Out and About

On this week's episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Jessica Moreano, programming director of the Big Picture Peoria Film Festival, about the festival’s return Nov. 20 and 21 to the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Featuring four screenings of independent short films in animation, narrative fiction and documentary, this year’s festival includes a dedicated student filmmaker showcase, a family-friendly screening and an awards ceremony.

On this week's episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Rev. Debra Avery of United Presbyterian Church of Peoria about Heart to Art, a free monthly gathering inviting adults to unplug and reconnect through creativity and community. Taking place on the second Friday of each month, Heart to Art offers a welcoming, intentionally unreligious space where participants can bring an art project, read a book, play games, enjoy conversation or just relax.

On this week's episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois turns the tables on longtime Peoria broadcaster, fitness professional and Peoria Civic Center Authority Board Vice Chair Yvonne Greer to discover some of her favorite ways to experience central Illinois. From live music and the Peoria Art Guild's Fine Art Fair, to performances at the Peoria Civic Center and walks along the Rock Island Trail, Greer shares the places and experiences that keep her connected to the community.

On this week’s episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Rick Blanco, founder of Casablanco Creative, about Blood Moon, an immersive vampire-themed experience transforming Obed & Isaac’s in Downtown Peoria throughout October.

On this week's episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks to Director Jake Van Hoorn about Dracula, on stage Oct. 9-11 and 15-18 at Peoria Players Theatre. In this Steven Dietz adaptation, the play stays close to Bram Stoker’s original novel. Dracula is presented as a charismatic but terrifying predator, embracing some of the darker material often omitted from other versions.

On this week’s episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Kathryn McBride of Peoria Public Library about the 25th anniversary of Peoria Reads and its Oct. 10 Block Party at Columbia Park. Inspired by this year’s selection, Angeline Boulley’s book "Warrior Girl Unearthed," the free and family-friendly celebration brings the book’s exploration of Indigenous history, identity, and culture into the community through speakers, food demonstrations and tastings, artists, vendors, food trucks and activities for all ages.

On this week’s episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Elizabeth Klise, executive director of the Peoria Historical Society, about a new exhibition entitled "Joseph Petarde: Maestro of Stone," on view Oct. 1-28 at Peoria Public Library’s Main Library.

On this week's episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Megan Scott, executive director of the Peoria Art Guild, about the 64th annual Fine Art Fair, returning Sept. 26 and 27 to the Peoria Riverfront. More than 100 artists from 13 states and three countries will showcase painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, printmaking, glass, and more, alongside local emerging artists.

On this week's episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Amy McCoy, executive director of the Pekin Area Chamber of Commerce, about the 2026 Pekin Marigold Festival, taking place Sept. 9 through the 13. The event began as an art show over half a century ago, and today Art in the Park continues that creative tradition with more than 230 vendors offering handmade and homemade work ranging from painting and writing to woodworking and other crafts.

On this week’s episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Mengrong Taylor, chair of the Peoria Chinese Association, about the Peoria Dragon Boat Race on Sept. 13 at the Peoria Riverfront. The celebration offers visitors a chance to experience Chinese traditions while exploring the connections between art, culture, teamwork and community.