Adlai!
McLean County Museum of History
200 North Main Street, Bloomington, IL
November 2002 through May 2004
This exhibit of the life and legacy of one of Bloomington-Normal’s most influential figures is sure to intrigue those interested in both history and politics. Adlai Stevenson II traveled around the world and spoke with great eloquence on many subjects—including Bloomington. He was governor of Illinois, a two-time presidential candidate, and a U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations. Phone: (309) 827-0428 or visit the Museum website at http://www.mchistory.org
Decorated McLean County barns
Urban and Rural McLean County
November 18 through December 31
The McLean County BARNS Group is sponsoring a contest to encourage area barn owners to light up the night by decorating their barns for the holidays. Take a break from present-wrapping, pile the family in the car and go for a relaxing drive and see how many you can spot. For more information, call 309-663-1260.
 The Baby Fold's Festival of Trees 2002
The Sale Barn
2015 South Main Street, Bloomington
December 5 - 8
This annual fund-raising event for The Baby Fold is a great way to get in the holiday mood! Decorated Christmas trees of all sizes will be displayed for auction, along with wreaths, and celebrity trees. A gift shop, musical entertainment by talented local performers and several special events are also planned. For ticket information, call (309) 452-1170.
Illuminate the Trail
Constitution Trail between Grandview Dr. and Vernon Ave. in Normal
December 6 - 8 (special events)
December 9 - 25 (on-going holiday decoration displays)
Many homes along this section of the Constitution Trail in Normal will add some extra cheer with holiday decorations and light displays visible to those on the Trail. On December 6 through 8, the B-N Association of Realtors will place lighted luminaries along the path between 5 and 8 p.m. Non-perishable food donations will be collected on-site for distribution to two local shelters.
 Once Upon a Holiday
Downtown Bloomington
December 6 and 7
Downtown Bloomington will again be the hub for a variety of activities to kick off the holiday season. Carriage rides, an ice sculpture contest and an art gallery walk are scheduled. The Annual Jaycees Christmas Parade will also be featured, plus free shuttle rides to the Miller Park Zoo and The Baby Fold’s Festival of Trees from Downtown. The DePriest Puppets will put on a show at the Bloomington Public Library. For complete schedule, call (309) 829-9599 or see the link at www.uniquelybloomington.com
Christmas in the Park
Miller Park Pavilion
1020 S. Morris Ave., Bloomington, IL
December 7
The whole family can enjoy an evening of caroling, sleigh rides, holiday crafts, cookies, and more. Santa Claus will be on hand for photos, and the children’s gift shop will be open, too. Call 309-434-2260 or visit Bloomington Parks & Recreation Department website: recweb.cityblm.org
Music for the Holidays
Center for the Performing Arts
Near the corner of School and Beaufort Streets
Illinois State University, Normal, IL
December 8
The combined ensembles of the Illinois State University School of Music will perform seasonal favorites that are sure to put everyone in the right frame of mind for the holidays. Carol sing-alongs and an appearance by Santa Claus make this concert a popular family event. For details, call 309-438-3838 or visit www.music.ilstu.edu
USA Ballet's 'The Nutcracker'
Westbrook Auditorium
Illinois Wesleyan University, Bloomington, IL
December 20 -- 22
Discover the classic magic of this performance of the “Nutcracker” featuring international company members and additional appearances by community members. Timeless music and colorful costumes make this a real treat! Phone 309-451-9898 for ticket information or see the company website at usaballet.org
Christmas at Clover Lawn
David Davis Mansion Historical Site
1000 East Monroe Drive, Bloomington
Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
November 29 through December 30
See how the holidays were celebrated in the late 19th Century during the traditional tribute to Christmas past at the historic David Davis Mansion. “Christmas at Clover Lawn” tours are offered during regular site hours. (PLEASE NOTE NEW HOURS HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED DUE TO STATE BUDGET CUTS).
The Pantagraph’s Holiday Spectacular
Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts (former Scottish Rite Temple)
110 East Mulberry Street, Bloomington
December 13 – 15
Community Players is producing this festive event featuring hundreds of area singers, dancers and musicians. For ticket information, call (309) 663-2121 or visit the theater’s website at http://www.communityplayers.org
Bubble Gum Bingo
Miller Park Pavilion
1020 S. Morris Ave., Bloomington, IL
January 4
Kids ages five to 11 are invited to play some wacky bingo. Bubble gum will be used as markers and the winner keeps all of their gum! For details, visit recweb.cityblm.org
The Stellar Tapestry
Illinois State University Planetarium
Felmley Hall of Science
Corner of College Avenue & School Street, Normal
January 24 through May 10
Discover the secrets of the past and explore the myths woven into the “Stellar Tapestry” of the constellations in this entertaining sky show. Learn about the heroes and monsters whose stories are told in the stars. For ticket information, visit the Planetarium website. www.phy.ilstu.edu/planet.html
Porgy and Bess
Braden Auditorium
Illinois State University, Normal
February 14
George Gershwin’s great 20th century American opera, Porgy and Bess, tells the story of love, passion, prejudice and survival. This concert version of the classic stage work will feature outstanding soloists and powerful emotions. For ticket information, visit http://www.ilsymphony.org
Illinois Deer and Turkey Classic
Interstate Center
2301 W. Market, Bloomington, IL
March 1-3
This is the largest hunting-only show in Illinois and features more than 250 exhibit booths, plus seminars on whitetail deer hunting, turkey hunting, habitat development / improvement / management, wild game butchering and processing. The Illinois Chapter - National Wild Turkey Federation will host the State Turkey Calling & Owl Hooting Championship on Saturday, and Byron Ferguson will demonstrate Archery Trick Shots. Educational Displays, flint-knapping demonstrations and live big game animals will also be featured. For details call 1-800-324-3337 or visit the website http://www.deerinfo.com
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