CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — One of Champaign-Urbana’s most unique and beloved summer events is back. The ILLIAC, a free, family-friendly music festival, returns to Hessel Park on Saturday, August 23, bringing an eclectic lineup of performances, local food vendors, and community celebration to the heart of Champaign.
This year’s event runs from 3 to 9 p.m. and features an impressive roster of performers: The Marching Illini, Bandoneon Massacre, The Soul Syndicate, and Sinfonia da Camera. The music will span genres—classical, tango, soul, jazz, and marching band energy—all staged in a park setting.
The ILLIAC was first launched in 2014 by local promoter Seth Fein, who now serves on the advisory board of Sinfonia da Camera. Named after The Illiac Suite—the first piece of music composed by a computer at the University of Illinois—the event originally debuted as a street festival in downtown Urbana. After a 10-year hiatus, it returned in 2024, newly reimagined in Hessel Park.
“Hessel Park is the perfect place to host this event,” said Fein. “It breaks down the barriers—both physical and cultural—that can come with concert halls. People feel free here. Kids are running around, families are having picnics. That’s what music should be: accessible.”
Last year’s return to the park drew between 1,500 and 2,000 people, and organizers hope to exceed that this year, thanks in part to savvy scheduling.
“Holding it on move-in weekend is key,” Fein added. “So many out-of-town families are here, and they get to immediately see what a wonderful and diverse cultural community Champaign-Urbana really is. It’s a perfect introduction.”
Fein also expressed deep gratitude for the participation of Barry Houser and the Marching Illini, who will open the festival with a 3:30 p.m. performance.
“I’m honored to have Barry Houser involved,” said Fein. “The Marching Illini are iconic—not just locally, but nationally—and their presence brings a joyful energy that’s unmatched.”
Sinfonia da Camera will close the evening with a powerhouse program of classical favorites, including Rossini’s Barber of Seville overture, Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances, Strauss Jr.’s Blue Danube, and Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, complete with live cannon blasts provided by the ROTC.
“I’ve always wanted to bring music to the people, instead of making people bring themselves to the music,” Fein explained. “This is one of the most exciting ways to do that—outdoors, no ticket required, and with cannons going off in a public park!”
Food and drink vendors for the event include Smith Burger Co., Huaraches Moroleon, Stango Cuisine, La Paloma, Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Champaign, and Kona Ice. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and friends for an unforgettable evening.
The event remains entirely free of charge, with all performances open to the public.
Performance Schedule
- 3:30 p.m. – The Marching Illini
- 5:00 p.m. – Bandoneon Massacre (Tango orchestra)
- 6:30 p.m. – The Soul Syndicate (Jazz/Soul)
- 8:00 p.m. – Sinfonia da Camera (Classical) featuring live cannons during Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture
More information and event updates can be found at theilliac.com.
