What do you plan to do when you finish the race?
We’ve got just the event to help you celebrate and unwind—the 27th Mile Celebrate Victory Bash hosted by the Champaign County Convention & Visitors Bureau and winner of the Illinois Excellence in Tourism Award for Best Event or Festival at the 2011 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism.

After crossing the finish line from the 2012 Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon, be sure to kick back at this street fest from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 28. Held right outside Memorial Stadium on Kirby Avenue, between First and Fourth Streets, you don’t have to go far to find the celebration.

This year’s lively street fest will feature several entertainment acts, favorite local cuisines and of course, plenty of refreshing drinks. The 27th Mile is THE place to meet up with family, friends and fellow racers to celebrate your accomplishment.

Live entertainment kicks off at 10 a.m. on the CVB stage with Champaign's premiere 90’s cover band, 90s Daughter. To bring down the house, Ryan Ideus and the Feudin’ Hillbillys, one of the top country and rock acts in Illinois, takes the stage from 12:00–2:00 p.m. to close out the event.

While enjoying the live music, be sure to fill up post-race with food provided by local favorites, El Toro, Billy Barooz and the Crave Truck. We’ve no doubt your hunger will be satisfied.

Make sure you bring the kids and keep them entertained with Action Inflatables, who will provide several fun games for the whole family.  Meatheads Burgers and Fries will be giving out coupons for free items and the Army ROTC will have their H2 Hummer complete with gaming system on hand.

Before you leave, be sure to grab a Wooden Nickel, good for discounts at various businesses around the community. Participating businesses and their offers will be posted soon!

Lastly, don’t forget to register to win prizes from State Farm or take your photo in the News-Gazette Cut Out.

To get involved or volunteer with the 27th Mile, or if you're a business looking to participate in the Wooden Nickel program, please contact Cory Hatfield at 217.351.4133 or coryh@visitchampaigncounty.org.

The 27th Mile Celebrate Victory Bash is financially supported by our local State Farm agents. Thank you for your support!