Family Friendly Activities in Champaign-Urbana in October are Plentiful
Get ready for a busy October! Plenty to do, plenty to see and even more to eat. We have you covered when it comes to all things Apples, Pumpkins and Corn Mazes, and you can also find a comprehensive list of Fall Festivals, along with our Halloween events guide and 21 Things to Do in the Fall on a Budget, but we’re happy to list our top things to do in October right here.
Do you love animals? Ever milk a cow, touch a snake, or see Illini service dogs in action? Activities are endless at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine Open House. The college opens its doors to the public for an in-depth and hands-on experience in the world of veterinary medicine with opportunities to see animals both large and small, from pigs and horses to birds, lizards, and fish! This free event, put on by roughly 400 veterinary students, is perfect for all ages, Sunday, Oct. 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Please leave pets at home.) For more information, visit http://bit.ly/VetmedOpenhouse19
What we’re looking forward to in October around Champaign-Urbana
Champaign County Down Syndrome Network’s 15th Annual Buddy Walk, Oct. 5
Free family fun is centered around the awareness, acceptance and inclusion of persons with Down syndrome. Enjoy inflatables, touch-a-truck, face painting, music and more.
Champaign-Urbana Oktoberfest, Oct. 5
The fifth annual event in downtown Champaign will have the usual Oktoberfest ingredients — beer, sausage, etc. — along with some terrific live music. Children’s activities will be 3-6 p.m. Admission is $5. All proceeds will benefit Developmental Services Center.
Heartland Maker Fest, Oct. 5
The Heartland Maker Fest is an annual event (9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Lincoln Square Mall in Urbana) that celebrates the amazing makers of C-U and surrounding communities. Who is a maker? Anyone who likes to make things! You’ll find an enormously wide variety of fascinating things.
Vet Med Open House, Oct. 6
One of our annual favorites! See more than 40 exhibits and demos, and lots and lots of animals at the University of Illinois’ College of Veterinary Medicine. Free and open to the public.
Flannel Fest, Oct. 11
There are PLENTY of fun things to do at the Hessel Park staple, but one sticks out as extra special: Watch the Timberwork’s Lumberjack Show featuring log rolling, speed carving, axe throwing and more. You won’t be disappointed.
100 Kids vs. Illinois Women’s Soccer and Family Sunday, Oct. 13
Following the Illini game against Michigan State, 100 kids will be able to compete against the Illini — it’s a fun time your child will love. Registration is free.
University of Illinois Bands Homecoming Concert, Oct. 18
Help celebrate of one of the most prominent, historic, and largest collegiate band programs in the world. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for senior citizens and $4 for students and youth.
Illinois Homecoming Parade, Oct. 18
The parade is at 6 p.m. to get you pumped up for the football game on Saturday. We’ve got our fingers crossed for good weather! (And don’t forget a bag for candy.)
Halloween Costume Drive and Giveaway, Oct. 19
Less than bewitched by last year’s Halloween outfits? Donate your old threads and give kids a night of happy haunting! Donation of items not required to pick up a new costume. FREE.
6th Annual Mayfair Park Halloween Parade, Oct. 20
Dress up and enjoy a perfectly spooktacular parade around the park. Games, treats and other festivities will take place around the Champaign park.
Frankenstein at the Virginia Theatre, Oct. 23
The 1931 classic film is especially popular around Halloween, for obvious reasons. Tickets are $6. And the following night you can see Bride of Frankenstein.
Champaign-Urbana Folk and Roots Festival, Oct. 24-26
The grassroots music and arts festival brings together national, regional and local artists and organizations.
49th Annual Illinois Marching Band Championships, Oct. 26
If you’ve never been, a quick FYI: This is one cool event. You can see dozens of marching bands perform in six classifications. Tickets are $10 for all-day admission, $5 for students and senior citizens, and children 5 and under are admitted free.
Trick or Treating with the Stars, Oct. 27
Join the Illinois athletes and various characters for a family-friendly trick or treating event. All kids can participate in interactive stations and receive free candy. Kids are encouraged to wear costumes. Free admission and parking. Presented by U of I Employees Credit Union. From 3 to 5 p.m. at the Ubben Basketball Complex.
Trick-or-Treating, Oct. 31
So, yes, it is Halloween, so if you’re not spending this day getting your garb ready, you can find plenty of other Halloween-related things to do.
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