We are excited to usher in warmer weather this month, and with that, a long list of events that make a great night (or day) out for adults. Check out our top picks for outdoor dining and our growing-by-the-day list of outdoor concerts, as these two activities are summer favorites. 

We also have a list of 75+ date night ideas that are not tied to a specific event this month. 

If you're looking for more ideas to dine out, you might check out our favorite places to dine for date night or our "destination restaurants". Both have great options for date nights. 

Chambanamoms thanks Krannert Center for the Performing Arts for presenting our date night newsletter.

Krannert Center for the Performing Arts is dedicated to the advancement of education, research, and public engagement through the pursuit of excellence and innovation in the performing arts. 

For more information: Website

Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra: The C-U symphony's appearance on Saturday, May 2, highlights the month's schedule for the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.

Check out the rest of the great events planned for Krannert here.

Champaign Park District Marshmallows & Melodies: Experience a relaxing and fun-filled evening at Toalson Park with Midwest Dueling Pianos & Marshmallow Roasting! This event takes place on May 7. 

Live it up in the '80s: Step back in time and head to an '80s Rock Party at the City Center in Champaign on Saturday, May 2. Tickets as low as $8.50 per person (BOGO deal). Rock to hits of the decade's favorite hair bands: Def Leppard, Bon Jovi, Poison, Guns N Roses and more.

New Souls at the Rose Bowl: A true sign of summer is local favorite New Souls playing more gigs. The group is back at the Rose Bowl from 8-11 p.m. on Friday, May 8, with no cover. Bring tips for the band!

A visit to Hadestown: We are super excited to see Hadestown's touring production stop at State Farm Center on Tuesday, May 12. Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, Hadestown is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never lets go.

Line dance lessons: Learn how to line dance at Yellow and Co. in Mahomet. Madison teaches a song and does about 20 minutes of open dance, teaches a second open dance, teaches a third open dance and then a fourth with open dance on Friday, May 15. It's $8 per person, for ages 18 and up.

Adults at Skateland: Does May have you thinking about high school -- prom, graduation, skating? Skateland Savoy's next Adult Only Night is Sunday, May 17, from 7-10 p.m. Admission is $12. Skate rental is extra. For ages 18 and up.

Make new friends: Are you new to the greater Champaign-Urbana area since 2023? Make new adult friends and meet other newcomers for networking, food and drinks at The Venue CU. The event is free to attend for new residents and members of the Chambana Welcome Crew, but space is limited. RSVP required by May 15.

Candlelit paddleboat rides: On Friday, May 22, the Urbana Park District, the City of Urbana Arts and Culture Program, and the CU Jazz Festival are partnering to offer an evening of candlelit paddleboat rides at the Lake House in Crystal Lake Park. You'll be serenaded by a live jazz combo on the Lakeside Deck and enjoy a twinkly summer concert while you paddle around a limited area on Crystal Lake. Just $25 per boat of four people. For ages 21 and up. Call (217) 367-1544 to order or go here.

Architecture tour: Mid-century modern is all the rage in Champaign-Urbana, and this special event on Saturday, May 23, is a can't-miss for architecture mavens. It will sell out so act fast! Stop in private homes as well as other buildings. Cost is $40 per person.

Wine walk: Sip, stroll, and shop your way through downtown Champaign at the 6th Annual Downtown Wine Walk on Saturday, May 30, from noon-5 p.m, hosted by Champaign County Partnership. Spend the afternoon exploring your favorite downtown shops while enjoying a curated selection of wines along the way. Tickets are not yet on sale but typically sell out.

More Date Night Ideas

Don't forget to check our list of more than 75 date nights you can choose from any time of year - no specific dates for these!

Looking for a restaurant? We have a list of our favorite date night restaurants, too.