NORMAL, Ill. – The Illinois State Athletics Department, in partnership with the Town of Normal, has announced more details for the third annual Ballin' on Beaufort, presented by Bloomington-Normal Automall.
This free community event will take place on Wednesday, October 1, on a closed-off section of East Beaufort Street in Uptown Normal, between the circle and Linden Street. The event will showcase the Redbird men's and women's basketball teams as they gear up for the 2025–26 season.
Festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. with a fan festival packed with activities for all ages! Enjoy face painting, balloon art, merchandise sales, and visit booths from Illinois State Athletics corporate partners. Kids can access the sport court for basketball activities until 6:15 p.m. Then, from 6:00–6:30 p.m., meet the men's and women's basketball teams during the official autograph session. At 6:45 p.m., the main program begins with player introductions and exciting on-court competitions, including a trick shot challenge, shooting stars contest, and 3-Point Championship.
Illinois State, in collaboration with the Town of Normal and its local restaurants and bars, is dedicated to creating a safe and family-friendly environment. Patrons aged 21 and over who wish to enjoy alcoholic beverages within the event footprint must wear the official event wristband given to them upon street entry. Glass bottles and glass cups are not permitted to be taken outside the restaurants/bars.
We kindly request that all Redbird fans show their respect for the security staff, Town of Normal personnel, and Illinois State staff in their collective efforts to uphold community safety.
Free public parking is available in the Trail East and Trail West lots, located next to East Beaufort Street. Additional street parking is offered on a first-come, first-served basis in the areas surrounding the event. Click here to view the Uptown Normal parking map.
TIMELINE OF EVENTS
- 5:00 p.m. – Ballin' on Beaufort Court opens for fans
- 6:00 p.m. – Team autographs session
- Collectible posters to sign will be given to fans
- 6:45 p.m. – Team introductions
- 7:00 p.m. – On-court basketball contests
