Good morning, Champaign.

Community groups are hosting free prom dress giveaways and formalwear donation events in Champaign.

The C-U event is open today (3–7 p.m.) at the Traction Building, while Uniting Pride will host a Queer Prom for youth on May 8 (6–9 p.m.).

Champaign-Urbana’s cherry blossoms are nearing peak bloom at the University of Illinois Arboretum, offering a scenic setting for sakura viewing this spring.

Visitors should check Japan House updates for guidance — the adjacent tea garden is closed due to construction.

On Monday, Apr. 13, construction begins on south Mattis Avenue from Windsor Road to Curtis Road in Champaign.

The $8.5M project by William Charles Construction will upgrade pavement, lighting, bike lanes and close the corridor until Dec. 4.

After the Illini clinched a Final Four berth Saturday, Campus Ink and NIL Store began printing t-shirts and other merchandise for local fans in Champaign — over 5,000 pieces were ordered online in the first 24 hours.

Retail shops on Green Street remain busy with record sales.

After a 71-59 win over Iowa, the Illini (their first Final Four run since 2005) returned home Sunday as more than a hundred fans greeted them at Willard Airport in Savoy, and head coach Brad Underwood thanked supporters while the team prepares for Saturday’s Final Four game in Indiana.

Comedy Open Mic Night with Kristen Unakis

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Menu prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with local comedians and delicious food in downtown Champaign.

Eggstravaganza Egg Hunt

10 AM – 12 PM — West Side Park — Free entry — Hop on down for one of the largest egg hunts in C-U and bring your basket!

KPOP Universe Tribute Show

6:30-8 p.m. — I Hotel & Illinois Conference Center — Check event for pricing — Experience a dynamic live K-POP tribute show featuring professional dancers and authentic performances.

Rug Event in Champaign, IL

April 9-12 — Ten Thousand Villages — Free entry — Discover exquisite hand-knotted rugs crafted under fair trade standards featuring styles from Tribal to Persian.

Dueling Pianos Event

7-10 p.m. — Yellow & Co. Events — Full bar available — Experience an interactive night of music with Twilight Tunes as two pianists battle it out with your favorite songs.

Beatles Night 2026

3-7 p.m. — The City Center — Free entry — Experience an afternoon of classic Beatles tunes while supporting a great cause for kids.

Comedy Open Mic Night

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter led by local comedic talent Kristen Unakis.

Spring Explosion 2026

10 AM – 12 PM — Champaign County Fair Association — Admission details not specified — Enjoy the thrilling demolition derby action brought back by Derby Icons.

The Table of Showbread Bible Study

6:30 AM – 9:00 PM — Come & See Event Center — Free registration — Delve into the significance of the Table of Showbread and its representation of God's provision.

Lindy Hoppers Swing Dance

7-9 p.m. — Hamilton Walker's — Free entry — Enjoy a lively swing dance evening with music and no partner required.