Daily
Bloomington
Thursday, February 26th, 2026
Good morning, Bloomington. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 26th of February.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ The Music Shoppe, a family-owned instrument store (serving schools across three areas), celebrated 65 years and unveiled its anniversary logo at the Illinois Music Educators Conference in Peoria this year. The store took over school accounts from a closed Bloomington band business and plans to look for a standalone building. WGLT
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Illinois State University approved a 5% tuition increase for incoming students to help cover $8.6M rising costs due to inflation and higher operating expenses. New students will pay about $1,143 more per year (with $2M in financial aid coming next fall). 25 News Now
- ➤ More than 50 parents gathered to oppose a draft Unit 5 proposal that may close or repurpose Glenn Elementary School — they questioned the delayed communication and urged greater transparency. The Pantagraph
- ➤ Renowned theoretical physicist Michio Kaku will speak about his work to complete Einstein's theory of everything on April 2 at the Brown Ballroom at ISU. The Pantagraph
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Connect Transit announced its fare system will turn contactless this summer. Community members can join engagement sessions on (March 5, 6, or 12) at local venues to share feedback; fixed route fares will not change while Flex rides increase to $1.25 with a student discount to $0.50. WGLT
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It's A 2000s Party: Bloomington
8-10 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Relive the 2000s with iconic music and fashion in a nostalgic party atmosphere.
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Here Come The Mummies Concert
7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $41.00+ — Get ready to groove with this eight-piece funk-rock band of 5000 year-old Egyptian Mummies bringing their 'Terrifying Funk from Beyond the Grave'.
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Wizard of Oz On Ice
7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $24.00+ — Experience the beloved classic reimagined with breathtaking ice performances and stunning choreography.
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Miller Park Zoo Stampede
9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Miller Park Pavilion — Entry fee required — Run or walk to support a wild cause in the heart of Miller Park.
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STOMP Performance
7-10 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $36.00+ — Experience an inventive blend of dance, music, and theatrical performance with energizing beats.
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Grown-Up Story Time
7:30-8:30 p.m. — McLean County Arts Center — Free entry — Adults enjoy beloved children's stories with light refreshments.
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Bloomington Bison vs. Fort Wayne Komets
7-8 p.m. — Grossinger Motors Arena — Tickets available — Catch the thrilling ice hockey showdown between the Bison and the Komets.
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Christopher Cross Concert
7-9 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $59.00+ — Experience the timeless hits of five-time Grammy winner Christopher Cross live on stage.
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Jenny Scara LP Release Show
Doors at 6:30 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticket info available — Celebrate the launch of Jenny Scara's new LP with special guests Marble Teeth and Emily How.
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Brushville at Lexington Baseball Night
7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Castle Theatre — Ticketed event — Enjoy an evening of music while supporting the Lexington High School baseball team’s spring trip.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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