Good morning, Bloomington.

The City of Bloomington has rescheduled its Light Up the Ring celebration for today at 8:30 p.m. at the outdoor amphitheater on North Main Street (marking a major milestone in the Downtown Streetscape Project) before local officials deliver brief remarks to open the downtown entertainment district.

After 50 years in service, Vitesse bike shop becomes Trek Bicycle Normal under new ownership as Normal Mayor Chris Koos stepped aside around March, with the shop continuing the same services.

The store now operates every day except Sunday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Local youth will compete in the McLean County Fair royalty competition on Sunday, July 26 at 4 p.m. at the Astroth Community Education Center at Heartland Community College, where 25 contestants will take the stage & vie for the title.

Illinois State University announced an $84 million science complex that will add a five-story STEM building, a lab annex, and a 12,000 sqft greenhouse to serve as a new front porch near Uptown Normal.

Construction will begin in spring 2027 and be complete by fall 2028.

The City of Bloomington partners with CodeRED, a free emergency alert system that sends updates by phone, text, or email for issues like severe weather and utility work, with the service launching July 27 — the city approved $11,897.18 for it with up to four annual renewals.

Bloomington Ice Center will reopen Aug.

1 after maintenance and is at full capacity as hockey interest drives 18-hour day use; city staff said expanding the rink would cost tens of millions of dollars + require new locker room space to meet rising demand.

McLean County Fair

Jul 29 – Aug 1 — McLean County Fairgrounds — $10 entry — Enjoy five days of fun with exhibits, games, and entertainment in Bloomington's cherished tradition.

Taylor Bruninga and Feudin Hillbillys

6:30-10:30 p.m. — McLean County Fairgrounds — Tickets from $52 — Experience the unforgettable performances of Feudin' Hillbillys live in Bloomington.

Demolition Derby

6:00 – 9:30 PM — McLean County Fairgrounds — Tickets start at $71 — Experience the thrilling chaos of cars colliding in this unforgettable live event.