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With week two of the Illinois State Fair underway, thousands of visitors from across the state have come down to Springfield to see the world famous butter cow, rock out to LilÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥™ Wayne, and try the new fair foods.

Wanting to take a break from walking around the carnival rides and see what else the capital city has to offer?

Check out these five things to do around the Springfield area this weekend.ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥

Scheels Outdoor DockDogs

What: A day when all dogs are welcome no matter their shape, size and breed ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥“ every dog over six months old is welcome to Scheels sports park for DogDocks, a competitive dog jumping competition for airborne pups to jump for prizes. Whether youÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥™re considering signing up your dog for jumping in part of the competition or want to see the fanfare and animal companionship at the event as part of ScheelÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥™s weekend scheduled events, a break from the summer heat at the state fair can be found poolside by the pups.

Need a break?

When: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Where: ScheelÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥™s ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥ Park, 3801 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield

More: Pre-registration fees are required for dogs participating in the jumps and can be found online at under Springfield.ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥

More:Pro baseball coming back to SpringfieldÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥™s Robin Roberts Stadium for first time since 2001

Plants & Pints Beer Garden Plant Swap

What: After a successful first plant swap, ConnÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥™s Hospitality group has put together another swap for plants, pints and eco-friendly ideas. The swap requires plants be pest-free, rooted or cuttings of plants that are labeled. The swap will have plenty of cider, beer and cocktails to sip on while bartering cuttings and plant pieces. Alive on 66 will be selling plants for anyone to start their fauna and foliage journey, with Dabble Art of Springfield ready to help make terrariums.

When: 2 p.m. Sunday

Where: 7th Street Cidery, 503 S. Seventh St., Springfield

More: More information can be found online on a for the event.

Smashing Pumpkins

What: We mentioned Lil' Wayne in the intro at the state fair but wanted to mention one other performer this week. An alternative rock band from Chicago popular in the '90s, Smashing Pumpkins is regarded as one of the best gothic rock bands. The band has continuously evolved since their creation in 1988 adding elements of gothic rock, heavy metal, grunge, psychedelic rock, progressive rock, shoegaze, dream pop, and electronica into their music.

When: 8 p.m. Friday

Where: Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield

More: Tickets range from $55 to $125 before fees and can be purchased on .

More:Who's performing, how much is admission?: Your 2024 Illinois State Fair questions answered

Widow Von Du at Clique

What: Returning from the runway of RuPaulÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥™s Drag Race Season 12, Widow Von Du is performing at clique with local drag legend Mahogany Knight.ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥The show stopping queens will be joined by drag performers Alicia Markstone, Lulu Stiletto, Tonia Mazzerati Steele, and Teresa Holiday.

When: 10:30 p.m. Saturday

Where: Clique, 411 E. Washington St., Springfield

More: This event is $10 general admission with a $25 VIP Meet and Greet with Widow. The Meet and Greet is an hour before the performance. Tickets can be purchased on the Clique website.

Blooms-n-Brews

What: Here's a good opportunity for insta-worthy photos and a breath of fresh air.ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥Bring your friends and family for a fun day of picking your own zinnias and capturing beautiful photos among the vibrant blooms. The u-pick field will be filled with a variety of zinnias in all different colors, creating the perfect backdrop for your photos. After you've finished picking your zinnias and snapping photos, head over to Harvest Brew Coffee Shop for a refreshing strawberry lemonade slushie signature latte or the original and Ultimate Silo. While you're there, be sure to browse the selection of unique gifts and goodies for sale.

When: 3 p.m. Saturday

Where: 1312 Ropp Road, Normal

More: This event is no admission, and flowers are free ÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥“ just donÃÞ»¨ÌÇÖ±²¥™t take more than you can handle.

Claire Grant writes about business, growth and development and other news topics for The State Journal-Register. She can be reached at CLGrant@gannett.com; and on X (Formerly known as Twitter): @Claire_Granted