Good morning, Bloomington.

8 Bit Arcade will return downtown at 217 W.

Jefferson St. (the former Pantagraph Printing and Stationery location) to serve local patrons as a bar.

Heartland Head Start, the early childhood program serving low-income families in Bloomington and nearby areas, received a $4.4 million five-year grant renewal and is now set to expand with additional staff and a new classroom at YWCA McLean County—officially securing its future in the community. Interim executive director Chuck Hartseil said the funding will ease stress and help build a larger waiting list as enrollment reaches 224 children.

Gov. JB Pritzker signed a law on Thursday that protects news media from SLAPP lawsuits by classifying non-investigative reporting as public participation—ensuring reporters can do their jobs without legal harassment.

The measure passed the House and Senate and supports free press in Illinois.

Book Brunch Club

10-11 a.m. — Bloomington Public Library — Free — Start your day with coffee, snacks, and lively discussions about 'The Widows of Malabar Hill'.

Paint Nite at Chateau Hotel

5-7:30 p.m. — Chateau Hotel and Conference Center — Food and drinks available — Create your own masterpiece while sipping and laughing with friends.

Prairieland Punishers Roller Derby Final Home Bout

4-8 p.m. — Interstate Center — $15 VIP, $10 General, $5 Children — Experience thrilling roller derby action as the Punishers face off against Demolition City in their final home game of the season.

The Four C Notes Tribute Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $29.00+ — Experience the Midwest’s only tribute to Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons with classic hits.

Leonid & Friends Tribute to Chicago

7-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $25.00+ — Experience an incredible tribute as Leonid & Friends captures the essence of Chicago's legendary sound.

Top of the World - A Tribute to the Carpenters

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the heartfelt sounds of the Carpenters tribute live in Bloomington.

Ballet 5:8 - La Llorona

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts — $17.00+ — Experience a poignant ballet that explores maternal pain and healing through stunning artistry.