FRIDAY, July 21st
The Acme Principle w/ Jesse w. Johnson and Wolf Tree, Cowboy Monkey, 9 pm, $7, 21+
Locals The Acme Principle are back at it again this weekend, folks. There’s nothing quite like being able to sit out on Cowboy Monkey’s patio, have a couple of beers (and maybe some tacos) and then transition it on inside for a solid local band (and more beer).
Plus, just look at that poster. It’s awesome, isn’t it? (BH)
Outside at the Research Park, First Street and St. Mary’s Road, 6:30 p.m., free
This popular event, sponsored by Krannert, returns this Friday evening with a host of activities and vendors. The acts will feature the duo Mank ‘n Sass (acoustic funk and blues) and the Elvin Bishop Big Fun Trio (blues and R&B). In addition to music, there will be a Green Fair, children’s activities, a bike raffle, and several food truck options. It’s free (except for food) and family friendly and will surely be a fun community event. (JM) Photo from Facebook
Dan Durley with Sleeping Okami, Crofton Coleman, and Maddy Marsan, The Canopy Club, 9 p.m., $8 and 18+
Dan Durley from The 92s makes an appearance at The Canopy Club this Friday night. Durley will be accompanied by three local acts, Sleeping Okami, Crrofton Coleman, and Maddy Marsan. Durely is a U of I alumni, so come make him feel at hime. (RG)
SATURDAY, July 22nd
Check out Hopscotch Bakery + Market, 802 West John Street, Champaign, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., prices vary
Hopscotch Bakery has opened! If you haven’t already seen the photos, check them out here. This week’s soft opening might alter the hours some, so check Facebook for specifics. Otherwise, grab your wallet and your appetite, and pick up some delicious treats and local cheese and beautiful flowers and cute little knick knacks. Photo by Justine Bursoni (JH)
Royal Vibes at Hammerhead Coffee, 608 E. University, 1-2 p.m., free
I’ll be totally honest — all I know of Royal Vibes is what I heard on a WCIA segment, and I’ve only been to Hammerhead Coffee once. But I very much enjoyed the coffee, and Todd Thorstenson has an ear for the local musics. So give yourself an excuse to try out the new pourover place in town, and scout some up-and-comers. Sounds like a good start to a lazy Saturday. (RK)
Demolition Derby, Champaign County Fairgrounds, 6:30 p.m., $5 gate admission, $10 grandstand admission
Ah the fair. Some love it, some hate it. I’m indifferent. But I’ve always loved a Demolition Derby. It’s loud and I have never really completely understood the point of it, but there’s just something about watching cars smash into each other that’s oddly entertaining. While you’re there, you might as well partake in some deliciously unhealthy fair food. I’m partial to the Pronto Pup stand. Hands down best corn dogs, plus they have lemon shake ups. (JM) Photo from Facebook
Urbana Saturday Night Sampler, Sipyard, 7:30 p.m., free
Sipyard partners with Goldstein to bring you many different types of local performance and visual art. Sipyard will as always be providing tasty adult beverages as a long list of performances, 11 to be exact, take place in their space. The entire family is welcome to attend, but save the drinks for the above 21 crowd. (RG)
MC Rota’s Neutotica Release Party, The Canopy Club, 18+, 9 pm, $8
If you’ve been following local hip hop over the last year or so, I’m sure you’ve seen MC Rota’s name pop up a time or two. Whether it be participating in cyphers, performing at The Great Cover-Up or hitting the stage with Rogue Tendency, Rota has made his name known in the greater canon of C-U hip-hop. This Saturday, he’s releasing his Neurotica project, aided by an A-list lineup of support. If you enjoy beats and rhymes, The Canopy Club is where you need to be on Saturday. (BH)
SUNDAY, July 23rd
Tea Tasting, Walnut Street Tea Company, 115 South Walnut Street, Champaign, 2 to 4 p.m., free
Walnut Street Tea Co is hosting a this tea tasting open house, and will have a bunch of tea for sampling, including some teas that are not yet available for purchase. There will also be some chocolates for sampling. The final tasting schedule will be posted here, so be sure to check back for the specifics. Photo from Facebook (JH)
Matinee-watch Seussical the musical, Harold & Jean Miner Theatre at Parkland College, Champaign, 2 p.m., $14 or less.
Readers may remember that I love me a matinee, and watching kids recite and sing Doctor Seuss type poetry after a nice brunch is probably how I’ll be spending my Sunday afternoon. You get a chance to support the arts, encourage young people, and you don’t have to spend prime hangout time to do it. I know from experience that some of these young actors are already talented, and only going to get better with time. Grab your first chance to see them before they get cocky. (RK)
———
All event information is accurate to the best of our abilities, but sometimes we make mistakes and sometimes event information, times, prices, etc., change after we look them up. Whenever possible, we’ve provided a link to the original event page; you should always double-check the source before you make any firm plans. Thanks for your understanding.