Big Rig Petting Zoo, Peoria Speedway Carnival, and more - May 20

PEORIA (25News Now) - From a petting zoo for heavy equipment to a carnival, check out what’s happening this weekend across Central Illinois!

Gary Stage Free Kids Fishing Derby

Grab your fishing pole and get ready to bait that hook. Kids ages 3 to 15 can participate in a free fishing derby at the Peoria Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America. There will be four age groups competing for a trophy, and the kid with the longest fish in each group wins. The event is catch and release, and kids will need to bring their own poles and bait. A free hot dog lunch with chips and a drink will be served following the derby.

When: May 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (in-person registration starts at 8:30 a.m.)

Where: Peoria Chapter Izaak Walton League, 1125 Spring Bay Road in East Peoria

Cost: Free

More information can be found here.

Big Rig Petting Zoo

Transportation enthusiasts big and small, you have a chance to touch and climb on heavy equipment today. The Fondulac District Library in East Peoria is hosting the Big Rig Petting Zoo! Learn about all kinds of big vehicles and make transportation-themed crafts at this event which is free and open to all ages.

When: May 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Where: Fondulac District Library in East Peoria

Cost: Free

More information can be found here.

Peoria Speedway Carnival

The Peoria Speedway Carnival is happening this weekend! Enjoy rides like the Ferris wheel and the super slide, as well as carnival food!

When: May 20 from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. | May 21 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Where: Peoria Speedway, 3520 W. Farmington Road

More information can be found here.

Medici Country BBQ

Nothing brings people together like good BBQ, which is why Medici in Normal is hosting a street party! At the party, you will find great BBQ, craft beer, bourbon, and live music from guests including Ryle Irish, Harvest Sons duo, and the Austyn Weston Band. Part of the entry proceeds will go to benefit Pet Central Helps.

When: May 20 from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Where: Medici in Normal, 120 W. North Street

Cost: $7 donation with part of proceeds benefiting Pet Central Helps

More information can be found here.

Lights, Camera, Brass Band!

Get ready for ‘Lights, Camera, Brass Band!’ at Illinois State University! Join the Brass Band of Central Illinois for a free concert at ISU’s Center for Performing Arts. Directed by Dr. Sharon Huff, this performance will feature musical favorites from movies and television shows. There will also be a free raffle and refreshments.

When: May 20 at 7:00 p.m.

Where: ISU’s Center for the Performing Arts, 351 S. School Street in Normal

Cost: Free

More information can be found here.

Les Misérables

Don’t miss the Central Illinois Ballet’s tragically beautiful performance of Les Misérables at Illinois Central College. After 19 years in prison for petty theft, follow the redemption story of Jean Valjean as a war devastates the people of France. It is a story of love, bravery, and hope.

When: May 20 at 7:00 p.m. | May 21 at 2:00 p.m.

Where: ICC Performing Arts Center, 1 College Drive in East Peoria

Cost: Tickets range from $18 to $30

More information and tickets can be found here.

If you know of an event that’s happening in Central Illinois, add it to our Community Calendar!

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