One of C-U's most cherished institutons is back this Friday. Krannert Center kicks off its new season with a party, with musical guests Mariachi Herencia De Mexico, Gracie and Rachel, Cotton Candy Theremin, and The Soul Rebels. The event is in the lobby, and totally free — unless you're getting some wine. That will cost you, unfortunately. (SW)

There's nothing better than a stroll through Meadowbrook Park, and it's even better when you have talented musicians providing live jazz as you go. This is the 25th anniversary of the Wandell Sculpture Garden, and you will find new pieces as you walk along the path. Check out the Facebook event page to see who will be providing the music. The event is free, but you can always offer a donation to the musicians. (JM)

Prairie Cycle Club is hosting another one of these moonlight bike rides for ice cream. Meet in the Meadowbrook Park Race St parking lot, and ride on country backroads to Sidney Dairy Barn. It’s a family friendly event, so bring everyone. Make sure you’re wearing a helmet. Additional details available on the Facebook event page. (JH)

Cross "participate in community theatre off your bucket list" by auditioning for one or both of these promising productions: The Thanksgiving Play and Homegrown: An Insurrection Play. Written by Larissa FastHorse, The Thanksgiving Play explores how good intentions collide with absurd cultural assumptions. Homegrown: An Insurrection Play, written by Nicole Anderson Cobb, explores the lasting impact of January 6th from the POV of a church community. Get more info on roles, sides, and audition registration here. (DD)

The Chamapaign-Urbana Black and African Arts Festival is first on the list in my recent article about arts experiences to enjoy in upcoming fall festivals. There are opportunities to check out several dance and step groups, groove to live music, and support Black-owned businesses and artists. (DD)

Arcola is the Broomcorn Capital of the World, and every September they celebrate this fact with a three day festival. You'll find food, music, vendors, and activities throughout the weekend, but the big parade happens at 3 p.m. on Saturday. Get all of the details, including a festival schedule, parade map, and more at the Arcola Chamber of Commerce Facebook page. (JM)

There are only two sake options at Sakura Japanese Urban Bistro: chilled or hot, and this chilled sake was delicious. Floral and smooth, this pink sake pairs well with the Urbana roll and the chicken katsu, my two favorite dishes at the chic Downtown Urbana restaurant. (AB)

I only discovered Chad Lawson this week after seeing him on the Krannert schedule for Saturday. After listening to one song of his, I instantly became a fan. With roots in classical, he aims to create "classical music for the Spotify generation." With his trio made up of himself, violinist Judy Kang (Lady Gaga, Ryuichi Sakamoto), and cellist Seth Parker Woods (Sting, Peter Gabriel). (SW)

You know you want that French toast from Sam’s Cafe in Downtown Champaign. I wrote about it in my list of foods to eat this month. It is delicious every time, and it is a breakfast worth getting out of the house for. The diner is cash only, so be prepared. (AB)

An early morning bird walk in Busey Woods or Crystal Lake Park, in the late summer? Sounds lovely. Bring some binoculars, and I recommend downloading the Merlin Bird ID app for extra support if you are new to birdwatching. Organized and led by folks with the Champaign County Audubon Society. (JH)

All event information is accurate to the best of our abilities, but sometimes we make mistakes and sometimes event information, times, prices, etc., change after we look them up. Whenever possible, we've provided a link to the original event page; you should always double-check the source before you make any firm plans. Thanks for your understanding.

Champaign-Urbana has one of the most diverse, intelligent, and interesting communities in the state. Our Culture section highlights those people, places, and events that make us proud to live here.