DECATUR, Ill. – Millikin University will host Milli-Fest, a newly reimagined campus and community celebration, on April 17–18, 2026, bringing together students, families, alumni, employees and members of the Decatur community for a weekend of interactive, family-friendly activities.
Formerly known as the Big Blue Community Bash, Milli-Fest builds on the success of past events while introducing new experiences designed to broaden participation and strengthen connections between Millikin and the surrounding community.
Organized by students in Millikin’s Event Planning course, Milli-Fest highlights the University’s signature Performance Learning approach, allowing students to design, promote and execute a large-scale event from concept to completion.
“This event represents Performance Learning at its best,” said Molly Berry, Millikin’s Interim Vice President of Admission and Student Affairs and instructor of the Event Planning course. “Our students are gaining hands-on experience by managing every aspect of Milli-Fest—from logistics and vendor coordination to marketing and community outreach. It’s an opportunity for them to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom while creating something meaningful for both campus and the Decatur community.”
Milli-Fest represents a collaborative effort between students, faculty and campus partners, with students leading event logistics, vendor coordination, marketing and on-site execution.
The event is designed not only to provide entertainment, but also to create a welcoming space for the Decatur community to experience Millikin’s campus and culture.
Whether attending for a single activity or spending the full weekend on campus, guests will have the opportunity to engage with Millikin students, explore local vendors and enjoy a vibrant spring celebration.
Weekend of Activities for All Ages
Milli-Fest will feature a variety of events across Millikin’s campus, with programming designed for both community members and Millikin students.
Friday, April 17 (6–9 p.m.) – Kickoff on the Quad
The weekend begins with a relaxed evening of lawn games, select food trucks, and an outdoor movie on the Quad, featuring Disney’s “Monsters University.”
Saturday, April 18 (11 a.m.–2 p.m.) – Community Celebration
Saturday morning and early afternoon will serve as the primary community-focused portion of the event, including:
- A large vendor and maker’s market featuring local and regional businesses
- Food trucks and specialty vendors
- Inflatables and family-friendly games
- A “Touch-a-Truck” experience with emergency and service vehicles
- Interactive activities such as face painting and hands-on crafts
Saturday, April 18 (6–9 p.m.) – Student Night Experience
Saturday evening will shift to a college-focused atmosphere with entertainment and activities tailored for Millikin students and college-aged guests, including a mechanical bull, tie-dye shirts, photo booth, henna, tarot readings and limited free food truck tickets for the first 50 guests.
Admission: Free and open to the public for Friday evening and Saturday daytime events.
