The Springfield Area Arts Council is a 501(c)(3), non-profit organization enriching the community by promoting & supporting all art forms & providing creative opportunities to participate in & enjoy the arts. More than 60% of all income generated by the Arts Council returns to the community in quality events for your family, performance & exhibition opportunities for artists, services & resources for area arts organizations, performing artists in our schools, & arts programming funding for social service agencies. Our event line-up includes: Uptown Friday Night: Fridays @5:30pm A jazz/blues performance series, presented in partnership with Archer Bailey & Robbie’s Restaurant on Old State Capitol Plaza. A 50/50 raffle is held with proceeds benefiting Arts Council programs. On My Own Time: May 28 - June 14 A visual arts exhibit/competition open to employees in various Springfield area workplaces. A free, public exhibit will be located at Union Station next to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum. Artist On The Plaza: Tues & Thurs @Noon in the summer This summertime program takes place on the Old State Capitol Plaza featuring free performances. First Night™ Springfield: December 31 A Celebration of the Arts on New Year’s Eve with performances & fireworks held in downtown Springfield. A program of free children’s activities takes place in the afternoon.