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

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

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

Steve-O! will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm and Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $21 or $20 for the Thursday 8 pm and the Friday & Saturday shows which are $26 or $25 with cash. For more information and to reserve seats, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

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

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

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

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

The Contemporary Art Center presents Live at the Five Spot featuring South Side Cindy 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.
Enjoy Swing Dance at the Contemporary Arts Center also on Friday from 8:30 – 9:30 pm for the dance lesson and 9:30 pm – 12:30 am for open dancing to DJ Matt Vasquez. Admission is $3 for CAC Members and $6 for non-members. For more information on either event, call 309-674-6877 or visit http://www.peoriacac.org

The Peoria Historical Society will host a Weenie Roast and Book Signing with Ken Zurski, author of “The Wreck of the Columbia” at the Flanagan House Museum (located at 942 NE Glen Oak Avenue in Peoria) on Friday beginning at 6 pm. There will be a campfire with weenies and marshmallows, baked beans, chips, and cider and hot cocoa. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-674-1921 or visit peoriahistoricalsociety.org

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

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

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

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

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

Pekin Haunt hosted by Pekin Paintball Park (located at 14444 Towerline Rd. in Pekin) will be open from 7 – 11 pm on Friday & Saturday as well as on Halloween (Wednesday, Oct. 31). Ride a 2 story “battle wagon” and shoot real-live “Zombie” targets. Cost is $20 and includes the haunted shoot, 200 paintballs plus the Haunted Corn Maze. For more information, visit www.pekinhaunt.com

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Chicago Wolves at the Peoria Civic Center Arena Friday beginning at 7 pm and will also face the Charlotte Checkers on Saturday at 7 pm and Sunday 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

Hal Holbrook in Mark Twain Tonight will be presented at the Peoria Civic Center Theater beginning at 8 pm on Friday & Saturday. Tickets are $39, $49 and $59 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, online at Ticketmaster.com, or call 1-800-745-3000.

Peoria Players 21st Anniversary of performing The Rocky Horror Picture Show will take place at midnight on Friday & Saturday at the theatre. Dress up as your favorite character and come prepared for a night of entertainment. Doors open at 11:30 pm. Tickets are $15 general admission and are on sale at the Box Office, by calling 309-688-4473 or online at www.peoriaplayers.org

The 21st Annual Women’s Lifestyle Show will be held on Saturday at the Peoria Civic Center in the Exhibit Hall from 9 am – 4 pm. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door.

Fun N Fit Preschool (located at 8615 N. University in Peoria) will host a Trunk or Treat event in their parking lot on Saturday beginning at 4 pm. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. Kids aged 14 & under are invited to attend the safe, family-friendly way to enjoy the Halloween tradition of costumes and treats. In the closed-off parking lot, families decorate the trunks and hatches of their vehicles with crazy scenes, host simple activities and games as if it was their front porch. Children then walk from trunk to trunk to collect goodies and show off their costumes. Fun on the Run will also have an inflatable for the kids.

The Arthritis Foundation’s Bone Bash will take place at The Waterhouse (located at 619 SW Water Street in Peoria) on Saturday beginning at 7 pm. A Halloween themed party fundraiser for the Arthritis Foundation, the Bone Bash is a costumed affair with spooky decorations, costume contest, silent auction, live auction, games, photo booth, psychic, and entertainment to dance the night away. A Bare Bones ticket is $45 and VIP tickets are $60. For more information & to purchase tickets, visit www.bonebashpeoria.com

The Spirit of Peoria will host a Murder Mystery Cruise on Saturday with boarding at 7 pm and cruise from 8 – 10 pm. The cast of the Champaign-Urbana Theater Company will dine and mingle with you as the mystery unfolds in “Dying to Win” 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

Harvesting Hope, an annual event in support of the Pediatric Resource Center, will be held at the Country Club of Peoria on Saturday beginning at 6 pm. Entertainment will be provided by Preston Jackson & Friends. Cost is $75 per ticket and may be purchased by calling 309-624-9595.

Heartland Festival Orchestra will present “Eroica” on Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm at the Five Points Performing Arts Center (located at 360 Wilmor Road in Washington). Tickets are $30 for adults and $8 for children and are available at the Five Points Box Office, Kidder’s Music (located at7728 N. Crestline Drive in Peoria) or online at https://www.ticketturtle.com/index.php?show=26411 For more information, visit http://heartlandfestivalorchestra.org

Prowl & Howl, a Party For Mature Monsters, will take place on Saturday from 9 pm – Midnight at Wildlife Prairie Park featuring live music by South Side Cindy. Come in your costume and enjoy a howling good time. Admission is $5 for members and $13 for non-members. For more information, call 309-676-0998 or visit http://www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org

Pioneer Days will take place on Sunday at Sommer Park from 1 – 4 pm where you can experience firsthand the daily life of rural Peorians in the mid 19th century. Admission is $2 per person, age four and up. Activities are held at the homestead, barn, blacksmith shop and schoolhouse. This is a wonderful opportunity for scout and youth groups to learn about history. For more information, call 309-691-8423.

The Peoria Zoo will present “Creepy Crawlies” on Sunday from 1:30 – 3:30 pm. Cost is $5 members and $10 for non-members. Register by calling 309-681-3513.

Prairie Folklore Theatre will honor the Celtic Celebration of Samhein (the root of Halloween) by singing the old songs and telling the old tales at the Fox Pub (located at 7800 North Sommer Street in Peoria) on Sunday with shows at 2 and 6 pm. The 2 pm show is more family oriented and appropriate for kids aged 10 and up. The evening show more adult oriented. Admission is $10. Please reserve your spot by calling 309-692-3693.

The Heart of Illinois Chorus will present their version of the hit TV show “Laugh-In” at the Illinois Central College Performing Arts Center on Sunday beginning at 2:30 pm. Enjoy fun and laughs along with the acapella, barbershop chords of the Heart of Illinois Chorus. Tickets are $10 and available at the ICC box office or by calling 309-694-5136.

Award winning performers Aaron Jacobs and Tatiana Shustova will present an eclectic program of violin and piano selections at the Universalist Unitarian Church (located at 3000 W. Richwoods Blvd. in Peoria) on Sunday beginning at 3 pm. Both artists are doctoral candidates at the University of Illinois and have performed at regional, national and international venues. Admission is free, however an offering will be collected plus a reception will follow the performance. For more information, call 309-688-5608.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The 27th Annual Arts in Education Spring Celebration will have its final performance at the Peoria County Courthouse Plaza from 11am – 1:30 pm on Friday. More than 12,000 students from over 110 schools in seven counties have performed, exhibited and demonstrated their talents in the fine and applied arts. For a complete schedule or more information, visit http://www.springcelebration.org or call 309-672-6906.

The “Dinosaurs, Solve the Mysteries” Planetarium Show at Lakeview Museum (located at 1125 W. Lake Ave. in Peoria) will be held on Thursdays at 6 pm, Saturdays at Noon & 1:30 pm and Sundays at 1:30 pm and 2:15 pm through May 31st. Visit dinosaur graveyards, study their bones and reconstruct how dinosaurs lived and died. Admission is $4 for adults, $3.50 for youth and seniors and free for members. For more information, call 309-686-7000.

The 2012 Summer Camp Music Festival will be held this weekend at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe beginning today (Thursday) with a pre-party and running through Sunday evening. Featuring over 75 bands on 7 stages over the course of 3 days, the festival also features a kid’s camp, an extensive representation of non-profit organizations, on-site camping, unique arts & craft artisans, and a variety of food and beer. For full details including ticket prices and general information, visit http://summercampfestival.com

The 2012 World Championship Old-Time Piano Playing Contest will take place throughout the Peoria area beginning tonight (Thursday) and running through Monday with most events happening at the Four Points by Sheraton (located at 500 Hamilton Boulevard in downtown Peoria). For a full schedule and admission information, visit http://oldtimepianocontest.org

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

Nunsense A-Men! presented by the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield opens tonight (Thursday) and has shows on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, (doors open at 6 pm, buffet is at 6:30 pm, and the show is at 8 pm) through July 1st.  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

The Peoria Chiefs will take on the Clinton LumberKings beginning at 6:30 pm tonight (Thursday) and again on Friday at O’Brien Field in downtown Peoria.  The Chiefs will also face the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers on Saturday at 6:30 pm and Sunday and Monday at 2 pm. Tickets are $7 for lawn seats and $10 for club box seats and are available at the Chiefs Box Office, by calling 1-866-MYTICKET or online at https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/team.asp?SponsorID=4041 For more information about the Peoria Chiefs, visit www.milb.com/index.jsp?sid=t4

The Morton Civic Chorus presents “Encore 2012″ at Bradley’s Hartmann Center Theater tonight (Thursday) through Saturday at 7:30 pm and Sunday at 2 pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for Seniors and groups of 10 or more. This concert benefits the Central Illinois Memorial Kidney Fund. For tickets, call 309-677-4966.

Gary MuleDeer will perform tonight (Thursday) in the Peoria Civic Center Theater beginning at 8 pm. Tickets are $25 and $35 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

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

The 25th Annual Louie Louie Parade & River Jam will take place on Friday beginning at 3:30 pm with the parade through downtown Peoria and the River Jam running from 4 – 10 pm at the CEFCU stage at the Landing on Peoria’s Riverfront. Parade registration is $10 per person or $100 per group with registrations being taken online at http://ampillinois.com/louie.html. Admission to the Riverjam is free and features JammSammich, the Willies, and 3 and 1/2 Men.

The Contemporary Art Center presents Live at the Five Spot featuring Dorann & the Soul Mystics beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday. Admission: $7 for members or $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Enjoy Swing Dance at the Contemporary Arts Center on Friday from 8:30 – 9:30 pm for the dance lesson and 9:30 pm – 12:30 am for open dancing. Admission is $3 for CAC Members and $6 for non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6822.

Cornerstone Underground Art Beat at the Cornerstone Building (located at 321 NE Madison in downtown Peoria) will host an Open Mic Night on Friday from 7 – 10 pm featuring singers, poets and fine artists. There is no charge to perform. Food & drinks will be available for purchase. For more information, call 309-620-3164.

River City Blues Society will host its 4th Friday Blues Series featuring Matt Curry & The Fury at Goodfellas in Pekin on Friday from 7:30 – 11 pm. Admission is $5 for adults or $3 for RCBS members. For more information, visit http://www.rivercityblues.com

The 7th Annual Mackinaw Valley Vineyard Music and International Wine and Beer Festival featuring over 55 wines and 45 beers for tasting and purchase takes place from 11 am – 11 pm on Saturday and Noon – 6 pm on Sunday. Admission is $10 and includes souvenir wine glass and 5 tasting tickets. For more information, call 309-359-9463 or visit http://www.peoria.org/listings/index.cfm?action=display&listingid=485&hit=1

The 4th Annual Manito Wine, Art, Balloon & Jazz Festival will take place Saturday from 11 am – 8 pm in Memorial Park (located at 400 E Southmoor St in Manito). Admission is $10 which includes a souvenir glass and 5 taste tickets and is available online at http://www.villageofmanito.com/specials.html

Zoo Fest 2012 will take place on Saturday at the Peoria Zoo from 11am – 3 pm. Beginning at 1 pm, watch zookeepers move the Chinese Alligator to her summer exhibit plus enjoy bouncy rides, games, animal encounters and more. Admission is $8.50 for adult (ages 13 and over), $4.75 for children (ages 3-12), free for children ages 2 and under and $7.50 for senior citizens (ages 65 & over). For more information, call 309-686-3365.

Participate in a Barn Dance at Camp Wokanda on Saturday night from 7-10 pm. All skill levels are welcome. Admission is $5 per person with a $20 maximum cost per family.

Pioneer Days will take place on Sunday at Sommer Park from 1 – 4 pm where you can experience first-hand the daily life of rural Peorians in the mid 19th century. Admission is $2 per person, ages four and up. Activities at the homestead, barn, blacksmith shop and schoolhouse include laundry, gardening, woodworking, blacksmithing, candle making and hands-on children’s activities. This is a wonderful opportunity for scout and youth groups to learn about history. For more information, call 309-691-8423.

The Annual Memorial Day Celebration will take place on Monday near the Gateway Building on the Peoria Riverfront with a Memorial Day remembrance service to begin at 10:30 am under the Gateway Building which will pay tribute to all of the men and women who have fought for America’s freedom.

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform a mini concert in conjunction with the Memorial Day festivities on the Peoria riverfront on Monday beginning at 10:30 am. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.peoriamunicipalband.com

Cornerstone Academy for Performing Arts will present a special performance at the Cornerstone Building in downtown Peoria on Monday beginning at 1 pm. This performance, which includes music, comedy and dance, is free to the public. Light refreshments, snacks and raffles will be available plus a door prize for all the children in attendance. The event is in honor of all the men, women and families of the Military who have supported our country through their service and sacrifice. For more information, visit http://www.cornerstoneacademyballet.org

 Wicked will be performed at the Peoria Civic Center Theater with performances at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday), 8 pm on Friday, 2 pm & 8 pm on Saturday, 1 pm & 6:30 pm on Sunday. Tickets range in price from $40 – $125 and are on sale at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office or by calling 309-673-3200 and online at Ticketmaster.com  

“The Great Pumpkin” Chrysanthemum Show will be open at Luthy Botanical Garden from 10 am – 5 pm Tuesdays – Saturdays and from Noon – 5 pm on Sundays through November 6th. Cost is $2 for adults (ages 13 and up) or free for children aged 12 and under and Garden Members.

Enjoy Hayrides and Hotdogs at Sommer Park tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 7 pm. Cost is $6 for ages 11 and up, $4 for ages 3-10 or a $25 maximum per family which includes hot dogs for roasting, chips, carrots, baked beans, marshmallows and drinks. In addition to food, you get a hayrack ride, mid-1800s autumn play party activities such as sack races and fortune telling plus musical entertainment too. Children and adults costumes are strongly encouraged.

The Heart of Illinois Professional Chefs Association and Mackinaw Valley Vineyard are teaming up on a fund-raiser to celebrate food and wine of the harvest with Fine Cuisine and Spooky Good Spirits tonight (Thursday) from 6 – 9 pm at Mackinaw Valley Vineyard. There will be live music and a special trick or treat for each attendee. Tickets purchased are $45 at the door. Proceeds to benefit USA Culinary Olympic team and local culinary philanthropy. For more information, call 309-359-9463 or visit www.mackinawvalleyvineyard.com

Exit the Body will be presented by the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield through November 6. 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 $30 for Thursdays, $32 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $34 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Texas Stars at the Peoria Civic Center tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7 pm.
On Friday, the Rivermen play the Rockford Ice Hogs at 7 pm. Tickets for both games range from $12.50 – $27.50 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, by phone at 309-676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659

Community Celebration 2011 will take place at the Embassy Suites Riverfront Grand Ballroom in East Peoria tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7 pm. The event is a celebration of Illinois Central College students and those who invest in our community’s future. Tickets are $35 per person. Reservations are required and may be made by calling 309-694-5530 or online at www.icc.edu/communitycelebration

Sky Harbor Steakhouse will present their monthly music feature, Pickin On The Bluegrass tonight (Thursday) from 7 – 9 pm at the restaurant (located at 1321 North Park Road in Peoria). Admission is free and a full menu will be available. Reservations are suggested and may be made by calling 309-674-5532.

Jerrod Carmichael will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm and on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $14 except the Thursday and the Friday 10:30 pm show which are $12. This show includes R rated material. For more information, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

Take Uptown Peoria Trolley Tour beginning at 10:30 am on Friday which leaves from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street near State St. in downtown Peoria). 
Or try the Springdale Cemetery/Grandview Drive Trolley Tour and visit Peoria’s premier scenic drive that winds its way above the beautiful Illinois River valley beginning at 10:30 am. This tour also leaves from Harp & Thistle (located at 4605 N Prospect Road in Peoria Heights). 
Also on Saturday is The Haunted Peoria Trolley Tour which explores the dark side of Peoria going to places where strange sightings and events have been reported. Discover the stories behind the ghostly appearances that have puzzled and startled Peorians through the years. Learn about the Lady in White, the Legend of Nee-Nee-Wah, the Curse of Old Lady Gray, and more. The tour leaves from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street near State St. in downtown Peoria) beginning at 1 pm.  The cost for each tour is $10. Reservations are recommended. Call 309-673-6000 or visit http://peoriahistoricalsociety.org for more information.

The Carol House of Hope Benefit Annual Fish Fry will take place Friday from 5 -7 pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall (located at 715 N 11th Street in Pekin). Cost is $7 for adults and $3 for kids. For more information, call 309-691-0551 or visit http://www.centerforpreventionofabuse.org/

A special Halloween Live at the Five Spot at the Contemporary Art Center featuring Southside Cindy & the Slip-Tones will begin at 5:30 pm Friday and will feature a costume contest with prizes. Admission: $7 for members or $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members.
Enjoy Swing Dance at the Contemporary Arts Center on Friday from 8:30 – 9:30 pm for the dance lesson and 9:30 pm – 12:30 am for open dancing. Admission is $3 for CAC Members and $6 for non-members. For more information for either event, call 309-674-6877.

Wildlife Scary Park returns to Wildlife Prairie Park from 5 – 9 pm Friday through Sunday featuring a narrated train ride through the Haunted Forest on the Scary Park Express, Trick-or-Treating in the Gollywhopper’s Spooky Town, Black Magic with real magicians, the Evil Troll Bridge, Ghosts of the 15th Regiment and two live DJs with dancing. Admission is $7 per person, $6 for park members and free for ages 1 and under. Merry-Not-So-Scary Park specially designed for preschoolers will happen from 5 – 7 pm. For more information, call 309-676-0998 or visit http://wildlifeprairiestatepark.org

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

Kickapoo Creek Winery will host a Halloween Costume Party on Friday from 6 – 11 pm at the winery. Admission is $25 per person and includes a gourmet buffet and music. For more information, visit www.kickapoocreekwinery.com

The Haunted Infirmary at Bartonville Insane Asylum will take place Friday & Saturday from 7 – 11 pm each night. Tickets are $15 for the Haunted House & $5 for the Graveyard Hayride. All proceeds benefit the Limestone Junior Football League and affiliates. For more information, visit www.thehauntedinfirmary.org

Spider Hill at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe is back with The Haunted Express, the Massacre Mansion and the Trail of Terror plus the Boo Barn for kids (not so scary) main attractions on Friday & Saturday with gates opening at 6 pm and activities beginning at 7 pm and run through 11 pm each night. Tickets are $8 per attraction or wristbands including unlimited “scares” plus a balloon ride are $20. Find a $1 Off a Regular Single Admission coupon on Peoria-Deals.com!

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

Catacombs of the Lost, a haunted house, will take place at the East Peoria Events Center (located at 4200 E Washington Street in East Peoria) from 7 pm – 11 pm on Friday and Saturday and from 7 – 9 pm on Sunday. Admission is $10 per person. For more information, call 309-648-7691.

Forest Park Nature Center will host a “Creatures of the Night Hike” on Friday beginning at 7 pm where hikers will learn about bats, owls and other nocturnal animals on a guided nighttime hike through the forest. Costumes & flashlights are welcome. The event is open to ages 12 & up. Admission is free, however donations are welcome.

The Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats will perform Friday at Five Points Center in Washington beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $16 for adults, $13 for senior citizens and $10 for students and are available at the Five Points Center Box Office or online at https://www.ticketturtle.com/index.php?show=22719

Peoria Players 20th Anniversary of performing The Rocky Horror Picture Show will take place at midnight on Friday & Saturday at the theatre. Dress up as your favorite character and come prepared for a night of entertainment. Doors open at 11:30 pm. Tickets are $15 general admission and are on sale at the Box Office, by calling 309-688-4473 or online at www.peoriaplayers.org

The 2011 Women’s Lifestyle Show will be held Saturday in the Peoria Civic Center Exhibit Hall and Meeting Rooms from 9 am – 4 pm. Tickets are $10 at the door.

ICC presents their In-Residence Group the Heart of Illinois Chorus on Saturday at 2:30 pm at the ICC Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens and are available at the ICC Box Office or by calling 309-694-5136. For more information, visit www.artsaticc.com

The 2011 Haunted Peoria Tours will take place Saturday and Sunday at the State Cemetery in Bartonville beginning at 4 pm where you can check out the history and actual residual energy still clinging in the cemetery. The cost is $10 and reservations are required which can be made by calling 309-643-5638. Tours leave from 817 SW Adams in downtown Peoria. Please arrive 15 minutes before tours depart. The tour lasts approximately one hour and will take place rain or shine. Private tours are also available.

The Arthritis Foundation will host the 3rd Annual Bone Bash on Saturday beginning at 7pm at the Gateway Building on the Peoria Riverfront. The Halloween themed costume party will include spooky decorations, costume contest, auctions,  live band, games, photo booth, tarot card reader, and much more. Tickets are $45 per person or $60 for a VIP pass. For more information or to reserve tickets, visit www.bonebashpeoria.com, or call 309-682-6600.

Casting Crowns and Sanctus Real will perform Saturday at the Peoria Civic Center Arena at 7 pm. Tickets are $27 and $47 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

Elvis and Friends will be live in concert at Five Points Center in Washington on Saturday beginning at 7 pm. There will be musical tributes to The Judds, Rod Stewart, Tom Jones, Roy Orbison and Elvis Presley. Tickets are $18 in advance or $20 at the door and are available at the Five Points Box Office or online at https://www.ticketturtle.com/index.php?show=2360

Central Illinois Friends of People with AIDS will host “Caught in the Web of Friends”, a Halloween costume party on Saturday from 8 pm – Midnight at the Cornerstone Building (located at 321 Madison Ave. in downtown Peoria). There will be a photo booth, live music by the Flying D’Rito Brothers, appetizers and a cash bar. A costume contest will begin at 10 pm with a $250 first prize. Admission is $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Advance tickets are available by calling 309-671-2144. For more information, visit www.FriendsofPWA.org

Experience a Murder Mystery with an interactive cruise on the Spirit of Peoria on Saturday night boarding at 7 pm and cruising from 8 – 10 pm. Tickets are $45 for adults and $22.50 for kids aged 4 -12 and are available at the dock, by calling 309-637-8000 or online at www.spiritofpeoria.com

Come experience firsthand the daily life of rural Peorians in the mid 19th century at Pioneer Days at Sommer Park (located at 6329 N. Koerner Road in Edwards) on Sunday from 1 – 4 pm. This is a wonderful opportunity for scout and youth groups to learn about history. There will be special themes and presentations each month. Call 309-691-8423 for more information.

The Peoria Barbershop Chorus will present its 69th Annual “Let’s Sing” old-fashioned Barbershop Sing-Along on Sunday at Eastlight Theatre (located within the East Peoria High School Auditorium) beginning at 2 pm. Tickets are$10 in advance, $12 at the door or $8 for groups and families. For more information and advance ticket sales, call 309-231-2471 or 309-694-7749.

Celebrate Halloween at Shea Stadium (located at 1523 W. Nebraska in Peoria) on Monday when Bradley Soccer hosts Oral Roberts beginning at 8 pm. Wear your costume for treats and get there early for the senior night recognition. Tickets are $6 for adults, $3 for youth ages 5-12 and free with BUID. For more information, visit www.BradleyBraves.com

Northwoods Mall will host a “Happy Haunting Party” on Monday from 5 – 7 pm. There will be indoor trick or treating, scary music, decorations and costumed characters. For more information, call 309-688-0443.

Enjoy Treats on the Prairie on Monday from 5 – 7 pm at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie. There will be store to store trick-or-treating, a coloring contest, games in center court, prizes, candy, a photo contest and more. Trick or treaters are encouraged to come in costume.

 Wicked will be held at the Peoria Civic Center Theater through October 30th with performances at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday), 8 pm on Friday, 2 pm & 8 pm on Saturday, 1 pm & 6:30 pm on Sunday and 7:30 pm on Tuesday & Wednesday. Tickets range in price from $40 – $125 and are on sale at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office or by calling 309-673-3200 and online at Ticketmaster.com  

“The Great Pumpkin” Chrysanthemum Show will be open at Luthy Botanical Garden from 10 am – 5 pm Tuesdays – Saturdays and from Noon – 5 pm on Sundays through November 6th. Cost is $2 for adults (ages 13 and up) or free for children aged 12 and under and Garden Members.

Enjoy Hayrides and Hotdogs at Sommer Park tonight (Thursday) from 5 – 7 pm. Cost is $6 for ages 11 and up, $4 for ages 3-10 or a $25 maximum per family which includes hot dogs for roasting, chips, carrots, baked beans, marshmallows and drinks. In addition to food, you get a hayrack ride, mid-1800s autumn play party activities such as sack races and fortune telling plus musical entertainment too. Children and adults costumes are strongly encouraged. This event happens every Thursday in October.

Exit the Body will be presented by the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield through November 6. 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 $30 for Thursdays, $32 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $34 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

The All Saints Greek Orthodox Church will present it’s annual Ethnic Food Fest & Bake Sale from 11 am – 8 pm today (Thursday) through Saturday at the Church (located at 1812 N Prospect Road in Peoria). A full bake sale with Greek & Lebanese specialties will also be available. For more information, call 309-682-5824.

The Peoria Area World Affairs Council will present “The Pathology of Russia: Opportunities and Challenges for a U.S. Prescription” with Melvin A. Goodman, senior fellow at the Center for International Policy in Washington, DC. at Barrack’s Cater Inn tonight (Thursday) beginning with a reception at 5 pm, dinner at 6 pm and presentation at 7 pm. Tickets are $30 for Peoria Area World Affairs Council Members and students; $35 for non-members/general public and are available online at artstix.artspartners.net or call 309-677-2454 for more information.

Dig Pink! The Bradley Braves Volleyball team takes on ISU at 7 pm tonight (Thursday) at the Renaissance Coliseum. All fans in attendance are encouraged to wear pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Braves also face Indiana State on Friday at 7 pm.  Tickets are $6 for adults, $3 for children (K-12), and parking is free. For more information, visit www.BradleyBraves.com

The Caterpillar Employees Mixed Chorus will present My Fair Lady at Eastlight Theatre with performances at 7:30 tonight (Thursday) through Saturday and at 2 pm on Saturday & Sunday. Tickets $8 per person are available at beginning Oct. 12 at the Eastlight Theatre Box Office (located at 2200 E. Washington Street in East Peoria in the Festival of Lights Building), by phone at 309-699-SHOW (7469), online at http://tickets.eastlighttheatre.com (a $1 per ticket convenience fee applies to online ticket purchases) or at the door at performances.

A Greener Morton will host Morton Recycling Days on Friday and Saturday from 8 am – Noon in the Morton Plaza parking lot near Kmart. Bring your old electronics and recycle them for free with Going Green Computers. The event is for business and residential recycling.

Take Uptown Peoria Trolley Tour beginning at 10:30 am on Friday which leaves from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street near State St. in downtown Peoria). 
Or try the Springdale Cemetery/Grandview Drive Trolley Tour and visit Peoria’s premier scenic drive that winds its way above the beautiful Illinois River valley beginning at 10:30 am. This tour also leaves from Harp & Thistle (located at 4605 N Prospect Road in Peoria Heights). 
Also on Saturday is The Haunted Peoria Trolley Tour which explores the dark side of Peoria going to places where strange sightings and events have been reported. Discover the stories behind the ghostly appearances that have puzzled and startled Peorians through the years. Learn about the Lady in White, the Legend of Nee-Nee-Wah, the Curse of Old Lady Gray, and more. The tour leaves from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street near State St. in downtown Peoria) beginning at 1 pm.  The cost for each tour is $10. Reservations are recommended. Call 309-673-6000 or visit http://peoriahistoricalsociety.org for more information.

Live at the Five Spot at the Contemporary Art Center featuring Spring Creek Station begins at 5:30 pm on Friday. Admission: $7 for members or $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.

Wildlife Scary Park returns to Wildlife Prairie Park from 5 – 9 pm Friday through Sunday featuring a narrated train ride through the Haunted Forest on the Scary Park Express, Trick-or-Treating in the Gollywhopper’s Spooky Town, Black Magic with real magicians, the Evil Troll Bridge, Ghosts of the 15th Regiment and two live DJs with dancing. Admission is $7 per person, $6 for park members and free for ages 1 and under. Merry-Not-So-Scary Park specially designed for preschoolers will happen from 5 – 7 pm. For more information, call 309-676-0998 or visit http://wildlifeprairiestatepark.org

Enjoy an Old-Fashioned Barn Dance at Camp Wokanda (located at  620 East Boy Scout Road in Chillicothe) on Friday beginning at 7 pm.  Admission is $5, with a $20 maximum for families. Please bring a snack to share. First time dancers and families are welcome – no partner is needed. Expert caller Martha Tyner will teach all the dances. The ever-popular string band Too Old To be Controlled will provide the music. For more information and directions, call 309-274-5358 or 309-868-7163.

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

The Haunted Infirmary at Bartonville Insane Asylum will take place Friday & Saturday from 7 – 11 pm each night. Tickets are $15 for the Haunted House & $5 for the Graveyard Hayride. All proceeds benefit the Limestone Junior Football League and affiliates. For more information, visit www.thehauntedinfirmary.org

Spider Hill at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe is back with The Haunted Express, the Massacre Mansion and the Trail of Terror plus the Boo Barn for kids (not so scary) main attractions on Friday & Saturday with gates opening at 6 pm and activities beginning at 7 pm and run through 11 pm each night. Tickets are $8 per attraction or wristbands including unlimited “scares” plus a balloon ride are $20. Find a $1 Off a Regular Single Admission coupon on Peoria-Deals.com!

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

The Vagina Monologues continues at the Corn Stock Theatre Winter Playhouse at the Corn Stock Theatre Center located in upper Bradley Park with performances at 7:30 pm on Friday & Saturday.  Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students 18 & under with ID and are available at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office, by phone at 309-676-2196 or online at www.CornStockTheatre.com

Heywood Banks will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club on Friday & Saturday at 7 pm & 9:30 pm. Tickets are $18 except the Friday 9:30 pm show which is $15. For more information, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

JAMfest Mega-JAM Peoria will be held Saturday in the Peoria Civic Center Arena and Exhibit Hall beginning at 8 am. Admission is free. This year’s theme is “JAMfest – Fuel Your Spirit!”

PARC’s will host it’s Boo! Run to benefit PARC’s children’s services at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie beginning at 8 am on Saturday. The event will include a 5K Run & Roll, the 1-mile Fitness Walk and a Kid’s Fun Run, Walk & Roll. There will be awards for best costumes, door prizes, refreshments and entertainment for all ages. For more information, call 309-689-3605.

Enjoy a Fall Foliage Brunch Cruise on the Spirit of Peoria with boarding at 9 am and cruising from 9:30 am – 11:30 am featuring a buffet brunch. Tickets are $36 for adults and $18 for kids aged 4-12.  Or enjoy a cruise only on Spirit of Peoria with boarding at 3:30 pm and cruise from 3:45 pm – 5:15 pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $9 for kids aged 4-12 and are available at the dock, by calling 309-637-8000 or online at www.spiritofpeoria.com

“Real Life: Real Joy! A Women’s Day of Renewal” will be held at the Ashland House in Morton on Saturday from 8:30 am to 3 pm. The day will feature inspirational speakers and the music of well-known Christian singer Rachel West Kramer. Sponsored by Hands of Love Ministry, this event is open to the public. Tickets are $35 each or $30 for groups of 8 or more. Call 309-383-2828 or visit www.handsoflove.org for more information.

Habitat for Humanity, Greater Peoria Area, will host their Scarecrow Saturday Family Fun Day at their ReStore (located at 804 W. Main Street in Peoria) on Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm. Activities include a scavenger hunt, kids carnival games, face painting, balloon artists, scarecrow crafts, music, the Heartland Cloggers, Wildlife Prairie Park animals, a magician, a playhouse raffle, ReStore specials and more. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-676-6729, ext. 3

A Fall Family Festival to benefit Megan Crawford, a Metamora resident who suffered an auto accident that left her critically injured, will be held at St. Mary of Lourdes Church (located at 424 Lourdes Church Road in Metamora) on Saturday from 2 – 10 pm. Cost is $10 per adult and $5 per child aged 4-12 and includes dinner, games, activities, a costume contest, raffles and a silent auction.

St. Anthony’s Church (located at 2525 Skyway Drive in Bartonville) will host their Italian Buffet on Saturday from 3:30 – 7:30 in the Parish Hall. Dinner includes spaghetti, lasagna, mostacolli, Italian beef, seafood pasta, salad, garlic bread, beverage and more. Baked good items and raffle baskets will be available. Ticket prices are $14 for adults, $13 for senior citizens (aged 62+), $8 for children (ages 5-12) and ages under 5 are free.

The 2011 Haunted Peoria Tours will take place at the State Cemetery in Bartonville beginning at 4 pm on Saturday & Sunday. The cost is $10 and reservations are required which can be made by calling 309-643-5638. Tours leave from 817 SW Adams in downtown Peoria. Please arrive 15 minutes before tours depart.  The tour lasts approximately one hour and will take place rain or shine. Private tours are also available.

The Peoria Symphony Orchestra will present Classics 2 at Grace Presbyterian Church (located on State Route 91) beginning at 8 pm on Saturday night. Tickets range in price from $32 – $70. Season tickets are also available. Call 309-671-1096 to order tickets or visit http://peoriasymphony.org for more information.

Peoria Players will host an Annie and The Orphans Tea Party on Sunday where you can meet Annie and the orphans from their upcoming production in the Lakeview Museum Auditorium with seating beginning at 12:30 pm. Tickets are $15 for all ages and are available by calling 309-688-4473 or at the Peoria Players Box Office.

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Chicago Wolves at the Peoria Civic Center on Sunday beginning at 7 pm. Tickets range from $12.50 – $27.50 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, by phone at 309-676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659

Dress for Success Peoria will present its third annual Girls Night Out Extravaganza fundraiser at Four Points by Sheraton (located at 500 Hamilton Blvd in Peoria) tonight (Thursday) from 5:30 – 8:30 pm. There will be food, vendors, a style show, demonstrations and raffles. Proceeds will benefit the organization, which provides professional attire and career development tools to promote the economic independence of disadvantaged women. For more information, call 309-671-5200.

Exit the Body will be presented by the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield through November 6. 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 $30 for Thursdays, $32 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $34 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

Pickin On Polka King Frankie Yankovic and the Polka Meisters will take place tonight (Thursday) at Sky Harbor Steakhouse (located on Park Road near Bradley Park) from 7 – 9 pm. Admission is free, however, reservations suggested. A full menu will be available. Call 309-674-5532 for more information.

The Bradley University Theatre Department will present Ragtime: The Musical at 8 pm Thursday – Saturday and at 2:30 pm on Sunday at the Hartmann Center on the Bradley campus. Tickets are $17 for adults, $14 for BU faculty & staff as well as senior citizens and $9 for students and are available at the Bradley Box Office or by phone at 309-677-2650. For more information, visit http://slane.bradley.edu/theatre-arts/season

Take Uptown Peoria Trolley Tour beginning at 10:30 am on Friday which leaves from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street near State St. in downtown Peoria).
Or try the Springdale Cemetery/Grandview Drive Trolley Tour and visit Peoria’s premier scenic drive that winds its way above the beautiful Illinois River valley beginning at 10:30 am. This tour also leaves from Harp & Thistle (located at 4605 N Prospect Road in Peoria Heights).
Also on Saturday is The Haunted Peoria Trolley Tour which explores the dark side of Peoria going to places where strange sightings and events have been reported. Discover the stories behind the ghostly appearances that have puzzled and startled Peorians through the years. Learn about the Lady in White, the Legend of Nee-Nee-Wah, the Curse of Old Lady Gray, and more. The tour leaves from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street near State St. in downtown Peoria) beginning at 1 pm.  Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 309-673-6000. The cost for each tour is $10. Reservations are recommended. Call 309-673-6000 or visit http://peoriahistoricalsociety.org for more information.

The Bleeding & Clotting Disorders Institute will host its 2nd Annual Trivia Fundraiser Bash at Five Points in Washington on Friday. Doors open at 6 pm with game starting promptly at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $25 per person and this includes the game, dinner, desserts, & beverages plus a cash bar will be available. Teams should be made up of 4 – 8 people.  For more information sign up call 309-692-5337.

The Friday Night Water Street Fiesta takes place every Friday night between 5 – 10 pm on the 300 block of Water Street. Enjoy Peoria’s riverfront with good food and variety street entertainment while you shop. The street is closed off to accommodate the festival and admission is free.

Live at the Five Spot at the Contemporary Art Center featuring Cousin Eddie begins at 5:30 pm on Friday. Admission: $7 for members or $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6877.
Enjoy Swing Dance at the Contemporary Arts Center also on Frdiay from 8:30 – 9:30 pm for the dance lesson and 9:30 pm – 12:30 am for open dancing. Admission is $3 for CAC Members and $6 for non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6822.

Zoobrew and Wine Too will take place at the Peoria Zoo on Friday from 5:30 – 7:30 pm. Guests must be 21 or older to participate and will sample a wide variety of beers and wines plus appetizers from local restaurants, tours of the Africa! exhibit, live music and special desserts. Tickets are $55 and are available by calling 309-681-3500.

Prairie Folklore Theatre presents its 9th Annual Historic Springdale Cemetery Tour beginning at Springdale Cemetery’s Main Entrance at 6 pm on Friday and at  2 pm and 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday.  Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children and $20 for families. Reservations are available by calling 309-689-8000 or via e-mail at foxtales@foxtalesint.com Visit www.prairiefolkloretheatre.com for more information. This year’s show features all new characters to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War.

Spider Hill at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe is back this year every Friday & Saturday throughout October with The Haunted Express, the Massacre Mansion and the Trail of Terror plus the Boo Barn, which is not so scary for younger children. Gates open at 6 pm and activities begin at 7 pm and run through 11 pm each night. Tickets are $8 per attraction or wristbands including unlimited “scares” plus a balloon ride are $20.

The Peoria Rivermen will take on the Chicago Wolves in a pre-season game at the Peoria Civic Center on Friday beginning at 7 pm. Tickets range from $12.50 – $27.50 and are available at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, by phone at 309-676-1040 or online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806659

The Bradley Braves Volleyball team takes on Missouri State at 7 pm Friday and Wichita State at 7 pm on Saturday both at the Renaissance Coliseum. Tickets are $6 for adults, $3 for children (K-12), and parking is free. For more information, visit www.BradleyBraves.com

Eastlight Theatre’s YouthLight will present Phantom of the Opera at 7:30 pm on Friday and at 2 pm on Saturday & Sunday in the East Peoria High School Auditorium. Tickets are $17 and are available online at http://tickets.eastlighttheatre.com For more information, call 309-694-7469.

Corn Stock for Kids will present Captain Louie, a new musical based on the children’s book with music & lyrics by Stephen Schwartz at 7:30 pm on Friday & at 2:30 pm on Saturday at the Corn Stock Theatre Center (located in upper Bradley Park). Tickets are $12 for adults & $8 for children 12 & younger and will be available beginning September 6 at the Corn Stock Box Office, by phone at 676-2196 or online at www.cornstocktheatre.com

ICC Theatre Department will present Lend Me A Tenor at the ICC Performing Arts Center at 7:30 pm on Friday & Saturday and 2:30 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students & seniors and are available at the ICC Box Office or by phone at 309-694-5136. For more information, visit www.artsaticc.com

The Untamed Shrews will perform at the at Jukebox Comedy Club on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $19 or $18 with cash except the Friday 10:30 pm show which are $16 or $15 with cash. For more information, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

Sew Special, an all-day event featuring fiber arts workshops, demonstrations and hands-on classes related to many areas of sewing, quilting, home-dec, machine embroidery and more, will take place at the American Sewing Guild (located at 1913 W. Townline Rd, in Peoria) on Saturday from 8:30 am to 4 pm. Admission is $50 for American Sewing Guild members, $35 for students and $60 for non-members. Admission price includes continental breakfast, lunch, State of Illinois Make It With Wool contest and style show, vendor sales and door prizes. Pre-registration is required for the event. For more information, call 309-245-4884.

The Peoria Players Vintage Clothing and Collectibles Sale will take place on Saturday in the theatre lobby from 8 am – Noon featuring unique items from all eras plus costumes, accessories, and other collectibles. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-688-4473 or visit www.peoriaplayers.org

The 44th Annual Spoon River Drive takes visitors through several central Illinois communities just in time to enjoy the fall colors on Saturday & Sunday. Towns on the tour include London Mills, Farmington, Avon, Ellisville, Mount Pisgah Park, Fairview, Canton, Cuba, Smithfield, Bernadotte, Lewistown, Duncan Mills, the Waterford Area and Astoria. For more information, call 309-647-8980 or visit http://www.spoonriverdrive.org

Bassnectar with EOTO will perform at the US Cellular Coliseum in Bloomington on Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $30 and are available online at Ticketmaster.com, by phone at 800-745-3000, in person at U.S. Cellular Coliseum Box Office and all Ticketmaster outlets.

The 20th Annual Peoria Alzheimer’s Association Walk To End Alzheimer’s will take place on the Peoria riverfront on Sunday beginning at 1 pm with registration, an opening ceremony at 2 pm when the walk begins and prizes awarded beginning at 3 pm. Start or join a team today by registering at the Central Illinois Chapter website at alz.org/illinoiscentral or by calling 309-681-1100 or 800-272-3900.

The Central Illinois Ron Santo Walk to Cure Diabetes will take place Sunday at Glen Oak Park beginning at 11:30 am with check-in and the walk at 1 pm.  To register, visit www.jdrfillinois.org/walk/peoria

The St. Martin Chamber Players will perform in concert on Sunday at the Universalist Unitarian Church (located at 3000 W. Richwoods Blvd. in Peoria) with a program called Invitation to the Dance beginning at 3 pm featuring members of the TazWood Dance Company. Admission is free, however a free will offering will be collected. For more information, call 309-682-8977.

RockChurch and EB Artist & Event Management will present An Evening with Chris Sligh at 6 pm Sunday at RockChurch (located at 1081 Upper Spring Bay Road in East Peoria). Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door and may be purchased at RockChurch or online at http://rcpeoria.org For more information, call 309-472-6785.

The Peoria German-American Central Society will host their Annual Schlachtfest at Hickory Grove Park on Sunday from Noon – 8 pm. The event is open to the public and admission is free. This year the event will be combined with a celebration of German-American Day and as a kick-off to German-American Heritage month in Peoria featuring German Music by the Volgel Musik and the Deutschmeister Brass Band. There will be German Beer & Food, a German Car Cruis’n, an arts and otherevents and activities. For more information, visit www.peoriagermans.net

The 61st Annual St. Mary’s of Kickapoo Sausage Dinner will be held on Sunday from 11 am – 5 pm at Expo Gardens (located on Northmoor Road in Peoria). All you can eat Kickapoo sausage, mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, applesauce and desserts will be served with carry outs available. Meals are $10 for adults, $5 for kids aged 5 – 12 and $2 for kids aged 2-5. There will also be an electronic raffle and a country store. For more information, call 309-691-3015.

Brimfield Old Settlers Days will take place beginning at 5:30 pm tonight (Thursday) with live music, a beer garden, Wildlife Prairie Park animals and opening ceremonies at 7 pm. On Friday, there will be a fried chicken dinner from 5 – 8 pm and Jamm Sammich will perform beginning at 7:30 pm. The Old Settler’s 5k walk/run will start at 8 am on Saturday (registration begins at 6:30 am) plus there will be children’s bicycle races, an arts & crafts fair, a parade at 1pm and chicken dinners from 5 – 8 pm. Jimmy Fortune will perform two free shows at 6 pm & 9 pm. For more information, call 309-446-9308.

Look, No Hans! runs this weekend at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield. 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 $30 for Thursdays, $32 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $34 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

The CEFCU Jazz Series will host Swing Daddies beginning at 7 pm tonight (Thursday) on the CEFCU Stage at the Landing on the Peoria Riverfront. Admission is free and is supported by CEFCU and the Central Illinois Jazz Society.

The Shoppes at Grand Prairie will host their Back to School Event today through Saturday at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie where participants can register to win gift cards and other prizes. For more information, visit www.shoppesatgrandprairie.com

Hairspray continues at Eastlight Theatre beginning at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday), Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $17 plus a $2 processing fee and are available online at www.eastlighttheatre.com For more information, call 309-699-7469.

Corn Stock Theatre presents Ring of Fire: The Music of Johnny Cash in upper Bradley Park beginning at 7:30 pm through Saturday. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for students 18 & under with ID and are available at the Corn Stock Box Office, by calling 309-676-2196 or online at www.cornstocktheatre.com

Dr. Gonzo will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club on Thursday at 8 pm and on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $15 except the Thursday night show and the Friday 10:30 pm show which are $12. For more information, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The Illinois State Fair will run beginning Friday through Saturday, August 21 at the State Fairgrounds in Springfield from 7 am – Midnight each day with buildings open from 9 am – 9 pm. General Admission is $5 for adults 13 and older, $2 for children aged 5-12, free for children under 5, $2 for senior citizens ages 60 and older. Vehicle Parking is $7 for a single day. Coupon Books for 10 Admissions is $35, a child (ages 5-12) coupon book for 10 Admissions is $15.  For full details about the State Fair, visit http://www.agr.state.il.us/isf

The Friday Night Water Street Fiesta takes place every Friday night between 5 – 10 pm on the 300 block of Water Street. Enjoy Peoria’s riverfront with good food and variety street entertainment while you shop. The street is closed off to accommodate the festival and admission is free.

Live at the Five Spot at the Contemporary Art Center will feature Preston Jackson and Friends beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday. Admission: $7 for members or $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6877.

The Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War in Peoria Trolley Tour begins at 10:30 am on Fridays.  The tour leaves from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street near State St. in downtown Peoria and the cost is $10.  For more information, call 309-673-6000.
On Saturday, take the Springdale Cemetery/Grandview Drive Trolley Tour and visit Peoria’s premier scenic drive that winds its way above the beautiful Illinois River valley beginning at 10:30 am.    Or take the River City Historical Trolley Tour which highlights Peoria’s rich history beginning at 1 pm on Saturdays.  Both tours leave from Harp & Thistle (located at 4605 N Prospect Road in Peoria Heights).  Tours are $10 each and reservations are recommended.  For more information or to make a reservation, call 309-688-5668 or visit http://peoriahistoricalsociety.org/trolleytours11.html#SprGVD

Disney’s Enchanted will be the feature presentation at Movies Under the Stars at Metro Centre on Friday with the pre-show beginning at 7:15 pm and the movie starting at 8:30 pm. Admission is free and gourmet popcorn & soft drinks are available for $1 each and benefit local charities. Bring lawn chairs & blankets and enjoy family friendly activities during the pre-show. The show will go on weather permitting.

Party on the Prairie will take place Friday at Wildlife Prairie State Park featuring the band Armed and Hammered from 7 – 10 pm outside on the main bricks. Gates open at 6 pm with food and full bar available for a $5 cover charge per person. In the event of inclement weather the band will be moved indoors. Feel free to bring lawn chairs. No outside food/beverage permitted. Call 309-495-6760 for more information.
Wildlife Prairie State Park’s end of summer celebration, Family and Member Appreciation Day, will be on Saturday from 10 am – 5 pm. Admission is free for members and kids 12 & under and $7 for adults ages 13 and up. Activities include an inflatable obstacle course & bounce house, live entertainment, fishing, live demonstrations, barnyard discoveries, storytelling, face painting, photo opportunities with the animals and much more.  For more information, call 309-676-0998 or visit www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org

The River City Soul Fest celebrates Gospel music with a variety of local choirs and performers on Friday night and Saturday at Festival Park on the Peoria Riverfront with gates opening at 5:30 pm and music beginning at 6:30 pm.  Featured entertainment includes VaShawn Mitchell (Gospel) on Friday and Blackstreet (R & B) on Saturday.  Admission is $10 on Friday and $20 on Saturday. A weekend pass is available for $25.   Tickets are available at all Co-Op Records stores, the Riverfront Visitors Center, by phone at 800-514-3849 or online at www.etix.com

The Peoria RiverFront Market will take place Saturday from 8 am – Noon on the Peoria Riverfront features Illinois grown produce, local meats, cheeses, fresh breads, herbs, and flowers plus a great selection of local art including jewelry, pottery, wood-turned items, candles all handcrafted by local artists and entertainment. Admission is free. For more information, call 671-5555 or visit www.peoriariverfront.com

Open Fishing Day will be held at Lake Davis at Camp Wokanda (located at 620 Boy Scout Rd. in Chillicothe) on Saturday from 9 am – Noon. Fish from the shore or rent a canoe. Admission is $5 per family, $5 per canoe and $1 per pole rental. For more information, call 309-579-2157.

Peoria Players Theatre will hold an Audition Workshop for their upcoming production of Annie from 9:30 am – Noon on Saturday at the First Christian Church (located at 6400 N. University in Peoria). The registration cost per girl (ages 7-12) is $12 in advance (must be paid in full at the time of registration), or $15 at the door as long as spots are available. To register call 309-688-4473. Learn all the ins and outs of the audition process — what to expect, choosing the best song for your voice, what to wear, and much more. It is important to note that attending this workshop does not guarantee a role in the Peoria Players’ production of Annie; rather, it is intended to be a learning process and to develop auditioning skills and confidence.

The Sweet Kids Cruise-In and Car Show will take place Saturday at the Old Rusche Farm Area (200 block of Rusche Ave. in Creve Coeur) from 11 am – 4 pm. The event will raise donations for the Pediatric Diabetes Resource Center and include music, food, drawings, raffles, door prizes and more. for more information, call 309-645-7977 or email sweetkidscruise@yahoo.com

The Peoria Ballet will host an Open House from 11 am – 2 pm. Meet with instructors and ask questions about Peoria Ballet programs and performances. There will also be free sample classes and tours of the building. The updated Student Handbook and Fall class schedule will be available, as well as the sign-up sheet for Nutcracker auditions. For more information, call 309-690-7990 or visit www.peoriaballet.com

The Central Illinois Artist Organization (CIAO) will present its member show, “CIAO Branches Out”, at the Peoria Public Library beginning this Saturday through Friday, September 23rd in the gallery on Lower Level One at the Peoria Public Library Main Library. An opening reception will be held on Saturday from 4 – 5:30 pm. The Gallery is open Monday through Saturday, 9 am – 6 pm and admission is free and open to the public. For more information on CIAO, visit ciaopeoria.com, or call 309-497-2000 or visit peoriapubliclibrary.org

The Peoria Chiefs take on Clinton beginning at 6:30 pm Saturday at O’Brien Field. The chiefs will also play Clinton Sunday at 1 pm and Monday night at 7 pm. Tickets for all games are $10 and $7 and are available at the Chiefs Box Office, by calling 309-680-4008 or online http://www.peoriachiefs.com

Enjoy a Tropical Rock & Roll Cruise Saturday night on the Spirit of Peoria Riverboat. There will be cheeseburgers grilled on the dock at 7 pm and the Boat leaves promptly at 8:30 pm to cruise until 10:30 pm. The cost is $35 per person and patrons must be 21 or over to board the boat. For more information, call 800-676-8988 or visit http://www.spiritofpeoria.com to order tickets online.

The Roundstone Buskers will perform Saturday at 7 pm at Forest Park Nature Center. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for children and $1 discount for CORE (Park) members. For more information, call 309-686-3360.

The Fogelberg Foundation of Peoria presents the Dan Fogelberg Tribute Concert on Saturday at the Peoria Civic Center at 7:30 pm, celebrating the 30th anniversary of Dan’s 1981 landmark double album “The Innocent Age” performed in its entirety featuring the Peoria Acoustic All-Stars and special guests. For tickets, call 1-800-745-3000 or visit Ticketmaster.com

India Fest will be held Sunday at the CEFCU Center Stage at the Landing on the Peoria Riverfront from 4 – 10 pm.  Experience India’s culture & cuisine, handicrafts, dresses and traditional arts and crafts.  Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for teens aged 13-18 and free for ages 12 & under.

The Italian-American Society of Peoria will host its 82nd Annual Summer Festa picnic on Sunday from Noon – 7 pm at Hickory Grove Park. There will be Italian cuisine, beverages, a gift booth, musical entertainment, children’s activities, and contests. Admission is $2 per adult at the gate. Children under 12 years old are free. Tickets will not be sold in advance. For more information, visit www.ItalianAmericanSociety.com

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform Sunday at the Glen Oak Amphitheatre in Peoria beginning at 7:30 pm. The Muni Band is directed by Dr. David Vroman. Admission is free.

The Heart of Illinois Fair continues at Expo Gardens in Peoria through Saturday. Hours are 4 pm – Midnight on weekdays and from Noon – Midnight on weekend days. Admission is $8 for ages 13 & up and $5 for ages 6 – 12. Ages under 6 and active military personnel with ID are free. Carnival arm band discounts are available and there are bands each night performing in the entertainment tent. Visit http://www.heartofillinoisfair.com or call 309-691-6332 for more details.

Encores will be performed at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield through July 24th.  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 $30 for Thursdays, $32 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $34 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

The Annual CEFCU Jazz Series takes place tonight (Thursday) on the Peoria RiverFront on the CEFCU Center Stage at the Landing beginning at 7 pm. Admission is free. The Thursday night series features local jazz artists and is supported by CEFCU and the Illinois Jazz Society.

Brian Posehn will perform at the Jukebox Comedy Club tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm and on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $19 or $20 with cash except the Thursday night show and the Friday 10:30 pm show which is $16 or $15 with cash. For more information, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The World’s Smallest Wrestlers will be competing in Extreme Midget Wrestling at the Grand Hotel (located at 4400 Brandywine Drive in Peoria) tonight (Thursday) beginning at 8 pm. General Admission is $15 in advance or $20 at the door and Ringside seats are $20 in advance or $25 at the door and are available at Coop Records in Peoria & East Peoria or online HERE

The Peoria Chiefs take on Lake County beginning at 7 pm tonight (Thursday) and Friday at O’Brien Field. The Chiefs will also play Fort Wayne on Saturday at 6:30 pm and Sunday at 1 pm. Promotions for this week’s game include Thirsty Thursday with $2 16 oz drafts and $2 sodas, the Zooperstars on Friday, Cancer Awareness Night on Saturday and Princess Day on Sunday.  Tickets are $10 and $7 and are available at the Chiefs Box Office, by calling 309-680-4008 or online HERE

The Illinois Shakespeare Festival at Ewing Manor (located at at 48 Sunset Rd. in Bloomington) will present The Winter’s Tale tonight (Thursday) and Sunday at 7:30 pm each night.  The Complete Works of Shakespeare (Abridged) will be presented on Friday at 8 pm and Romeo & Juliet will be presented on Saturday at 8 pm. Tickets range in price from $27 – $47 for adults & $23 – $43 for students and are available by calling 309-438-2535 or online HERE.  Season tickets are also available.  Twelfth Night, 45 minutes of family-friendly entertainment geared toward younger patrons, will be performed on Saturday beginning at 10 am.  Admission to this performance is free, however, reservations are required by calling 309-438-2535. Visit thefestival.org/tickets/index.shtml for more information and a schedule of shows.

Take the All American City Historical Trolley Tour beginning at 10:30 am on Friday.  The tour leaves from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street near State St. in downtown Peoria).   Cost is $10.  On Saturday, take a Springdale Cemetery/Grandview Drive Trolley Tour and visit Peoria’s premier scenic drive that winds its way above the beautiful Illinois River valley beginning at 10:30 am.  Or catch the River City Historical Trolley Tour which highlights Peoria’s rich history beginning 1 pm on Saturday.  The tours leaves from Harp & Thistle (located at 4605 N Prospect Road in Peoria Heights). The cost for each tour is $10. Reservations are recommended. Call 309-673-6000 click HERE for more information.

Balloons at the Park will take place at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe beginning at 6 am on Friday and Saturday. Featuring balloon rides, entertainment and family fun, admission is free for the morning sessions. Advanced tickets are $15 for a four pack, $6 ($8 at the gate) for adults single day, $4 ($6 at the gate) for children ages 4-12 and free for children 3 & under. Parking is free.  For more information, click HERE

The Friday Night Water Street Fiesta will take place this Friday between 5 - 10 pm on the 300 block of Water Street. Enjoy Peoria’s riverfront with good food and variety street entertainment while you shop. The street is closed off to accommodate the festival and admission is free.

Live at the Five Spot at the Contemporary Art Center will feature Change Up beginning at 5:30 pm on Friday.  Admission is $7 for members or $10 for non-members, $6 for student & senior members and $9 for student & senior non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6877.

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

The River City Blues Society will present Lizzi Neal Band at 7:30 pm Friday at Goodfellas in Pekin. Admission is $3 for members or $5 for non-members at the door. For more information, visit http://rivercityblues.com

Footloose will open on Friday at Corn Stock Theatre in upper Bradley Park beginning at 7:30 pm each night through Saturday, July 23rd. Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for students 18 & under with ID and are available at the Corn Stock Box Office, by calling 309-676-2196 or online at
www.cornstocktheatre.com

Who done it? And why? Find out on the Murder Mystery on Spirit of Peoria interactive cruise on Friday from 8 – 10 pm. Tickets are $45 for adults and $22.50 for ages 4-12. Boarding begins at 7 pm. For more information or to order tickets, call 309-637-8000 or visit www.spiritofpeoria.com

Splashdown Water Slide in East Peoria will host a Family Friday Fun Night on Friday  from 7 – 9:30 pm including a DJ and giveaways. Admission is $3.50 per person or $10 for a family of four and $2 for each additional family member.  For more information, call 309-694-1867 or visit www.fondulacpark.com/?q=splashdown

The Peoria RiverFront Market will take place Saturday from 8 am – Noon on the Peoria Riverfront featuring Illinois grown produce, local meats, cheeses, fresh breads, herbs, and flowers plus a great selection of local art including jewelry, pottery, wood-turned items, candles all handcrafted by local artists and entertainment. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-671-5555 or visit www.peoriariverfront.com

The American Red Cross in conjunction with the Illinois Department of Transportation and Children’s Hospital of Illinois will host a Bike Safety Rodeo on Saturday beginning at 10 am at the American Red Cross (located at 311 W. John Gwynn Jr Ave in Peoria). The event is free and open to the public and no registration is required.

The GENeration United Mad Dash is a city-wide, competitive adventure on Saturday that calls upon participants to take on exciting challenges while experiencing the work of the Heart of Illinois United Way first-hand. Registration begins at 9 am, the race begins at 10 am with a post party at 12:30 pm. For more information, call 674-5181, ext. 254, or visit http://www.genumaddash.org Teams will race against the clock and each other in order to solve clues and navigate a series of extraordinary activities centered around United Way agencies and their impact on our community.

Too White Crew will perform on the Peoria Riverfront on the CEFCU Center Stage at The Landing on Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm. Admission is $7 per person. The Landing Bar will be open.

The Central Illinois Jazz Society will present Speakeasy with Judy Page on Sunday at the Landmark Recreation Center Starting Gate Room beginning at 6 pm.   They will play a variety of music styles, ranging from jazz to Rhythm & Blues.  The CIJS House Band will perform during the first set. Admission is $5 for members and $7 for non-members.

The St. Jude Shrimp & Corn Boil will be held Sunday at the Itoo Hall from 11 am – 7 pm. Dinners are $10 for shrimp, corn-on-the-cob, new potatoes, and smoked sausage. There will also be entertainment, 50/50 drawings, and a rafflle. All proceeds go to St. Jude’s Childrens Research Hospital. For more information, call 309-676-9725.

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform Sunday at the Glen Oak Amphitheatre in Peoria beginning at 7:30 pm. The Muni Band is directed by Dr. David Vroman.  Admission is free.

Holy Family Heritage Days Festival will be held at Holy Family Church (located at 3720 North Sterling Avenue in Peoria) and is a family-friendly event featuring rides and games for children of all ages plus food and entertainment from 8 am – 11 pm each day. Thursday Night’s Rib Dinner is $10 (half-slab) and $15 (full-slab) and include two sides and a beverage. Ride bracelets will be sold on Saturday for unlimited rides from noon to 4 pm for $15. For more information, call 309-688-3427.

The 2011 Peoria Bach Festival will be held tonight (Thursday) at 5:30 pm through Sunday at Trinity Lutheran Church (located at 135 NE Randolph Ave. in Peoria). For more information, call 309-676-4609 or visit http://peoriabachfestival.org for a complete schedule of events.

The Cemetery Club is a heartwarming comedy about life, love and the pursuit of happiness and continues at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield through Sunday. 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 $30 for Thursdays, $32 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $34 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

Enjoy the first days of summer in Central Illinois at the Tremont Turkey Festival in downtown Tremont, beginning tonight (Thursday) with the Miss Tremont Pageant held in the Tremont High School Gym at 7:30 pm and ending with a parade at 4 pm on Sunday. Food lines open at 11 am and run through 9 pm or until the turkey is gone. Carnival rides open at 5 pm on Friday and at 11 am on Saturday and Sunday. Admission to the festival and parking are free.

The Peoria Chiefs take on West Michigan tonight (Thursday) at 7 pm at O’Brien Field. The Chiefs will also play South Bend at home on Friday at 7 pm, Saturday at 6:30 pm and Sunday at 1 pm.  Tickets are $10 and $7 and are available at the Chiefs Box Office, by calling 680-4008 or online HERE.
The Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation’s Legend at the Ballpark Fundraiser featuring baseball Hall of Famer Andre Dawson will be held before the Saturday game beginning at 5 pm. The event includes dinner at the Pepsi Plaza, silent auction and raffle, the Chiefs game and fireworks for $75 per person. Call 309-692-8110 for more information and to order tickets.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats continues at Corn Stock Theatre beginning at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday), Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $18 for adults & $12 for students 18 & younger and are available at the Corn Stock Theatre Box Office, by phone at 309-676-2196.

James Johann 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 except the Thursday night show and the Friday 10:30 pm show which are $11 or $10 with cash. For more information, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

A day-long Mobile Learning Symposium will be held at Bradley University beginning at 8 am Friday in the Horowitz Auditorium in the Caterpillar Global Communications Center. Admission is $179 and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. The symposium will examine the state of mobile learning design, mobile user experience, mobile technology, and mobile brand advocacy. Register online at bradley.edu/continue/mobile

Take the Old Peoria and the Judge Trolley Tour beginning at 10:30 am on Fridays. The tour leaves from Kelleher’s Irish Pub (located at 619 SW Water Street near State St. in downtown Peoria.
On Saturday, take a Springdale Cemetery/Grandview Drive Trolley Tour beginning at 10:30 am and visit Peoria’s premier scenic drive that winds its way above the beautiful Illinois River valley. The tour leaves from Harp & Thistle (located at 4605 N Prospect Road in Peoria Heights). The cost for each tour is $10. Reservations are recommended. Call 309-673-6000 or click HERE for more information.

The Zac Brown Band has been moved from Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe due to weather forecasts to the Peoria Civic Center Arena on Friday with doors opening at 5 pm. Tickets are general admission and are on sale with general admission seating for $59.50 & $45.50 and are available at all Peoria area Co-Op Records, by phone at 800-514-ETIX and online at www.etix.com and www.jaytv.com

The Friday Night Water Street Fiesta takes place every Friday night between 5 – 10 pm on the 300 block of Water Street. Enjoy Peoria’s riverfront with good food and variety street entertainment while you shop. The street is closed off to accommodate the festival and admission is free.

Live at the Five Spot at the Contemporary Art Center will feature Stephanie Aaron on Friday beginning at 5:30 pm. Admission is $7 for members or $10 for non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6877 or visit www.peoriacac.org

Mike & Joe will take the CEFCU Center Stage at the Landing on the Peoria Riverfront on Friday beginning at 7:30 pm. Admission is $7 at the gate. The Landing bar will also be open. Mike & Joe is one of the most watched cover bands in the Midwest, playing rock, alternative and current hits.

Music and Moonlight on the Bricks featuring Wave (Jazz and Blues) with Paul Weddle on sax, Mike Nellas on guitar, Gary Atkinson on bass, Dan Leahy on Piano, Phil Beale on drums and Steve George on vocals, will take place Friday from 7:30 – 10:30 pm. Admission is $5. Live music, snacks, grilled specialty items and a full cash bar will be available. In the event of rain, activities will be moved indoors.  For more information, call 309-676-0889.

Enjoy a Moonlight Cruise on the Spirit of Peoria on Friday with boarding beginning at 7:30 pm and cruising from 8 – 10 pm with live entertainment and a cash bar. Tickets are $15 per person, $13 for senior citizens and $9 for kids ages 4-12. Call 800-676-8988 or visit http://www.spiritofpeoria.com/cruises/themed/moonlight for more information or to order tickets.

The Peoria RiverFront Market will take place Saturday from 8 am – Noon on the Peoria Riverfront features Illinois grown produce, local meats, cheeses, fresh breads, herbs, and flowers plus a great selection of local art including jewelry, pottery, wood-turned items, candles all handcrafted by local artists and entertainment. Admission is free. For more information, call 309-671-5555 or visit www.peoriariverfront.com

Hi-Infidelity will take the CEFCU Center Stage at the Landing on Saturday at the Peoria Riverfront beginning at 7:30 pm. Admission is $7. The Landing bar will also be open. Chicago’s favorite classic rock cover band will play classic rock hits and modern favorites.

The 31st Annual Moss Avenue Antique & Collectible Sale will be held Saturday from 8 am – 3 pm (rain or shine) and consists of antique & collectible dealers set up in the yards and driveways of historic Moss Ave. from McArthur Hwy to Western Ave. Refreshments will be available on each block.

The Junior League of Peoria will present Pair Up for Health Trail Race Challenge at Wildlife Prairie State Park on Saturday beginning at 8 am. Combining the beauty of the trails at Wildlife Prairie State Park with the challenges of an obstacle course, the 3-mile trail race challenge also features a children’s 1-mile fun run that will start at approximately 9 am. Runners & walkers are welcome. Race day registration will be accepted from 6:45 am – 7:30 am. Participants may register online at http://www.PairUpForHealth.com

Enjoy the well-stocked waters of Lake Davis at Camp Wokanda (located at 620 E Boy Scout Rd. in Chillicothe) during Open Fishing on Saturday from 9 am – Noon. Fish from the shore or rent a canoe. Cost is $5 for a family, $5 for a canoe and $1 per pole.

The Grand Re-Opening of the Peoria Public Library’s Main Branch will be held Saturday beginning at 10 am. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and other dignitaries will be on hand plus there will be a variety of special events, including a dedication ceremony, prize drawings, an art show and other entertainment. For more information, visit peoriapubliclibrary.org or call 309-497-2000.

The River City Bags Classic will take place on Saturday beginning at 11 am in the Le Vieux Carre parking lot across from Kelleher’s Irish Pub and Eatery in downtown Peoria. This is the largest bags tournament the area has ever seen with more than 200 teams from the Peoria area and the Midwest. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Peoria. For more information, visit rivercitybagsclassic.com

Sommerfest will take place beginning at 9 am on Saturday at Hickory Grove Park (located at 12503 Hickory Grove Rd. in Dunlap). This two day event celebrates the beginning of summer German style with German food, soccer, a car cruise-in and live entertainment. Admission is free, however, donations will be accepted to cover the cost of the entertainment. For more details on this event or any other Peoria German-American Society events go to www.peoriagermans.net

The 19th Annual Return to Pimiteoui Pow Wow will be held Saturday and Sunday at Sommer Park (located on Koerner Rd. off Rt. 150 west of the Shoppes of Grand Prairie). It is a gathering of Native and Non-Native Americans from all over the country to sing, dance, and share each other’s company. This is a wholesome family-centered event with free, ample parking and handicap accessibility. Admission is $8 per carload. For up to date information on the programs and the events schedule, visit http://www.peoriapowwow.org/

Enjoy a Tropical Rock & Roll for Your Soul Caribbean-themed Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Peoria Riverboat on Saturday night. There will be cheeseburgers grilled on the dock at 7 pm and the Boat leaves promptly at 8:30 pm to cruise until 10:30 pm. The cost is $35 per person and patrons must be 21 or over to board the boat. For more information, call 800-676-8988 or click HERE to order tickets online.

Comedian Gabriel Iglesias will bring The Fluffy Shop Tour to the Peoria Civic Center Theater on Saturday at 8 pm. Tickets are $34 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

A Community Fest featuring BEC recording artist Jessa Anderson as well as free food, kid’s activities and face painting will take place Sunday from 11 am – 2 pm at Peoria First Free Methodist Church on Sheridan Road across from the Health Department.

The Peoria Municipal Band will perform at the Glen Oak Park Amphitheater on Sunday beginning at 7:30 pm. The Muni Band is directed by Dr. David Vroman. Admission is free.

The Heart of Illinois Senior Games & Fine Arts Festival will be held at the RiverPlex Recreation & Wellness Center (located at 600 NE Water Street in downtown Peoria) featuring paintings, drawings, photography, sculptures, jewelry, quilts, multi-media designs, pottery, metal work, stained glass, cross stitch, woodworking, and much more. Hours are Thursday & Friday, 5 am – 10 pm and Saturday & Sunday from 7 am – 7 pm. There will also be poetry, fiction and non-fiction pieces as well as singing, dancing, instrumentals, drama, reading and storytelling. Pre-registration is required and is $10 for the entire weekend of events.  To register or for more information, call 309-681-2860 or visit www.hoiseniorgames.org

The 2011 Arts in Education Spring Celebration (Brown Bag It) takes place each weekday beginning at 11 am through Friday. Performances and displays take place on three stages at the Peoria County Courthouse Plaza: the Circle, the Monument, and Main and Jefferson. For specific performance dates, visit www.springcelebration.org/calendar.html

All Saints Greek Orthodox Church (located at 1812 N. Prospect Road in Peoria) will host its annual Ethnic Food Festival today (Thursday) through Saturday from 11 am – 8 pm each day. Featuring lamb, chicken, spinach pie, baked fish, Athenian stuffed pork chop & gyros dinners plus an ethnic bake shoppe, admission is free. For more information, call 309-682-5824.

Sky Harbor Steakhouse will present “Pickin On” The Roaring Twenties featuring live Old Time / Ragtime Piano music co-hosted by Ted Lemen and an International assortment of Old Time Piano Players who are in Peoria from the World Championship Old Time Piano Contest Memorial Day Weekend beginning tonight at 5 pm.  Reservations strongly recommended: call 309-674-5532. For more information, click HERE.

The Cemetery Club is a heartwarming comedy about life, love and the pursuit of happiness and continues at the Barn 2 Dinner Theatre in Goodfield through June 12. 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 $30 for Thursdays, $32 for Fridays and Sunday brunch and $34 for Saturdays. For more information, call 309-965-2545 or go to www.barn2.com

Howlin’ with the Wolves will run tonight (Thursday) from 6:30 – 8 pm at Wildlife Prairie State Park. Geared for ages 6 years and older, the cost to attend is $10 for members and $15 for non-members. Family of four with Park membership is $35. For more information or to register, call 309-676-0998, ext. 6758 or visit www.wildlifeprairiestatepark.org
Music and Moonlight on the Bricks will take place Friday from 7:30 – 10:30 pm. Admission is $5. Live music, snacks, grilled specialty items and a full cash bar will be available. In the event of rain, activities will be moved indoors.

The Peoria Chiefs take on Wisconsin beginning at 6:30 pm tonight at O’Brien Field. Tickets are $10 and $7 and are available at the Chiefs Box Office, by calling 309-680-4008 or online HERE.  Season tickets and other ticket packages are also available.

ZZ Top and Lynyrd Skynyrd will perform tonight (Thursday) in the Peoria Civic Center Arena beginning at 7 pm. Tickets are $28, $42.50 and $62.50 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

The Peoria Symphony Orchestra will present the 2011 Illinois New Music Festival this weekend with George Stelluto and John Orfe, Artistic Director with 100 years of music in four days. Tonight (Thursday) beginning at 7:30 pm is Inspirations at the Grand Army of the Republic Building (located at 416 Hamilton Blvd. in Peoria) featuring Kerry Walters, Shirley Salazar, Annette Oh, voice and John Orfe, piano, Stephen Heinemann, clarinet, Carol Wessler, cello.  On Friday beginning at 8 pm is Visions at Trinity Lutheran Church (located at 135 NE Randolph Avenue in Peoria) featuring Marcia Henry Liebenow & Francesca Anderegg, violin, Adriana Ransom & Carol Wessler, cello, David Gresham & Stephen Heinemann, clarinet, Conor Llewellyn Hanick, piano.  And on Saturday beginning at 8 pm is Contrasts at St Joseph Catholic Church (located at 103 S. Richard Pryor Place, in Peoria) featuring John Orfe, piano, Marcia Henry Liebenow & Francesca Anderegg, violin, Adriana Ransom, cello, Stephen Heinemann and David Gresham, clarinet.  Tickets for each performance are $20 for adults, $10 for students and may be purchased by calling 309-671-1096.

Morton Civic Chorus will present Encore 2011 beginning at 7:30 pm tonight (Thursday) – Saturday & at 2 pm on Sunday at the Hartmann Center on the Bradley University campus. Benefiting the Central Illinois Kidney Fund, the chorus is directed by Denise Adams. Tickets are $15 for adults & $12 for senior citizens and are available by calling 309-677-4966 or online at www.artspartners.net

John Evans will perform at Jukebox Comedy Club on Thursday at 8 pm and on Friday & Saturday at 8 pm & 10:30 pm. Tickets are $12 except the Thursday night show and the Friday 10:30 pm show which is $10. For more information, call 309-673-5853 or visit www.jukeboxcomedy.com

The Spirit of Peoria will host “PianoStravaganza Up a Crazy Otto River” starring Johnny Maddox on Friday with boarding at 10:30 am and cruise running from 11 am – 1pm. Admission is $49 and includes a New Orleans buffet and entertainment by Johnny Maddox, one of the leading ragtime piano players of all time. For more information or to order tickets, call 309-637-8000 or visit www.spiritofpeoria.com

The annual Louie Louie Festival, hosted by the Illinois Valley Striders on Friday, signals the beginning of summer at the CEFCU Stage at the Landing on the Peoria Riverfront from 3 – 11 pm. Grab your kazoo, your craziest outfit and enjoy a night of live music for a great cause.

The 37th Annual World Championship Old-Time Piano Playing Contest will be held at the Hotel Pere Marquette on Friday beginning at 5:30 pm, Saturday beginning at 9 am and Sunday beginning at 9:30 am. For a full list of admission prices to the various workshops & events plus more information about the event, visit http://member.tripod.com/~oldtimepiano/

Live at the Five Spot at the Contemporary Art Center will feature Preston Jackson & Friends Friday beginning at 5:30 pm. Admission is $7 for members or $10 for non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6822.
Enjoy Swing Dance at the Contemporary Arts Center on Friday from 8:30 – 9:30 pm for the dance lesson and 9:30 pm – 12:30 am for open dancing to DJ Matt Vasquez. Admission is $3 for CAC Members and $6 for non-members. For more information, call 309-674-6822.

Central Illinois Dueling Pianos presents Howlin’ on Water at the Waterhouse (located at 619 SW Water Street, 2nd Floor, in downtown Peoria) on Friday with doors opening at 6 pm, dinner buffet beginning at 6:30 pm and the show starting at 8 pm. Admission is $35 per person plus tax & gratuity for dinner & the show. Show only seating only available in side section and in the bar for $15 per person. To reserve your seats, call 309-494-9100 or online HERE.

Summer Camp 2011 will take place this weekend at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe featuring nearly 100 different bands performing throughout the 3 day event. For a full line-up of bands, ticket prices, camping information and other information about the event, visit www.summercampfestival.com

At the Migratory Bird Walks on Saturday beginning at 7:30 am, you can search for spring migrants and resident birds of Forest Park with a guide from the Nature Center or Peoria Audubon. Please bring your own binoculars, or you may borrow ours. All levels welcome; no experience required. For more information, call 309-686-3360

The Peoria Zoofest will take place Saturday from 11 am – 3 pm at the Peoria Zoo. At 1 pm the Chinese Alligator will move to her summer exhibit (weather permitting) plus there will be bouncy rides, games, animal encounters and more. Admission is $8.50 for adults, $7.50 for senior citizens, $4.75 for ages 3-12 and free for kids 2 & under. For more information, call 309-686-3365.

The Wine, Art, Balloon & Jazz Festival will take place Saturday from 11 am – 8 pm at Manito’s Memorial Park. With a dozen Illinois wineries, various artists, craftsmen, potters and other artisans, hot air balloons plus a half dozen food vendors, there will also be live jazz music from Joe Metzka & Friends, The Purdue University Jazz Combo and Sally Weisenburg Trio. The $10 entrance fee includes a souvenir wine glass and 10 tasting tickets. For more information, call 309-968-7070.

Mackinaw Valley Vineyard’s 5th Annual Music and International Wine and Beer Festival will be held at the vineyard  on Saturday from 11 am – 11 pm and Sunday from Noon – 6 pm. Admission is $10 per person and the price includes a souvenir wine glass and five tasting tickets, with additional tickets available for $1 each. Kids under 12 are free and ages 12-20 are $5 per person.

Author Jo Fredell Higgins will sign copies of her book, A Song for Cecilia, at Peoria’s G.A.R. Hall (located at 416 Hamilton Boulevard) on Saturday from 1 – 3 pm. The recently published work of historical fiction takes place in Peoria during the 1920s and ’30s

Draft Culture will perform at Kep’s Place in Washington Saturday night beginning at 9 pm. A female fronted rock band that plays music from the 80′s, 90′s plus current tunes, there is no cover charge for the show.

Experience firsthand the daily life of rural Peorians in the mid 19th century at Pioneer Days at Sommer Park on Sunday from 1 – 4 pm (located at 6329 N. Koerner Road in Edwards).   Activities include hand dipping candles, blacksmithing, school lessons, woodworking, chores, pioneer cemetery tours, hayrides and livestock care. This is a wonderful opportunity for scout and youth groups to learn about history. There will be special themes and presentations each month. Call 309-691-8423 for more information.

Memorial Day Ceremonies at the Peoria Riverfront will honor Peoria area veterans. The Memorial Day remembrance service will begin at 10:45 am Monday in Marshall Plaza (under the Gateway Building) and will pay tribute to all of the men and women who have fought for America’s freedom

Peoria County will hold a Memorial Day Observance and Recognition Ceremony on Monday at 1:30 pm at the Peoria County Courthouse War Memorial Plaza, in front of the World War I & II War Memorial Monument.