FRIDAY, October 21st
Ricotta cheesecake, Nando Milano, 5-11 p.m., $10
Look, $10 is a lot of money for a slice of cheesecake, that’s for sure. But if you’re looking to treat yourself, I suggest doing so with Nando’s cheesecake. It’s like ordering a cocktail, but instead you get to eat your calories. This cheesecake was light and fluffy, creamy, and not too sweet. The fruit topping was a little bit like fruit leather on top of your dessert, and even though it seems weird, it was quite tasty. You could share a slice with someone, but you’ll likely want your own. Photo by Jessica Hammie. (JH)
Solo Showcase, Bentley’s Pub, 8 p.m., free
If you recall, Bentley’s Pub is one of the most underrated watering holes in the C-U area. On Friday, they’ll be having a show. That’s right – Bentley’s will be having live music this evening. This solo showcase will feature sets from four great local musicians that rival the coolness of the bar, so make sure to catch this rarity while you can. (JM)
Rebecca Rego & The Trainmen album release show, Cowboy Monkey, 9 p.m., $10
RRTM are putting out their latest LP today, called Lay These Weapons Down, and they’re throwing an album release party to celebrate. The long-awaited second album from the folk and rock group could only be better live, and their shows never disappoint. With the addition of fellow rockers Elsinore and famed funky bunch Church Booty, this show easily becomes a must-see event. (JM)
SATURDAY, October 22nd
Fall colors tree walk, Allerton Park, 515 Old Timber Rd, Monticello, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., $5 (pre-registration required
Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons but sometimes it slips by without us taking much notice and before you know it the sky is grey and the trees are bare. Take some time out this weekend to really enjoy the colors with your eyes and your camera in one of the most beautiful parks around. Pre-registration and more information on the Facebook page. (SL)
Books to Prisoners sale, IMC, 202 S Broadway Ave, Urbana, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
This is a great way to get some amazing deals on books for yourself or to pick up some very affordable and thoughtful gifts while supporting a great cause. This sale one of the main sources of revenue thus allowing BTP to continue operations for the coming year. hardcovers $2.00, $0.50 paperback, children’s books $0.25-$1.00. Read more about the event and the BTP mission and operation on their Facebook. (RP)
First annual Boneyard Bouldering Cup climbing contest, Urbana Boulders, 1502 N Cunningham Ave, Urbana, $25
Bouldering is a style of climbing that doesn’t require the use of ropes or harnesses, instead the climber is protected by a padded floor to absorb a fall. The climber climbs routes that are anywhere from 9 to 13 feet tall. The Boneyard Cup is an all day, indoor climbing comp geared toward every age and skill level. There are prizes to be won and fun to be had. More information on the Facebook page. (RP)
Slushie Saturday, Watson’s, 4-6 p.m., prices vary
Watson’s has been dropping all sorts of news of late, like Sunday brunch and delivery, and just this week the restuarant announced all sorts of specials and discounted “happy hour” whatchamadoodles. On Saturdays, you can save 25% on alcoholic slushies and slushie flights (from 4-6 p.m.). Why I don’t mind if I do! Other weekly specials include student discounts on Wednesdays, 4-6 p.m. and teacher/faculty discounts on Fridays, 4-6 p.m. (thank you!). Watson’s, for the win! Photo by Jessica Hammie. (JH)
Cheer on the Cubs in Game 6, Your Television, or your local watering hole (FS1), 7 p.m. free
No, I’m not a Cubs fan. I’m a White Sox fan, but it’s still pretty remarkable what the Cubs have done this year. Like it or not, they’ll be playing in Game 6 of the NLCS on Saturday night, and I’m sure it’ll be a doozy. Drink and old style and watch this game, it’s your duty as an Illinoisian. (BH)
First Lady Suite, Second Stage at Parkland Theatre, 7:30 p.m., $15
When I saw this play two weeks ago, I didn’t think I’d still be thinking about it two weeks later. While the songs don’t stick in your head, they do haunt, and I’ll be doing something else and I’ll mutter a partial phrase, “Almost someone great dies…” or “I wonder if TomKitten misses me…” and I’ll stop to think about what and why it was said. That, and I did not spend enough time in the official review saying how awesome Tafadzwa Diener is, so it’s worth repeating. Go find out for yourself. Oh, and last weekend’s Fri. & Sunday sold out, so reserve seats if you want to go. (RK)
SUNDAY, October 23rd
Free movie: Food for Thought, IMC, 202 S Broadway Ave, Urbana, free
Food For Change is a documentary film sponsored by 126 small cooperatives including Common Ground Food Co-op. The film examines the important historical role played by food co-ops in lifting America out of the Great Depression through their pioneering quest for organic foods, and their current efforts to create regional food systems, build food security, and strengthen local economies. Free admission to all so bring friends and family for an informative movie night! They will have a popcorn bar and the first 25 attendees get goody bags with candy and coupons. More on the Facebook page. (SL)
Vertigo on the big screen, The Virginia Theatre, 7 p.m., $5
If you thought your flatscreen TV made you feel woozy, there is no comparison to how you will feel in the theatre with the largest traditional screen in town. No, it’s not IMAX, but believe me, you don’t want that for this. Kick off “5 Nights of Hitch” with the best one to see larger than life. And if you think that designation actually belongs to North by Northwest, you can catch that one later in the week. (RK)
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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.