FESTIVAL | Fired up

Old Capitol Blues and BBQs returns to downtown Springfield, Aug. 24 and 25, with sizzling music and munchies. The BBQ competition is smokin’ with rib, pulled pork, brisket, open and dessert categories. Vendor yummies include ribs, pulled pork, pork chops, brisket, rib-eyes, chicken wings, barbecue nachos, kabobs, potato salad, slaw, fried green tomatoes and peach cobbler. Food and drink tickets are $1 each. You must have a wristband to get tickets. Enjoy family time Saturday 1-6 p.m. at South Old State Capitol Plaza with face painting, balloon art, crafts, karaoke, “Ham It Up” Karaoke, Elvis Himselvis (2 p.m.), Brian the Juggler (3 p.m.), Magic by Jim Percy (4 p.m.) and Michael Mayosky, Spinning Canvas Artist (5 p.m.). The Illinois Central Blues Club Challenge kicks off at noon the same day with headliner Maria Muldaur at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online until noon, Friday, Aug. 24, at www.downtownspringfield.org or at the gates, Fourth and Washington, Sixth and Washington, Fifth and Adams, and Fifth and Jefferson.