Events Calendar

Join us for a free meal on the last Wednesday of each month

Western Illinois University's University Union Board (UUB) is excited to announce its Fall 2026 Bingo Calendar, featuring a full lineup of themed bingo nights, campus partnerships and signature WIU spirit.

UUB's bingo events have become a favorite campus tradition, known for high-energy atmospheres, creative themes and great prizes. This fall, attendees can look forward to five unique bingo experiences:

Fall 2026 Bingo Events:

Welcome Bingo
7-9 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 26 - Grand Ballroom

Loteria Bingo in collaboration with LASO (Latin American Student Organization)
7-9 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 14 - Grand Ballroom

Halloween Bingo
7-9 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 28 - Grand Ballroom

Drag Show Bingo with UNITY and the LGBT*QA Resource Center
7-10 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 11 - Grand Ballroom

Holiday Bingo
7-9 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 2 - Grand Ballroom

Each event will feature themed entertainment, interactive activities and opportunities for students to engage with the campus community in a fun and welcoming environment.

Join us for a spook-tacular evening of family fun at the YMCA!

Bring the whole family for a safe and fun Halloween celebration featuring:
Trunk or Treating – Decorated cars with treats for all the little ghosts and goblins!
Games & Activities – Fun for all ages!
Food Trucks – Grab a bite from local favorites serving up tasty treats! Inflatables – Bounce the night away with our awesome inflatable attractions.
Photo Booth – Capture your Halloween memories with spooky and silly snapshots!
Costumes are encouraged – get creative and show off your Halloween spirit!

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN!
Get ready to TRICK THE HALLS at Grand Prairie!
Join us for a spooktacular evening of Halloween fun on October 29th from 5:00 PM–7:00 PM!

Bring your family, friends, and your Halloween spirit! We can’t wait to see everyone and make this a spooktacular night

Thursday Night Jazz at Smokin’ Willies BBQ
A Galesburg tradition for more than 30 years—every Thursday night starting Sept 17th!
Join us for Jazz Night with the Knox Cherry Street Combo, featuring special events throughout the fall term. Musicians, come sit in with the band!
Every Thursday | Sept. 17–Nov. 12
7:00–10:00 PM (some special nights begin earlier)
FREE admission | All ages welcome
Full bar + the best BBQ around
Smokin’ Willies BBQ | Galesburg, IL

Special Events:
October 15 — Matt Wilson’s Leap Day Trip
Masterclass at 6:00 PM
Jazz Night performance to follow
October 29 — Galesburg High School Vocal Jazz Ensembles and the Cherry St combo
November 5 — Mirza Residency at Jazz Night
Featuring Jenny Scheinman’s All Species Parade

Come join us for a night of stargazing. JWCC Astronomy Club will be there to show you the stars. Bring your telescopes and binoculars for this fun event!
All ages welcome!

Western Illinois University Theatre and Dance has announced its Fall 2026 season, featuring a lineup of classic theatre, contemporary musical theatre, original dance works, and a showcase highlighting the talents of WIU students and faculty. The Fall 2026 season will take place in the new Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts, with performances in the Clow Theatre and Hainline Theatre, in Brown Hall.

DEAR EVAN HANSEN is a contemporary musical about a lonely teenager whose attempt to fit in spirals into a lie that brings him connection, compassion, and heartbreak. As the truth unravels, Evan must confront the consequences of his choices and learn what it truly means to be seen and belong.

Come enjoy beautiful Lake Argyle while taking a relaxing morning pontoon boat ride on the lake as we watch for wildlife. Life jackets, binoculars, and field guides will be available, or you’re welcome to bring your own.
**Pre-registration is required, and space is limited to 6 participants. ** 
Please email Bridget.Hinchee@illinois.gov or call (309) 776-3422 for more information or to register.

Connect with the educators shaping tomorrow's workforce at the Area Educator Expo on October 30, from 11 am – 12:30 pm at Burlington Community High School in the high school gym. Hosted in partnership with the Des Moines County Educator Conference, this event gives your business the opportunity to connect with approximately 575 local educators, showcase your brand, and highlight career opportunities within your organization.

You're invited to our next Lunch ala Art at the Fort Madison Area Arts Association!
Enjoy a creative midday break surrounded by art, conversation, and community. This monthly event offers an inspiring presentation or featured artist alongside the option to enjoy a delicious lunch in the gallery.

Lunch is optional—but the experience is priceless!

Lunch is included with registration, but purchasing a lunch is not required to attend the artist's gallery talk