Here are 3 things to do for the weekend of Nov. 18 and 19, 2023, curated by WGLT's Lauren Warnecke. You can find more coverage on our Datebook - Arts & Music page or by subscribing to WGLT's Weekend Scoop email newsletter, which goes out every Friday.
Have yourself a funky little weekend: The pandemic-born collective Artists of the Corn set up shop in Shirley. What’s more, this tiny town off the Mother Road and its neighbors, McLean and Atlanta, have mobilized for a full weekend of holiday shopping and outside-the-box fun. The “Shuckin’ Awesome Holiday Art Market” takes place 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Funk Farms Premium Beef. Nearby attractions like Pinball Paradise and the American Giants Museum are listed at artistsofthecorn.com.
Chuck’s Papas at the Castle: This promising college band with a post-grunge vibe gets a big break, locally speaking: headlining the Castle. They’re joined by two bands from Champaign-Urbana, Kangaroo Court and Emily How, plus Peoria’s Grey Slush—all worth a listen. 7:30 p.m. Saturday (doors 6:30 p.m.) Tickets $15 at thecastletheatre.com.
Cantus Novus is back: This local choir gives its first public performance in three years after a prolonged pandemic pause. It’s not all “Silent Night” and “Jingle Bells”—though there will be some songs to get you in the holiday spirit. Cantus Novus is also committed to deeper cuts, including seasonal and secular songs by living composers. 3 p.m. Sunday at the Mennonite Church of Normal. Free (donations accepted). Details at bncantusnovus.com.
