McLean County Times

The Normal Theater and Keg Grove Brewing Company are set to host the second annual “Out of Your Element: A Big Lebowski Festival” on Saturday, May 17. The event will take place in downtown Normal and is centered around the 1998 film “The Big Lebowski.”

The festival will feature a variety of activities, including costume contests, games, music, food, and the debut of two limited-edition brews from Keg Grove. Tickets are available for $15 at NormalTheater.com. The festivities begin at 5 p.m., followed by a screening of the film at 7 p.m.

Adam Fox, Civic Arts Manager, said, "It was an idea the Theater Manager Benny Young and the guys at Keg Grove had been tossing around for a while." He added, "We were all absolutely thrilled with how many people in the community wanted to come out and celebrate this cult classic. Creating a ‘more-than-a-movie’ experience is what the Normal Theater strives to accomplish."

North Street between Fell and Broadway Streets will be closed for the event starting at 3 p.m. and is expected to reopen at 8 p.m. No parking will be allowed beginning at 1 p.m. Details about road closures can be found at https://arcg.is/1WOzfr2.

A new addition this year is “Out of Your Element: A Little Lebowski Bowling Tournament,” scheduled for May 14 at Pheasant Lanes Family Fun Center. Registration is open for teams or individuals via NormalTheater.com. Part of the proceeds will go to benefit the Children’s Discovery Museum.

Awards for highest and lowest team and individual scores will be presented at Pheasant Lanes. Fox commented on the relaxed nature of the tournament: "Don't worry - it's not a league game, it won't determine who enters the next round robin. This is just about taking it easy."

The Normal Theater is known for showing vintage and contemporary films in its restored Art Moderne cinema.

All Town of Normal facilities are accessible, with accommodations available upon request through ADA Coordinator Mark Clinch or by calling 309-454-9580.