Good morning, Champaign.

Illinois gasoline prices dropped by 8.4 cents per gallon over the past week, now averaging $3.28 per gallon according to a GasBuddy survey of 4,378 stations—prices ranged from $2.66 to $4.79, reflecting a $2.13 difference.

Illinois students, staff, and alumni donated blood during the homecoming weekend drive on Sept 24 as part of the ‘We Give Blood’ contest organized by Abbott, the Big Ten Conference, and the American Red Cross—helping the University collect over 1,800 donations in its bid for a million-dollar grant. The drive aimed to inspire lifelong donation habits among younger donors to ease national blood shortages.

A local guide shows the best spots to see fall colors in Champaign-Urbana and East Central Illinois.

The list features parks—like the University of Illinois Quad and Arboretum—and neighborhood areas that families can enjoy as autumn arrives.

Comedy Open Mic Night

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Showcase your comedic talent or enjoy laughs at this weekly open mic night in downtown Champaign.

Chili Cook-off at Dandy Hound

6-8 p.m. — Dandy Hound — Ticket purchase required — Savor delicious chili samples while voting for your favorite recipe at this community cook-off.

MasterChef All Stars Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience culinary magic with your favorite MasterChef stars and thrilling live competitions.

Halloween Fun Fest

5-7 p.m. — Market Place Shopping Center — Free entry — Enjoy a spooky evening with family-friendly activities and trick-or-treating.

The Golden Girls Live

7-8:30 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Tickets required — Laugh along as the Golden Girls return with an all-new show featuring Sophia's wild adventures.

Friday Night Music Sessions

8-11 p.m. — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Free entry — Enjoy live music from SASS while sipping craft beer in a lively atmosphere.

MANIA: The ABBA Tribute

7:30-9 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Tickets available — Celebrate the iconic music of ABBA in this lively tribute concert.

Rainy Day Miracle Book Signing

3-5 p.m. — Champaign Public Library — Free entry — Meet authors Matt and Jill Cheatham and hear their inspiring story of healing and faith.

October Game Night: Marketability — CUDO Plays

6:30-9 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Connect with fellow gamers and explore the marketability of your favorite games.

Richard Thomas - Champaign

7:30-9 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Check venue for pricing — Emmy-winning actor Richard Thomas brings Mark Twain to life in this celebrated performance.