Good morning, Decatur.

County fairs are in full swing as the Macon County Fair runs today at the Grandstand (harness racing starts at 4:30 p.m.), while Sangamon and Champaign counties plan events like monster trucks and demolition derby later this summer to draw local visitors and boost tourism.

On June 1, Dr. Juanita Morris joined Byers & Co to discuss DCLI programming, the DMH partnership, and the ag center during a podcast session.

The conversation highlighted current plans and progress for these local initiatives.

On June 1, conservation district representatives joined Soy City Buzz on First Mid Monday to discuss the upcoming Wine in the Wild event at Historic Woodbine Farm (a local landmark where wine tastings will soon be offered).

Decatur Park District is offering free summer lunches for kids at several park locations.

Kids 18 and under can pick up their meal Monday through Friday through July 31 at designated times and spots.

With summer break starting, experts warn Decatur families that teen drivers face high crash risks during the 100 deadliest days as inexperience and distractions triple accident likelihood; families are advised to monitor driving habits and minimize in-vehicle distractions.

Illinois legislators passed a statewide ban on phones in schools during Spring 2026 session, and if signed by the governor, schools must ban devices during the school day by the 2027-28 school year with optional use during passing periods and lunch, while Decatur’s District 61 already prohibits phone use.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture released a complete county fair schedule today, listing fair dates and locations statewide.

Decatur residents can review the schedule to plan future visits.

Former Decatur City Councilman William Oliver Jr. (89) died Monday.

He served for over 21 years on the council and more than 20 years on the county board, and he was the first Black man elected to the council; funeral details will be announced later.

Boots On The Ground Country/Urban Line Dancing Party

7-11:45 p.m. — Decatur Conference Center & Hotel — Free entry — Kick up your heels and enjoy a night of line dancing to urban and country beats.

Community Game Afternoon

1-4 p.m. — Decatur Public Library — Free entry — Bring your family and friends to enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of board games and card games.

Stryper Live Concert

June 17-18 — Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater — Tickets from $47 — Experience Stryper's electrifying performance as they celebrate 40 years of iconic hits by the lakeside.

Avery Irons Author Event

5:30-6:00 p.m. — Decatur Public Library — Free entry — Experience a reading and book signing event with local author Avery Irons presenting her debut novel.

35th Annual Decatur Train Fair

4-7 p.m. — Decatur Civic Center — Family-friendly event — Explore diverse train layouts and engage with passionate vendors at this nostalgic celebration.

Decatur Baseball vs. Jackson Rockabillys

3:30-7:30 a.m. — Workman Family Baseball Field — Tickets start at $34 — Experience a thrilling matchup between local baseball teams in Decatur.

BSR Opening for Daya

7-8:30 p.m. — Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater — Concert tickets available — Experience a night of live music with Daya in Decatur.