Champaign County Historical Society Museum — Attraction in Urbana

It should be told: Their annual Oktoberfest is advertised as a a handmade festival. That is grossly inaccurate. It states plainly that all exhibits are of only handcrafted items. I applied and entered this festival hosted by Champaign historical museum, paid my booth fee. However I was warned I couldnt sell half of my items( tie dye shirts). Fair enough but I protested knowing any other festival and artist I know consider tie dyes handmade . But SG was insistent I couldn't sell them. I obliged and followed the rules I get to the festival and see many booths selling multiple screen printed shirts identical ones. I saw tie dye booth. I saw so many mass produced items I thought it was a flea market at first. There were some handmade booths but the majority were not. I emailed my concern and unfairness only to be told after the event that there is a grandfather clause that allows previous vendors tonot be obliged to the rules I had to follow. That was grossly unfair and cost me many sales. Quite frankly a board member and website are plainly dishonest. The museum appears to be ran unprofessionally and I don't recommend it. The website is dishonest advertising it as a handmade festival. It was a flea mar that the organizers play favorites grossly breaking the rules set forth and advertised. They seem to make things up when it is pointed...

A hidden gem. I have driven past this place several times, but had never stopped in until I went to hear a talk they had invited my father to come in and give. I had time to browse and found it to be a charming and well kept museum with artifacts through a broad range of the county's history. I hope to make some time soon to give it a...

I donated a couple items here and I have to say everyone I met during the process was absolutely amazing! Sadly to say this was my first visit ever here but after looking around for a few I'm definitely bringing my kids! I'd call this place the "uncut gem" of Urbana 😍 highly recommend and don't dare forget the contribution jar on...