Good morning, Champaign.

A fire struck a two-story apartment building in Rantoul on Wednesday at 1 p.m., leaving five families homeless and prompting local agencies (American Red Cross, Rantoul Community Service Center, Salvation Army, and Seek and Find Ministries) to provide immediate support as the building was condemned pending repairs.

Champaign businesses will get new marketing tips from 2024 Paris Olympian Owens at a free workshop on Thursday, Feb.

5 from noon to 1 p.m. at EnterpriseWorks in Research Park & Owens, founder of DapUp, will explain how to boost sales with trusted community voices.

Champaign Unit 4 held a special school board meeting Wednesday evening in downtown Champaign where board members discussed keeping superintendent finalist details private, prompting community complaints about the meeting's short notice and small setting.

The board noted plans for a private dinner interview and scheduled its next meeting for Jan 26.

Families in Champaign can explore a new guide listing indoor play options for bad weather, featuring venues such as Stephens Family YMCA (pass available), Leonhard Recreation Center and The Treehouse that offer fun activities with varying fees.

PineappleFest 2026

11 AM – 12 AM — Esquire Lounge — RSVP required — Celebrate PineappleFest with vendors, food, music, and drinks all day.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Concert

7:30-10 p.m. — Krannert Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the eloquence of Berlioz, Beethoven, and Sibelius performed by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

2026 Illinois Agricultural Summit

10 AM – 4 PM — I Hotel & Illinois Conference Center — $50 — Explore the premier agricultural event in East Central Illinois hosted by the Illinois Agribusiness Network.

Mental Wellness Workshop

8 AM - 12 PM — Cityview Banquet & Meeting Center — CEUs available for a fee — Explore innovative ways to enhance mental wellness through music and art.

Daddy Daughter Dance

6-8 p.m. — Events at Refinery — Tickets available — Enjoy a delightful evening of dancing, games, and a balloon drop while capturing memories in the photo booth with your special little one.

Megan Wren and Friends Concert

9-11:30 p.m. — The Space — $10 cover — Enjoy an evening with the iconic Megan Wren performing alongside her friends in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Home Improvement Series: How to Hang Things

6-7:30 p.m. — Plant Mode — Ticket purchase required — Gain practical skills for hanging items safely and confidently in your home.

My Neighbor Totoro Screening

7:00 – 8:15 PM — Virginia Theatre — Cost info not provided — Experience the beloved animated classic by Hayao Miyazaki that captures the wonder of childhood adventures.