Champaign's event calendar is deeply intertwined with both the university academic year and seasonal community gatherings.
* **Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon**: Held every spring, drawing thousands of runners for races that finish on the 50-yard line of Memorial Stadium. * **Ebertfest**: A beloved April film festival founded by late UIUC alumnus and renowned film critic Roger Ebert. * **Friday Night Live**: A summer concert series where downtown streets are closed to traffic, featuring live local music, street performers, and outdoor dining. * **Champaign County Fair**: Held annually in July, offering traditional agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and grandstand entertainment.