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The Annual Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show will be held October 4 and 5, 2025 and we will be in the Orr Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds. The theme for this year's show is "Rocky Rainbow".
There will be dealers, demonstrators, exhibits, kid's activities (fossil dig, spin and win, touch and feel, egg carton collection), silent auction, Springfield Maker Space, flint knapping, geode cracking, concessions, and much more. There will also be a brand new escape room this year!
Times are 10 - 6 on Saturday and 10 - 5 on Sunday. Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for seniors over 65, free admission for those 12 and under and Scouts and 4H members in uniform when accompanied by an adult

Hear ye, hear ye! The year is 1928, and you’ve been invited to the Duke’s lavish gala at the historic Pasfield House. The chandeliers glow, the band swings, and the Duke’s guests swirl across the dance floor in elegant 1920s fashion. But behind every smile lies a secret, and before the night is over, guests will be privy to a sinister plot.

The Phoenix Center is proud to announce its 25th Annual Fall Gayla, taking place on Friday, November 7, 2025, with doors open at 5:30pm and program running 6:00pm –10:00pm. This milestone event promises an unforgettable evening filled with celebration, entertainment, and community spirit — all in support of the essential programs and services provided by The Phoenix Center.

The Phoenix Center serves as a vital resource in Central Illinois, offering public health services, counseling, support groups, educational programming, community events, clothing assistance, and transitional housing. Proceeds from the Fall Gayla directly support these life-changing programs and help strengthen LGBTQIA+ individuals and families in our community.

This year’s Gayla will feature dueling pianos ensuring a lively and interactive musical experience for all guests. A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Annual Community Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations who have made extraordinary contributions to the LGBTQIA+ community:

The Catie Barker Pride Award

Community Partner with Pride Award

Outstanding Award

NEW: The State of Pride Award – honoring public servants and officials who champion equality and dignity for LGBTQIA+ people in Illinois.

Attendees can also look forward to a variety of fundraising opportunities, including a silent auction, live auction, and the always-popular baked goods auction, a community favorite tradition.

“The Fall Gayla is more than a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of resilience, progress, and pride,” said Teresa Silva, Executive Director of The Phoenix Center. “We are thrilled to mark our 25th year of bringing the community together to uplift and honor the work being done every day.”

Tickets and Sponsorship Opportunities
Tickets, sponsorship packages, and additional event details are available at https://phoenixcenterspringfield.org/fall-gayla/

About The Phoenix Center
The Phoenix Center is Central Illinois’ LGBTQIA+ community center, dedicated to providing vital health and social services, education, advocacy, and support. Through inclusive programming and community engagement, The Phoenix Center works to empower individuals, promote equality, and build a stronger, healthier future for all.

Springfield Ceramics and Crafts Club (SCCC) will present their annual Holiday Boutique and Sweet Shoppe Saturday, November 8th, 9 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., at 2626 S. Pasfield St., Springfield, IL 62704.

Come get in the spirit! Crafts, bake sale, cocoa bar and raffle. Shop Holiday and Home decor - Jewelry - Handmade Crafts - RADA - Knitted & Crocheted items - Ceramics. Gift Basket Raffle. Many one-of-a-kind items!

The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, check out our Facebook page SCCC – Springfield Ceramics and Crafts club or www.SpringfieldCeramicsandCraftsClub.org

SCCC is a 501c3 organization with dual missions of both educational outreach and community service. The club supports local school art programs by awarding yearly grants. They participate in community outreach by providing art supplies and teaching classes to several area schools and senior centers.