Holiday Happenings
Alternative Holiday Fair Fri., Dec. 6, 4-8pm and Sat., Dec. 7, 9am-2pm. International fair-trade toys, games, desk accessories, musical instruments, baskets, jewelry, housewares and unique holiday items. Baked goods. International foods for dinner on Friday and lunch on Saturday. Free admission. First Church of the Brethren, 2115 Yale Boulevard, 217-685-1610.
Candlelight Tour Sat., Dec. 7, 5-8pm. Period decorations will show how the holiday was celebrated in the 19th century. Light refreshments. 217-481-4397. Free. Clayville, Pleasant Plains, Route 125, 217-572-4984.
Caroling at the Carillon Sun., Dec. 8, 4pm. Sing holiday carols along with the sounds of the carillon. Keep warm by the bonfire. The Trinity Wind Ensemble will provide seasonal interludes. Cookies, hot chocolate and a visit from Santa. Free. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.
Christmas Cookie Walk and Bazaar Sat., Dec. 7, 9am-1pm. Swedish Tea Ring and festive cookies/candies, crafts and gifts. Children’s craft activities. Refreshments and lunch served. Live entertainment. Free admission. Free admission. Sherman United Methodist Church, Sherman, 2336 E. Andrew Road, 217-496-2338 Ext.5.
Christmas in Petersburg Sat., Dec. 7, 9am-4pm. Shop, dine and see historic Petersburg. Free carriage rides 1-3pm with a donation to local food pantry or pet shelter. Vendors at PORTA school 8am-3pm. Santa Visit 11am-1pm. Home Tours $12 or $10 in advance. Petersburg Square, Petersburg, N. Seventh St. at W. Douglas Ave.
Design Ideas Holiday Store Fridays, Saturdays, 10am-8pm and Sundays, 11am-6pm through Dec. 15. Stocking stuffers, home decorations and items to help organize the home. shop.designideas.net. Shop ‘n Save, 1755 Wabash Ave, 217-753-3081.
Downtown Holiday Walk Wednesdays, Saturdays. A variety of events through the season through Dec. 21. downtownspringfield.org. Downtown Springfield.
Franciscan Nativity Festival Fri-Sun, Dec. 6-8, 2-7pm. Saint Francis of Assisi’s Feast of Feasts visualized through more than 100 nativity sets, each with unique history and significance. Free. Chiara Center, 4875 Laverna Road, 217-523-0901.
Governor’s Mansion Holiday Open House Sat., Dec. 7, 1-4pm. Reservations not required. Illinois Governor’s Mansion, 410 E. Jackson St., 217-782-6450.
Holiday Craft Fair Sat., Dec. 7, 9am-3pm. Shop for unique and handcrafted items, home-baked goods, woven items, pottery, wood work, bead work, jewelry and wooden Christmas trees. Jubilee Farm, 6760 Old Jacksonville Road, 217-787-6927.
Holiday Walk Sat., Dec. 7, 1-4pm. Listen to carols and explore the home decorated for the season. Free. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Iles House Candlelight Tours Sat., Dec. 7, 5-8pm. Luminaria will light the outside of the home while candle and lamp light will be inside. Live music, spiced cider and cookies will be served. Elijah Iles House, 628 S. Seventh St., 217-492-5929.
Jaycees Holiday Lights Parade Sat., Dec. 7, 5:30pm. Route from Horace Mann parking lot is Jefferson to Fifth to Monroe to Sixth to Washington. Downtown Springfield.
Pre-Kwanzaa Extravaganza Sat., Dec. 7, 10am-4pm. Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Illinois, 300 S. 15th St., 544-0548.
Winterland Holiday Zoo Lights Fridays-Sundays, 5-9pm. Stroll through the zoo as you admire the light displays. Enjoy some hot beverages or fresh sweets while you warm up near the bonfire. There will be caroling, performances and, of course, a visit from the big guy. $7 adults, $5 children 3-12, age 2 and under are free. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-585-1821.
First Sunday Holiday Bazaar Sun., Dec. 8, 8am-4pm. Mimosas on the wine patio, samples of dips, sausages and sweet treats, music and fantastic holiday finds. APL will have adoptable pets and food vendors will be present. $4 adults, 12 and under free. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-725-8047.
The Handmades Sales 2019 Fri., Dec. 6, 2-7pm and Sat., Dec. 7, 10am-5pm. Shop for handmade holiday gifts. A curated show features the work of over 35 local and regional artists. Free. The State House Inn, 101 E. Adams St., 847-533-7829.
Theater & Comedy
Beauty & The Beast Comedy Show Fri., Dec. 6, 8-9:30pm. This show is Rated R. Featuring Joe Lancey and Ms. Charlie Hester. $12.50. Mason City Limits Comedy Club, Mason City, 114 E. Chestnut St., 217-482-5233.
Chris Speyrer & Friends Sat., Dec. 7, 7-8:30pm. With Kathy Brennan, Al Nimpson and Zach Boblitt.. $12.50. Mason City Limits Comedy Club, Mason City, 114 E. Chestnut St., 217-482-5233.
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Dec. 6-7, 8pm and Sun., Dec. 8, 2pm. A beloved American holiday classic, the story of idealistic George Bailey comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. Springfield Theatre Centre, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Larry the Cable Guy Thu., Dec. 5, 7:30pm. The show features new material and is part of a tour that is leading up to the taping of his new comedy special. $39+. uis.edu. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
“Ragin Cajun” John Morgan Fri., Dec. 6, 7:30 & 9:30pm. $15 and $17. Donnie B’s Comedy Club, 3455 Freedom Dr., 217-391-JOKE.
Special Music Events
Amazing Alleluias Fri., Dec. 6, 7:30pm. Soprano Awet Andemicael. Tickets at ilsymphony.org. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 217-528-4311.
Appalachian Christmas Quartet Fri., Dec. 6, 7pm. An evening of traditional Christmas music. Free. West Side Christian Church, 2850 Cider Mill Lane, 793-2800.
Christmas Around Europe Sun., Dec. 8, 7pm. Featuring Christmas music with rich European roots presented by Blackburn College Choir and Blackburn Voices. Free. Blackburn College, Carlinville, 700 College Ave., 854-3231.
Christmas on the Hilltop Sat., Dec. 7, 7:30pm. Presented by the Illinois College choirs and wind ensemble.. Free. Illinois College Rammelkamp Chapel, Jacksonville, 1101 W. College Ave., 217-245-3000.
An Evening with Johnnie Owens and Josie Lowder Thu., Dec. 5, 8pm. Local singer Johnnie Owens and his musician friends will entertain with an evening of jazz, featuring special guest Josie Lowder. $18 adults, $16 senior, $16 student. Hoogland Center for the Arts Club Room, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Old State Capitol Holiday Music Performances Sat., Dec. 7, 2:30pmOld State Capitol Chorale. Hosted by the Ill. Dept. of Natural Resources. Free. Old State Capitol, 1 Old State Capitol Plaza, 217-785-7960.
It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year Dec. 6-Nov. 7, 7pm. Presented by the Land of Lincoln Barbershop Chorus. Everyone 100 years old and older get in free. $10-$18. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Martina McBride Fri., Dec. 6, 8pm. A multiple Grammy-nominated country music icon. $39.50+. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Mary Bryant Choir Fri., Dec. 6, 11:30am. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
Dance
Dance for Hope Fridays. $8 per person. Normandy Hill Plaza, 3111 Normandy Road, Suite 104, 217-522-9106.
Art & Architecture
Christmas Open House and Art Exhibit Sat., Dec. 7, 1-4pm. Celebrate the season and view works by local artists. Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum, 1440 Monument Ave., 217-391-6323.
Evergreen Wreath-Making Workshops Sat., Dec. 7, 9am. Bring pruning shears and any custom decorations for your wreaths. Plant materials, wreath frames and wrie will be provided. Ages 18+. Pre-registration and prepayment are required. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Gingerbread House Holiday Workshop Sat., Dec. 7, 1-4pm. Decorate pre-made houses with assorted candies and frostings. Advance tickets are $15 members, $20 non. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Glass Paperweight Workshop Tue., Dec. 10, 6-9pm. With resident glassblower Mario Clarke. $45 members, $55 non. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Holiday Art Show Sat., Dec. 7, 5-8pm. Enjoy cookies, hot chocolate, coffee and other refreshments and snacks while you shop.. free. The Pharmacy Gallery and Art Space, 623 E. Adams St., (801) 810-9278.
Holiday Walk Evening Tours Wednesdays, 5:15, 6:30 & 7pm through Dec. 19. The house, built between 1902 and 1904, has more than 400 pieces of specially made art glass and original furnishings. Reservations are required. 217-782-6776. Dana-Thomas House, 301 E. Lawrence Ave., 217-782-6776.
Film & Television
F & I Film Series: Temple Grandin Fri., Dec. 6, 7-9pm. The story of a woman who refused to let her disorder limit her true potential. Adapted from her own writings. Free. UIS Brookens Auditorium, 1 University Plaza, 217-206-4762.
Peaceable Kingdom: The Journey Home Tue., Dec. 10, 6:30-8pm. An award-winning documentary that gives a rare glimpse into both the moral struggles of farmers and the emotional lives of farm animals. Sponsored by the Springfield Vegetarian Association. Free. Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh St., 217-546-9171.
Children’s Corner
Animals in the Snow Story Time Tue., Dec. 10, 10-11am. Some animals migrate in the winter, others hibernate and some just like to play in the snow. Learn more about animals in the winter with stories, a craft and animals from our collection.. $5 adults ages 19-64. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-6044.
Busy Elves Workshop Sat., Dec. 7, 10-11:30am. Make a holiday craft and treat along with playing seasonal games. Early registration is recommended. Ages 3-5. Washington Park Preschool, 1400 Williams Blvd., 217-546-3970.
Holly Jolly Saturday Sat., Dec. 7, 10am-7:30pm. Christmas-themed activities all day. Special guests will be by for other activities throughout the day. Open late after the downtown Springfield holiday parade. Free with general admission. Free with general admission. Kidzeum of Health and Science Children’s Museum, 412 E. Adams St., 217-971-4435.
Parent’s Night Out Sat., Dec. 7, 5-10pm. Need to finish Christmas shopping or just need a night away? Bring your children for an evening of games and fun. Dinner included. Call to register. saintaloysius.org. $20.00 first child. St. Aloysius School, 2125 N. 21st St., 544-4553.
The Polar Express Fri., Dec. 6, 6pm, Sat., Dec. 7, 6pm and Sun., Dec. 8, 2pm. Everyone can wear their pajamas and enjoy hot chocolate and a cookie while watching the movie, followed by a visit from Santa. Discounted advance tickets. 217-691-7229. Arlee Theater, Mason City, 139 S. Main St., 217-482-9999.
Winter Wonderland Super Saturday Sat., Dec. 7, 11am-3pm. Discover how animals adapt to the change in the seasons through a museum search, build your own snowman, get creative with wintery art and more. $5 adults ages 19-64. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-6044.
Nature, Science & Environment
Winter Holiday Floral Show Saturdays, Sundays, 12-5pm and Mondays-Fridays, 12-4pm. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Lectures & Meetings
Alateen and Al-Anon Sundays, 6:30pm. Two separate group meetings that take place at the same time and location, but in different rooms. 217-502-6777. spi-alanon.weebly.com. Real Life Church, 2701 Hermitage Rd.
Springfield Breakfast Optimist Club Fridays, 7am. Visitors are welcome. 217-546-5021. Peace Lutheran Church, 2800 W. Jefferson St., 217-546-7646.
Bulletin Board
American Red Cross Open House Thu., Dec. 5, 5-7pm. Come check out the new home of the American Red Cross and hear how you can help out in your community by volunteering. RSVP.redcross.org. American Red Cross, 769 South Durkin Drive, 217-610-8004.
Improv Workshop Fri., Dec. 6, 6-8pm. Led by Ryan Byers. The first half will be learning what to do and getting comfortable. The second half will be putting what you learned into action and setting up some scenarios in which to improv. Registration required. Ages 18+. Free. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce, 217-483-2713.
Mothers, Daughters, Wives: Tracing Female Lines Thu., Dec. 5, 2-3:30pm. Part of the Genealogy Webinar and Discussion Series. Judy Russell, will discuss how finding the women in our family can be challenging, but not impossible.. Free. Chatham Area Public Library, Chatham, 600 E. Spruce, 217-483-2713.
Sex Addicts Anonymous Mondays, Thursdays, 6-7pm. A 12-step meeting for those seeking freedom from addictive or compulsive sexual behavior. Confi dentiality assured. Email [email protected] or call 217-306-7335 for meeting location.
Springfield Watch and Clock Show Sat., Dec. 7, 11am-2pm. A great opportunity to buy, sell or simply look and learn about mechanical clocks and watches. Have fun and meet new people. Free and open to the public. Knights of Columbus 364, 2200 S. Meadowbrook Road, 217-787-2360.
A Touch of Grace at Christmas Luncheon Wed., Dec. 11, 11am-12:45pm. Speaker Nancy Grace from Forsyth. Entertainment by the FORG Barbershop Quartet. Reservations and. cancellations by Sat., Dec. 7. There is also an evening dinner. $15.00. Northfield Inn, Suites and Conference Center, 3280 Northfield Dr., 217-691-8883 or 217-303-9768.
Food & Drink
Annual Cookie Walk Sat., Dec. 7, 8am-1pm. Complimentary drinks will be available and carryout help, if needed. Homemade Candies $8/lb and cookies $7/lb. Third Presbyterian Church, 1030 N. Seventh St., 217-528-0457.
Cookie Walk Sat., Dec. 7, 8-11am. $7 per pound. First Congregational Church, 2100 Bates Ave., 217-546-7170.
Holly Fair and Bake Sale Sat., Dec. 7, 10am-3pm. Gyros, Italian beef, vegetable soup, spinach pie, baklava and more. Free admission. St. Anthony’s Hellenic Orthodox Church, 1600 S. Glenwood Ave., 217-522-7010.
Madrigal Dinner Sat., Dec. 7, 6:30pm. Renaissance and Christmas music, a skit by the jesters and a full meal. Adults $15, students and seniors $12, children 5 and under $5. Lutheran High School, 3500 W. Washington St., 217-546-6363.
Terra Madre Day Tue., Dec. 10, 6-8pm. Terra Madre Day brings together all who envision a food system that supports local economies, respects the environment, biodiversity, taste and tradition. Please bring a food, drink or seed to share. Hosted by Slow Food Springfield. Free. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-553-9246.
Faith & Philosophy
A Course in Miracles Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Road, 217-585-9550.
Finding the Pathway to Unity Fri., Dec. 6, 6:30-8pm. Presentation and discussion. Light refreshments and fellowship follow. Free. Springfield Baha’i Center, 1131 S. Eighth St., 217-546-9171.
Peaceful Moments Sun., Dec. 8, 4:30-6:30pm. De-stress with inspirational readings and meditation. Refreshments. Free. Springfield Baha’i Center, 1131 S. Eighth St., 217-546-9171.
Health
Community Yoga Mondays, 5:15-6:30pm. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a mat. A few mats are available to borrow. Open to any adult and all skill levels, but the class is geared toward beginners. Free, but donations to the instructor are welcome. Family Service Center, 710 E. Vine St., 217-528-8406.
Educational Program: Dementia Conversations Tue., Dec. 10, 6:30pm. Topics covered in the program include going to the doctor, deciding when to stop driving and making legal and financial plans. Free. Jacksonville Public Library, Jacksonville, 201 W. College Ave., 217-243-5435.
Sports & Fitness
Capital City Showcase Sat., Dec. 7, 9am. Seven high school basketball games. Tickets are $6 at the BOS Center in advance or at the door. Additional fees added to all tickets purchased online at ticketmaster.com. Bank of Springfield Center, 1 Convention Center Plaza, 800-745-3000.
