Good morning, Champaign.

Holiday parades and tree lighting ceremonies will take place in Champaign-Urbana and nearby towns from November 11 to December 13, with events including the Tuscola Veterans Day Parade at 11:00 a.m. on November 11, the downtown Champaign Center Parade of Lights on November 29 marking 25 years of festive cheer, and a Tolono holiday event on December 13 — each offering themed floats, special activities, and free treats for families.

At the 13th annual Cupcake 5K in Champaign, runners came together to raise funds for local recreation while Lorie Coates honored her late friend Carla by running with a stick decorated with Carla’s race number, shirt and a small tutu—she joined family members in tutus to pay her tribute. About 500 runners completed the race and received a cupcake at the finish line.

Holiday lights will transform Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden at Lake of the Woods in Mahomet for the fourth annual Night Lights event starting November 28, with displays every Friday and Saturday from 4—8 p.m.—a special encore on December 24 adds extra charm and admission is free.

GasBuddy data shows that the national gasoline price dropped by 1.4 cents to $2.99 per gallon — down 14.8 cents from a month ago — and Illinois drivers now pay $3.17 per gallon, a decrease of 4.8 cents from last week.

Illinois Comprehensive Numeracy Plan Listening Tour - Champaign

4-6 p.m. — University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — Free entry — Contribute to the Illinois Comprehensive Numeracy Plan to enhance math education for all students.

Comedy Open Mic Night at The Space

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Test your comedic skills or enjoy fresh talent at this weekly open mic event.

The Empty Bowls Supper and Saber Showcase

5:30-7:30 p.m. — The High School of St. Thomas More — Suggested donation $15 adults, $10 children — Savor soup and bread while enjoying performances at this community benefit event.

Jake and Jackson Winter Matinee Concert

2-5 p.m. — Pour Bros. Craft Taproom — Free entry — Experience a winter afternoon filled with live music and good vibes.

Mannheim Steamroller Concert

7 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Tickets not available at this time — Experience the unique blend of classical and modern sounds with Mannheim Steamroller's festive performance.

Comedy Open Mic Night

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Laugh along or try your hand at comedy during a fun-filled open mic night.

The Art of Business Writing Workshop

2-10 a.m. — HQ — Cost included with registration — Enhance your business writing skills to craft clearer and more impactful documents.

Comedy Open Mic Night

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Test your comedic skills or enjoy local talent at this fun weekly event.

The Tabernacle of Moses Interactive Workshop

3:30-6 p.m. — 1304 Anthony Dr, Champaign, IL — Free entry — Explore the rich symbolism and spiritual significance of the Tabernacle of Moses in an engaging workshop.

Open Playtest: Enrichment Focus

6:30-9 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Develop your game through playtesting and feedback in a collaborative environment.