Annette Jones+FollowChampaign-Urbana’s tastiest week is back!Mark your calendars—Restaurant Week is making its return to Champaign-Urbana from January 30 to February 7! This is the perfect excuse to break out of your usual dinner routine and try something totally new, with local spots serving up everything from Zambian to Vietnamese, vegan to soul food. It’s a real celebration of our community’s diversity and creativity in the kitchen. If you find a new favorite, snap a pic and tag #CURestaurantWeek for a shot at a $100 gift card. Anyone else already planning their food crawl? #Food #CURestaurantWeek #ChampaignUrbana00Share
Michael Alvarez+FollowChampaign-Urbana’s tastiest week is back!Mark your calendars—Champaign-Urbana Restaurant Week is returning January 30 to February 7, and it’s the perfect excuse to skip cooking and explore our local food scene. This year, you can taste everything from Zambian to Vietnamese, vegan to soul food, and so much more, all from dozens of local spots. If you love trying new flavors or supporting neighborhood restaurants, this is your moment. Don’t forget to snap pics and tag #CURestaurantWeek for a shot at a $100 gift card! Who’s ready to discover a new favorite dish or hidden gem? #Food #CURestaurantWeek #ChampaignUrbana00Share
Marcia Hamilton+FollowNew year, new hope: Champaign-Urbana neighbors step upStarting the year with a full heart, folks in Champaign-Urbana are showing what community really means. Alnar Johnson, who once faced homelessness herself, is now leading the charge by cooking and sharing hot meals at Strides shelter. Inspired by her late father’s generosity, she’s making sure no one feels left out as the calendar turns. With friends like Marlowe Coleman joining in, it’s more than just food—it’s about lifting each other up. Stories like this remind us how powerful a helping hand can be. What’s one way you’d like to give back this year? #Safety #ChampaignUrbana #NewYear00Share
Stacy Fisher+FollowChampaign-Urbana food safety: What’s up this week?Only two local food spots were inspected this week, and here’s the scoop: Mid Summer Lounge on Green Street bounced back to a green placard after fixing earlier issues, so it’s back in good standing. But ET’s Downtown in Rantoul got a yellow placard because an unapproved beverage station still hasn’t been sorted out. If they don’t fix it by January 6, they could be shut down. These placards are posted right at the door, so you always know where things stand. How much do these ratings influence where you eat? #Health #BodyHealth #ChampaignUrbana00Share
michaelabrewer+FollowFamily-friendly New Year’s Eve fun in Champaign-UrbanaNew Year’s Eve in Champaign-Urbana doesn’t have to mean missing out on the fun just because you’ve got kids in tow. Local spots are rolling out creative ways for families to celebrate together, from Noon Year’s Eve balloon drops and dance parties at libraries and rec centers, to early skating sessions and even staycations at hotels with indoor pools. You can also make your own countdown at home with sparkling grape juice, games, and a homemade balloon drop. What’s your favorite way to ring in the new year with family? Share your local tips or traditions below! #News #ChampaignUrbana #NewYearsEve10Share
ethanconner+FollowWinter break fun in Champaign-UrbanaChampaign-Urbana families have a treasure trove of ways to keep kids busy and happy this winter break! From exploring local libraries (some even have 3D printers!) to skating at the University of Illinois Ice Arena, there’s something for every mood and budget. Don’t miss the magical lights at Allerton Park or a cozy movie day at local theaters. Indoor play centers, museum adventures, and even baking with farmers market finds are all on the table. With so many free and low-cost options, it’s the perfect time to discover new favorites and enjoy a quieter town vibe. What’s your go-to winter break activity? #News #ChampaignUrbana #WinterBreak00Share
Michael Alvarez+FollowWhere to eat out in Champaign-Urbana this ChristmasFinding a festive meal in Champaign-Urbana on Christmas is easier than you might think! Several local favorites, like Chinatown Buffet and Denny’s, will keep their doors open on Christmas Day, so you don’t have to worry about cooking or cleaning up. If you’re craving something different, Golden Harbor, Green Jade, and Oishi are all serving up holiday dishes, too. For those who love takeout, Maize’s Christmas tamales and Tasty Tart’s dessert boxes are up for pre-order. Have you tried dining out locally on Christmas before? Share your favorite spots or any hidden gems you know! #Food #ChampaignUrbana #ChristmasDining00Share
Robert Daniels+FollowChampaign-Urbana’s Christmas dining secretsSkipping the kitchen this Christmas? Champaign-Urbana has you covered with a surprising number of local restaurants open for both dine-in and takeout on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. From classic comfort at Perkins to festive tamales from Maize, and even a special Christmas dessert box at Tasty Tart, there’s something for every craving. Just remember, some spots require pre-orders and hours may change, so it’s smart to call ahead. Whether you’re celebrating or just want a quiet meal out, these local gems are ready to serve. What’s your go-to holiday meal in town? #Food #ChampaignUrbana #ChristmasEats00Share
Jonathan Mann+FollowChampaign-Urbana’s gift market flips holiday shoppingImagine a holiday market where you walk in, pick up clothes, art, or candles—and leave your wallet at home. That’s exactly what happened at Resistance Threads’ Really Really Free Christmas Market in Champaign-Urbana. No price tags, no trades—just neighbors sharing what they have and taking what they need. It’s a fresh take on gift-giving that pushes back against the usual holiday spending frenzy and big-box shopping. People brought in thoughtful donations, and the whole vibe was about community, sustainability, and joy. Would you support more events like this in our area? How could this change the way we celebrate the holidays? #Shopping #ChampaignUrbana #FreeMarket00Share
Valerie Hall+FollowChampaign-Urbana’s best Christmas eatsHoliday cooking doesn’t have to be stressful this year in Champaign-Urbana! Local favorites are stepping up with festive dine-in and catering options, so you can focus on celebrating. From Indian feasts at Kohinoor to tamales from Maize Mexican Grill, and even holiday meats from Hickory River Smokehouse, there’s something for every craving. Some spots are open Christmas Eve, others on Christmas Day, and plenty offer pre-order meals for easy pickup. Whether you want a cozy dinner out or a special meal at home, this community’s got you covered. What’s your go-to holiday meal or local spot for the season? #Food #ChampaignUrbana #ChristmasDining00Share
