Good morning, Champaign.

Residents can explore local flower gardens and public spaces for free (offering interactive displays and scenic outdoor fun) across Champaign-Urbana as the season blooms, with spots like Idea Garden at Japan House and Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden available for refreshing outings.

Prairie Crossroads Blues Society of Champaign & Urbana will host its 8th Annual Blues Fest Friday and Saturday, Aug.

7 and 8, at Bunny's Tavern in downtown Urbana. The free event will feature local bands including Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials along with raffle prizes and a guitar giveaway.

Parkland College’s Board of Trustees approved a $186,000 purchase to update the planetarium’s servers and software on Wednesday, with the College Foundation funding the replacement of equipment used since 2018.

Olympian Drive is temporarily closed between Market Street and Apollo Drive due to pavement buckling.

Public Works crews have set a detour on Apollo Drive, Mercury Drive and Market Street while repairs are scheduled once a contractor is available.

Charcuterie Sampling Event

11 AM - 2 PM — Martinelli's Market - Bakery & Deli — No tickets required — Taste an exquisite charcuterie spread featuring local meats and cheeses.

Karaoke Night at The Axe Bar

9 p.m. — The Axe Bar — Free entry — Sing your heart out at a lively karaoke night to kick off your evening.

Music Bingo at Pour Bros

7-9 p.m. — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Free entry — Experience traditional bingo with a musical twist at this lively series hosted by Whaddayaknow?.

R&B Bingo Night

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Hound's Rest — Free entry — Enjoy a night of R&B bingo, music, prizes, and local BIPOC talent.

Junk Journal Workshop

1-3 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Unleash your creativity and enjoy a fun afternoon of junk journaling with Chloe.

Afro Taste & Tell

5-7 p.m. — Martinelli's Market - Bakery & Deli — Free entry — Celebrate South African culture with live music, storytelling, and delightful desserts.

Art in the Parks: Nature Journaling

5-6:30 p.m. — Mattis Park — Free entry — Capture the beauty of nature through art with guidance from an illustrator and nature enthusiast.

Pool Party at Crystal Lake Park

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Crystal Lake Park Family Aquatic Center — Free entry — Enjoy a splash-tastic evening of swimming and socializing with friends and family.

Saturday Morning Goat Hike

9:30-10:30 a.m. — Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery — $20 per person — Experience a guided goat hike with cheese tasting at the charming farm.

Karaoke Night at The Axe Bar

9 p.m. — The Axe Bar — Free entry — Sing your heart out at a fun-filled karaoke night.