The Illinois Symphony Orchestra is planning a series of concerts and special events in central Illinois as part of its 2026 summer season, according to a public release.
The program includes free outdoor performances, kitchen tours, and themed musical evenings in Bloomington, Springfield, and surrounding communities. Particular attention is given to collaborations with local festivals, unique venues, and programs dedicated to brass, string, and woodwind ensembles.
Read more: Check out these music series in and around Springfield.
Free concerts are starting in downtown Bloomington.
The season opens on June 6 at 6:00 PM with the "Around the City" concert in downtown Bloomington. The event is part of the centennial celebration and the "Saturdays on the Square" program, held in partnership with Visit BN. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring chairs and enjoy live music in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Two weeks later, "Lavender & Lemons: A Tour of Kitchens and Beyond" invites participants to explore the kitchens inside and outside of homes in Bloomington-Normal. The self-guided tour runs from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on June 20, and tickets are $25 per person.
Chamber ensembles will perform as part of the Sips & Sounds concert series.
The Sips & Sounds concert series, featuring Illinois Symphony Orchestra musicians in intimate settings, returns this summer. Upcoming performances include:
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June 24: String quartet at Bloom Wine Bar & Florals in Springfield.
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June 25: String quartet at Keg Grove Brewing Company in Bloomington.
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July 29: Brass Quintet performs at Route 66 MotorHeads Bar & Grill in Springfield.
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July 30: Brass Quintet performs at Ancho & Agave in Bloomington.
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August 26: Brass Quintet at Route 66 MotorHeads Bar & Grill in Springfield.
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August 27: Brass Quintet at Keg Grove Brewing Company in Bloomington.
Open-air concerts celebrate Shakespeare, Independence Day, and moonlit walks.
The Illinois Symphony Orchestra's String Quartet will perform a free outdoor concert on June 26 in the courtyard of the Ewing Estate in Bloomington, marking the opening of the Illinois Shakespeare Festival's 2026 season. Everyone is welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy the music in a historic setting.
On July 3, the ISO Brass Ensemble will perform at Robin Roberts Stadium in Springfield for a patriotic concert before the Springfield Lucky Horseshoes baseball game. The program will include the national anthem, "God Bless America," and other popular tunes.
To conclude August, guests 21 and older will enjoy live music and moonlit strolls during the Moonlight Meander event at the Lincoln Memorial Garden in Springfield. The event begins at 6:30 PM on August 28 and will feature the "Around the Town" concert as part of the garden's annual celebration.
The programme dedicated to Mahler concludes the summer concert series.
The final concert of "Around the Town" is scheduled for September 5 at Moses Montefiore Temple in Bloomington. This free event will explore the life and music of composer Gustav Mahler, offering audiences the opportunity to learn about and listen to his music in a relaxed setting.
How to participate
According to the announcement, full event and ticket information is available on the Illinois Symphony Orchestra website at ilsymphony.org. For more information, please call the Springfield office at 217-522-2838 ext. 4 or the Bloomington office at 309-662-9840.
The Illinois Symphony Orchestra's headquarters are located at 501 W. Elliott Ave., Springfield.
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This article originally appeared in the State Journal-Register: ISO Organizes Summer Concerts and Events in Bloomington and Springfield.