Good morning, Champaign.

Residents in Champaign-Urbana are encouraged to use blue pumpkins this Halloween as a sign for a friendly trick-or-treat environment for children with autism—this symbol helps families with special needs and allergies experience a more inclusive celebration.

A recent GasBuddy survey found gas prices in Illinois dropped 9.8 cents per gallon over the past week—now averaging $3.18 per gallon at 4,378 stations.

Prices are 26 cents lower than last month and 28.3 cents below last year—saving drivers money.

Central Illinois farmers are facing a worsening drought that may cut yields by 5-10% at Cass County farms & lower grain quality due to dry conditions.

Illinois State Climatologist Dr. Trent Ford said months of above-average rain are needed to reverse the damage & help protect water supplies and local power plants.

The University of Illinois Extension and SCARCE will host Pumpkin Smash compost events in early November to recycle pumpkins and reduce greenhouse gas emissions & water waste.

Since 2014, the program has composted over 1,250 tons of pumpkins, and local residents are asked to drop off their pumpkins free of non-organic materials at designated sites.

An on-field altercation broke out 23 seconds before halftime last week during the game against Peoria Richwoods, leaving Urbana High with only five eligible players and risking suspensions if any player stepped onto the field during the fight.

The team now awaits an IHSA review before Friday’s final home game—if enough players are cleared, they will take the field.

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.

Comedy Open Mic Night

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Try your hand at comedy or enjoy local talent every Thursday night.

Wood Chips Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — The Canopy Club — Tickets required — Experience captivating pop melodies and lyrical artistry from Wood Chips live.

Flannel Fest

11 AM – 6 PM — West Side Park — Free entry — Rock your flannel and enjoy lumberjack shows, contests, and nonstop entertainment.