Here are 3 things to do for the weekend of Jan. 31 – Feb. 2, 2025, 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.
A seasoned BTF: Backyard Tire Fire reunited a few years ago, toting a new-ish EP released in 2021 after a decade of silence. It’s tempting to say it’s like no time has passed—but Black Dirt Blue Sky is a matured, more grateful version of the band that put a particular type of alt. folk Central Illinois sound on the map. 7:30 p.m. Friday in the Barrel Room at Destihl Brewery and Beer Hall; tickets $20-$25 at humantix.com.
Relive the '90s: A double documentary feature profiles cult classic Chasing Amy and feminist indie folk icon Ani DiFranco coinciding with Illinois State University’s LGBTQ alumni weekend. 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday at the Normal Theater; tickets $7 at normaltheater.com.
Cut a rug with your boo: Eight-piece band The Aristocrats will play jazz standards ripe for foxtrotting with your special valentine. Single tickets are available too for those in search of a dance partner. 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts; tickets $10-$20 at 309-434-2842.