Events Calendar

$5 per lesson or $15 bundle 

Join us for a guided, 4-part book discussion of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Robin Kimmerer is a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Her book explores reciprocal relationships between humans and the land. Robin weaves storytelling and environmental knowledge throughout this poetic read. We will discuss lessons from the book as well as expand on scientific concepts such as prairies. There will be assigned reading sections for each meeting. You are invited to attend all or just a few lessons.

​Register and pay below:

Unseen//Unheard is the low-flute duo of Rose Bishop and Heather Neuenschwander, a fearless collaboration built on the belief that sound can be both resistance and revelation. Specializing in the rarely spotlighted voices of alto and bass flute, the duo pushes their instruments—and the tradition they come from—into radically new territory.
Free & open to the public.

Downtown Burlington is getting a spooky new twist this fall with Night of the Living Windows, a free community event bringing storefronts, costumes, entertainment and a few surprises to life throughout Downtown.

On Thursday, October 22 from 5 to 7 PM, visitors are invited to stroll downtown as participating business windows transform into live scenes and displays. The evening will also feature free Horse & Trolley Rides, seasonal activities and plenty of Halloween fun for all ages.

One of the biggest highlights of the evening will be a community-wide Thriller flash mob, choreographed by Stacey Sink, with performances scheduled for 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM in front of the Capitol Theater.

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

Step into a world of rhinestones, powerhouse vocals, and unforgettable country magic with THE DOLLY SHOW — the spectacular theatrical concert that brings the spirit, sound, and sparkle of Dolly Parton to life like never before. Backed by a sensational live band, THE DOLLY SHOW takes audiences on a high-energy musical journey through six decades of Dolly’s greatest hits. 

From the heartache of Jolene to the anthemic joy of 9 to 5, from the timeless beauty of I Will Always Love You to the irresistible fun of Islands in the Stream, every moment is crafted to celebrate the music, wit, and warmth of the Queen of Country. This is no ordinary tribute concert — it’s a full-scale theatrical experience. Expect dazzling costumes dripping in rhinestones, laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning vocals, and the kind of storytelling charm that has made Dolly a global icon. The atmosphere is electric, the energy infectious, and the connection with the audience unmistakably genuine.

At the heart of the production is Kelly O’Brien, the world’s most acclaimed Dolly Parton tribute artist-endorsed by the Parton family and chosen by Dolly Parton Enterprises as Dolly’s official body double for film. Her uncanny voice, mannerisms, and warmth elevate the show from a tribute to a true celebration. Whether you’re a lifelong Dolly fan or love a great night out, THE DOLLY SHOW delivers an evening of joy, nostalgia, and pure entertainment a glittering love letter to one of music’s greatest legends.

Return to Macomb, IL, to Celebrate the Annual WIU Homecoming

Friday October 23rd:
- Spencer Student Recreation Center - open 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. ($7 day pass)
- Reunion check-in starts; it continues throughout the weekend. Registration will take place at the Alumni House.
- 2 p.m. - Campus Tour starting at Admissions Office in Sherman Hall
- 5-9 p.m. All-Alumni Social, Alumni House (Complimentary food, beer, wine, and soda; cash bar available)

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.

Go trick-or-treating in Downtown Keokuk from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Wear your best costume and get some great candy!

Come celebrate Oktoberfest in Nauvoo! On Friday, October 23rd, at the Knights of Columbus Hall from 5 to 9 pm. Enjoy live polka music, German food, and a good time of fellowship!  Hosted by the Nauvoo Historical Society and the Knights of Columbus.

**CALLING ALL WIU MUSIC ALUMNI!**
This Homecoming, we invite you to celebrate the long-awaited opening of the Goldfarb Center for Performing Arts with our School of Music Celebration Concert. We want YOU to be part of it!
Here's how you can participate:
- Attend the concert on Friday night and cheer enthusiastically!
- Perform with the current WIU Wind Ensemble, University Singers, Jazz Studio Orchestra, or Orchestra.
- Tour the new Goldfarb Center.

Don't miss this historic celebration! If you're interested in performing, please fill out this form for more details