Good morning, Champaign.

Stephens Family YMCA in Champaign announced Tuesday plans for a 50,000 sqft expansion with land donated by Carle Health.

The project will add youth areas, wellness facilities, classrooms, and therapy spaces, though no timetable has been set.

SNC Construction closed the westbound lane on Chalmers Street between Fifth and Sixth for an emergency sewer repair.

The eastbound lane remains open and work is scheduled to finish by 3 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12, weather permitting.

Champaign City Council approved incentives Tuesday night to attract a new Hilton hotel on North Neil Street, a $38 million, seven-story, 144-room project that will open by early 2028 & is expected to generate over $500,000 in annual revenue.

Parkland College and Unit 4 announced a new Early Transfer Academy program that will let select high school students earn a diploma and a General Education Core Curriculum certificate by summer 2026.

The four-year pathway includes AP, dual credit, and college courses.

Fifth Street between Daniel Street and Chalmers Street has been closed to through traffic for emergency sewer repairs by SNC Construction.

Property access remains open, and the repair is expected to finish at 3 p.m. Friday (weather permitting).

Champaign officials approved a partnership Tuesday for a $38 million Graduate hotel project downtown — offering 144 rooms, a restaurant and retail space with a collegiate theme.

The project will add 56 full-time and 4 part-time jobs, with construction starting in spring 2026 and opening set for 2027.

Comedy Open Mic Night

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughs and possibly take the stage at this weekly open mic event.

Sinfonia da Camera: Winter Fantasia

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Virginia Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a winter-themed concert led by the renowned Maestro Ian Hobson and a professional chamber orchestra.

Lindy Hoppers Swing Dance Night

7-9 p.m. — Hamilton Walker's — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of swing dancing with great music and no partner needed.

Game Night - Visual Communication

6:30-9 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Unwind with fellow game lovers while exploring games that excel in visual communication.

It's In Your Head Breathwork Class

6-7 p.m. — Plant Mode — All sales final — Experience a calming breathwork session to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity.

Comedy Open Mic Night

8-10 p.m. — The Space — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughter and maybe even take the stage for some comedic fun.

Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer

6-7 p.m. — Orpheum Champaign — $27 — Experience iconic Hans Zimmer scores performed by a string quartet under candlelight in a magical setting.

Ugly Sweater Party & Fundraiser

10 p.m. - 1 a.m. — Neil St. Blues — Donations at the door — Get festive in your ugliest sweater while supporting local teens in need.

Open Playtest on Visual Communication

6:30-9 p.m. — Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana — Free entry — Engage in playtesting focused on visual communication and provide feedback on various games.

PMP Certification Classroom Training

9 AM – 5 PM — 206 N Randolph St 2nd Floor, Champaign, IL — Early Bird pricing available — Prepare for your CAPM® certification with 32 hours of intensive classroom training and real-world examples.