Carols Side Road

10/28/2026

🎃🍂 HALLOWEEN WEEKEND FUN AROUND DECATUR! 🍂🎃
Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Halloween festivities kick off Wednesday and continue through Saturday! There's something for the whole family! 👻
Here's what's happening around Decatur and Mt. Zion, October 28–31!
📚 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28 – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31
🍬 Decatur Public Library Halloween Trick-or-Treat
📍 Decatur Public Library – Decatur
🕒 Anytime during regular library hours
🎟️ FREE!
Bring the kids by the library for some Halloween trick-or-treating! Stop in anytime Wednesday through Saturday.
📖 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29
🎃 Halloween Story Time at Decatur Public Library
📍 Decatur Public Library – Decatur
🕙 10:00 AM
🎟️ FREE!
Bring the little ones for a special Halloween-themed story time!
💙 Special Needs Trick-or-Treat
📍 Scovill West Activity Center
3909 West Main St., Decatur, IL
🕓 4:00–5:30 PM
🎟️ FREE!
A special trick-or-treat event for individuals with special needs!
🥁 Millikin Percussion Ensemble Halloween Concert
📍 Albert Taylor Theatre, Shilling Hall – Decatur
🕢 7:30 PM
🎟️ $15 general admission
Enjoy a family-friendly Halloween performance featuring Millikin University's talented percussion ensembles!
🐒 Boo at the Zoo
📍 Scovill Zoo – Decatur
📅 October 29–31
A Halloween tradition for families! Enjoy spooky seasonal fun at the zoo.
🔗 https://decatur-parks.org/scovill-zoo/special-events/boo-at-the-zoo/
🎸 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30
🥁 Millikin Percussion Ensemble Halloween Concert
📍 Albert Taylor Theatre – Decatur
🕔 5:00 PM & 7:30 PM
🎟️ $15 general admission
Missed Thursday's show? You have two more chances to catch this Halloween favorite!
🎤 Spotlight Series – '90s Daughter
📍 Lincoln Square Theater – Decatur
🕖 7:00 PM
🎟️ $10
Looking for a fun Friday night out? Enjoy live entertainment at the historic Lincoln Square Theater!
🍬 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31 – HALLOWEEN!
👻 Mt. Zion & Decatur Trick-or-Treating
📍 Mt. Zion & Decatur
🕔 5:00–8:00 PM
🎟️ FREE!
Get those costumes ready! It's time for an evening of trick-or-treating with the family!
🎃 Boo at the Zoo – Final Day
📍 Scovill Zoo – Decatur
One last chance to enjoy this Halloween event!
📚 Decatur Public Library – Final Day of Trick-or-Treating
📍 Decatur Public Library
🕒 During regular library hours
🍁 There's plenty happening close to home this Halloween weekend!
❤️ Know of another Halloween event, trunk-or-treat, or community activity happening around Decatur, Forsyth, or Mt. Zion?
👇 DROP IT IN THE COMMENTS! Let's help everyone find something fun to do!
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10/27/2026

Throwing a Halloween party this week? STEAL MY LIST 🎃👻

Glow sticks & light-up glasses for the kids, disco ball pumpkins, jello syringes, a COFFIN drink cooler 🪦, cauldron snack bowls, costume trophies & more… everything you need to look like you planned for weeks!

🛒 Shop it all → link https://link.amazon/B0ebsAvxd
💾 Save this & send it to whoever's hosting!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

10/26/2026

HALLOWEEN IS THIS SATURDAY!
Last-minute Halloween costumes that are actually CUTE 🎃👻 and every single one is under $20 on Amazon!

Pumpkins, ghosts, witches, dinos, bumblebees… boys & girls sizes, and most ship fast so there's still time before Saturday.

🛒 Shop them all → link: https://link.amazon/B0362ImAp
💾 Save this for later & send it to a mom who still needs a costume!

As an Amazon Associate I earn on qualifying purchases.

10/23/2026

A Shopping Adventure Worth Taking at The Perfect Pair Vendor Mabel's Market

We recently made a stop at The Perfect Pair Vendor Market in Warrensburg, Illinois, and what we found was exactly the kind of place we love discovering—a little bit of everything, all under one roof.

Walking through the doors, we quickly realized that this isn't your typical store. The large marketplace is filled with booths from local makers, small businesses, and vendors, each offering something different. From home décor and furniture to clothing, vintage finds, handmade items, gifts, and specialty products, there was plenty to look at.

We enjoyed taking our time walking from booth to booth because every section seemed to have something that caught our attention. One minute we were looking at décor, and the next we were checking out a unique vintage item or thinking about who might enjoy one of the many gift ideas.

What we really loved about The Perfect Pair is the opportunity to support several small businesses in one visit. Instead of visiting just one shop, we got to discover so many local vendors and see the creativity and hard work that goes into their products.

If you're someone who enjoys small businesses, handmade treasures, vintage finds, home décor or simply browsing to see what catches your eye, we'd definitely recommend adding The Perfect Pair Vendor Market to your next shopping adventure.

“One stop, dozens of small businesses, and plenty of treasures to discover.”

📍 Business information
Address: 266 N. State Route 121, Warrensburg, IL 62573
Phone: 217-672-8822
Hours: 10 AM–5 PM, seven days a week
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perfectpairvendormarket/
KC Finds Local Business Shout Out
What would help you most — local deals, upcoming events, or online finds? Drop a comment!"

The Perfect Pair in Warrensburg, IL is a vendor market featuring over 70 small businesses under one roof! Our 14000 sq ft building is home to a coffee shop, local products grocery store, consignment clothing, home decor, & more. Open 7 days a week 10-5

10/21/2026

🎃🍂 WHAT'S HAPPENING AROUND DECATUR & CENTRAL ILLINOIS THIS WEEK? 🍂🎃

Looking for something fun to do this week? From Halloween festivities and local shopping to live music, there's a little something for everyone! Check out these upcoming events! 👇

🎃🦁 BOO AT THE ZOO
📅 October 22–25
📍 Scovill Zoo | Decatur, IL

Get into the Halloween spirit with Boo at the Zoo! A fun seasonal outing for families and little ghosts and goblins!

🎤 THE LINDA RONSTADT EXPERIENCE
📅 Friday, October 23 | 7:00 PM
📍 Lincoln Square Theater | 141 N. Main St., Decatur
🎟️ Tickets: $24.66–$57.80

Take a musical trip down memory lane with the unforgettable songs of Linda Ronstadt! A great evening for music lovers!

🛍️🍁 Haunted Harvest Market - The Perfect Pair Vendor Market
📅 Saturday, October 24 | Starts at 10:00 AM
📍 266 N. State Route 121 | Warrensburg, IL
✅ FREE ADMISSION!

Love shopping small? Browse local vendors, discover unique finds, and enjoy a little fall shopping while supporting local businesses!

🎸 GRAND THEFT AUDIO – LIVE ROCK!
📅 Saturday, October 24 | 7:00 PM
📍 Lincoln Square Theater | Decatur, IL
🎟️ Admission: $10

Get ready for a night of live rock music with Central Illinois band Grand Theft Audio! Part of the 2026 Spotlight Series.

🎶 MICHAEL CHARLES & HIS BAND
📅 Sunday, October 25 | 3:00–6:00 PM
📍 Pop's Place | 4335 W. Main St., Decatur
✅ NO COVER CHARGE!

Wrap up your weekend with an afternoon of blues, rock, incredible guitar music, and soulful ballads!

🍂 GET OUT & ENJOY CENTRAL ILLINOIS! 🍂

Whether you're looking for family fun, live entertainment, or a chance to shop local, there's plenty happening close to home!

👇 I'll add event links in the comments so you can find more information!

❤️ Know someone who would enjoy one of these events? Tag them below!

📲 Share this post with your friends and follow Taking Life's Side Roads for more local happenings, fun finds, and adventures!

10/19/2026

A Hunt for Unique Finds at The Drive-In, Antiques & More.

We recently stopped by The Drive-In, Antiques & More in Decatur, and it turned out to be one of those places where you can easily lose track of time while looking around.

Located on North Oakland Avenue, this unique antique shop has plenty of character. What makes it even more interesting is the history behind the building. It was once home to Dari Castle, a local drive-in that operated decades ago. Today, that space has a completely different life, filled with antiques, vintage finds, collectibles and plenty of items that bring back memories.

We especially enjoyed the nostalgic atmosphere. Some items brought back memories, while others had us stopping to take a closer look and wondering about the story behind them.

The shop is also a great reminder that shopping local doesn't always mean buying something brand new. Sometimes the most special finds are the ones with a little history behind them.

"You never know what you'll discover at The Drive-In." That fits the business perfectly because the appeal isn't just buying something—it's the fun of walking in, looking around and finding that unexpected piece you didn't know you were searching for.

📍 Business Details:
Business: The Drive-In, Antiques & More
Address: 2905 N. Oakland Ave., Decatur, IL 62526
Phone: (217) 877-8805
Current hours listed:
Thursday–Saturday: 10:30 AM–5 PM
Sunday: 12:30–5 PM
Webiste: https://www.driveinantiques.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DriveInAntiques/

Step back in time and come visit one of Decatur's newest Antique Malls!
Home of the famous ELAMS sign!

10/16/2026

A Night Out at Lincoln Square Theater

There’s something special about stepping inside a place that has been part of Decatur’s story for generations, and we definitely felt that when we visited Lincoln Square Theater.

Located right in the heart of Downtown Decatur, the historic theater has a charm that is hard to miss. From the moment we walked in, we could appreciate the character of this beautiful 1916 landmark. There’s a sense of history throughout the building, but at the same time, it feels lively and welcoming—a place where people still come together to have a good time.

During our visit, we enjoyed taking in the atmosphere as much as the entertainment itself. Whether you're coming for a concert, live performance, special event, movie, or community gathering, Lincoln Square Theater gives you a reason to make an evening out of it.

What we especially loved is that visiting the theater can be more than just watching a show. It’s a great excuse to spend time downtown, grab dinner at a local restaurant, browse the shops, and enjoy everything Decatur has to offer before or after the event.

The theater also hosts weddings, private celebrations, fundraisers, meetings, and other community events, making it a place that serves many different purposes throughout the year.

For us, Lincoln Square Theater was more than just an entertainment venue—it was an enjoyable way to experience a little bit of Decatur’s history while making new memories.

If you haven't visited yet, we'd definitely recommend keeping an eye on their upcoming events and planning a night at the Lincoln. It's the kind of local place that reminds you why supporting your hometown is so much fun.

Business Details:
Lincoln Square Theater
Ticket website: Lincoln Square Theater Tickets
Address: 141 N. Main St., Decatur, IL 62523
Phone: (217) 454-4583
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/friendsofthelincoln/
KC Finds Local Business Shout Out
What would help you most — local deals, upcoming events, or online finds? Drop a comment!"

10/15/2026

🧹 Just flew in with some SPOOKTACULAR finds for Halloween! 🎃

Here's what I spotted on my flight:
🧙‍♀️ Broom Parking Only sign — violators will be toad 🐸
👻 A witchy hanging ghost that's just hanging around
🖼️ A moody witch canvas for a little witchy elegance
🦇 The "Unwelcome" bat doormat — consider your guests warned!

Halloween is right around the corner, so grab yours before I fly off with them! 🌙

🛒 Shop these finds here 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/kc-finds/list/2V4771EXSDPCG?ref_=aipsflist&tag=easyliving043-20&originMarketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Which one would you put on YOUR porch? Tell me in the comments! 👇

10/14/2026

🍂🎃 WHAT'S HAPPENING AROUND DECATUR? 🎃🍂
📅 OCTOBER 15–18, 2026

Looking for something fun to do this week? From Halloween adventures and live music to art exhibits and community gatherings, there's something for everyone!

🍁 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15
💜 Grieve, Gather & Grow
📍 Fletcher Park Recreation Center, Mt. Zion
🕡 6:30–8:00 PM
💲 $15 per person
A welcoming monthly gathering focused on grief, connection, healing and personal growth.

🎃 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16
🍬 Annual Treat Trail at Rock Springs
📍 Rock Springs Conservation Area, Decatur
📅 October 16 | 5–8 PM
💲 $5 | Register by October 15 https://www.maconccd.org/events/treat-trail/2026-10-16/

🦁 Boo at the Zoo
📍 Scovill Zoo, Decatur
📅 October 16–18, 22-25, 29-31
(Admission 7.25 with treats (5.75 no treats), Train 4.50 and Carousel 3.50)
A weekend of Halloween fun at the zoo!
🔗 https://decatur-parks.org/scovill-zoo/special-events/boo-at-the-zoo/

🎻 Dixon's Violin Live
📍 Decatur Civic Center
🕖 7:00 PM Friday October 16
🎟️ General $32 | Students $12 | Ages 12 & under $7
Experience an unforgettable evening of unique, inspiring violin music!
https://www.decaturciviccenter.org/events/dixons-violin-live

🎸 CRAZY TRAIN – America's Ozzy Experience
📍 Lincoln Square Theater, Decatur
🎶 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 16
🕖 7:00 PM
🎟️ 26.56–114.05
Featuring special guest Son-Of-A-Gun, a Guns N' Roses tribute! https://lstevents.com/event/crazy-train-americas-ozzy-experience-with-special-guest-son-of-a-gun-best-gnr-tribute-on-planet-earth/

🎶 SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17
✨ SOLID GOLD – Spotlight Series
📍 Lincoln Square Theater, Decatur
🕖 7:00–10:00 PM
🎟️ $10 https://lstevents.com/event/2026-spotlight-series-show-9-solid-gold/
Enjoy a night celebrating local musical talent!

🎨 SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18
🖼️ Lucien Kapp Art Competition Award Ceremony
📍 James Millikin Homestead, 125 N. Pine Street, Decatur
🕑 2:00–4:00 PM
💲 FREE! Donations appreciated.
Celebrate local artists and the legacy of longtime Decatur artist Lucien Kapp.

🍂 SUPPORT LOCAL • EXPLORE MORE • MAKE MEMORIES!
💬 Which event are you planning to attend? Know of another upcoming event in the Decatur area? Drop it in the comments!

📌 SAVE this post for your weekend plans!

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Event details, pricing and availability are subject to change. Please confirm with organizers before attending.