Good morning, Peoria.

East Peoria is planning special events this spring to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday (May will feature American-themed floats and patriotic displays in the Levee District, and an America 250 Ornament Hunt will take place on June 1).

Three rescued Mexican spider monkeys now have a permanent home at the Peoria Zoo, where they are learning natural behaviors indoors and will move outdoors when the weather warms — zoo curator Jon Rold said the placement supports conservation efforts.

Bradley's men's basketball team lost to Northern Iowa, 73-69, in the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament semifinal Saturday at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis — Bradley trailed early by 18 and got within five points in the final seconds but fell short.

Northern Iowa will face Illinois-Chicago in tomorrow's championship game.

The Washington Panthers girls basketball team won their first state title with a 60 to 45 win over Chatham (Glenwood) at CEFCU Arena on Saturday, Mar.

7. A celebration is scheduled for Monday at 6 p.m. at Torry Gym at the high school.

The Washington Lady Panthers won the IHSA Class 3A state championship by beating Chatham Glenwood 60-45 on Saturday in Normal.

Senior guard Avery Tibbs led her team with 24 points as they improved on last year’s third-place finish.

Fused Glass Snowflakes Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 reservation, piece prices range from $33 to $64 — Create a shimmering glass snowflake for your winter décor.

Friday the 13th Spooky Pottery Painting

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 ticket reserves your seat — Unleash your creativity with spooky pottery painting this Friday the 13th.

2026 Blarney Blitz

8 AM – 2 PM — Kelleher's Irish Pub & Eatery — Entry fees apply — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a festive themed race in downtown Peoria.

Organic Chip and Dip Dish Clay Hand Building Class

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Includes materials — Craft a unique organic-shaped dish perfect for entertaining.

Ladies' Night: Gal Pals and Glazes

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 — Unwind with friends while sipping drinks and painting pottery in a relaxing atmosphere.

Salsa Night at Contemporary Art Center

9:30 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $5 for members, $8 for non-members — Dance the night away with Salsa, Cha Cha, and more in a lively setting.

Beginner Stained Glass Workshop

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — $85 — Create your own stunning stained glass art in a fun, hands-on workshop.

Mud and Music Event

2-4 p.m. — The Clay Den — $5 entry — Enjoy live local music while crafting pottery in a cozy, artsy atmosphere.

Fairy Tale Storytime

6:00-6:30 p.m. — Fondulac District Library — Free entry — Enjoy an enchanting storytime filled with fairy tales, crafts, and treats designed for young children.

Fused Glass Cross Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Class fee applies — Create a stunning fused glass cross with personalized colors and floral details.