Good morning, Peoria.

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois donated $40,000—distributed among 16 food banks in Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford counties—to help address food insecurity affecting over 45,000 people, based on Feeding America numbers.

Shauna Segler of Dunlap Middle School was named the Illinois Outstanding Speech Educator for the 2025 to 2026 school year after her program included 154 students; she is a nominee for a national NFHS award—winners will be announced later this school year.

Forecast models show mixed predictions for Thanksgiving travel in Illinois—some forecast rain and cooler weather in the south while others expect sunshine and mild temperatures in the north—so commuters should plan ahead before heading out.

Peoria’s three main hospitals received average or below-average safety grades in Leapfrog Group’s Fall 2025 report—OSF HealthCare St. Francis earned a C while Carle Health’s Methodist and Proctor hospitals received D’s.

The ratings were based on data from 31 safety measures such as infections, surgical complications, and staff communication.

Ladies Sing Along Brunch

10 AM – 12 PM — Castaways — Starts at $28.52 — Enjoy a delightful brunch while singing your favorite songs in a lively atmosphere.

Wheel Thrown Lidded Jars Workshop

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Includes materials — Elevate your pottery skills by crafting unique, functional lidded jars over two specialized sessions.

Sparkle & Sip Soirée – Peoria's Festival of Trees 2025

9:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. — Holiday Inn & Suites Peoria at Grand Prairie — $75 per ticket or $600 for a table of ten — Enjoy a lively brunch with bubbly, raffles, and live entertainment while supporting local families.

Clay Den 1-Year Anniversary Celebration

1-5 p.m. — The Clay Den — Free entry — Celebrate creativity and community with live music, special offers, and a holiday food drive.

Christmas Tree Fused Glass Dish Workshop

1-3 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Check event webpage for details — Create a festive fused glass dish for holiday treats while enjoying a fun class atmosphere.

Thanksgiving Break Kids Mini Clay Camp

10 a.m.-12 p.m. — The Clay Den — Registration required — A creative 2-day camp that introduces kids to ceramics with hands-on clay activities.

Thanksgiving Break Kids Mini Clay Camp

10 AM – 12 PM — The Clay Den — Cost information not provided — Kids will explore ceramics through hands-on projects like sculpting and wheel throwing.

The Elite Chocolate Turkey 3 Mile Run

8 a.m. – 2 p.m. — RC Outfitters — $33.20+ — Start your Thanksgiving with a spirited 3 Mile Run or a 1 Mile Walk, featuring chocolate treats and community fun.

Black Friday Bodega Bash

9 AM – 2 PM — Art at the Bodega — $50 fill-the-bag — Enjoy holiday fun with swag bags, prizes, and festive treats.

Evansville Thunderbolts vs Peoria Rivermen

7:15-9:15 p.m. — Peoria Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Watch the Thunderbolts take on the Rivermen in this hockey showdown.