Joe Klausner Associate Athletic Director/Academics and Life Skills | Illinois State University Athletics Website
Joe Klausner Associate Athletic Director/Academics and Life Skills | Illinois State University Athletics Website
The Illinois State athletics department, in collaboration with the Town of Normal, has announced further details for the second annual Ballin' on Beaufort event. Scheduled for Thursday in Uptown Normal, this free event will take place on East Beaufort Street between the circle and Linden Street.
The festivities will commence at 5:00 p.m. with a fan festival featuring activities suitable for all ages. At 6:30 p.m., player introductions will kick off the program, followed by a shooting stars challenge, team trick shots, and a three-point contest on a temporary court set up specifically for Illinois State.
Illinois State is working alongside the Town of Normal and local businesses to ensure a safe and family-friendly atmosphere. Attendees aged 21 and over who wish to consume alcoholic beverages within the event area must wear an official wristband provided upon entry. Glass containers are prohibited outside participating venues.
Early arrivals will be rewarded as the first 500 fans will receive an exclusive Ballin' on Beaufort collectible koozie. The family-friendly zone opens at 5:00 p.m., offering face painting, balloon artistry, and yard games. Children can enjoy using the court until 6:15 p.m.
Community partners near East Beaufort Street's circle will have tents offering giveaways and merchandise sales. DJ Smalls is set to entertain attendees with music throughout the event.
Post-event activities include a meet-and-greet session with teams along with autographs on the court. Fans are encouraged to explore nearby restaurants after the main events conclude.
The Illinois State Athletics staff urges Redbird fans to respect security personnel, Town of Normal employees, and university staff who work together to maintain community safety.
Seating options are limited; thus, fans should be prepared to stand if possible as lawn chairs or temporary seating won't be allowed to maximize viewing space for everyone.
The timeline of events is as follows:
- 5:00 p.m.: Court opens
- 6:30 p.m.: Team introductions
- 7:00 p.m.: Basketball contests
- 7:45 p.m.: Autograph session and team meet-and-greet
Collectible posters and markers will be available during autograph sessions.
In case of unsafe weather conditions, there won't be a rescheduled date; however, updates can be followed via ISURedbirds social media channels.
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