The Peoria Art Guild is thrilled to announce it has been awarded an $8,980 grant from the Community Foundation of Central Illinois to launch Art Without Boundaries in June of 2025, an exciting new initiative providing free arts education to youth across Central Illinois.

Rooted in the Wallace Foundation’s Connecting Arts Learning Framework, Art Without Boundaries will offer no cost arts experiences, ensuring that all youth under 18 have access to high-quality, diverse arts education. The program fosters creativity, critical thinking, and mentorship by engaging young artists early and empowering them to inspire the next generation.

“This grant will allow us to offer FREE art classes to ALL youth under the age of 18, removing financial and geographic barriers and ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to create, learn, and grow through art,” said Shannon Cox, Executive Director of the Peoria Art Guild. “We are thankful to the Community Foundation of Central Illinois for their support of this program.”

To further eliminate obstacles to participation, we are also partnering with the Peoria Public Library to hold classes at select library branches, and with CityLink Greater Peoria Mass Transit to provide bus passes for students and parents traveling to our class locations. This removes all barriers for children to create with us.

And there’s more, the Peoria Art Guild is excited to announce an expansion of its classroom space at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie. The new space, which will open on May 29, 2025 at 5:30pm with a celebration and ribbon cutting will accommodate more classes and create more opportunities for students to participate in arts programming. The Guild will still have its space in downtown Peoria for teaching and exhibitions.

Opening Celebration/Ribbon Cutting

Peoria Art Guild at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie
5201 W War Memorial Dr Suite 225, Peoria Il 61615
May 29, 2025 at 5:30 PM

Through Art Without Boundaries and this new classroom expansion, the Peoria Art Guild reaffirms its commitment to making the arts accessible to every young person in our community, regardless of financial means or geographic location.

The Peoria Art Guild is thrilled to announce it has been awarded an $8,980 grant from the Community Foundation of Central Illinois to launch Art Without Boundaries in June of 2025, an exciting new initiative providing free arts education to youth across Central Illinois.

Rooted in the Wallace Foundation’s Connecting Arts Learning Framework, Art Without Boundaries will offer no cost arts experiences, ensuring that all youth under 18 have access to high-quality, diverse arts education. The program fosters creativity, critical thinking, and mentorship by engaging young artists early and empowering them to inspire the next generation.

“This grant will allow us to offer FREE art classes to ALL youth under the age of 18, removing financial and geographic barriers and ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to create, learn, and grow through art,” said Shannon Cox, Executive Director of the Peoria Art Guild. “We are thankful to the Community Foundation of Central Illinois for their support of this program.”

To further eliminate obstacles to participation, we are also partnering with the Peoria Public Library to hold classes at select library branches, and with CityLink Greater Peoria Mass Transit to provide bus passes for students and parents traveling to our class locations. This removes all barriers for children to create with us.

And there’s more, the Peoria Art Guild is excited to announce an expansion of its classroom space at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie. The new space, which will open on May 29, 2025 at 5:30pm with a celebration and ribbon cutting will accommodate more classes and create more opportunities for students to participate in arts programming. The Guild will still have its space in downtown Peoria for teaching and exhibitions.

Opening Celebration/Ribbon Cutting

Peoria Art Guild at the Shoppes at Grand Prairie
5201 W War Memorial Dr Suite 225, Peoria Il 61615
May 29, 2025 at 5:30 PM

Through Art Without Boundaries and this new classroom expansion, the Peoria Art Guild reaffirms its commitment to making the arts accessible to every young person in our community, regardless of financial means or geographic location.

The Foster Gallery is pleased to present “Lead Me, Lord” by Ruth Inman and Sharon Somers.
Ruth and Sharon’s styles of painting could not be more different from each other. But in this exhibit, they come together to share their unique paintings filled with love and hope. They both believe that the Lord is leading them daily, with every stroke of their brushes, bringing joy to their lives and to others.

Reception: Friday, July 11, 5-8 PM

Live Music by Scotty Hendryx

SHOW DATES: July 1 – July 25

Gallery Hours:
Sundays 8:30 AM-NOON
Monday through Friday – 9 AM – 1 PM
Other showings by appointment.

For additional information, call (309) 673-3641 or email [email protected].

This is a four week long course that runs every Thursday from July 10th to July 31st at 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Are you an aspiring comic artist, graphic novelist, or animator? Have you ever wanted to make your characters come to life? In this design course, we’ll be creating character turnarounds, revising drafts, and getting into the nitty-gritty of your original characters. Expect to implement your character’s personality into a well thought-out and harmonious design, which we will showcase to each other at the end. Ages 18

The Peoria Art Guild proudly presents Cows in the Gallery, a summer exhibition that playfully celebrates craftsmanship, character, and creative expression through clay, canvas, and form.

Nancy Bass, our cover artist, is known for her intuitive and emotionally resonant paintings of animals. A Signature Member of the American Women’s Artists, Bass captures the spirit and presence of her subjects through vibrant, expressive strokes.

Paul Eshelman contributes a refined collection of functional pottery. Eshelman elevates the daily act of eating and drinking, bringing human dignity and thoughtful design to everyday rituals.

Sandra McKenzie-Schmitt, a nationally acclaimed artist, presents a delightful body of work that fuses sculpture and pottery. Her imaginative pieces balance form and function, inviting joy through playful shapes and textures.

In August 2024, I completed my second month-long art residency at the Gullkistan Center for Creativity in Laugarvatn, Iceland, where I created the images for this exhibition. The following month, I was awarded a major Illinois Arts Council Creative Catalyst Grant to produce a 4-book series of prints featuring the morning glories. Each book’s drawings represent a moment in the day-long life span of a morning glory. The 4 book series (American Glory, i am a morning glory, Daybreak Glory and Twilight Glory) includes over 100 drawings and photographs.

I have precious childhood memories of Mom’s rows of heart-shaped vines growing up the side of our garage, creating a bouquet of Heavenly Blues against the clear northern Indiana sky. The life cycle of the morning glory symbolizes our lives on this good earth; each of us, vine-tied together, emerge as uniquely created beings who flower for a brief moment and are then gone. There is an inner glow to a glory which acts as a beacon to pollinators, but is also reminiscent of stars glowing across the night sky.

My American Glory print series symbolizes the red vs. blue societal chasm. The vector drawings are emblematic of the constant stress underlying nearly every interaction in American society today. A visual tension is created for the viewer when one places complementary colors together of the same value.

My floral artwork is part of major museum collections and has been featured on St. Louis television several times. This project is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.

For Beginners! Terry will teach basic techniques as you create this beautiful painting step by step. Price includes supplies.

Instructor: Terry Malone

When a tornado rips through Kansas, Dorothy and her dog, Toto, are whisked away in their house to the magical land of Oz. They follow the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City to meet the Wizard, and en route they meet a Scarecrow that needs a brain, a Tin Man missing a heart, and a Cowardly Lion who wants courage. The wizard asks the group to bring him the broom of the Wicked Witch of the West to earn his help. With songs you know and love, this musical is the perfect show to see right after you see Wicked.

PLAYING
July 11- 13 & July 16-19 at 7:30pm
AT DUNLAP HIGH SCHOOL

TICKETS
$25 | Adults
$20 | Students (18 and under)

Individual tickets go on sale June 20th.

This Second Empire-style house was built in 1868 for hardware merchant Moses Pettengill and completely renovated in 1945. It now showcases a fine collection of objects owned by its last owner, Jean Morron—including mid-18th century furnishings, artwork, artifacts and textiles—as well as earlier items belonging to the Pettengill family.

Cost: $10

This Second Empire-style house was built in 1868 for hardware merchant Moses Pettengill and completely renovated in 1945. It now showcases a fine collection of objects owned by its last owner, Jean Morron—including mid-18th century furnishings, artwork, artifacts and textiles—as well as earlier items belonging to the Pettengill family.

Monthly themed stories with our friends from the Dunlap Public Library District. Oriented towards preschoolers and early elementary ages. The theme changes every month and always relates to exhibitions or events at the museum (cars, planes, tractors, farming equipment, LEGO®, etc.) Meet at the gazebo then we’ll walk together to a special destination for the stories. We hope you’ll then stay to visit the rest of the museum. There is no charge for the story time, regular admission rates apply for a visit after the story time. You can bring your own picnic and have lunch at the picnic tables on the Generation Building’s veranda.

This is a 6 week course that runs every Thursday from July 17 to August 21 at 4:30PM to 5:30PM. In this beginner drawing class, we will be covering how to draw what we see by understanding how to build from shapes while also measuring. We will mostly be doing still-lifes so we can learn how to render shadows and get various tones out of an object with just graphite. The basics of both one point and two-point perspective will be taught so we can create minor illustrations set to a fun prompt in order to flex our creativity. Along the way, we will also cover the basics of the figure. By the end of the course, I hope the artist in attendance can more comfortably draw things that they both see with their eyes, and in their head!
Materials: All materials provided
Ages 8-13

🍄 Paint Your Own Mushroom Fruit Fly Catcher!
Ombre Fungi Fruit Fly Trap

Say goodbye to pesky fruit flies and hello to adorable kitchen décor! In this unique pottery painting workshop, you’ll paint your very own ceramic mushroom fruit fly catcher—a cute and functional addition to your home.

Our friendly staff will guide you through fun painting techniques to create magical blends of color, whether you want a fantasy fairy-tale mushroom or a bold, modern look. Once glazed and fired, your piece becomes both a decorative accent and a natural way to trap fruit flies—just add a little apple cider vinegar inside!

🍄 Perfect for beginners and all ages
🎨 Choose your own color palette and design
🧽 Functional & food-safe after firing
🌿 Great for kitchens, patios, or as a handmade gift!

Let your creativity bloom and take home something that’s not only cute—but actually useful!

Here is the recipe to use your catcher!

To use: pour a cup of apple cider vinegar into the jar, then add a few drops of liquid dish soap to the jar – do not mix. Then, leave on your countertop. Easy!

Art at the Bodega has a full bar for age 21 , we also have sodas, water, and snacks, available for purchase.

Rescheduling/Cancellation Policy: If you are no longer able to attend your reserved time-slot, a written request must be submitted via email to [email protected] In order to receive a class credit voucher, the request must be submitted in advance. Requests made within less than 48 hours prior to the class it will not be honored.

We reserve the right to reschedule/cancel any class.

#artatthebodega

When a tornado rips through Kansas, Dorothy and her dog, Toto, are whisked away in their house to the magical land of Oz. They follow the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City to meet the Wizard, and en route they meet a Scarecrow that needs a brain, a Tin Man missing a heart, and a Cowardly Lion who wants courage. The wizard asks the group to bring him the broom of the Wicked Witch of the West to earn his help. With songs you know and love, this musical is the perfect show to see right after you see Wicked.

PLAYING
July 11- 13 & July 16-19 at 7:30pm
AT DUNLAP HIGH SCHOOL

TICKETS
$25 | Adults
$20 | Students (18 and under)

Individual tickets go on sale June 20th.

CONTACT: Rachel Roderick FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Arc Light Productions TO ALL MEDIA:
P. O. Box 292 July 1st, 2025
Glasford, IL 61533
(309) 455-4095
www.arclightpro.com

Arc Light Productions Presents “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”
Glasford, IL – In celebration of its 19th season, Arc Light Productions is proud to present “The
Hunchback of Notre Dame” with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Show
dates are Thursday, July 17, Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19 at 7:30pm with the final
performance on Sunday, July 20 at 2:30pm taking place at Illini Bluffs High School in Glasford.

A 50 voice cast and live orchestra will bring to life the classic story based on the Victor Hugo
novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” begins as
the bells of Notre Dame sound through the cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo
observes the Feast of Fools; he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be
treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one
captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Quasimodo’s devious
captor, Dom Claude Frollo, are equally charmed. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo
embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to do what’s right and
save them all.

General Admission tickets are $10, Seniors and Kids under 12 are $8. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.arclightpro.com. Call 309-455-4095 for more information.

Whisper & Shout: Open Mic for Poetry
Thursday, July 17, 2025 ~ 8:00 – 10:00 pm
When checking in at the door, be prepared to share your table and seat number.
Tickets in Advance Online: $5-members, $8-nonmembers, $3-poets fees (till 6pm day of event)
If an event is not sold out, tickets will also be sold at the door.
Tickets at the door*: $9-members, $12-nonmembers, $5-poets
(*No money will be taken at the door unless we don’t reach our max capacity)
*Please Note that purchasing a Poet Ticket is a commitment to share your poetry on stage.
If you don’t plan to read, then don’t purchase a poet level ticket.
Water and Pop for $1.00 is offered at the bar.
Attendees may bring their own food and drink or bring in food and drink from the Rhythm Kitchen.
Experience a diverse open mic with artists from all backgrounds in a positive and inspiring atmosphere.
Peoria’s Open Mic for Poetry is held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month.
Hosts: Ryan Lowry and Whitney Jensen with DJ YV

Create a cohesive collection of fun collage art.

Join us for a nature themed educational program for children ages 7 to 12 years old to experience and appreciate wildlife.

In Insect Bingo, learn how to use an insect sweep net to collect insects within the Park. Then, Mark Dubois with the Illinois Insect Society will lead you through a game of insect bingo!

Meeting Location: Forest Hall
FREE for Member Child; $5 for Non-Member Child
Adult Chaperone required & FREE for the class
WPP Members receive FREE park admission. Regular park admission fee still applies for Non-Members. During Wild Nights, park admission is $7/person.
Reservations Required. Purchase Tickets Online

🔎 True Crime, Pottery & Trivia Night at Art at the Bodega!
Calling all armchair detectives and creative crime junkies — this night is for you! Join us for the ultimate paint-and-play experience featuring pottery, themed silkscreens, and killer trivia.

Create your own creepy-cool masterpiece using our exclusive true crime-inspired silkscreens, or paint whatever you like — your art, your rules. While this is a self-guided event, our talented team will be on hand to assist as needed.

🕵️‍♀️ Trivia rounds throughout the night with awesome prizes for our winners
🎨 Choose from tons of pottery projects ($20–$75)
🔪 Special themed silkscreens for making a bloody good piece
🍷 Full bar for guests 21 , plus snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for sale
🎟️ $10 entry per person, included snacks and 1 free non alcoholic beverage
📅 Reservations required for all attendees

Whether you’re painting a “serial chiller” mug or just sipping wine while answering trivia, it’s going to be a thrilling night of creativity and chaos.

Space is limited. Projects and themed screens available while supplies last.

Rescheduling/Cancellation Policy: If you are no longer able to attend your reserved time-slot, a written request must be submitted via email to [email protected] In order to receive a class credit voucher, the request must be submitted in advance. Requests made within less than 48 hours prior to the class it will not be honored.

We reserve the right to reschedule/cancel any class.

#artatthebodega

Free concert by the Peoria Municipal Band. Concerts by the band feature vocal soloists, instrumental soloists, marches, overtures, Broadway and film music and more.

When a tornado rips through Kansas, Dorothy and her dog, Toto, are whisked away in their house to the magical land of Oz. They follow the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City to meet the Wizard, and en route they meet a Scarecrow that needs a brain, a Tin Man missing a heart, and a Cowardly Lion who wants courage. The wizard asks the group to bring him the broom of the Wicked Witch of the West to earn his help. With songs you know and love, this musical is the perfect show to see right after you see Wicked.

PLAYING
July 11- 13 & July 16-19 at 7:30pm
AT DUNLAP HIGH SCHOOL

TICKETS
$25 | Adults
$20 | Students (18 and under)

Individual tickets go on sale June 20th.

CONTACT: Rachel Roderick FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Arc Light Productions TO ALL MEDIA:
P. O. Box 292 July 1st, 2025
Glasford, IL 61533
(309) 455-4095
www.arclightpro.com

Arc Light Productions Presents “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”
Glasford, IL – In celebration of its 19th season, Arc Light Productions is proud to present “The
Hunchback of Notre Dame” with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Show
dates are Thursday, July 17, Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19 at 7:30pm with the final
performance on Sunday, July 20 at 2:30pm taking place at Illini Bluffs High School in Glasford.

A 50 voice cast and live orchestra will bring to life the classic story based on the Victor Hugo
novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” begins as
the bells of Notre Dame sound through the cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo
observes the Feast of Fools; he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be
treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one
captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Quasimodo’s devious
captor, Dom Claude Frollo, are equally charmed. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo
embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to do what’s right and
save them all.

General Admission tickets are $10, Seniors and Kids under 12 are $8. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.arclightpro.com. Call 309-455-4095 for more information.

Salsa At CAC
Friday, July 18, 2025
ADMISSION
$8.00 nonmembers
$5.00 CAC Members
Introductory Dance Lesson – 8:30-9:30 pm
Learn the basics of several Latin Dances by Guest Instructors.
Open dancing – 9:30-midnight
No partner is required. Mostly Salsa music is played but also Cha Cha, Bachata, Merengue, Tango, Reggaeton, R&B, Cumbia and Latin styled pop and R&B also.
Bring your own food and drink or order take out from the Rhythm Kitchen. Pop, water and ice for sale on the floor for $1.00

Questions:
William Butler
CONTEMPORARY ART CENTER
305 SW Water Street, Peoria, IL 61602 • 309-674-6822 • [email protected] • www.peoriacac.org

Join us for an adventure of a nighttime and experience the Park at night! Look and learn about local wildlife, meditate or hear ghost stories – every hike you will learn something different! For many hikes you will get to use red light flashlights while searching for wildlife to protect nocturnal species from light pollution and cause less disruption of their natural behaviors.

Go on a Guided Tree Meditation Hike led by Kim and Renee through the trails of Wildlife Prairie Park.

Meeting Location: Visitor Center
FREE for members, and FREE for non-members with paid admission. Park admission during Wild Nights is $7/person.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Registration required. Sign Up

Peoria played an important role during the Civil War. Learn about Abraham Lincoln’s visits to Peoria, Civil War camps located in the area, veterans buried at Springdale Cemetery, and the local abolitionist effort – along with a special look at the GAR Hall.

This tour departs from and returns to the parking lot across from Kelleher’s Irish Pub and Eatery at 619 SW Water Street.

Collage for Kids is a Special class for kids 9 with a parent present.

Join us for an epic experience in the Wild Woods Outdoor Laser Tag Arena! Tag or team up with your friends and family for 30 minutes of unforgettable fun. Gather your team and reserve your spot for the ultimate day of fun.

In this workshop, you will learn the basics of relief carving and printing using blocks and relief gouges. Students will see examples of various work from different artists, experiment with carving and inking a block, and create an edition of their own prints. They will also have the chance to use an etching press and work in a print studio. Ages 18

The same program is presented twice: at 1pm and again at 3pm

The “Silver Streak” Model T Ford is on display in the Ford building during the month of July. On Saturday, July 19, come and listen to fun and entertaining stories by John Butte (author of Darlene’s Silver Streak and the Bradford Model T Girls) whose mom Regina Fennell (Butte) and his aunt traveled with other women in this car across the USA. These remarkable women known as “The Bradford Model T Girls” were way ahead of their time!

✨ Velaris: The City of Starlight – Canvas Painting Workshop ✨
Step into the world of A Court of Thorns and Roses and bring the breathtaking City of Starlight to life on canvas! In this enchanting guided painting class, you’ll capture the glittering skyline of Velaris, home of the Night Court. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just discovering your creative magic, our talented instructor will help you layer shimmering skies, distant mountains, and twinkling city lights worthy of Rhysand himself.

All supplies are included — just bring your love of art, fantasy, and the Night Court! Perfect for fans of ACOTAR, fantasy lovers, or anyone looking for a night of creativity and fun.

🌙 Ages: 13
🌌 No painting experience needed — we’ll guide you step-by-step!
🍷 Our bar will be open for guests 21 to enjoy drinks while they paint.

Art at the Bodega has a full bar for age 21 , we also have sodas, water, and snacks, available for purchase.

Rescheduling/Cancellation Policy: If you are no longer able to attend your reserved time-slot, a written request must be submitted via email to [email protected] In order to receive a class credit voucher, the request must be submitted in advance. Requests made within less than 48 hours prior to the class it will not be honored.

We reserve the right to reschedule/cancel any class.

#artatthebodega

Free admission / donation requested; complimentary snacks & drinks

Meet the exhibiting artists and view their artwork in three galleries and the 3rd floor classroom.
Music by Roy Ponce.
Contemporary Still Life – Preston Jackson Gallery
Installation by Sparker – Gallery 3R

Date: July 19, 2025
Time: 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Location: Mackinaw Vineyard
Dexter O’Neal and the FUNK YARD will be heating it up at the vineyard tonight, this six piece band comes with years of musical talent and experience that has circled the globe entertaining audiences and never disappoint! They can cover everything from Motown, Funk, Rock and whatever you name they can do it and do it well! We are thrilled to have them back at the vineyard in 2025!

See what’s up tonight and check them out on the web at : http://dexteroneal.com/

There is a $5pp band cover, under 12 free. Bring a lawn chair to enjoy lawn seating or call to reserve deck seating for an additional fee of $5pp. You may bring your own foods just no beverages of any kind. Wine tasting and wine, beer, sodas, pizzas, cheese & crackers and chocolates for sale.

CONTACT: Rachel Roderick FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Arc Light Productions TO ALL MEDIA:
P. O. Box 292 July 1st, 2025
Glasford, IL 61533
(309) 455-4095
www.arclightpro.com

Arc Light Productions Presents “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”
Glasford, IL – In celebration of its 19th season, Arc Light Productions is proud to present “The
Hunchback of Notre Dame” with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Show
dates are Thursday, July 17, Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19 at 7:30pm with the final
performance on Sunday, July 20 at 2:30pm taking place at Illini Bluffs High School in Glasford.

A 50 voice cast and live orchestra will bring to life the classic story based on the Victor Hugo
novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” begins as
the bells of Notre Dame sound through the cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo
observes the Feast of Fools; he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be
treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one
captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Quasimodo’s devious
captor, Dom Claude Frollo, are equally charmed. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo
embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to do what’s right and
save them all.

General Admission tickets are $10, Seniors and Kids under 12 are $8. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.arclightpro.com. Call 309-455-4095 for more information.

When a tornado rips through Kansas, Dorothy and her dog, Toto, are whisked away in their house to the magical land of Oz. They follow the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City to meet the Wizard, and en route they meet a Scarecrow that needs a brain, a Tin Man missing a heart, and a Cowardly Lion who wants courage. The wizard asks the group to bring him the broom of the Wicked Witch of the West to earn his help. With songs you know and love, this musical is the perfect show to see right after you see Wicked.

PLAYING
July 11- 13 & July 16-19 at 7:30pm
AT DUNLAP HIGH SCHOOL

TICKETS
$25 | Adults
$20 | Students (18 and under)

Individual tickets go on sale June 20th.

In this workshop, you will learn the basics of relief carving and printing using blocks and relief gouges. Students will see examples of various work from different artists, experiment with carving and inking a block, and create an edition of their own prints. They will also have the chance to use an etching press and work in a print studio. Ages 18

Date: July 20, 2025
Time: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Mackinaw Valley Vineyard
FREE Admission, HELD RAIN OR SHINE IN THE PAVILION BUILDING

Local and regional artists and authors will showcase their talents and sell their art and literature at this free and fun event. The midwestern artists invited specialize in oil and water color painting, wood, jewelry, metal work, ceramics and glass. Our authors will showcase many different genres of writing; poetry, mystery, romance, fantasy, and more! We are blessed in Central Illinois with amazing artistic talent so let’s come together to celebrate and support our local art and literature scene.

Local car clubs have been invited to display their cars and Cruise-In .
The Mid Illinois Corvette Club will be attending, and we welcome other clubs to join them.
Wine tasting is featured all day in the tasting room
Music by our friend and talented musician Greg Williams.
Food concessions by The Station Food Truck from Peoria
Donny B’s Popcorn, Cheese and Crackers,Flesor’s Candy Kitchen Treats, and Sweet Shoppe Truffles and other snacks
Ice Cream and Cookies by Grandma Nana’s Cookies
Please come out and enjoy this free event and support our local art and literature community and do some early holiday shopping.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this American Federalist-style house was built in 1837 and is the oldest standing house in Peoria. Built on Peoria’s east bluff, the property offers a spectacular view of the Illinois River Valley. Collections include period furniture, china, tools, quilts and clothing.

This event is weather dependent – check our Facebook page or our website on the day of event.

Family rides in the 1931 Ahrens-Fox fire truck. Free access with museum admission ticket or membership.

Ride the beautifully restored 1931 Ahrens-Fox Fire Engine – an amazing piece of Peoria history! This spectacular truck accommodates six to eight people and will run two to three times per hour. Schedule your group during your visit at the museum.

Bring your camera and we will take your picture! What an adventure this will be! Donations from riders for maintenance of this beautiful fire truck will be appreciated.

🍨 Ice Cream Social & Bowl Painting – Sweet Summer Fun!
In partnership with Uncle Bob’s Ice Cream

Scoop up some summer fun at our Ice Cream Social & Bowl Painting event at Art at the Bodega! We’re teaming up with our friends at Uncle Bob’s Ice Cream to bring you the ultimate creative treat—paint your own ceramic ice cream bowl while enjoying a delicious scoop of local, handmade ice cream.

This family-friendly event is the perfect way to chill out, get creative, and make memories that are just as sweet as they are lasting. Each guest will get to:

🎨 Paint a ceramic ice cream bowl of your choice with a large selection to choose from
🍦 Enjoy a 8 oz cup of Uncle Bob’s famous ice cream
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Have fun with friends and family in our cool, colorful studio

$10 event includes ice cream and special ice cream silkscreens for your pottery painting project.  Pottery is an additional fee at the time of the event.

Perfect for kids, grown-ups, and everyone in between—this is the kind of summer fun you don’t want to miss!

Spaces are limited and spots fill fast—reserve your table now for a sweet time at Art at the Bodega!

**while supplies last**
Art at the Bodega has a full bar for age 21 , we also have sodas, water, and snacks, available for purchase.

Rescheduling/Cancellation Policy: If you are no longer able to attend your reserved time-slot, a written request must be submitted via email to [email protected] In order to receive a class credit voucher, the request must be submitted in advance. Requests made within less than 48 hours prior to the class it will not be honored.

We reserve the right to reschedule/cancel any class.

#artatthebodega

Get Acquainted with Peoria Players Theatre on Sunday, July 20! Join us for our annual event which introduces the public to the upcoming season, both on the stage and behind the scenes. Meet our directors, catch a sneak preview of the shows, find out more about auditions and how you can help backstage, and sign up for your chance to win some excellent door prizes. The front doors will open at 1:30 pm, and the program begins at 2:00, with a meet-and-greet reception to follow. Admission is free.

CONTACT: Rachel Roderick FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Arc Light Productions TO ALL MEDIA:
P. O. Box 292 July 1st, 2025
Glasford, IL 61533
(309) 455-4095
www.arclightpro.com

Arc Light Productions Presents “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”
Glasford, IL – In celebration of its 19th season, Arc Light Productions is proud to present “The
Hunchback of Notre Dame” with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Show
dates are Thursday, July 17, Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19 at 7:30pm with the final
performance on Sunday, July 20 at 2:30pm taking place at Illini Bluffs High School in Glasford.

A 50 voice cast and live orchestra will bring to life the classic story based on the Victor Hugo
novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” begins as
the bells of Notre Dame sound through the cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo
observes the Feast of Fools; he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be
treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one
captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Quasimodo’s devious
captor, Dom Claude Frollo, are equally charmed. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo
embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to do what’s right and
save them all.

General Admission tickets are $10, Seniors and Kids under 12 are $8. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.arclightpro.com. Call 309-455-4095 for more information.

David Hoffman, longtime CIJS supporter and former trumpeter for Ray Charles, will be performing with and directing the Heartland Jazz Orchestra. HJO is dedicated to preserving and furthering the cause of America’s classical music, jazz. They’ll perform an assortment of original material and big band standards. See more of their activities at hjojazz.com.

The Peoria Municipal Band, under the direction of Dr. David Vroman, will begin their 88th season of summer concerts with a Memorial Day Performance at the Gateway Building on Monday, May 26th at 10:30 a.m. This brief performance will be followed at 11:00 a.m. by the Peoria Memorial Association Program to remember those who have died in service to our country. Then, on Sunday, June 1st at 7:00 p.m. in the Glen Oak Park Amphitheater in Peoria, Illinois, the Morton Civic Chorus will join the band for the summer kick-off concert.

The 2025 summer concert series will consist of 24 performances by a band of 50 musicians. Concerts by the band feature vocal soloists, instrumental soloists, marches, overtures, Broadway and film music and more. On Sundays Emack and Bolio’s Ice Cream will be there and on three special evenings a food truck will also be in attendance; June 8th is Mac Daddy Spudz, July 13th is Grill Em All and August 10th is Tony’s On Wheels/Haddads. All Sunday evening concerts will be on the Fred Huber Bandshell in the Glen Oak Park Amphitheater at 7:00 p.m. beginning June 1st and running weekly until August 10th.

Wednesday evening performances are presented at the corner of Water and State Street and begin June 8th running each Wednesday until the final concert on August 6th. Pat Sullivan and his crew at Kelleher’s Irish Pub and Eatery are our hosts and seating and food is available. All Peoria Municipal Band concerts are free of charge and parking is adjacent to the performing venues. Many bring their lawn chair or blanket to enjoy the concert on the grass.

Two special Friday evening performances will be given this season. The first is at St. Philomena’s Church and School on Friday June 27th at 7:00 p.m. Then on Friday July 18th the band will perform at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, also at 7:00 p.m. Weekly updates about the concerts can be found online at peoriamunicipalband.com.

The Peoria Municipal Band was formed in 1937 through the efforts of Local 26 of the American Federation of Musicians and interested citizens. Prior to 1937 the band was a professional municipal band complete with management and “Soloists of National Reputation”. Current band members come from all walks of life; many are currently music teachers in the local schools. They are selected by audition and then commit to a full season of rehearsals and performance. Hundreds of thousands of people have enjoyed their music since 1937. Today, with the support of the city, the band continues the long-standing tradition of excellence in music.
For more information contact:
Band Director David Vroman: [email protected]
Manager George Graves, Jr.: [email protected]
Publicity Coordinator, Liz Driscoll: [email protected]

CONTACT: Rachel Roderick FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Arc Light Productions TO ALL MEDIA:
P. O. Box 292 July 1st, 2025
Glasford, IL 61533
(309) 455-4095
www.arclightpro.com

Arc Light Productions Presents “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”
Glasford, IL – In celebration of its 19th season, Arc Light Productions is proud to present “The
Hunchback of Notre Dame” with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Show
dates are Thursday, July 17, Friday, July 18 and Saturday, July 19 at 7:30pm with the final
performance on Sunday, July 20 at 2:30pm taking place at Illini Bluffs High School in Glasford.

A 50 voice cast and live orchestra will bring to life the classic story based on the Victor Hugo
novel and songs from the Disney animated feature, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” begins as
the bells of Notre Dame sound through the cathedral in fifteenth-century Paris. Quasimodo
observes the Feast of Fools; he escapes for the day and joins the boisterous crowd, only to be
treated cruelly by all but the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Quasimodo isn’t the only one
captivated by her free spirit, though – the handsome Captain Phoebus and Quasimodo’s devious
captor, Dom Claude Frollo, are equally charmed. As the three vie for her attention, Frollo
embarks on a mission to destroy the Roma – and it’s up to Quasimodo to do what’s right and
save them all.

General Admission tickets are $10, Seniors and Kids under 12 are $8. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.arclightpro.com. Call 309-455-4095 for more information.

Ages 10-14 | 5 Days of Hands-On Creativity

July 21-25, 2025 9:00 am-3:00 pm

Discover the magic of turning raw fiber into beautiful, handmade creations! In this immersive week-long camp, young artists will explore every step of the fiber art journey—from meeting the animals that provide the wool to creating their own woven projects.

Sample Schedule (subject to change)

Monday: Get to know your fellow campers and dive into the world of fiber arts with fun, hands-on activities.

Tuesday: Field trip adventure! Visit a sheep and alpaca farm, then try out weaving at Picket Fence Weaving.

Wednesday: Spin your own yarn! Craft a drop spindle and dye fleece collected from the farm visit.

Thursday: Weave your hand-dyed yarn into a unique project at the Peoria Art Guild—create a bookmark or bracelet to take home.

Friday: Finish your projects and get ready to showcase your work. Families are invited to an afternoon open house to see demonstrations of spinning, weaving, and felting.

By the end of the week, campers will have hands-on experience in spinning, dyeing, and weaving—turning raw wool into one-of-a-kind fiber art treasures!

Cost: $300

Students will need to bring a sack lunch and drink every day.

Wool to Weaving: Fiber Art Camp is sponsored by Hopewell Weaving

Discover the magic of turning raw fiber into beautiful, handmade creations! In this immersive week-long camp, young artists will explore every step of the fiber art journey—from meeting the animals that provide the wool to creating their own woven projects. Ages 10-14

This is a 5 week long course that runs every Monday from July 21 to August 18 at 6:00PM to 8:00PM. Have you been inspired by comics? Whether it’s a Garfield comic strip or the world of Marvel, comics are one of the most expressive forms of storytelling. In this class we’ll begin building up your world, which could be fantasy, sci-fi, reality, anything you choose! We’ll continue with fundamentals of comic creation such as composition, inking, character design, etc. Our end goal is to create your character reference, as well as one full page of your comic.
Materials provided by student: Sketchbook and pencil
Materials provided by Peoria Art Guild: Fine liners, paper
Ages 18

Ages 10-14 | 5 Days of Hands-On Creativity

July 21-25, 2025 9:00 am-3:00 pm

Discover the magic of turning raw fiber into beautiful, handmade creations! In this immersive week-long camp, young artists will explore every step of the fiber art journey—from meeting the animals that provide the wool to creating their own woven projects.

Sample Schedule (subject to change)

Monday: Get to know your fellow campers and dive into the world of fiber arts with fun, hands-on activities.

Tuesday: Field trip adventure! Visit a sheep and alpaca farm, then try out weaving at Picket Fence Weaving.

Wednesday: Spin your own yarn! Craft a drop spindle and dye fleece collected from the farm visit.

Thursday: Weave your hand-dyed yarn into a unique project at the Peoria Art Guild—create a bookmark or bracelet to take home.

Friday: Finish your projects and get ready to showcase your work. Families are invited to an afternoon open house to see demonstrations of spinning, weaving, and felting.

By the end of the week, campers will have hands-on experience in spinning, dyeing, and weaving—turning raw wool into one-of-a-kind fiber art treasures!

Cost: $300

Students will need to bring a sack lunch and drink every day.

Wool to Weaving: Fiber Art Camp is sponsored by Hopewell Weaving

Discover the magic of turning raw fiber into beautiful, handmade creations! In this immersive week-long camp, young artists will explore every step of the fiber art journey—from meeting the animals that provide the wool to creating their own woven projects. Ages 10-14

Join us at Art at the Bodega for a ton of creative fun this summer! Each camp is weekly,Tuesday thru Thursday  with a unique theme that will inspire our projects.

These 3  Day Camps are designed for kids ages 6
Each camp will run from 9:00AM-12:00PM and is $165 per week.

**PLEASE NOTE:  Each camp will include projects in Glass Fusing, Ceramic Painting, Canvas, Wood Signs and other mixed media, there will be 4-6 projects at each camp!!  Each camp will have a variety of styles and techniques used on the projects in that theme.

You can sign up for multiple camps using this registration page, and sign up for multiple campers.

WEEK 1    June 10-12  9:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m. PAWCASSO, animal art extraordinary!  Pets, exotics and extinct and so many more!

WEEK 2    June 17-19  9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  Theme is IN OUR POTTERY ERA T Swift everything, tons of 1989 art projects join us for a concert full!

WEEK 3    June 24-26 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.  Theme is PASSPORT TO ART This exciting camp is all about discovering the world’s rich cultures through art.  Each day campers will travel to a far off location learning all about them while making art that is part of them.

WEEK 4.   July 8-10  9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Theme is POP CULTURE, axolotls, squishmallows, video games… all the COOL “in” things.

WEEK 5  July 15-17 9:00 am to 12:00 p.m. Theme is OHANA MEANS FAMILY  time for fun in the sun and sand with a tropical twist!  All things beach, islands, Hawaiian culture and cool summer breezes.

WEEK 6   July 22-24 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Theme is SHARK WEEK and lots of other ocean stuff!  FINtastic Shark Week Art Buzz.  Dive deep into the world of sharks and friends with JAWsome art that will make a splash with the kiddos

BY PURCHASING THIS TICKET:*** I understand that Tickets for Camp are Non-refundable! There MAY be opportunity to transfer ticket to another camp but that is not guaranteed.

Golden Garden Days: West Central Celebration Event Set for July 22

Master Gardeners celebrate the 50-year anniversary of community impact.

Peoria, IL – Celebrate, Connect, and Cultivate New Garden Skills at Golden Garden Days

As Illinois Extension Master Gardeners continue celebrating 50 years of helping others learn to grow, it is not too late to attend Golden Garden Day!

This garden season, Master Gardeners are marking five decades of impact with regional gardening events. Connect with Master Gardeners and join the festivities by exploring this gardening anniversary celebration. Register for this free event as soon as possible so you don’t miss out on native garden tours, exploring demonstration gardens for increased food access, educational gardens, pollinator gardens, vendors, and more!

Ainsley Olsen, Horticulture Program Coordinator with Illinois Extension, emphasizes the program’s impact: “Master Gardeners love to contribute to the beautification and conservation of our community. Providing education and networking with other Master Gardeners are ongoing benefits of becoming a certified Master Gardener.”

Golden Garden Day attendees will have the chance to explore St. Ann’s Garden of Hope, enjoy tours of Wildlife Prairie Park’s 4-H Learning Garden and Native Beds, with a highlight on the Traditional Native Medicinal Garden. We’ll also tour the Kim St. John Butterfly Habitat, hike nature trails and connect with gardening experts.

Ages 9-12
Sign up for a 2 day art camp experience, or all 8 days in July.

July 8 – 10: Drawing ($30)
July 15-17: Painting with Acrylics ($30)
July 22 – 24: Watercolor Painting ($30)
July 29 – 31: Paper Mosaics ($30)
All 4 Camps (all dates) $100 – Saves ($20)

Pixie covers a foundation in all these arts, lending expertise from her 30 years of teaching art.

Instructor: Miss Pixie

Harmonize Peoria’s Garage Band Open Stage is back for another 10-week summer run! Every Tuesday, we roll up the garage door, set out our collection of donated instruments, and invite the community to create music together with the help of a different local host band each week.
Here’s how it works:
🎵 The host band kicks things off with a few songs, then opens the stage to anyone who signs up.
🎸 You can play solo, jump in with the host band, or build a band from fellow attendees.
🥁 Total beginner or just curious? Come try out the instruments—even if you’re not ready to play on stage yet.
We provide:
✅ Full back line and all instruments/gear (though you’re welcome to bring your own)
✅ A dedicated sound person
✅ A welcoming, no-pressure space to play, explore, and connect
🎯 Priority stage time is given to artists under 21, but all ages are welcome to join in or cheer from the crowd!
🪑 We’ve got lots of seating and will have chips and soda available for purchase. Feel free to bring your own chairs and snacks. No alcohol, please.
✨ Each week features a different host band and unique musical vibe—follow along for updates and get ready to plug in, jam out, and grow your love for music.
This event is happening largely thanks to the project support we’ll be receiving from Arts Dollars funds, provided by the Illinois Arts Council Agency, ArtsPartners of Central Illinois, and Community Foundation of Central Illinois.