art Show, featuring original works by local high school students, will take place in the Peoria Public Library Main Gallery on Saturday from 10 am – Noon. Admission is free.  Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, DC. The winning entries from each Congressional District are displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C. View last year’s winner from the 18th Congressional District, “Of Night and Life” by Maya Jain online at http://www.house.gov/content/educate/art_competition

The 2013 Strike Out Children’s Cancer Bowl-A-Thon will take place at Jillian’s Sports Grille on Saturday from 1 – 4 pm featuring individual and team awards, a 50/50 raffle and more. Cost to participate is $10, with proceeds benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To register or for more information, send an email to peoriacountyhawks@yahoo.com

The Arthritis Walk Kick Off will take place at PetSmart in East Peoria (located at 208 River Road in East Peoria) on Saturday from 11 am – 3 pm. Bring the family and dogs out to enjoy different pet vendors, adoption agencies, and a bouncy house for the kids. The Arthritis Walk will take place on June 1st at Midstate College and the new section of Rock Island Trails. This is a chance to ask questions about the Walk and learn about fun and creative ways to raise money for the cause.

Mike Epps will perform at US Cellular Coliseum on Saturday beginning at 8 pm. Tickets range in price between $37.50 and $57.50 and are available at the US Cellular Box Office, at all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling 800-745-3000 and online at www.Ticketmaster.com

The Peoria Symphony will present Andre Watts Plays Beethoven on Saturday beginning at 8 pm at the Peoria Civic Center Theater. The PSO brings back the World Artist concept with the internationally-renowned pianist Andre Watts who remains one of today’s most beloved superstars. Tickets range from $26 – $51 and are available by calling 309- 671-1096 or online at www.peoriasymphony.org

The Annual Bison Grounds Blessing Pow Wow will take place at Wildlife Prairie Park on Sunday beginning at 10 am. This sacred Native American ceremony, co-hosted by Seven Circles Heritage Center, begins with the blessing of the Park’s bison herd and their summer pasture. The ceremonies will be followed by a day full of celebration through dance, song, organic art, and demonstrations throughout the park. The Pow Wow at the train depot activities from Noon – 4 pm include a native American singers and dancers drum circle hosted by Spirit of the Rainbow with guests from Black Fox and Eagle Ridge, storytelling, fry bread sampling, spirit doll demonstrations, flute making and free children’s crafts. Admission is $8 for ages 13 & up, $6 for ages 3-12, $7 for senior citizens aged 65+ and ages 2 & under and park members are free. For more information, call 309-676-0998 or visit http://www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org

The 32nd Annual Greater Peoria Sports Hall of Fame Induction Banquet will be held at the Peoria Civic Center on Sunday with a social hour beginning at 10:30 am and luncheon at noon. To reserve tickets, call 309-682-4255.

A special concert by Turas will be held on Sunday at 2 pm at the Chillicothe Public Library (located at 430 N Bradley Ave. in Chillicothe). Enjoy the rollicking tunes of Ireland in the unique setting of the library proper.  Admission is free and refreshments will be served.

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.

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!

The March Madness Experience will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Hall tonight (Thursday) through Saturday from 6 pm – 9 pm on Thursday, 10 am – 9 pm on Friday and 10 am – 6:30 pm on Saturday. Tickets are $2 at the door or get free admission with an IHSA game ticket stub.

Billy Elliot, winner of ten 2009 Tony Awards, ends its run at the Peoria Civic Center Theater tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7:30 pm. The musical is set in a small English town following Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising talent for dance that changes his life forever. Tickets are $37, $54 and $67 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, by calling 800-745-3000, at all Ticketmaster outlets or at www.Ticketmaster.com

Dean Edwards 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. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The IHSA Class 3A Semifinal Session will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Arena  on Friday with Game 1 at 12 pm and Game 2 at 2 pm. The IHSA Class 4A Semifinal Session will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Arena with Game 1 also on Friday beginning at 6:30 pm and Game 2 at 8:15 pm. The IHSA Class 3A Final Session will be held on Saturday in the Peoria Civic Center Arena with Game 1 beginning at 12 pm and Game 2 at 2 pm. The IHSA Class 4A Final Session will also be held on Saturday in the Peoria Civic Center Arena with Game 1 beginning at 6:30 pm and Game 2 at 8:15 pm.  Tickets for each game are $10.50, $8.50, $6.50 and $4 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and online at Ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit http://www.ihsa.org

The Contemporary Art Center will feature Motown Junkies 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 Wine Education Class on “Where It All Began: French Wines” will be offered at Wines ‘N More (located at 151 S. Main St. in downtown Morton) on Friday from 6 – 8:30 pm. Admission is $20 per person and reservations are required as space is limited. Call 309-291-0899 for more information and to reserve your spot.

The Corn Stock Winter Playhouse continues its production of Frost/Nixon on Friday and Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm at the Corn Stock Theatre Center (located in upper Bradley Park)  Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are available at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office, by calling 309-676-2196 or online at www.CornStockTheatre.com

Peoria Players Theatre will present Godspell at 7:30 pm on Friday & 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

Community Workshop and Training Center will host its annual CWTC Bowl-A-Thon fundraiser on Saturday from 9 am – Noon at Landmark Recreation Center. Individuals and groups are welcome to play. Cost is $20 and includes three games and shoe rental. Proceeds benefit the programs and direct services for CWTC consumers. Call 309-686-3300 or download a registration form at www.cwtc.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 plus 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 Peoria Camera Club will host its 37th Annual Photography Seminar “Nature Photography Field Techniques in the Digital Age” on Saturday from 9 am – 4 pm at the Illinois Central College Performing Arts Center in East Peoria. Admission is $85 or $35 for students with ID and includes lunch and refreshments. For more information, call 309-692-1552 or visit www.PeoriaCameraClub.com

The Levee District Grand Opening Celebration will be held in downtown East Peoria along the pedestrian promenade in the The Levee District parking lot (located at 400 W. Washington Street in East Peoria) on Saturday from 10 am – 4 pm featuring the Unique Twist, Fun on the Run, The Zoo Lady, Wildlife Prairie Park, local artists plus food vendors. The Ark and T.A.P.S. will also be on site offering animal adoptions. The $500 Shopping Spree drawing will be held at noon: enter for a chance to win at www.EastPeoriaEnterToWin.com through Friday, March 15.

Heartland Festival Orchestra will present Virtuoso Fiddlin’ at Five Points Performing Arts Center (located at 360 N. Wilmor Road in Washington) on Saturday beginning at 7 pm. Tickets are $30 for adults and $8 for students with an ID and are available online at https://www.ticketturtle.com/index.php?show=26413  For more information, visit www.heartlandfestivalorchestra.org

St.  Sharbel Church will host its Lebanese Food Festival on Sunday from 11 am – 7 pm at the Church Hall (located at 2914 W Scenic Dr in Peoria). Admission is $9 for adults and $6 for children 12 & under and includes a complete Lebanese meal. Other activities that will be featured are dancing, a raffle and a bakery booth with Lebanese pastries. For more information, call 309-688-5555.

The 33rd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, sponsored by the St. Patrick Society of Peoria, will take over downtown Peoria on Sunday beginning at 2 pm stepping off from the corner of Monroe Street and Hancock Street. Following the parade, a St. Patrick’s Day Family Party will be held at the Four Points Sheraton (located at the corners of Hamilton & Madison in downtown Peoria). Admission for the party is $5 for adults, $3 for adult members of the St. Patrick’s Society and youth aged 12 – 18 and free for ages under 12. Food & drinks will be available for purchase and live entertainment will be provided by Bogside Zukes and Flynn’s Irish Dancers. For more information, call 309-363-4804.

The Prairie Wind Ensemble will perform at the ICC Performing Arts Center on Sunday beginning at 2:30 pm. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students & senior citizens and are available at the ICC Box Office or by calling 309-694-5136. For more information, visit www.ArtsatICC.com

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Grand Rapids Griffins at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Sunday beginning at 3 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

The Peoria Area Anti-Hunger Coalition’s Foodshare Can-a-thon runs through the 22 with volunteers will be going go door to door on Sunday, March 10 from 1 – 4 pm to collect canned and non-perishable goods for area food pantries. Drop boxes are available before the drive at area Kroger stores, Curves and Subway restaurants and Peoria fire stations through March 22. For more information, call 309-696-0223.

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 
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The March Madness Experience will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Hall tonight (Thursday) through Saturday and next Thursday through Saturday from 6 pm – 9 pm on Thursdays, 10 am – 9 pm on Fridays and 10 am – 6:30 pm on Saturdays. Tickets are $2 at the door or get free admission with an IHSA game ticket stub.

The Central Illinois Herpetological Society will meet at Forest Park Nature Center tonight (Thursday) at 7 pm featuring a speaker, raffles, announcements of trips and exhibits and opportunities for hobbyists to interact with one another. Admission is free. Membership to the CIHS is $20 per year which includes the quarterly newsletter, Herp Alert.

Country music artists Little Big Town are coming the Peoria Civic Center Theater tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $25, $35, and $45 and are available at The Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling 800-745-3000 or online at www.Ticketmaster.com

Whisper & Shout will take place at the Contemporary Art Center tonight (Thursday) – it’s an open mic for sharing and inspiring poetry. Doors open at 7:30 pm and the show begins at 8 pm. Admission is $4 for members or $7 for non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6822.

A Raisin in the Sun continues tonight (Thursday) through Saturday at 8 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm presented by the Bradley University Theatre Department at the Hartmann Center for the Performing Arts on the Bradley campus.  Directed by guest artist, Bradley alumnus, local theatre artist and television personality Garry Moore, 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

Sean Patton will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club on 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 & Saturday 10:30 pm performances and $16 or $15 with cash payment for the other performances. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

Central Illinois Girls Scouts will be taking the Girl Scout Cookie Sale to local retail outlets this weekend including the Peoria & Canton Hy-Vee stores, Peoria area Kroger stores, the Allen Road in Peoria, East Peoria and Canton Wal-Mart stores, Save-a-Lot on Prospect in Peoria Heights, the Eureka IGA, Haddad’s in West Peoria and the Bass Pro Shop in East Peoria. For a full list of times, dates & locations to find Girl Scout cookies, call 309-688-8671 or visit http://www2.abcsmartcookies.com/boothlocator.asp?cid=571

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

The IHSA Class 1A Semifinal Session will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Arena  on Friday with Game 1 at 12 pm and Game 2 at 2 pm. The IHSA Class 2A Semifinal Session will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Arena with Game 1 also on Friday beginning at 6:30 pm and Game 2 at 8:15 pm. The IHSA Class 1A Final Session will be held on Saturday in the Peoria Civic Center Arena with Game 1 beginning at 12 pm and Game 2 at 2 pm. The IHSA Class 2A Final Session will also be held on Saturday in the Peoria Civic Center Arena with Game 1 beginning at 6:30 pm and Game 2 at 8:15 pm.  Tickets for each game are $10.50, $8.50, $6.50 and $4.00 and on sale now at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and online at Ticketmaster.com. For more information, visit http://www.ihsa.org

The Contemporary Art Center will feature Matthew Curry & the Fury 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.  For more information, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

A Ladies Mad Hatter Tea will be held on Friday from 6 – 10 pm at the Par-A-Dice Hotel/Casino where you can enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, a signature drink, a Mad Hatter Hat Contest plus a specialized shopping experience. Tickets are $25 and advanced reservations are required. Proceeds support Junior League of Peoria and its mission to build a better community. To reserve your seat, call 309-685-9312. For more information, visit www.frolicwiththefairies.com

The Musical of Musicals (The Musical!) will be performed at the Prairie Cabaret Theatre (located within the Waterhouse, located at 619 SW Water Street, Suite B in downtown Peoria) on Friday & Saturday with doors opening at 6 pm, dinner buffet beginning at 6:30 pm and the show beginning at 8 pm. Tickets are $37 per person and are available by calling 309-494-9100 or online at http://artstix.artspartners.net/default.asp  For more information, visit http://www.peoriacabarettheatre.com

The Corn Stock Winter Playhouse will present Frost/Nixon beginning on Friday at 7:30 pm and continuing on Saturday at 7:30 pm and at 2:30 pm on Sunday at the Corn Stock Theatre Center (located in upper Bradley Park)  Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are available at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office, by calling 309-676-2196 or online at www.CornStockTheatre.com
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The ICC Guest Artists Series will present Route 66, the female a cappella quartet, at the ICC Performing Arts Center on the East Peoria campus on Friday beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students and are available at the ICC box office, by calling 309-694-5136 or online at http://www.artsaticc.com/tickets

Buddy Guy and Jonny Lang will perform in the Peoria Civic Center Theater on Friday beginning at 8 pm. Tickets are $39, $49 and $59 and are  available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, by calling 800-745-3000, at all Ticketmaster outlets and online at www.Ticketmaster.com

The 13th Annual Farmers Share of the Food Dollar Breakfast sponsored by the Peoria County Farm Bureau will be held on Saturday from 7 – 11 am in the Youth Building at Exposition Gardens in Peoria. The breakfast helps to educate the public on the safe and affordable crops that American farmers produce. The price of this year’s breakfast is 85 cents and includes two pancakes, two whole hog sausage patties, two scrambled eggs, an 8-ounce glass of Prairie Farms milk and an 8-ounce glass of orange juice. For more information, visit http://peoriacountyfarmbureau.org

The Junior League of Peoria will host its fifth annual Frolic with the Fairies Mother Daughter Tea and Style Show on Saturday at the Par-A-Dice Hotel Ballroom with tea times at 9 am, 12:30 pm and 4 pm. Tickets are $30 each or Tables of ten may be reserved for $275.  For more information, visit http://www.frolicwiththefairies.com

The Peoria Jaycees Lawn Mower Clinic will take place on Saturday from 8 am – 4 pm at Exposition Gardens’ Textile Building (located at 1601 W. Northmoor Road in Peoria near Richwoods High School). The service fee for the lawn mower tune ups is $40. The following services are provided: clean mower deck, clean and or replace air filter, change the oil, replace the spark plug and sharpen the blade. Please drop mowers off by 10 am and mowers may be picked-up starting at 4 pm. No riding lawnmower please. This year’s proceeds to benefit PARC, Dress For Success Peoria and the Peoria Jaycees. For more information and to register, visit http://www.peoriajaycees.org/lawn-mower-clinic

The show “Dinner Plans” will take place at the Miller Center (located at 551 South 14th St. in Pekin) on Saturday beginning at 5:30 pm. Admission is $12 per person and includes a spaghetti dinner, dessert and drink. To reserve your spot, call 309-346-5210.

Brian “Fox” Ellis and Turas present An Irish Immigrant’s Tale, a celebration of Irish history through story and song, at the Fox Pub and Cafe on Sunday beginning at 6 pm. Admission is $10. To rsvp, call 309-689-8000. For more information, visit http://turasband.com/shows

Gabriel Iglesias will perform at the Peoria Civic Center Theater on Sunday beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $39 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center, all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling 1-800-745-3000 or online at www.Ticketmaster.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

The Girl Scouts of Central Illinois is hosting Desserts First from 6 – 9 pm tonight (Thursday) at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria. Featuring chefs from eight Peoria area restaurants who will create a dessert out of a Girl Scout cookie, Desserts First will also feature dinner stations, a silent auction and live entertainment. Tickets are $40 per person.  For more information about the event, visit www.getyourgirlpower.org

The Central Illinois Herpetological Society will meet at Forest Park Nature Center (located at 5809 Forest Park Ave. in Peoria Heights) tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7 pm featuring a speaker, raffles, announcements of trips and exhibits and opportunities for hobbyists to interact with one another. Admission is free. Membership to the CIHS is $20 per year which includes the quarterly newsletter, Herp Alert.

Mame continues at Peoria Players Theatre beginning at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday), Friday & 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

Whisper & Shout at the Contemporary Art Center takes place tonight (Thursday) which is an open mic for sharing and inspiring poetry. Doors open at 7:30 pm, show begins at 8 pm. Admission is $4 for members or $7 for non-members.
The Contemporary Art Center will feature The Harp Blues Band 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. For more information on either event, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

Kevin Heffernan and Steve Lemme of “Super Troopers” and “Beerfest” fame will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club on Thursday at 8 pm and on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $16 or $15 with cash payment for the Thursday performance and $21 or $20 with cash payment for the other performances. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

Peoria Heights Police Benevolent Unit #76 will host their Annual “All You Can Eat” Chili Supper and Kids Fun Nightfrom 5 – 8 pm on Friday at the Peoria Heights Grade School (located at 500 E. Glen in Peoria Heights). Chili will be provided by TnT’s Sports Bar and Grill of Peoria Heights, there will be raffles and a silent auction and inflatables for kids. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under. Entry into the Kids Fun Zone will be free with meal ticket purchase or $2 without meal ticket purchase. For more information, call 309- 688-3461.

The IHSA State Chess Finals will be held at the Peoria Civic Center all day on Friday & Saturday featuring the best high school chess teams from throughout the state of Illinois. There is expected to be over 150 teams registered to compete in 2013′s state finals. For more information, visit http://www.ihsa.org/SportsActivities/Chess.aspx

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Rockford Ice Dogs at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on 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 309-676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659

Hedwig and the Angry Inch will be presented by the Corn Stock Theatre Winter Playhouse on Friday & Saturday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm at the Corn Stock Theatre Center (located in upper Bradley Park). Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are available at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office, by calling 309-676-2196 or online at www.CornStockTheatre.com  Visit http://peoria-deals.com/prepaidoffers/locations/peoria-area for a Buy One, Get One Free Peoria-Deals.com Pre-Paid Offer

Art, Wine and Roses will take place at Luthy Botanical Garden (located at 2520 N. Prospect at the corners of Prospect & Gift in Peoria) on Saturday from 10 am – 9 pm. Activities include an Art Auction in the greenhouse filled with art in a variety of media. Then from 5:30 – 6:30 pm, a reception for the main event which runs from 6:30 – 9 pm where you can celebrate Valentine’s Day with music by the Joe Metzka Trio, appetizers, a candy buffet plus a cash bar. The evening event is by reservation only and limited to 80 people with a $10 per person or $15 per couple admission fee. Ages 21 and over are able to attend. Call 309-681-3506 for reservations or more information.

The Progressive Business Group will host its 11th Annual Valentine’s Ball at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria on Saturday to benefit The Center for Prevention of Abuse beginning at 5:30 pm. The black-tie optional affair will feature a champagne reception, four-course meal, open bar, silent auction and raffle, and live music by JammSammich. Tickets are $150 per person. To make reservations, call 309-303-7831 or visit www.progressivebusinessgroup.org

The Peoria German American Society will host its 10th Annual Fasching Ball (Traditional German Costume Ball) at the Lindenhof (located at 7601 N. Harker Drive in Peoria) on Saturday from 6 pm – Midnight. Admission is $8 per person and attendees are encouraged to bring an appetizer to share. There will be a costume contest with prizes, a cash bar and live entertainment provided by the West MacQueen Street Band from 7 – 11 pm. For more Information, call 309-697-4195 visit www.peoriagermans.net

Peoria Cabaret Theatre (located at 619 SW Water Street, 2nd Floor, in downtown Peoria) will present Love Letters featuring Greg Batton and Yvonne Greer with dinner beginning at 6:30 pm and show at 8 pm. Tickets are $37 per person and include a buffet dinner & the show and are available by calling 309-494-9100 or visiting www.PeoriaCabaretTheatre.com

The Songs from the Woods Series at Forest Park Nature Center (located at 5809 Forest Park Ave. in Peoria Heights) will present Barry Cloyd’s Celetricity on Saturday beginning at 7 pm. Admission is $7 for adults and $6 for ages 12 & under. For more information, call 309-686-3360.

Jeff Dunham brings his “Disorderly Conduct” Worldwide Tour to the Peoria Civic Center on Saturday beginning at 8 pm. Tickets are $44.50 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, by calling 800-745-3000, all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.Ticketmaster.com

The Peoria Symphony will present “Romance” on Saturday  beginning at 8 pm at the Peoria Civic Center Theater featuring Jade Simmons on piano. Tickets range from $26 – $51 and are available by calling 309- 671-1096 or online at www.peoriasymphony.org

The Chris Fields Memorial Concert will take place in the Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Hall on Sunday featuring two stages with live music, food, a silent auction, beer and other activities from Noon – 10 pm. Admission is free, however a donation of $10 for adults and $5 for kids is suggested. Memorials may be donated to a trust fund for Chris’ son, Hunter Fields at any CEFCU location. For more information or to donated online, visit http://www.chrisfieldsmemorial.com

Bradley Men’s Basketball will take on UNI on Sunday at the Peoria Civic Center Arena at 2 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.

Join Jim Richerson, President and CEO, for a Guided Tour of the Peoria Riverfront Museum highlighting the museum’s green features on Sunday beginning at 2 pm. The tour is free with regular admission, which is $11 for adults, $10 for senior citizens aged 60+ and $9 for ages 3-17. Peoria county residents receive a 15% discount off of admission price. For more information, call 309-863-3030 or visit http://www.peoriariverfrontmuseum.org

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.

The Peoria Area World Affairs Council will present “Wrestling in the Daylight: A Rabbi’s Path to Palestinian Solidarity,” at the IVY Club (located at 5102 N. Galena Road in Peoria Heights) tonight (Thursday) beginning with a reception and book signing at 5:30 pm followed by dinner at 6 pm and the program at 7 pm. Rabbi Brant Rosen of Evanston will discuss Israeli-Palestinian issues and explore the intersection between Judaism and social justice. Tickets for the dinner and presentation are $30 for Peoria Area World Affairs Council members and students and $35 for non-members and may be purchased at http://artstix.artspartners.net  For more information, call 309-677-2454 or visit www.pawac.org

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

Brian Regan will perform at the Peoria Civic Center tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $42.50 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by calling 800-745-3000 or online at www.Ticketmaster.com

Bradley Women’s Basketball takes on Northern Iowa at the Renaissance Coliseum on Friday beginning at 6 pm. Tickets are $8 for adults, $4 for children (K-12) and Bradley University faculty and staff and free for Bradley Students with a valid ID and may be purchased at the Bradley Athletics Ticket Office or by calling 309-677-2625. For more information, visit http://www.bradleybraves.com

The Contemporary Art Center will feature Rob Williams and the Soggy Bottom Blues Band 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.
Also on Friday, 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. 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

GENeration United, the Heart of Illinois United Way’s emerging leaders group, will host the Snowball Masquerade at the Waterhouse (located at 619 Southwest Water Street in Peoria) on Friday beginning at 6:30 pm.  The evening includes a masquerade contest and entertainment provided by The Motown Junkies. Tickets are $60 or include 3 raffle tickets for a total of $75 and are available at http://genusnowball.eventbrite.com/#  or by calling 309-674-5181.  All proceeds will support the Heart of Illinois United Way Community Impact fund. For more information, visit http://hoiunitedway.org/HOIUW-generation-united-events.php

The movie Me Again 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 Corn Stock Theatre Winter Playhouse will present Red at the Corn Stock Theatre Center beginning at 7:30 pm on Friday & Saturday. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are on sale at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office, by calling 309-676-2196 or online at www.CornStockTheatre.com

The IESA State Cheerleading Championship will take place at the Peoria Civic Center on Friday evening and all day Saturday featuring the best elementary cheerleading teams from throughout the state of Illinois. For more information, visit http://www.iesa.org/activities/chr/

The Penguin Project will be present Disney’s “The Little Mermaid Junior” beginning at 7:30 pm on Friday & Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday at Eastlight Theatre (located in the East Peoria High School Auditorium in East Peoria). Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for youth and are available by calling 309-699-SHOW or online at www.EastlightTheatre.com

Family Fest 2013 will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Hall D on Saturday from 10 am – 7 pm. A family-focused community event, the event includes attractions, games, presentations and entertainment. Admission is $5 for adults or children or $15 for a family four pack and includes all of the inflatables, rock wall, Peoria Riverfront Museum planetarium and more. For more information, visit http://www.rbshows.com/familyFest.php

Bradley Men’s Basketball will take on Missouri 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.

Corn Stock for Kids will host an Audition Workshop on Saturday from 1 – 3 pm at the Corn Stock Theatre Center (lower level) for their upcoming production of Little Mermaid, Jr. in April. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-676-2196 or visit www.CornStockTheatre.com

Enjoy Native American flute music or try your hand at playing as part of the River Spirit Flute Circle at Forest Park Nature Center (located at 5809 Forest Park Drive in Peoria Heights) on Saturday from 1 – 2 pm. All levels are welcome and the circle is open to the public – no previous musical experience is necessary. Flutes will be available to borrow or purchase or bring your own. For more information, call 309-686-3360.

Morton Boy Scout Troop 178 will host their Annual Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction on Saturday from 4 – 8 pm at the Morton United Methodist Church (located at 420 N. Tennessee Ave.in Morton). Advance tickets are $6 for adults, $4 for senior citizens and children and $7 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and children at the door or $20 for a family of five or more. Carryouts will be available. Bids for the silent auction will be taken from 4 – 7:30 pm. For tickets, call 309-253-9454 or 309-264-9454.

The Sun Foundation Winter Warming Children’s Benefit will take place on Saturday from 6 – 9 pm at the Peoria Riverfront Museum (located at 222 Southwest Washington Street in Peoria). Tickets are $55 per person and include wine and brew tasting hosted by Super Liquors, hors d’oeurves by Cracked Pepper Catering, live music with Paul Adams and dessert. Throughout the event there will be coffee by Starbucks, and a silent auction and a specialty raffle. All proceeds benefit the Sun Foundation Children’s Program Fund. For reservations, call 309-246-8403 or visit http://sunfoundation.org

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Texas Stars at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Saturday beginning at 7 pm. On Sunday, they take on the Houston Aeros at the Peoria Civic Center Arena 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

A reception for artist Ron Jackson will be held at the Peoria Art Guild (located at 203 Harrison in downtown Peoria) on Saturday from 6 – 8 pm to introduce his exhibit “Frags and Co-ordinates”. Refreshments and hors d’oeuvres will be provided. Admission is free. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/PeoriaArtGuild

4play: An Afternoon of Playreading - Love Life, the Universe, and Playreading: A Sextet of Original Plays by Gary Hale and Rachael Stanford will take place on Sunday beginning at 2:30 pm at the Corn Stock Theatre Center. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-676-2196 or visit www.CornStockTheatre.com

The 2013 Martin Luther King Luncheon will take place in the Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Hall  on Monday beginning at Noon featuring former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice as the featured speaker. Tickets are $40 and are available by calling 309-675-3649 as well as at City Hall (located at 419 Fulton St, Room 403).

The Bradley Women’s Basketball team will take on Wichita State at the Renaissance Coliseum tonight (Thursday) beginning at 6 pm. And on Sunday, The Bradley Women’s Basketball team will take on Missouri State at the Renaissance Coliseum beginning at 2 pm. Tickets are $8, $4 for children (K-12), Bradley University faculty and staff and free for Bradley Students with a valid ID and may be purchased at the Bradley Athletics Ticket Office or by calling 309-677-2625. For more information, visit http://www.bradleybraves.com

Beer for Breakfast opens 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

Michael Kosta 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 10:30 pm shows, which are $12. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The Contemporary Art Center will feature The Flying D’Rito Brothers 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.   For more information, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

Howlin’ on Water Dueling Pianos will perform at the Waterhouse (located at 619 Water Street, Suite B in downtown Peoria) on Friday with doors opening at 7 pm.  Dinner begins at 7:30 pm and the show starts at 9 pm. Cost is $37 per person. To book your seats, call 309-494-9100. For more information, visit http://www.howlinonwater.com

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Milwaukee Admirals at the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Friday 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

The Amazing Kreskin will perform at the Five Points Performing Arts Center (located at 360 N. Wilmor Rd. in Washington) on Friday beginning at 7:30 pm. For over 50 years, Kreskin has been telling people things about themselves that only they or a close friend could possibly know. He lets the audience hide his check, and if he can’t find it he forfeits his fee. Tickets are $29.50 or $39.50 for gold circle seating and are available online at http://fivepointswashington.org  For more information, visit http://jaytv.com

The Corn Stock Theatre Winter Playhouse will present Red at the Corn Stock Theatre Center beginning at 7:30 pm on Friday & Saturday and at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Winner of the 2010 Tony Award, tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are on sale now at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office, by calling 309-676-2196 or online at www.CornStockTheatre.com   Get Half Priced Tickets at Peoria-Deals.com! (This pre-paid offer expires Thursday, Jan. 10th at Midnight)

Eagle Day at Forest Park Nature Center (located at 5809 Forest Park Drive in Peoria Heights) will take place on Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm. Admission is free. Each year hundreds of bald eagles winter near the Illinois River Valley and this day is an appreciation of these birds of prey as the Peoria Audubon Society and Forest Park Nature Center offer a presentation and tours to view Bald Eagles along the river. For more information, call 309-686-3360.

The Peoria Frisbee Club host its 10th annual Disc Golf Ice Bowl at Bradley Park on Saturday beginning at 11 am. Players of all abilities are invited rain or shine. The entry fee for a two-player team is $40 with all proceeds benefiting the Peoria Area Food Bank. Registration begins at 10:30 am at the picnic shelter in Lower Bradley Park. For more information, call 309-267-0880 or visit www.peoriafrisbeeclub.com

Peoria Push will host Winter Plunderland in the Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Hall on Saturday beginning at 6 pm. Tickets are $10 in advance and $13 at the door and kids 6 & under are free. Proceeds will benefit the Sacred Heart Sandwich Program. For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit http://peoriarollerderby.org

Forest Park Nature Center (located at 5809 N. Forest Park Drive in Peoria Heights) will present Songs from the Woods with Chris Vallillo on Saturday beginning at 7 pm. Tickets are $7 for adults and $6 for ages 12 & under with a $1 discount for CORE members. For more information call 309- 686-3360.

Zac Brown Band will perform in concert at Peoria Civic Center with opening act Blackberry Smoke on Saturday beginning at 7 pm. Reserved seat tickets are $69.50,.$59.50 and $45 and general admission floor tickets are $69.50 and are available at the Civic Center box office, all Ticketmaster locations, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 and online at www.Ticketmaster.com

Heritage Ensemble will perform at the ICC Performing Arts Center (located at 1 College Drive, East Peoria) on Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm  Tickets are $15 for general public, $12 for seniors and $8 for students and are available at the ICC Box Office or by calling 309-694-5136. For more information, visit http://www.artsaticc.com

2013 World Championship Motorcycle ICE Racing will take place at the US Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington on Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm. Ticket are $20 for adults and $10 for children aged 2-12 for reserved seating and $18 for adults and $10 for children aged 2-12 for general admission and are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, including the U.S. Cellular Coliseum, www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 1-800-745-3000.

The Wedding Show will take place at the Bloomington-Normal Marriott (located at 201 Broadway St. in downtown Normal) on Sunday from 11 am – 3 pm with fashion shows at Noon and 2 pm hosted by Cloud Nine Bridal Boutique + Fine Paper. Entertainment will be provided by Premier Productions. Admission is free.

The Healthy Homes, Healthy Bodies Seminar: Improving the Health of Your Air, Water, and Body will be held at Body Fitness (located at 3020 N. University in Peoria) on Sunday from 2 – 3:30 pm. Four local health experts will be on hand for this free seminar to present tips on how to improve nutrition, remove toxins from your water and improve your indoor air quality at home. For more information, call 309-685-5777.

The Peoria Riverfront Museum will host a Gallery Walk including a guided tour of the Illinois River Encounter, led by Ann Schmitt, Assistant Director and Curator of Education beginning at 2 pm. For more information, call 309-863-3030. The Gallery Walk is free with regular admission, which is $11 for adults, $10 for senior citizens aged 60+ and $9 for ages 3-17. Peoria county residents receive a 15% discount off of admission price.

The 29th Annual Stocking Stuffer Store will take place at Northwoods Mall & the Shoppes at Grand Prairie through December 19 where children ages 12 and under can shop (with the assistance of a volunteer) for holiday presents for parents, grandparents, siblings – whomever they wish – while parents relax in a seating area located outside the store. Gifts range from $1 – $8. Locations & Hours are: Mondays – Fridays from 4 – 8 pm, Saturdays from 10 am – 8 pm and Sundays from noon – 5 pm at Northwoods Mall (Located in the upper Level near Sears, across from The Smo-King Pit) and Saturdays & Sundays from noon – 5 pm at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie (in the former Borders Location) on Saturday & Sunday only. All proceeds benefit Crittenton Centers. For more information, call 309-674-0105 or visit www.crittentoncenters.org

Santa’s Wildlife Express at Wildlife Prairie Park is an enchanting evening full of holiday festivities running from 5 – 9 pm tonight (Thursday) through Saturday. Ride the Zephyr Train through Santa’s Wildlife Forest, mingle with Santa’s feathered and furry animal friends, make crafts with the elves, munch on cookies and sip on hot cocoa with Mrs. Claus, hike on illuminated animal trails and visit with Santa at this holiday event. Admission is $10 for members and $12 for non-members $12 aged 14+ and $15 for members and $18 for non-member children. Children ages 1 & under are free. Reservations are required as seating will be limited and may be made by calling 309-676-0998. For more information, visit http://www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org

The Washington Chamber of Commerce will host the Washington Square Candlelight Stroll tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 9 pm. Enjoy shopping, carriage rides and a special visit from Santa. The Courier Christmas Sing will begin at 6:30 pm and the lighting of the tree will happen at 7:15 pm. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.washingtoncoc.com

The 34th annual Morton Community Christmas Sing will take place tonight (Thursday) at Morton Community Bank (located at 721 W. Jackson Street in Morton) from 5:30 – 6:30 pm. Enjoy cookies, coffee and punch while listening to the music of the John Phillips Oompah Band. For more information, call 309-266-5337.

Home for the Holidays continues at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield tonight (Thursday) 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

FOLEPI’s Winter Wonderland is open through New Year’s Eve at the VFW Post 2078 Park off Springfield Road in East Peoria. Hours are 5 – 9 pm Sundays – Thursdays and 5 – 11 pm on Fridays & Saturdays. Cost is $10 for cars & vans, $20 for limousines, extended vans and party buses and RVs and $150 for full size buses. Cash & debit cards are accepted for payment. For more information, visit http://www.cityofeastpeoria.com/festival-of-lights

The Central Illinois Herpetological Society will meet at Forest Park Nature Center tonight (Thursday) at 7 pm featuring a speaker, raffles, announcements of trips and exhibits and opportunities for hobbyists to interact with one another. Admission is free. Membership to the CIHS is $20 per year which includes the quarterly newsletter, Herp Alert. The Society meets the first Thursday every month at this time at Forest Park Nature Center.

Disney On Ice: Treasure Trove will be at the Peoria Civic Center Arena for seven performances tonight (Thursday) & Friday at 7 pm, at 11 am, 3 pm & 7 pm on Saturday and at 1 pm & 5 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $10.50, $17, $23, $36 and $46 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, online at www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000.
Find a $4 Off Coupon for Disney on Ice on Peoria-Deals.com!

Eastlight Theatre continues their run of Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in the East Peoria High School Auditorium beginning at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday) as well as on Friday & Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $19 and are available online at http://www.eastlighttheatre.com/tickets.htm  For more information, call 309-699-7469.

Whisper & Shout at the Contemporary Art Center is an open mic for sharing and inspiring poetry. Doors open tonight (Thursday) at 7:30 pm, show begins at 8 pm. Admission is $4 for members or $7 for non-members. Live at the Five Spot at the Contemporary Art Center will feature Cousin Eddie (pop, rock)  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 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 any of these events, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

Johnny Beehner will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $14 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

Enjoy a Holiday Breakfast with Greg and Dan on Friday from 7:30 – 9 am at the Peoria Riverfront Museum plus the 13th annual Holiday Luncheon, featuring a silent auction, raffle and catering by Cracked Pepper, beginning at 11 am. Peoria Riverfront Museum President/CEO Jim Richerson will host a gallery walk beginning at 1:15 pm. Cost is $25 per person. For more information, call 309-863-3010 or visit www.peoriariverfrontmuseum.org

A Downton Abbey Season 2 Marathon will continue through December 21st from 10:30 am – Noon on Fridays 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

A Local Artists’ Holiday Showcase and Sale will be held at the Shoppes of Grand Prairie showcasing the works of local artists over the holiday season featuring glassblowers, wood turners, jewelry-makers, clay throwers and more in the old bookstore on the S.E. corner of the Shoppes complex. Hours are 4 – 8 on Fridays and Noon – 6 pm on Saturdays through December 23. For more information, call 309-692-3672.

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

Forest Park Nature Center (located at 5809 Forest Park Drive in Peoria Heights) will host its annual Holiday Shop & Stroll on Friday from 6 – 8:30 pm. Take a walk along the illuminated forest paths and enjoy live music, storytelling, caroling, hot wassail and homemade goodies. While there, check out the annual Nature Art Show, which runs through December 29th and features photography, paintings, woodcarvings and more by local artists. For more information, call 309-686-3360.

The CIAO First Fridays Artists’ Tour will take place this Friday from 5 – 9 pm at 10 different locations in downtown Peoria including The Mill, Murray Center for the Arts, the Contemporary Art Center, and the Peoria Art Guild where visitors can view artist demonstrations as well as purchase pieces. For a complete map of the locations, visit http://ciaopeoria.com

Celebrate the spirit of the holidays on the Illinois River with “A Celtic Christmas” on the Spirit of Peoria featuring a hot homemade buffet, two-hour cruise and entertainment. On Friday, the dinner cruise boards at 6:30 pm and returning to dock by 9 pm for $43 per person or $21.50 for children aged 4 – 12. Children 3 and under eat free including tax and gratuity. To make reservations for individuals or groups, call 1-800-676-8988.

Corn Stock for Kids continues their production of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at the Corn Stock Theatre Center (located in upper Bradley Park) beginning at 7:30 pm on Friday and at 2:30 pm on Saturday. Tickets are $10 for adults & $6 for children and are available at the Corn Stock Box Office, by phone at 309-676-2196 or online at www.CornStockTheatre.com

A Christmas Carol – The Musical will be presented by Peoria Players Theatre opens on Friday at 7:30 pm with a performance on Saturday also at 7:30 pm and a Sunday performance at 2 pm. Tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for patrons 18 and under and $12 for all ages on Wednesday, December 12 and are available at the Peoria Players Box Office, by calling 309-688-4473 or online at www.PeoriaPlayers.org  In this spectacular musical extravaganza that ran for 10 years at Madison Square Garden, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol gets the full Broadway treatment by Disney composer Alan Menken.

Keokuk Junction Railway Co. will be operate its annual Santa Train where Santa Claus will be on hand making six stops along the KJRY’s railroad line to visit children, provide railroad safety demonstrations and to confirm their Christmas lists. The route begins in Mapleton at Mapleton Road on Saturday with an 8:30 am arrival and continues through 5:15 pm making several additional stops (visit the ExplorePeoria.com Events Calendar for a complete listing). A limited number of passenger train tickets are available online: visit www.pioneer-railcorp.com or call 309-697-1400 for more information. A minimum suggested donation is $10 and please select one segment to ride. All ticket proceeds will benefit St. Jude.

Do some holiday shopping at the Embassy Suites Convention Center on Saturday from 9 am – 2: pm at the Holiday Craft and Vendor Show. With over 30 vendors, cash and carry items will be available for purchase including Scentsy, Mary Kay, Tupperware, Tastefully Simple, Pampered Chef, Watkins, Norwex, Miche, It works, Carlson Crafts, Jockey, Silpada, Beijo, Thirty One, Nail Art, Paparzzi plus there will be hand made crafts available too.

Christmas on the Ghost Front will be held at Sommer Park (located at 6329 N. Koerner Road in Edwards) on Saturday from 10 am – 4 pm. Join World War II veterans, historians and re-enactors as the days leading up to the Battle of the Bulge are recreated at the Pioneer Homestead. Demonstrations will include soldier life, military vehicles, POW interrogation, and a first aid station. Admission is $5 per vehicle.

Chocolate in the Heights will take place on Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm at participating businesses in downtown Peoria Heights offering special chocolate treats and discounts on chocolate for the holidays. For more information, visit http://www.peoriaheightschamber.com

The Harmonie-Concordia Singers of the Peoria German-American Society will host a Kristkindlmarkt at the Lindenhof (located at 7601 N. Harker Drive in Peoria across from Finish Line Ford) from 10 am – 5 pm on Saturday and from Noon – 5 pm on Sunday. Find arts and crafts plus imported items from Germany and Austria. Food and beverage will also be available including bratwurst, schnitzel, homemade strudel, glühwein, hot chocolate, Bavarian pretzels, and German beer. Entertainment features the Lindehhof Echoes (alpine horn group), a brass group playing Christmas Carols, Christmas Carolers and a strolling accordion player. Santa Claus will be available beginning at 1 – 4 pm each day. Admission is free. Attendees are encouraged to bring canned or non-perishable foods to the event for donation to local food pantries. For more information, call 309-444-4656 or visit www.peoriagermans.net

The Junior League of Peoria will host a Victorian Christmas Celebration at the historic Balance Herschel House (located at 256 NE. Randolph Ave. in Peoria) on Saturday for a 11 am and a 2 pm Tea. Tickets are $20 per person and are only sold in advance as seating is limited. For more information or to make reservations for this event, call 309-685-9312.

Join the farm animals in the Big Barn at Linden Hill Farms (located at 8412 W. Middle Road in Peoria) on Saturday from 4 – 5 pm as they settle down for the night to hear the Christmas story. Sing Christmas Carols and share the joy of the season during the frosty winter evenings. Cookies and hot chocolate provided. Admission is $5 for adults, children under 3 are free. Call 309-697-4041 to make reservations. For more information, visit http://www.lindenhillfarms.com/Weekend_Events.php

The 8th Body Fitness Annual Christmas Gala (located at 3020 N. University in Peoria) will take place on Saturday from 7 pm – Midnight. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres & dancing featuring swing, latin, ballroom and more plus dance and vocal performances. Cost is $12 per person or $20 per couple or $15 per person at the door. Members & students are $5 (high school/college) prepaid or $10 at the door. Attire is dressy (no jeans please). For more information, call 309-685-1950.

The Spirit of Peoria will host North Pole Naughtiness, a Murder Mystery Cruise with on Saturday boarding at 7 pm and cruise from 8 – 10 pm. Who done it? And why? This interactive cruise is more than a shot in the dark. The cast of the Champaign-Urbana Theater Company will dine and mingle with you as the mystery unfolds. Tickets are $47 for adults and $23.50 for kids ages 4 – 12 and reservations may be made by calling 309-637-8000 or online at http://www.spiritofpeoria.com

The Peoria Ballet will present The Nutcracker at the Peoria Civic Center Theater beginning at 7:30 pm on Saturday and at 2 pm on Sunday. Tickets range from $10 to $43 and are on sale at the Peoria Civic Center, all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 800-745-3000 or online at www.Ticketmaster.com   A family holiday tradition and perhaps the most popular of all ballets is the beloved story of Clara and the Nutcracker. Guest artists join a cast of more than 100 dancers, actors and tumblers, all wrapped up in Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable music.  For more information, call 309-690-7990 or visit http://www.peoriaballet.com

Holiday Brunch with Santa at Wildlife Prairie Park will take place on Sunday from 10 am – 2:30 pm in the Prairie Hall. Enjoy a Holiday feast and visit with Santa Claus. Admission is $18 for adults (ages 11 and up), $7.95 for children (ages 3-10) and free for ages 2 and under. Reservations may be made by calling 309-676-0998. For more information, visit http://www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org

Enjoy Christmas with the Philharmonic at the ICC Performing Arts Center in East Peoria on Sunday for an afternoon of Christmas music and fellowship bginning at 3 pm. Tickets are $10 and $8 for students and senior citizens, and are available at the ICC box office or calling 309-694-5136.