Fall Tourism Times

Vol. IX, Issue II, Fall 2016

4387 N. Illinois, Suite 200Swansea, Illinois 62226

7/16, 50M

nois Made

Vol. IX, Issue II, Fall 2016 • 1

tow. Fast-forward to 2010, seventhgeneration sisters, Beth and Amyalong with their parents, launched acheese-making operation that pro-duces 23 artisanal cheeses in theirhigh-end facility. Their cheese ismade solely from the milk of theirown registered Jersey cows who areprimarily grass-fed, enjoying onlynatural nutrition; free of any addedhormones. The cheeses are aged in aman-made underground cave mod-eled after the cheese caves found inSwitzerland, providing the optimalenvironment for the cheese-agingprocess. The creamery has largeviewing windows where visitors canwatch the cheese-making processfirst-hand. Guests are welcome to

watch their “field-to-fork” video on howtheir cheese is craftedand shop in their on-farm store. For tours,contact the creamery.Tours include a stop atthe calf barn, the milk-ing parlor and a sam-pling of their cheeses.

Salsa RoseHeading south to

Mascoutah, James andHope Reinneck havebeen making salsa sincethe 1980’s. Over theyears, James estimates hehas given out hundredsof samples of his home-

made product, andthat, in part, is howthe couple’s businessventure waslaunched. In 2012,the first batch of“Salsa Rose” wasready for distribu-tion. Today, the busi-ness continues toexpand. Product line include: salsa fla-vored Hickory SmokedMeat Sticks and SalsaTurkey Jerky. Locally, you’llfind Reinneck Ranchproducts at Rural Kingand Schnuck’s storesalong with some specialtyshops and farmers’ markets across the state.

HorseradishPopcorn We’ve coveredcheese and salsa but those are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to agricultural goods pro-duced for ILLINOISouth. If you haven’t heard, more than 60 percentof the world’s horseradish is grownin our region! Farms like JR Kelly’sin Collinsville are famous for producing the root. In fact, there isan annual festival held in Collinsvillecelebrating the root! Along withhorseradish and all sorts of otheryummy produce, did you know thatspecial black popcorn is grown ex-clusively right in our own back yard?

hen you think of California,what comes to mind? You mostlikely think of sun, surf and winecountry. How about Texas? Maybethe panhandle and BBQ? But howabout Illinois? Abe Lincoln? TheChicago style hot dog? Deep dishpizza? ILLINOISouth offers dozensof delicious food offerings outside ofthe standard issue hot dog and pizza.Welcome to Made in ILLINOISouth. The Marcoot family story be-gins in 1840 when their ancestorssailed from Switzerland to New Orleans. They traveled by steamshipup the Mississippi River to theBond-Madison county area of south-ern Illinois, finally settling inGreenville—all with a Jersey calf in

continued on page 3

In the small Southern Illinoistown of St. Francisville circa 1963,Black Jewell Popcorn began growingand selling a unique and proprietarystrain of black kernel popcorn. Itpops snow white and virtually free ofhulls. Over the past 50 years, BlackJewell Popcorn has grown steadilyfrom a company serving smaller ruralfarm communities, to one that har-vests and offers a broad line of BlackJewell popcorns across the Midwest.

Country Bob’s

Amy Marcoot, Audie Wall, Beth Marcoot

Terry Edson, Lori Edson, Harry Connick, Jr.

W

Michael W. Smith, Terry Edson, Jeff Foxworthy

&

2 • Vol. IX, Issue II, Fall 2016

Hello from Dan...

Would you like your brochure or rack card sent to 8,000 potential visitors?

We’ll distribute them for you!We will insert your literature in plastic bags that will be handed out at trade shows and events, and given to meetings, reunions and sports groups staying in area hotels. They’ll also be added

to packets mailed out as fulfillment for web, phone and regional advertising requests.

Call Jon or Sandy at 618-257-1488 and ask about the Brochure Distribution Service. For a nominal fee, we’ll help get the word out about YOU!

To carry Tourism Times at your restaurant, store, visitors center or place of business,

Christine Sopiars, 618-257-1488 or [email protected]

Comments? Questions? Let us know! Keep us in the loop. We want your input for the

monthly e-newsletter and our website. 618-257-1488 or [email protected]

With this change of season, comes a change in our leadership here at ILLINOISouth, I would like to take thisopportunity to wish jo Kathmann all thebest in her retirement!

Soon summer’s heat will give way toFall - my favorite time of year. Whodoesn’t love a brisk breeze through anopen window, crisp colorful leaves and apot of chili simmering on the stove?

ILLINOISouth will soon be bustlingwith many Fall events. But before thecooler weather is here, there is still timeto enjoy several County Fairs… anddon’t forget to take in a once in a life-time event: the Monroe County Bicen-

tennial Pallooza! Even though thekids are back in school in September,take time some weekend to enjoyApple Fest at Eckert’s or what aboutthe Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit:“Water Ways” in Lawrenceville?Once October arrives at the Fort duChartres in Prairie du Rocher, youwon’t want to miss the 3rd AnnualWorld War II Days coupled with theLes Amis Du Chartres Brewfest.

For a complete listing of upcom-ing events, see our Calendar Sectionbeginning on Page 7.

Wherever the road takes you…enjoy your travels in ILLINOISouth!

Dan KrankeolaPresident /CEO ILLINOISouth Tourism

were originally owned by Catherine’sgrandmother, in which she had previ-ously operated a general store. Clintoncounty’s favorite soft drink, Ski, wasadded in 1961 and accounts for the ma-jority of soda produced. Today, ExcelBottling Company produces flavoredsoda using cane sugar, returnable bottlesand vintage bottling equipment. In 2012, Excel Bottling Company’smanager Bill Meier, took advantage of newdistribution laws in Illinois that allowedcraft breweries to self-distribute and estab-lished Excel Brewing Company. The com-pany has introduced hoppy, west Coaststyle beers to the Midwest, along with tra-ditional German-style lagers which cele-brate Southern Illinois’ heritage. These are just a few of our uniqueand delicious food and beverage offeringsfrom ILLINOISouth. Give them atry...and enjoy!

Vol. IX, Issue II, Fall 2016 • 3800-442-1488

They are a family -owned company thatis passionate aboutand committed tohigh-quality. They’veeven gone the extra mile, to havetheir Black Jewell popcorn verified asa Non-GMO product.

Country Bob’s Some ILLINOISouth goodsare grown and others are bottled.In 1968, Bob Edson perfected theall-purpose sauce of his dreams inIrvington, Illinois. After years of giv-ing the sauce to friends and family, hebegan selling it in 1977. By 1982,Country Bob, Inc. found a perma-nent home in Centralia, Illinois.Today, Country Bob’s product linehas expanded: BBQ Sauce, SeasoningSalt, Apple Chipotle and Honey Ha-banero All Purpose Sauces andCountry Bob’s Marinade. CountryBob’s fan base includes celebritiesHarry Connick, Jr., Jeff Foxworthyand Michael W. Smith. CountryBob’s sports fans can enjoy their prod-ucts at Gateway Grizzlies baseball

from page 1

games and Busch stadium,because Country Bob’s All-Purpose Sauce was recentlynamed the Signature Sauce

of the St. Louis Cardinals.Country Bob’s products can be foundat Wal-Mart, Kroger and Schnuck’sstores.

Excel Bottling Way back in the summer of1936, Edward “Lefty” Meier and hiswife, Catherine Meier, received re-ward money from catching a bankrobber. With that reward money, theypurchased a used bottling machinefor their newly formed business ven-ture: Excel Bottling Company. Lo-cated in Breese, Illinois, the Excelbottling plant and attached household

continued on page 4

We consider ourselves to be some-what of an authority on what there is“to see and do” in ILLINOISouth.When someone mentions a uniqueevent or attraction that has escapedour view, we HAVE to check it out.Such was the case when we were in-formed about the Mennonite com-munity shops located seven countrymiles south of Vandalia on Hwy 51.Given this issue’s theme of “IllinoisMade” goods, this discovery could nothave come at a more perfect time! The tight-knit communitybegan about 20 years ago along thecounty roads weaving throughFayette county farmland. Mennonite

people from Pennsylva-nia and other east coastlocations made the journey to start anew life in a quieter location. You’llknow you’re in the right place whenyou pass Immanuel LutheranChurch, a pretty white church located on HWY 27 (AKA CR 900E,or E. 900 Ave.) Our first stop along the journeywas Martin Harness & Tack, locatedon the 14-acre plot belonging toDouglas Martin. Doug has beendoing saddle repair and customleatherwork for around 6 years. Hishandmade goods include gun beltsand holsters, wallets, saddle acces-sories, and basically anything elseyou’d ever want made out of leather.

When asked about how business hasbeen, he joked that it’s great and “maybea little better than some of my customerswould like it to be.” This was apparentfrom the variety of tools and projectssprawled across his gas-lit workshop.Custom leatherwork isn’t the only thingkeeping Doug busy. He’s also on staff forthe Central Illinois Produce Auction.The wholesale auction featuring ALL lo-cally-grown produce can bring in over$30K in each of their three weekly auc-tions in the height of the summer. Whether selling delicious produceto markets from St. Louis to Chi-town,repairing saddles or creating leathergoods, Doug has an eye for excellence.

Martin Harness & Tack

Meeting the Mennonites in Fayette County

Excel Bottling Co.

4 • Vol. IX, Issue II, Fall 2016 ILLINOISouth.org

“I’ve discovered that if I offer the verybest quality I can at a reasonableprice, people love it. You can’t getgood quality on the cheap” hequipped. Quality goods abound through-out this area. Doug’s son Austin, theoldest of nine (yes, nine) childrenworks down the way at CountryView Furniture. Started in 2000 byLeroy Martin, Country View Furni-ture is known for gorgeous cus-tom-cabinet solutionsmade of woods includ-ing maple, mahoganyand many other fine op-tions. Leroy also producescustom furniture, andoften finishes other hand-crafted pieces from SimplyAmish Furniture to matchhis custom cabinets. Alongwith Austin, Leroy has hisboy Derek, and a few othersworking with him. Hecommented on how they have the workdown to a science with each man special-

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izing in one part of the process.This allows them to efficientlyhandle the process from the initialmeasurements through installation. On the other side of town,Leroy’s mother-in-law Anna Zim-merman runs the popular Zim-merman’s Greenhouse. During ourvisit over Mother’s Day weekend,Zimmerman’s was the center of ahustle and bustle that seemed outof place on roads traversed mostlyby horse-drawn carriages. Zim-merman’s is open from early Aprilthrough July 4 and reopens in Sep-tember to sell mums and pump-kins. The gorgeous greenhouse(certainly the nicest I’ve seen) wasa buzz with people picking out theperfect entryway display, hangingbasket or tropical plant –trucked in di-rectly from Florida. When asked aboutthe incredible success of her business,Anna responded humbly with “I have togive God all the glory…I can’t make theplants grow. It’s hard work…and it’sworth it.”

Prairie Profile Beehive

s

Country View Furniture

That sentiment sums up what we saw throughout this unique ILLINOISouth community. At everystop, members of large familiesgreeted us with a smile. This was cer-tainly true upon our arrival at PrairieProfile. Marian Weaver took a breakfrom her warm chocolate cake andvanilla ice cream to meet us with hertoddler daughter in tow. She showedus the workshop where she and herhusband build beehives for people inseveral states. Along with keepingbees, growing spicy peppers and rais-ing sheep, building white pine andcypress beehives have become abooming business for the Weaverfamily. The Dutch Prairie MennoniteShops include variety shops, greenhouses, florists, hand cut meat, pro-duce and many other goods and serv-ices offered by the hardworking,friendly residents. The Country Storeon the edge of town offers a deli,bulk foods, gifts and more. They evenserve lunch Monday – Saturday.Make sure to grab one of their fa-mous soft pretzels! If you find yourself travelingdown I-70 Monday – Saturday wecertainly recommend you take the15-minute jaunt off the highway andstep back in time...

Visit www.bit.ly/ilsouthmennonitesto download a map and directory listing of all the Dutch Prairie Mennonite Shops.

Zimmerman’s Greenhouse


More ILLINOISmade…

Since this issue isall about ILLINOISmade, next time you’rein Norris City, checkout Sands Consign-ment Studio. You’llfind originally de-signed, unique treasuresnot only by ProprietorKathy Sands, but otherartists as well!Kathy enjoysprinting oncloth and silkscarves; in fact,she actually dyes

WELCOME

Several new faces are lighting up the office here atILLINOISouth Tourism! Weare pleased to announce twonew Sales/Marketing Man-agers along with a VisitorServices Coordinator, whohave joined our staff. Sandy and Jon will manage promotional projects, memberships and ad salesfor members and partners acrossILLINOISouth’s 22-county region.Erin will maintain our master Calendar of Events listing & mastermailing lists, coordinate group reser-vations for Cahokia Mounds and assist with various office projects. Sandy Stolberg, a Belleville na-tive and current St. Louis resident has31 years of marketing, public relationsand media experience. Along withowning her own PR firm, Sandy hasworked for CBS Radio, the River-front Times and STL Today/The PostDispatch. She has also worked inmarketing and business developmentfor several premium retail brands. Jon Weaving is a long-time O’Fallon resident with 17 years ofexperience in sales, marketing, busi-ness development and management.His resume includes both UPS andGCS Credit Union where he wasthe Marketing Manager. In 2008, heopened Jonny’s Pizza & Pasta inFairview Heights as Owner/Opera-tor. Jon holds a MA in Marketingfrom Webster University and aBachelors of Business Administra-tion in Marketing from McK-endree University. Erin Moore, a resident of O’Fallon graduated from MurrayState University with a Bachelor ofArts degree majoring in Sociology

them as well…then uses the cloth insome of her artwork! Other

unique handmade finds in-clude items such as this

“Time Out Chair” created byAngie Hoffman of Carmi, IL.

Angie has a funky style of paint-ing using bright colors and lots of

patterns. Her work is very popularand eye catching. Kay Wiggins from

Hamilton County consigns her workat Sands Studio as well and enjoyshandcrafting these beautiful baskets.Make sure you check out the handmadesoaps and lotions from Hippie Hill.Owners Ray and Nancy Mitchell ofCarmi make their soaps with Shea butter,cocoa butter, glycerin, olive oil and hempoil! With Christmas just around the cor-ner, these make great stocking suffers! Enjoy these ILLINOIS Made products only in ILLINOISouth!

For further information contactSands Studio, 618-383-2040.

Hippie Hill Soaps

Jon Weaving and

Sandy Stolberg

and German. In fact, shewas awarded the 2013Outstanding GermanStudent award fromMurray State UniversityDepartment of ModernLanguages. HerzlicheGlückwünsche!! They are looking forward to assisting you in ILLINOISouth!

Silk scarves

at Sands St

udio

Erin Moore

“Time Out Chair” created by AngieHoffman of Carmi, IL.

National Travel andTourism Week

Every year, the firstweek of May is desig-nated National Travel and TourismWeek. This is a week for businessesand agencies to promote the eco-nomic importance of tourism – a topindustry and job creator across muchof the USA. Christine Sopiars andErin Moore of our staff visited TouristInformation Centers in rest areasacross the southern half of the state.With goodies in hand (Abe’s Popcornand SKI from EXCEL Bottling Co.),they said thank you to the people whohand out tourist information and wel-come visitors to the area.

The presentation of the awardwill be made at a special banquetduring the 2016 AASLH/MMA An-nual Meeting in Detroit, Michiganon Friday, September 16th. TheAASLH awards program was initiatedin 1945 to establish and encouragestandards of excellence in the collec-tion, preservation and interpretationof state and local history throughoutthe United States. For more information about theexhibit, visit: cahokiamounds.org

Congratulations!

The American Association ofState and Local History (AASLH) re-cently announced Cahokia Moundsas a recipient of its 2016 Award ofMerit for Wetlands and Waterways:The Key to Cahokia project! The 52-foot, life-sized diorama exhibit de-picts the importance of the extensivewaterways and natural resources, tothe growth and success of the culturethat lived here from about AD 1000-AD 1350. It features a 21-foot, 700-year old dugout canoe and anaccompaniment book.


Ron Denbow,Rend Lake South

Terry Ragin, Rend Lake NorthLinda Lindsey, Rend Lake SouthMarlene Mezo, Reno Lake North

Abe Cyrus, Gateway Tourist Information Center, New Baden

AUGUST 2016

July 28 – August 2AIM National Youth Trapshooting ChampionshipsWorld Shooting and Recreational Complex, Sparta 618-295-2700

July 30 – August 773rd Annual Novena to Our Lady of the SnowsNational Shrine of Our Lady of theSnows, Belleville Each evening focuses on a differentaspect of healing: emotional, spiritual,physical, financial, etc. Music, specialreflections, healing rituals and specialprayers will conclude with a candle-light rosary procession. The Oblate fathers and brothers welcome you tothis special novena. 618-397-6700

July 31 – August 6White County FairCarmi 618-382-7606

July 31 – August 7Marion County Fair SalemThe 76th Marion County Fair willfeature music, food and concessions.Enjoy carnival rides, exhibits, children’s activities,livestock shows,motocross, and Queen & Little MissPageant. Don’t miss the ITPA tractorpull, rodeo, demolition derby andNTPA Grand National tractor pull. 618-548-1251

August 3 – 4Old Settlers DaysDowntown, HillsboroThe two days will be filled with foodvendors, carnival rides, parades andfun for the whole family. Old Settlersis sponsored and coordinated by theOld Settlers Days Association &Committee. 217-313-6299

August 3 – 6Lucas Oil Regional Drag Racing Series All-American Hot Rod ShowdownGateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888


EVENTSCALENDAR

Monroe County BicentennialPaloozaMonroe County Historic CourthouseSquare, WaterlooThis free event will celebrate MonroeCounty’s Bicentennial Year. The theme isAbraham Lincoln and the Civil War incommemoration of the speech given byLincoln at the Courthouse in 1840. Activ-ities include era demonstrations/reenac-tors, Lincoln & Grant, Fireman’s Muster,live music, food and refreshments. 618-939-8681

Quadruple Bypass 4K – Fit for Life SeriesLitchfield Lake Lou Yeager, Marina 1LitchfieldThe 4K Hill Climb Run is part of the Fitfor Life Series. There will be a $30 entryfee. The event is sponsored by M&MMultisport Club. 217-324-3935

RCHS 54th Annual Corn Fest, Charter Oak 8-sided SchoolCharter Oak School, Schuline Join us for guided tours of the historicone-room schoolhouse, which is on theNational Register of Historic Places.Other features include the Country Store,music, $9 dinner: corn on the cob, friedchicken, Indian pudding, and more. Theevent is sponsored by Randolph CountyHistorical Society. 618-826-2667

White Squirrel TriathlonMusgrove Park, OlneyRCRC is hosting it’s annual triathlon! 618-395-7302

August 3 – 13American Trapshooting Association Grand AmericanWorld Shooting and Recreational Complex, Sparta 618-295-2700

August 4 – 79–5 The MusicalBreeseClinton County Showcase presents 9 –5 The Musical! 618-526-2866

August 4 – 9 Bond County FairBond County Fairgrounds, GreenvilleEnjoy music, food, farm exhibits, parade, animal judging and auctions.Don’t miss tractor pulls, truck pulls,demolition derby, queen contest, various exhibits and other activities. 618-622-1412

August 5 – 6US Redbone DaysOlney 618-392-2241

Rummage SaleImmanuel Lutheran Church, Waterloo 618-939-6480

August 5 – 6, 12 – 13, 19 – 20 & 26 – 27September 2 – 3Summer Concert FestEckert’s Country Store & FarmBellevilleEnjoy live music in the plaza area out-side the Country Store. This FREEevent is perfect for all ages. We willhave kids’ activities and custard withappetizers and wine/beer available forpurchase. Bring a lawn chair or blanketand enjoy a beautiful evening withfamily and friends. If it rains, the con-cert will be cancelled. 618-233-0513

August 5 – 7Mascoutah Homecoming & AugustFestScheve Park, MascoutahLive music, carnival rides, games, truck andtractor pulls, 4-H show, food and drinks.Parades Saturday and Sunday at 5 p.m.This event is sponsored by the MascoutahImprovement Association. 618-566-2964

August 6Lupus Wolfride GranFondoBolm-Schahkraft Park, Columbia 800-958-7876

Trash & Treasures Village Yard SaleMaeystownCome out early in the morning and tourthe village and shop. 618-458-6660

Archaeology DayCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleSee demonstrations of ancient crafts, arti-fact processing, hands-on activities, digtours and storytelling. 618-346-5160

Grass Fed Mule – Hillsboro Summer Concert SeriesSherwood Forest Campground, Hillsboro Grass Fed Mule is a smoky bluegrass bandwith a healthy dose of jazz and funk. Thisconcert features members from AcousticsAnonymous, Elemental Shakedown andother special guests! Admission is free.Food and concert merchandise are for saleon site. 217-532-3711

of

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To submit an event, a Calendar of Event Form must be completed and submitted for each event. The form can be found at www.ILLINOISouth.org/events-upload. Please keep in mind your events should be “visitor-friendly” and bring in people from outside your area. Priority is given to events that produce overnight stays.

Because of space limitations, we cannot include local fundraisers, regularly scheduled weekly/monthly activities (Bingo, Bunko, etc.), church picnics or fish/chicken dinners. We reserve the right to edit submissions.

Deadline for Event submissions: Spring/Summer Issue: January 15th, Fall Issue: May 1st, Holiday Issue: August 1st. Event information received after this date is subject to exclusion in the Calendar of Event section

August 15 – 21Clark County FairMarshallDon’t miss nightly entertainment, theFair Queen Contest, carnival rides andfair food. 217-826-2034

August 17 – 2157th Annual Steam, Gas & Threshing ShowPerry County Fairgrounds PinckneyvilleThe show begins on the night of August 17 with activities beginning onAugust 18. Featured this year are theRumely Products Collectors 24th Annual Expo and the Allis-ChalmersTriple A Tractor Club. 618-654-9474

August 18, September 15October 20Diva NightMain Street, BellevilleIt’s a girls’ night out with open shops,prizes and a party. 618-233-2015

August 19 – 20Columbia DaysMetter Park, ColumbiaThis summer festival features music,food, drinks, amusement rides, gamesand a parade. 618-281-7144

Freeburg HomecomingFreeburg Recreation Park, FreeburgA fun filled picnic with games, greatfood, raffles, music, truck and tractorpulls, washer tournament, art and craftshow, rides, beverages and so muchmore! 618-304-8673

August 19 – 21Ballon FestFoundation Park, CentraliaThe Annual Hot Air Balloon Festivalfeatures 40 hot air balloons, races,glows, tethered balloon rides, mainstage entertainment, craft fair, free children’s activity area and games, cardboard boat races, car show, fire-works and much more. There is a $3 admission charge per person per day.

618-553-7664

from page 7 SpassfestSchoendienst Field, GermantownThis annual 3-day event includes en-tertainment, music, food, dancing,games, rides and much more. Don’tmiss the huge parade on Saturday andthis year’s new event: Bierlauf (BeerRun) on Friday night. 618-523-4202

August 20Annual West Salem ChowderWest SalemThe West Salem Chowder is held thethird Saturday in August every year.Come enjoy a bowl of chowder withfriends and neighbors. 618-456-3167

Gateway Grizzlies Present: Bad Boys of BaseballGCS Ballpark, SaugetDon’t miss a Q&A with Jose Cansecoand John Rocker and of course agreat night of Grizzlies Baseball! Aspectacular fireworks show will followthe game. 618-337-3000

White Squirrel Cruisers Car ShowOlney City Park, OlneyThe White Squirrel Cruisers host theirannual car show, and what a show it is! 618-838-5644

August 6, September 3 & October 8Brick Street Classic Car ShowHistoric Downtown Lebanon Lebanon’s historic brick street is coveredfrom one end to the other with a vastcollection of over 100 classic cars andtrucks from Southern Illinois and Mis-souri. Great 50s and 60s music playsthroughout the event. Prizes are awardedfor different categories. 618-537-8420

August 6 – 7Hearts for the Arts FestivalPinckneyville City Park, PinckneyvilleThe festival at the Pinckneyville City Parkserves as a fundraiser for the Perry-JacksonChild Advocacy Center and focuses onarts, crafts, and collectibles. The festival activities include a sidewalk chalk competition, food & craft vendors, winefrom Pheasant Hollow, live music anddancing. 618-357-8775

August 7Berger-Kiel Log House Open HouseMascoutahNamed to the National Register in 1999,the Berger Kiel Log House was built in1864. Visit this historic home during Mascoutah’s Homecoming weekend. 618-566-9774

Flea MarketDu Quoin State Fair Grounds Expo hallDu QuoinThe flea market takes place every firstSunday of the month August through November. 618-542-8338

August 9The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon AreaYouth Concert SeriesMiner Park, Glen Carbon Enjoy music played by talented youngmusicians. 618-593-2384

August 10 – 13Ag DaysMarket Street, Mt. CarmelA 4-day Street Fair featuring entertainment,food vendors and rides! Admission andparking are both free. 618-262-5116

Cisne ReunionCisne SquareEnjoy this 4-day event including: Miss andLittle Miss Cisne Reunion Pageant, TinyTot Pageant, music, craft and flea marketvendors, childrens activities, live music andmore! 618-588-0348

August 11 – 14Gateway Dulcimer Music FestivalNational Shrine of Our Lady of theSnows, BellevilleEnjoy music vendor booths and attend instructional classes for a variety of instruments including: mountain dul-cimer, hammered dulcimer, autoharp, guitar and more. The evening concertsfeature professional instructors. 618-651-8271


August 12 Cruisin the Dam Car Show andCruz-In at Carlyle LakeMariner’s Village Resort, CarlyleEnjoy a late summer car show featuringvintage cars, live entertainment, food,games and plenty of fun. The event issponsored by Carl’s 4 Wheel Drive of Bar-telso and Misfit Motorsports Productions. 618-594-2484

Night at the MuseumsWaterlooAll three of Waterloo’s Museums will beopen with special events focusing on discovering historic Waterloo. 618-939-5300

August 12 – 13St. George Church PicnicSt. George Church, New BadenThis annual event features games, food,bingo and basket raffles. 618-588-3813

Party at the BeachVeterans Park, Pontoon BeachVillage of Pontoon Beach’s Annual Partyat the Beach! Enjoy vendor booths,fire/police displays, carnival rides, childrensactivities, bands/entertainment, food,drinks and a 5K run/walk. 618-931-6100

Sips & TastesCommunity Park, Downtown ShilohEnjoy delicious food and great music. 618-363-8694

Ceramic & Fired ArtsBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleShop for beautiful ceramics and more. 618-233-0052

August 12 – 20Greenup-Cumberland County Fair Greenup 217-923-1507

August 13 Noble Community ChowderNoble Village Park, Noble 618-723-2212

WinestockHidden Lake Winery 618-228-9111

August 14 Litchfield Pickers MarketDowntown Litchfield, Litchfield This open-air market, specializing in itemsprior to 1980 with refurbished vintageand antique items, brings hundreds of vendors to the streets ofdowntown Litchfield. The event is spon-sored by the Litchfield Tourism Office.Admission is FREE. 217-324-8147

August 26 – 27Waterloo HomecomingMonroe County Courthouse, WaterlooThe event features live music, carnivalrides, games and plenty of food anddrink offered by local organizations. Aparade is featured on Saturday withfloats and marching bands. 618-830-6293

St. Peter Prairie DaysSt. PeterEnjoy live entertainment nightly and aparade on Saturday. 618-322-0708

August 26 – 28Midwest Salute to the ArtsMoody Park at LongacreFairview HeightsJuried art show with more than 100artists displaying and selling their workin eleven different mediums with chil-dren’s activities, music, food and a funfestival atmosphere.

Clark County Antique Power ClubClark County Fair Grounds, Marshall This event features a tractor show,demonstrations, kids activities, localvendors, Coon Holler Kids, entertain-ment, train barrel rides and just goodole fun! 217-826-2034


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August 20 – 21September 17 – 18October 15 – 16Belleville Antique & CollectiblesFlea MarketBelle Clair Expo Center, BellevilleThere are over 600 tables and 300-400 vendors selling antiques andcollectibles, with merchandise both oldand new, both indoor and outdooryear round. 618-233-0052

August 21Maeystown Fire Dept. BBQ &Show Us Your RideMaeystownEnjoy great barbecue with cars, trucks,motorcycles and tractors on display! 618-580-5875

Village of Noble Citywide Garage SaleVillage of NobleGrab a bowl of piping hot, tasty chowder at this annual outing! 618-723-2212

August 26 Movies at Metter ParkMetter Park, ColumbiaThis free outdoor showing of a familymovie on a big screen features TheLego Movie. Refreshments will beavailable. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket. 618-281-7144 ext. 134

St. Paul KirchenfestSt. Paul Catholic Church, Highland Join in the fun with something for every-one: food, music, entertainment, auction,flea market, 5k or 2k run/walk, korbballand the EVER popular Bavarian Skillet! 618-654-3721

August 26 – September 5Du Quoin State Fair Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Du Quoin The impressive Midway brings families together. Livestock competitions for beefand dairy cattle along with 4-H and FFAentries, a full-fledged Big Top with circusanimals, acts and grandstand entertainmentare just a few of the offerings at the Fair. 618-542-1515

August 27Little Pig Cook-OffBCDC Park, BeckemeyerIn addition to blind judging awards, attendees will determine, by popular vote,the “Best Porksteak” and the “Best Site.”Enjoy music and other activities includinga bags tournament, raffles, kid’s area and more. 618-227-8331

Annual Fun in the Sun BBQ &Cruise-In Car ShowNew Baden Village ParkHeld annually on the 4th Saturday of August, there will be all licensed makesand models, trophies and dash plaques,awards presentations, food, drinks, 50/50raffle, music and attendance prizes. 618-588-3813


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SEPTEMBER 2016

August 27Life Changing 10K – Fit for Life SeriesLitchfield High School, LitchfieldThe 10K Run is a part of the Fit forLife Series. Entry fee is $30.00. Theevent is sponsored by M&M Multi-sport Club in Litchfield, IL. 217-324-3935

Optimist Club 5k Run/Fun WalkRogers Elementary School, WaterlooCome out for a 5K Run/Fun Walk inWaterloo, IL to benefit the WaterlooOptimist Club. 618-939-3970

Bronze Expressions 10 year Anniversary Celebration Dinner & ConcertCentralia Cultural Society Community Arts Center, CentraliaThe night will begin at 6 p.m. with asocial hour including appetizers and acomplimentary glass of wine. Dinnerand dessert will be served 6:47. Theconcert begins promptly at 7:30.Make your Reservations by July 30th! 618-532-2951

A Night in Southeast AsiaThe Winegarten, BellevilleSpend “A Night in Southeast Asia”with a full southeast Asian dinner,multiple dance performance, musicalstory telling, martial arts and a collec-tion of local artisans and fair tradevendors. 20% of ticket sales will bene-fit Agape International Missions inCambodia. 973-668-3032

August 27 – 28October 1 – 2Gun & Knife ShowBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleThis hunting and trade show is Illi-nois’ largest. The event featuresfirearms and knife dealers. Buy, sell andtrade guns, knives, ammo, scopes andaccessories. FOID cards are processed. 618-233-0052

September 1 – 4Grayville DaysDowntown GrayvilleGrayville Days will have free live bandentertainment, food vendors, craft ven-dors, big parade, activities for all agesand a spectacular fireworks show.Don’t miss the challenging 5K on Sat-urday! 618-375-3671

September 2 – 3, 10 - 12The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)Centralia Cultural Society Community Arts Center, CentraliaWitness the works of the world’smost famous playwright performedby the Little Theatre Players of theCentralia Cultural Society. 618-532-2951

September 3Berryville ChowderBerryville Community Bldg.BerryvilleLine up and fill a bowl with this localfavorite! 618-839-5081

Aaron Kamm and the One Drops – Hillsboro SummerConcert SeriesSherwood Forest Campground Hillsboro The final concert for 2016 HillsboroSummer Concert Series will featureAaron Kamm and the One Drops.Hailing from St. Louis, Aaron Kammand the One Drops merge flavors ofreggae, Mississippi River blues, im-prov-laced jams, and soulful vocals.Admission is free. 217-532-3711

Vintage Motorcycle ShowOlney City Park, OlneyNew to Olney this year – a VintageMotorcycle Show! There is a $5 entryfee with prizes awarded! 618-395-7302

September 3 – 4St. Louis Antique ShowBelle Clair Fairgrounds, BellevilleFind the best in vintage wares from 90top quality antique dealers fromaround the nation. Refreshments areavailable for purchase. Admission is $6for both days. 618-346-0975


September 3 – 4, 10 – 11, 17 – 18 & 24 – 25 Apple FestEckert’s Farm, BellevilleWagon rides, live entertainment, greatfestival foods, children’s activities andmuch more make this an apple pickin’good time for everyone! Whether rid-ing a pony or feeding a goat, youryoung ‘uns will enjoy getting ac-quainted with farm animals. 618-233-0513

September 3 – 6St. Elmo Labor DayDowntown, St. ElmoExperience hometown charm thisLabor Day with a parade, car show,gospel sing, vendors and live entertainment! 618-829-3319

September 3 – October 16Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit:Water WaysLawrence County Historical CenterLawrencevilleThe Water Ways exhibit is part of amultifaceted Smithsonian Institutioninitiative called Water Matters. This ini-tiative includes not only Water Ways,but also H2O Today. Designed forsmall and rural museums, this exhibitwill focus on relationships betweenpeople and water. 618-943-3900

September 4Flea MarketDu Quoin State Fair Grounds Expo Hall, Du QuoinThe flea market is held every first Sun-day of the month during the monthsof January through November. 618-542-8338

Historic Kaskaskia Church Toursand PicnicKaskaskia, KaskaskiaGuided tours of Historic 1675 Immaculate Conception Church, Liberty Bell of the West and the firstbuilt Randolph County Courthouseand School. The event also features aWorld War II exhibit, the Tractor &Truck Pull, Horseshoe Tournament,Bingo, Country Store, and games forall ages. Traditional food and drinks are available. 618-826-2667

September 5Labor Day ParadeDowntown, BellevilleCome out and see the Labor Day Parade! 618-233-6769

September 8 – 10City Wide Garage SaleSt. Jacob 618-667-8769

September 8 – 11Antique Power DaysMarion County Fairgrounds, SalemCome out for a consignment auction,flea market, toy show & auction, tractor pulls, parade of power, lawn &garden tractor pull, pedal pulls, equipment demonstrations, and church& memorial services. 618-548-1251


Clinton County Showcase Presents: Night of the Living DeadBreese 618-526-2866

September 9 EOCA Color RunMusgrove Park, OlneyEast Orchard Christian Academy ishosting their annual Color Run 5kwith a bounce house and games forchildren! There will be a $30 early registration and a $35 registration onthe day of the event. 618-395-7302

Discover Historic Waterloo: Block PartyWaterloo Visit the participating merchants, museums and historic sites to discoverwhat makes the community special. 618-939-8600

September 9 – 10St. Joseph’s Parish PicnicFreeburgSample our famous fish fry andchicken dinners. There’s also livemusic, kids’ activities, quilt raffle, quiltbingo, Country Store and more. 618-539-3209

Village of Shiloh PicnicShiloh Community Park, ShilohThe 64th Shiloh Picnic begins Fridaywith a spectacular fireworks show at 9p.m. Both evenings include carnivalrides, various vendor booths, greatfood and music. Parking is FREE! 618-632-2411 x119

Geff Frontier DaysDowntown, GeffThe event features the reenactment of Frontier Days. 618-897-2592

Shadows of ElmwoodThe Flora Depot, FloraThe historic tour of Flora’s ElmwoodCemetery begins and ends at the FloraDepot. Patrons will board hayridewagons and will be transported toElmwood Cemetery. You’ll stay aboardthe wagon and find several interestingcharacters waiting to tell their stories.The tours begin at 5 p.m. 618-713-1764

September 9 – 10, 16 – 17, 23 – 24 & 30October 1, 7 – 8, 14 – 15,21 – 22 & 28 – 29 Haunted HayridesEckert’s Farm, MillstadtThere’s lots of ghoulish fun for youngand old during this hayride throughthe haunted orchard at Eckert’s Farm. 618-233-0513

September 9 – 1137th Annual Popeye PicnicChesterCelebrate a special piece of history inthe birthplace of Popeye the SailorMan! The event includes carnivalrides, inflatables, food, bands, a fleamarket, car cruising, bands, balloon art,juggling, cartoons, a statue unveiling, apet show, a wiener dog race, a 5K,wrestling, trivia and and an RC air-plane show. 618-826-4567

St. Mary’s Autumn FestCentraliaThe all day festival features a 5KRun/Walk, a kid and pet walk, inflata-bles, games, a cake walk, food vendorsand live entertainment. 618-533-7664

Troy Family Summer of FunTri-Township Park, TroyBring the whole family out to enjoythe Troy Family Festival of Fun, theTroy City-Wide Garage Sale and theBradley R. Smith 5K run! 618-667-8769

Missouri Atlatl AssociationCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleAnnual competition and demonstra-tion of this ancient spear throwingdevice. 618-346-5160

September 10 – 11UBDRA – Black SundayGateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888

American Indian Education DaysCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleLearn about Indian customs, beliefs,dress, programs, crafts and arts. 618-346-5160

Carlyle Wine & Art FestivalBretz Wildlife Lodge & WineryCarlyleThis two day event features wineries,crafters, artists, vendors, live music andmore. Admission is $10. 618-594-8830

Jasper County Fall FestivalJasper County Courthouse SquareNewtonCome celebrate fall in Jasper Countyat this two day festival featuring freemusic, games, and crafts for all ages.Enjoy the Parade of Bands, an antique car show on Saturday morningand gospel concerts on Sunday. 618-783-3399

Muzzle Loading Black PowderArtillery Safety SchoolFort de Chartres State Historic SitePrairie du RocherArtillery reenactors participate inyearly safety training and demonstratelive cannon firing. Training runs from9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, andlive firing demonstrations are on Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 618-284-7230

September 11 Litchfield Pickers MarketDowntown, Litchfield Sponsored by the Litchfield TourismOffice, this open-air market, specializ-ing in items prior to 1980 and refur-bished vintage and antique items,brings hundreds of vendors to thestreets of downtown Litchfield. Admission is FREE. 217-324-8147

Homestead Harvest DaysLouis Latzer Homestead, HighlandThis 3-day event is packed withactivities including demonstrations ofthreshing, old-time crafts, gas andsteam engines, antique tractors andtours of the most modern house in theearly 1900’s. Enjoy refreshments as yousit in the shade listening to old-timemusic. Kids can enjoy a pedal tractorpull, tub train rides and a petting zoo! 618-654-3721

September 10Village Wide Yard SalesAlbers 618-248-5154

Optimist Blue Army Bull BashMonroe County Fairgrounds, WaterlooThirty-five of the Champion BullRiders’ greatest cowboys battle againstthe toughest 2000 lb., four-leggedbovine athletes in the country. Activi-ties for the kids, cold beverages andother refreshments are available. 618-477-7240

Court House Cruise-In (Car Cruise)Downtown, GreenvilleRegistration begins at 4 p.m. Dashplaques will be given to the first 100entries. Six $25 attendance prizes forvehicle participants will be awarded,with a drawing every 30 minutes.Admission is FREE. Proceeds from the50/50 drawing benefit the LemuelRhodes Cancer Foundation. 618-664-2244

Harvest FestivalDowntown, MartinsvilleThis event features city wide yard sales,entertainment, vendors and exhibits. 217-276-7578

Highland Street Art FestivalHighland Square, HighlandJoin us on the downtown HighlandSquare, where over 50 talented artiststurn the streets into canvases usingchalk! There will be great food, enter-tainment, Kid’s corner and Art expo.Bring the whole family to this uniqueevent. There is something for every-one! The event is sponsored by theHighland Chamber of Commerce. 618-654-3721

Kay Weber Presents Craft & Vendor ShowBelle-Clair Expo Building, BellevilleThe show will have a large amount ofquality crafters and vendors and doorprizes every hour! 618-233-0940

Olney Bicycle ClassicOlney City Park, Olney Join us for the Olney Chamber ofCommerce Bicycle Classic, plus thefree TrustBank Family Ride and freechildren’s races at the Olney City Park.All participants receive a free t-shirt. 618-392-2241

Songs 4 SoldiersBolm-Schuhkraft Park, ColumbiaEnjoy free concerts from Clusterpluck,Dave Glover Band, Pettycash Junction,Joe Dirt and the Dirty Boys, Where’sCharlie?, and Superjam. Donations areaccepted. 100% of the proceeds areused to help our veterans. Food anddrink will be available for purchase.Kids will enjoy games and a bouncehouse! 618-779-8511


from page 11

Litchfield TriathlouLake Lou Yaeger Beach HouseLitchfield Sponsored by the Litchfield TourismOffice and joined by RaceMaker Production, Lake Lou Yaeger will hostthe annual Sprint & Olympic distancetriathlon. 217-324-8147

Moment of Remembrance CeremonyFire Administration Office, BellevilleThe City of Belleville and the Com-mittee to Construct the September 11Memorial Walkway of Southern Illi-nois invite the general public to a cer-emony honoring all who perished9/11/2001 with Phase 1 of the 9/11Memorial featuring an actual WTCartifact. 618-233-6518, x1245

9/11 Memorial Walkway ofSouthern Illinois 5K Run/WalkBelleville 618-233-6769

September 14 – 17Fairfield Fall Fun FestDowntown FairfieldWelcome Fall, Fairfield style! 618-842-6116

September 15 – 17Elmwood SpeaksElmwood Cemetery, CentraliaThe event features a historic tour ofElmwood Cemetery, written and enacted by actors of the Centralia Cultural Society. 618-533-7664

September 15 – 18Southeastern Vintage Trailer RallyRed Hills State Park, SumnerVisit the Open House on Saturdayfrom 11 a.m – 3 p.m. and see the vin-tage campers on display. 618-263-2811

September 16Family Hike NightSilver Lake Park, HighlandFollow the trail at Highland’s SilverLake Park and look for a variety of animals and insects. Then, look to thestars through a telescope and see what hides in the sky. The eveningconcludes with refreshments by the fire. 618-651-1386

September 16 – 17Fall Music FestivalDowntown, VandaliaEnjoy a variety of vendors, merchants, sidewalk sales, bingo, and activities and inflatables for the children. 618-283-2728

Italian FestUptown, Collinsville Since 1983, Collinsville has celebrated the Italian culture and heritage of the city. The Fest is a familyfriendly event, and there’s somethingfor everyone including a parade, agrape stomp, bands, food, a 5K run,plus much, much more. 618-344-2884

Oktoberfest CelebrationBelleville Public Square, BellevilleCelebrate a German Heritage Festival in downtown Belleville featuring live bands, a children’s area,beer, wine and food courts. 618-233-6769

September 16 – 18Whale of a Sail RegattaCSA Harbor, Hazlet ParkCarlyle Lake, CarlyleThis racing and social event is open toall sailboats and is attended by sailorsfrom places throughout the Midwest. A package of social events may be purchased for those not participating in the racing. Limitedcrew positions on cruising race boats will be available with advance reservation.

314-325-WAVE (9283)

Fall Classic Trap ShootWorld Shooting and RecreationalComplex, SpartaThis registered trapshooting event is held on the grounds of the Grand American.

618-295-2700

Hill’s Fort Living History EventFarm Heritage Museum GreenvilleThis event features soap making,wood-working, rope making, blacksmith, butter churning, apple butter making, cornhusk dolls, cast-iron cooking and games for kids.Plus, re-enactors of the Hill’s Fort Battle and 1812 Rangers will be there.Friday the 16th features School Days. Admission is free. 618-664-9733

Marshall Autumn FestMarshallMarshall Autumn Fest is loaded withfun, great food, and amazing shoppingthat you can’t find anywhere else! Thefest features a large parade, a 5k run,craft vendors, fun activities for the kids, top notch entertainment forevery age, and a car & bike show. 217-251-3034

Wheat Fair and Festival511 South Hanover, OkawvillePlan to attend this year’s OkawvilleAgricultural Products Fair! On Fridayevening at 7:00 PM, there will be aQueen pageant. On Saturday, therewill be Carnival rides, food and beverages, games, an antique tractorpull and a washers tournament. Sunday will feature farm, homemaking, and 4-H exhibits and school projects. There will also be a large float parade. 618-243-5694


September 17Country FestEast Fork Arena, Olney

The White Squirrel SaddleClub will again host Country

Fest! Join us at the lake for livemusic, food and beverage!

618-395-7302

Paint History Plein Air Art AuctionDowntown, BellevilleView artists at work during this art exhibition in downtown Belleville. Artwork will be auctioned to the public. 618-233-6769

Wamac Fall FestivalWamac City Park, CentraliaJoin the fun with a carnival, entertain-ment, food, games, sport competitions, livebands, kids games and a beer garden! 618-533-7664

Art on the Bluffs Art WalkMain Street, ColumbiaCome out and enjoy talented artists, musicians, theater, food and activities forthe kids. 618-281-7144

Salem Apple FestBryan Memorial Park, SalemTaste the fruit from the apple orchards and enjoy craft vendors, exhibits, food,concessions, live music, apple dessert contest, kids’ games and pony rides. 618-548-3010

Community Yard SaleFreeburgYard sales are set up all over town. It’s atrue treasure hunt! 618-539-5528

800-442-1488

OCTOBER 2016

September 17Outrageous Dog ShowDowntown FairfieldRegistration at 3:30 p.m. and show at 4:00 p.m. 618-599-1107

September 17 – 185th Annual Caseyville Frontier DaysCaseyville Park, CaseyvilleReenactor encampment shows life as itwas during the Frontier Days. Talk withreenactors, watch demonstrations and visitthe kids’ area. Food and frontier goods areavailable for purchase. Admission is free,and the event will be held rain or shine.Reenactors call 618-540-2399 for moreinfo. Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. 618-540-2399

September 18RCHS Creole House ToursHistoric Creole House, Prairie du RocherGuided tours of the Historic ca. 1800French/American Transitional CreoleHouse, which is on the National Registerof Historic Places, will take place. 618-826-2667

September 23Free Fall Movie in the ParkLaderman Park, BellevilleThe Belleville Parks and Recreation Department invites you and your familyto our FREE Movie in the Park Night!Bring lawn chairs or blankets and catchAlvin and the Chipmunks: The RoadChip. 618-233-1416

September 23 – 24Norris City Dairy DaysNorris CityThe festival celebrates agriculture in theNorris City area with music and lots offood. The queen contest takes place onFriday night and the parade takes place on Saturday. 618-378-3453

Apple Butter MakingThe Rock Mill, MaeystownReceive instruction in the art of makingapple butter at the restored 1859 rock mill. See demonstrations of various methods of apple peeling and stirring. Friends of Maeystown willing to help peel apples or to donate two hours of stirring time: please call David Braswell.

618-458-6660

Bluegrass Reunion & Jam SessionCharley Brown Park, Flora

618-662-8313


from page 15 Nashville Fall FestivalCourthouse Lawn & SquareNashvilleCome join in on the fun: Angel ForAutism 5-K run/walk, craft/vendor and food booths, kids area & petting zoo,live entertainment both days, princess &superhero parade and pet parade. 618-327-3700

September 23 – 25Gem & Jewelry ShowGateway Center, CollinsvilleEnjoy a marketplace of gems, beads andjewelry. Intergem brings the largest selections at the lowest prices. There issomething for everyone! 301-294-1640

NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series AAA Insurance Midwest NationalsGateway Motorsports Park DragplexMadison The biggest names in professional dragracing will converge on the GMP Drag-plex at speeds in excess of 300 mph. Theevent includes Top Fuel Dragster, FunnyCar and Pro Stock competition. 618-215-8888

September 24Fireman’s Tractor PullBCDC Park, Beckemeyer 618-227-8331

Zion UCC Donut Dash 5K/1 MileFun RunNew Baden Village ParkA 5K where you are actually rewarded foreating donuts! 618-588-3813

Appleknocker FestivalFlora High School, FloraThe festival celebrates all things apple –the best fall fruit. This year, the KahokDancers will perform along with otherentertainment and activities for the wholefamily. 618-662-8894

September 30 – October 1Parish FestivalHoly Family Church, CahokiaEnjoy carnival rides, raffle, food andentertainment, not to mention basketand cake booths. It’s fun for everyone. 618-337-4548

September 30 – October 2Archon 39 ConventionGateway Center, CollinsvilleArchon is an annual science fictionconvention. 800-289-2388

October 1Fall City-Wide Yard SaleGrayvillePick up a map to all the area yardsales. 618-375-3671

Little Egypt FestivalSalemThis day-long festival features a carshow, children’s activities, a parade, a5K run, a horse show, arts, crafts, fleamarket, food, concessions and otherentertainment. 618-355-1575

Apple DayDowntown, GreenvilleJoin us on the Square for a biathlonrace, an apple dessert contest, livemusic, bake sales, games and crafts! 618-664-9272

Lebanon’s Fall FestivalLebanonCome see more than 100 crafters’handmade items and enjoy the food,music and children’s activities at thisfamily-oriented event. 618-537-2764

Fall Farm DayWilloughby Farm, Collinsville Hayrides, live bluegrass music, vintage farm tools, kids’ activities and more make this a fun day.

618-346-7529

Nature Culture HikeCahokia Mounds State Historic Site, CollinsvilleEnjoy a three-mile hike through archaeological and natural areas. 618-346-5160

Belleville Fall Museum DayBellevilleJoin the St. Clair County HistoricalSociety, Belleville Historical Society,Labor & Industry Museum and theGustave Koerner House for a fun, educational day of exhibits, hands-onactivities, demonstrations, food, drinkand more. Explore the lives of womenin history with us! Admission isFREE! 618-531-7753

Du Quoin Fall FestivalKeyes City Park, Du Quoin The 4th Annual Fall Festival features craft vendors from 8 a.m. until5 p.m. Enjoy bands and kids activities throughout the day including abounce house, face painting andpumpkin painting. Don’t miss the annual Chili Cook-off at 12 p.m.! 618-318-0430

SooeyfestNeogaCome join us for our annualSooeyfest! Enjoy free ham & bean dinner, kids games, a pie contest, asoup contest, a petting zoo, a porksmoke-off, a beer tent and entertain-ment! Admission is FREE, and theevent is sponsored by Neoga Partner-ship for Progress. 217-895-3237

Olney Arts Council Fall FestivalOlney City ParkThe Olney Arts Council hosts theirannual Fall Festival! Enjoy the worksof various artisans while enjoying en-tertainment at the Bandshell and a va-riety of food booths. Don’t miss thefire truck rides for the young ones! 618-395-2868

Chalk It Up!FreeburgChildren from kindergarten through8th grade show off their creativitywith sidewalk chalk. Children’s activi-ties and awards are included. 618-539-5429

Wayne City Bean DaysMain Street, Downtown Wayne CityAnnual Festival including a parade,pageant, free ham and beans, music andmore! 618-842-4802

September 24 – 25Fall FestivalCourthouse Square, NashvilleThe 36th Annual Fall Festival, spon-sored by the Nashville Chamber ofCommerce. This is an outdoor eventwith craft/vendor booths, food booths,a kids’ area, music and entertainment. 618-327-3700

September 25 5th Annual Wheels and Wine Car ShowThe Weingarten, Belleville Save the date for the 5th AnnualWheels and Wine Car Show hosted bythe St. Clair County East Rotary benefiting Hospice of Southern Illinoison September 25th at The Weingarten.Registration is from 9 a.m. – Noon, orwhen filled. Awards begin at 4 p.m.$20 for judged cars and $15 for display only. 618-257-9463

Columbia FestiFallMetter Park, ColumbiaCome celebrate fall with free fun forthe whole family featuring music anddancing by Smash Band. Kids willenjoy the rock climbing wall, bouncehouses, games and crafts. Adults willdelight in the unique merchandisevendors and great food including authentic German pancakes, beer andwine. 618-281-7144 ext. 134

Fall Equinox Sunrise ObservanceCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleMeet at Woodhenge Reconstructionat 6:35 a.m. to observe the Fall Equi-nox Sunrise and hear an informal talkabout Woodhenge and its importance. 618-346-5160

September 28 – October 1Enfield Mule DaysEnfieldThe festival celebrating mule breedingin Enfield was established 1921. Thefestival includes a gospel sing, kids’games, baby and tot contests, queencontests, street dance, bingo, music,prize drawings and annual fun eventssuch as beard growing or look-alikes.Don’t miss the pet parade and craftshow followed by a parade and mulejudging on Saturday. 618-963-2621

Fall FestivalGreenupShop the crafts and flea market andenjoy the entertainment and festivalfood. Don’t miss the large car show onSunday! The queen pageant will takeplace on 9/27. 217-923-3401



Tour de Bluffs Bike RidePrairie du RocherEnjoy your choice of a 12, 25 or 42mile Benefit Bike Ride, Scenic flatAmerican Bottom Ride, or BluffRide. Registration begins at 8 a.m.,with the ride beginning at 9 a.m.Early registration is $20, and registra-tion on the day of the ride is $25.Lunch is included. The event is spon-sored by Randolph County HistoricalSociety and Prairie du Rocher Chamber of Commerce. 618-826-2667

October 1 – 25th Annual West Fork EncampmentLake Lou Yaeger, Picnic Area #4Litchfield Take a walk through this historic reenactment of life in the 1800’s complete with artillery and historicaldemonstrations. Both campers andpublic are welcome. Admission is free;a fee is required for time period camping. The event is sponsored bythe Litchfield Tourism Office. 217-324-8147

Annual Fort De Chartres Frenchand Indian War EncampmentFort de Chartres State Historic SitePrairie du RocherSee 1750s historically dressed NativeAmericans, soldiers, militia and camp follower re-enactors participate in everyday camp activities.

618-284-7230

October 1 – 2, 8 – 9, 15 – 16,22 – 23 & 29 – 30 Jumpin’ Pumpkin JamboreeEckert’s Farm, BellevilleRide the wagons to the pumpkinpatch to search for your great pumpkin. Our pumpkins range from a couple of pounds to more than 150 pounds, so we are sure to have the perfect jack-o-lantern for you! Wagon rides, country music,live entertainment, pony rides, funnelcakes and festival foods, children’s activities and petting farm make this a fun-filled weekend for everyone! 618-233-0513

October 1, 8, 15Annual Squirrel CountOlneyCome help with the Annual White (and gray) Squirrel count of Olney. Each counter will be given a specific area of the town to count. Volunteers are always welcomed. Please, call today to reserve your counting area today! 618-395-7302

October 1 – 31Special Exhibit: Mourning Col. StephensonCol. Benjamin Stephenson HouseEdwardsvilleJoin us as we explore the macabre side ofthe Stephenson House history. Col.Stephenson died in the house on October 10, 1822, and visitors will get aglimpse of the mourning customs prac-ticed by the family almost two hundredyears ago. 618-692-1818

Pumpkin Pickin’ at Rainbow RanchRainbow Ranch Petting Zoo & Exotic Farm, Nashville

Come to the farm to meet the animals and find the perfect pumpkin for your jack-o-lantern. 618-424-7979

October 2Car, Truck and Motorcycle ShowDowntown, Grayville50 trophies will be awarded for theshow. Dash plaques and grab bags areawarded to the first 100 entries, plusprizes and giveaways through the day. 618-375-7158

Clinton County Amazing RaceNew Baden Village Park Enjoy family-friendly challenges at 10locations throughout Clinton County.Teams of 2-6 people will follow cluesto the next location. Complete thechallenge at each location to get yournext clue. Enjoy food, raffles, gamesand an auction. 618-588-3813

Du Bois Center Fall FestivalDu Bois Center, Du BoisCome out for food, music, crafts, pon-toon boat, hay wagon and arena horserides at this family-friendly event. 618-787-2202

Ripson Bridge Fall FestivalSorentoEnjoy a fun day with crafters, musicand food! 618-664-9272

50/50 Antique AuctionCol. Benjamin Stephenson House EdwardsvilleCome find an antique treasure at theannual 50/50 Antique Auction. A va-riety of collectibles are offered includ-ing: ceramics, crocks and jugs, NativeAmerican artifacts, antique pocketknives, fishing equipment, holiday decor, costume jewelry, toysand furniture. 618-692-1818

Artificat Identification DayCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleBring in artifacts for archaeologist toidentify. 618-346-5160

Flea MarketDu Quoin State Fair Grounds Expo Hall, Du QuoinVisit the flea market every first Sundayof the month, January through November. 618-542-8338

October 3St. Bernard’s Fall FestSt. Bernard’s Catholic Church, AlbersBring the whole family! Join us forgreat food and fall activities! Goodtimes are guaranteed! 618-248-5112

October 4 – 8Fairfield Plein Air Paint Out

FairfieldFairfield artists come to town for several days to paint local subjects, have their piece judged in the showand sell their works. 618-842-7318

October 6 -9Vietnam War MemorialBryan Memorial Park, SalemDedicated to the memory of thosewho gave the ultimate sacrifice andall who served in the Vietnam War. 618-548-2222

October 7 – 833rd Annual Chili Cook-offBelleville Public Square, BellevilleEnjoy samples or bowls of variouschilis with a People’s Choice Awardcompetition. Enjoy live music fromFan Fare, Well Hungarians and Queens Boulevard. Activities includethe 4th Annual Chili Chase 5kRun/Walk & Kids Pepper Dash, achildren’s area, plus the 10th AnnualJunior Idol competition! 618-233-6769

Steeleville OctoberfestFront of Steeleville Village HallSteelevilleThe fun begins Friday evening with aparade and continues with food, beer,music, craft fair, washer tournament,kids’ activities and a variety show. 618-985-3134

City-Wide Garage Sale & Merchants SaleBreese 618-526-7731

Forever Vintage MarketBelle-Clair Fairgrounds, BellevilleExperience a gathering of talentedvendors who specialize in creating,collecting and selling vintage wares. 618-233-0052

October 7 – 9 Midwest Jr.’s Super SeriesGateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888

Chestnut FestivalSt. FrancisvilleJoin us for the 41st Annual Chestnut Festival and Riverfest. Activities include carnival rides, games, bikeshow, live music all in a historic rivertown. There will be food and craftvendors on hand. Be sure to visit thehistoric Wabash Cannonball Bridgefrom Vincennes, Indiana. 618-943-3516


from page 17


ApplefestSchwartz Orchard, CentraliaEnjoy a fun filled day of activities atSchwartz Orchard including games, strawmaze and face painting. There will also bebaked goods, mums, pumpkins and applecider available. 618-533-7664

Celebrate CentraliaCarillon Park and DowntownCentraliaA festival of art, wine and music! Local artisans, musicians, crafters, wineries, craft brewers and food vendors convergefor a festival around the Carillon indowntown Centralia.

618-533-7664

Chili Cook OffHanover St., OkawvilleEnjoy chili tasting and best chiliawards with additional food itemsavailable. Beer, soda and otherbeverages are available. There willalso be entertainment and winetasting. 618-243-6213

3rd Annual World War II DaysFort de Chartres State Historic SitePrairie du RocherThis event is co-sponsored by the LAH Living History Association and the U.S. 2nd Ranger Infantry Battalion of St. Louis. It will be a large-scale event featuring World War 2 era static displays, demonstrations, andre-enactments. 618-284-7230

4th Annual Chili Chase & Kids Pepper DashDowntown, BellevilleHosted by: The Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce Presenting Sponsor: SSM Physical Therapy ChiliChase Registration Fee: Adults $20,Youth $15 (16 & under). Late Regis-tration Fee: $25 after September 21; $30 day of race. Kids Pepper Dash: $5 (13 &under). 618-233-2015


October 7 – 9, 14 – 16 Clinton County Showcase presents: NovemberAvon Theater, Breese 618-526-2866

October 811th Annual Red Hill Dulcimer FestivalUnited Methodist Church, SumnerThe 11th Annual event features mountain and hammered dulcimer,Irish whistle, ukulele and guitar workshops with a concert in the evening. 618-928-1507

Fall FestivalNorth Park, BreeseHead to North Park in Breese for fun and entertainment!

618-526-7731

Fall FestivalMoody Park at Longacre Fairview HeightsEnjoy games, rides, crafts, food and a monster egg hunt!

618-489-2040

Fall Fest on the FarmMarcoot Jersey Creamery, GreenvilleVisitors of all ages have lots to do andsee at this free, family-friendly event.Kids can participate in several interac-tive activities and also have the oppor-tunity to adventure through our haymaze. We have a number of our artisancheeses available to sample, as well asother delicious treats available for pur-chase. Our pumpkin patch is also openfor pumpkin and gourd picking. Dur-ing your visit, don’t forget a stop inour calf barn to visit and pet the new calves or to milk one of our simulated cows. 618-664-1110

Freeburg Chamber of CommerceFall Fest & Chili Cook-OffFreeburg Village ParkMake a day of tasting delicious chili and more. 618-410-4077

PumpkinFestCourthouse Square, WaterlooThe festivities begin with a 5KRun/Walk and continue with music,craft and merchant booths, pumpkinpainting, pumpkin games, and all kindsof pumpkin contests, a washer tourna-ment, demonstrations, face painting,food and lots more! 618-939-8600

October 8Fall Family FestivalThe American Farm Heritage Museum, GreenvilleEnjoy pumpkin painting, the children’scostume contest, games, face painting,train rides, prizes, food. The event also features the Lil’ Red Barn Museum, craftsand vendors. 618-664-9733

Hillsboro Harvest MarketDowntown, Hillsboro Don’t miss this European-style HarvestMarket sponsored by Imagine Hillsboro!The event runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. andincludes food, music, handmade art,breads, cheese, meat, jellies, cake, wine andcoffee. 217-313-6299

Les Amis Du Fort De ChartresBrewfestPrarie Du RocherThe brewfest offers bi-state craft beerlovers an invitation to explore great beersand history together, enticing patrons toexplore Southwest Illinois’ explosion ofcraft breweries in a unique unforgettablesetting. 217-284-7230

October 8 – 9Art in the ParkLindendale Park, HighlandThe vibrant colors of Autumn provide theperfect canvas to paint a relaxing weekendfilled with fine art, mouth-watering foodand superb entertainment. LindendalePark offers a tranquil setting where nearly70 professional artists display their work.Attendees can shop for art in 12 categories. 618-654-4727

Berryville Vineyards HarvestfestBerryville Vineyards, ClaremontFun & excitement await you at our Har-vestfest commemorating the new vintage.Live music will flow through the breeze.Hayrides will be had, bottles busted,grapevine wreaths tossed, and hearts willbe gladdened by the juice from the sur-rounding hills. Admission is $10. 618-869-2054

Carmi Corn DayCarmiSponsored by the Carmi Kiwanis Club,Corn Day includes a pet parade, a carshow and a large parade. There will beevening entertainment. 618-382-7606

Pegasus Productions Psychic FairGateway Center, CollinsvilleCome to the psychic fair for an educational, interesting and spiritually up-lifting experience to nurture and encour-age all who are on the path of growth andenlightenment. 812-925-3039

October 9OktoberfestMaeystownBrowse more than 50 artisans, crafters,dealers and numerous food stands. Thevillage specialty shops, bed and break-fast, restaurants and museum are open. 618-458-6660

Motorcycle Swap MeetBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleThis gathering of motorcycle enthusi-asts features over 300 booths of newand used parts for Harley-DavidsonCycles, plus accessories and relateditems. 618-233-0052

Litchfield Pickers MarketDowntown, Litchfield This open-air market, specializing initems prior to 1980 and refurbishedvintage and antique items, brings hun-dreds of vendors to the streets ofdowntown Litchfield. Admission isFREE, and the event is sponsored bythe Litchfield Tourism Office. 217-324-8147

October 13Witches Ghoulish Night OutColumbiaA fabulous night of shopping andprizes. Dress the part –witches cos-tume, hat and broom—for the contest. 618-281-7144

October 14 – 15 Super Chevy ShowGateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888


from page 19

October 14 - 16American Thresherman Fall FestivalPerry County FairgroundsPinckneyvilleThis event features daily demonstra-tions and displays of steam and gas en-gines, draft horses and pony activities,rope making, saw mill, corn shreddingand shelling. Enjoy cider and apple but-ter making, blacksmithing, steam trainrides and much more. This is a familyfun weekend! 618-318-0745

Noble Con Gaming ConventionOlney Central College, West RichlandCenter, Noble Noble Con is one of the first gamingconventions to hit southeastern Illi-nois. This exciting event features gamesof all types: pen and paper role playinggames, board games, miniature wargames and CCGs. Registration is only$5.00 per day, and children under 8 arefree. Don’t miss the Drone Wars Obsta-cle Course & Scavenger Hunt for anadditional fee! 812-891-3447

October 15Fall Fest & Chili Cook-OffMascoutahThis annual event has something forthe entire family. There’s a Chili Cook-off, Car Show, craft & product vendors,children’s area, food and entertain-ment. In the Chili Cook-off, you cansample over 20 kinds of chili from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.. 618-566-7355

5th Annual Freaky Five Halloween5K and BonfireCaseyville Park, CaseyvilleRunners and walkers can get in theHalloween spirit with an evening 5Kfollowed by a bonfire, food and music.Tombstone awards will be given outfor overall winners, with medals forage group winners, and event shirts forall participants. Pre-race activities startat 3pm, and the 5K starts at 5pm. 618-540-2399

Chili Cook Off & Arts and CraftsDupo Community Park, DupoIn addition to the great chili booths,enjoy arts and crafts, prizes, food,music, games and walk-of-honor ceremony. 618-286-3280

Historic Messinger Cemetery WalkMessinger Cemetery, BellevilleJoin the St. Clair County HistoricalSociety for an entertaining fall strollthrough the historic Messinger Cemetery. Learn about the cemetery’shistory. The historic Messinger Schoolwill be open. The cost to attend is $15per person to support the HistoricalSociety. 618-234-0600

Scarecrow FestivalCole Memorial Park, ChesterThis unique fall festival features acraft/vendor sale, art in the park, ascarecrow competition and displays,carnival events for the kids, a hayride,and a marshmallow and hot dog roast. 618-826-1430

October 15 – 16 Highland Civic Woman’s Pumpkin FestHighlandBring the whole family to this two-day event with rides, concessions, raffle

baskets, craft vendors, homesales vendors, food and beverages.

There are pumpkin pie eating con-tests, and pumpkins are for sale. Musicand photography is provided byVoegele Studio. 618-654-3721

October 16Leclaire ParkfestLeclaire Park, Edwardsville Leclaire Parkfest is a celebration of theLeclaire National Historic District. Theevent features live Dixieland Jazz andBluegrass music; wine and beer garden;delicious festival food; artisan booths;games and facepainting for children;narrated trolley tours of the HistoricDistrict, a book sale and vintage cardisplay. 618-656-1294

St. Bernard’s WurstmarktSt. Bernard’s Parish Center, AlbersEnjoy fresh pork sausage, roast beef,mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, greenbeans and home-made desserts. 618-248-5154

October 21 – 22 Haunted TrailMcDonald’s, CarlyleClimb aboard a hay wagon in the McDonald’s and take a hay ride downto a trail where ghosts and ghouls hide. 618-594-2484

October 22Halloween Hi-Jinks & Square ScareColumbiaMain Street merchants have stocked upon treats for the little princesses, ghostsand all! 618-281-7144

Spooktacular 5K/Costume ContestMt. CarmelJoin in a costume 5K, kids’ fun run andcostume contest. 618-262-5116

October 23OktoberfestHidden Lake Winery, AvistonEnjoy German food, beer, wine andlive music. 618-228-9111

Youth in Action Fall FestMt. CarmelEnjoy free games, free youth activities,hay rides and free food. Admission andparking are both free. 618-262-5116



Trust Bank Halloween ParadeDowntown, OlneyGhouls of all ages are welcome in cos-tume to enjoy the annual HalloweenParade. The parade begins at TrustBank and end at Bower Park. 618-395-4311

October 28 – 30Louisville Fall FestivalDowntown, Louisville Celebrate Fall in Louisville! 618-665-3348

October 29The Flora Halloween ParadeFlora 618-662-5646

Chili & Soup Cook-Off and Cupcake WarsNew Baden Village Park Enjoy a Tasters’ Choice competitionfor both chili and soup with prizesawarded in both categories. Familieswill find a craft fair, touch-a-truckequipment display, bounce houses, etc. 618-588-3813

Greenup Halloween CelebrationGreenupCelebrate Halloween in Greenup! 217-923-3401

Miles for Meals 5K/WalkNew Baden Village Park 618-588-3813

Pumpkin Patch & Rotary ClubChildren’s ParadeDowntown, O’FallonThree O’Fallon Rotary Clubs join together to sponsor a children’s bikeparade in downtown O’Fallon. Paradeis in conjunction with the DowntownO’Fallon Merchants. Trick-or-treatingheld at participating businesses. Po-laroid pictures are taken, at no charge,of the children in their Halloween costumes in front of a colorful haybale background. 618-624-4503

Howl-oween Hairball FairfieldHalloween costume contest benefit forAnimals Requesting Friends. “CashPrize Awards.” 618-599-1107


October 23O’Fallon United MethodistChurch Craft FairO’Fallon Methodist Church, O’FallonThe craft fair benefits the missionsprogram in the church. Food and concessions are available on site forpurchase. 618-632-2354

October 23 – 31Annual Halloween Parade & FallFestival Craft FairCentralia Recreation Complex &Downtown, CentraliaThis parade is older than the Macy’sThanksgiving parade and featuresfloats, marching units, horses, antiquefire trucks, costumed characters, schoolbands and more. The Fall Festival isheld during the day with a children’sparade, chili cook-off, mini train rides,haunted house, craft fair, games for thekids, food and car show. Admission isonly $1.00! 618-532-3214

October 24Toledo Kiwanis Halloween CelebrationToledo 217-849-2000

October 27Lions Halloween ParadeDowntown, VandaliaSee this fun annual parade down Gallatin St. featuring floats, marchingbands, costumed entries and more!!! 618-283-2728

October 28Downtown Halloween Trick or TreatBellevilleTrick or Treat through 3 blocks of EastMain Street (from High Street toCharles Street) Downtown Belleville.Admission is free. 628-233-6810

Highland News Leader Trick or Treat TrailDowntown Square, Highland This spooky spectacular, offers chil-dren,10 and under, a chance to trick ortreat in costume at area merchants andcollect clues for the scavenger hunt.Once all clues are collected they areplaced in a drawing for a special prize!The event is sponsored by the High-land News Leader and downtownmerchants. 618-654-2366

from page 21


Harvest Hootenanny 5KLitchfield Lake Lou Yeager,Picnic Area 3, Litchfield$30 entry fee. Sponsored byM&M Multisport Club. 217-324-3935

Pinckneyville 94th Annual Mardi GrasPinckneyvillePinckneyville celebrates Mardi Gras on the last Saturday in October. Our50/50 was not claimed in 2015; theunclaimed amount of $13,677 willstart off our 50/50 pot in 2016! Don’tmiss out on our spectacular nighttimeparade, which kicks off at 7:00 p.m. 618-357-3243

West Salem Fall FestivalWest Salem8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. enjoy the craftfair, merchandise vendors and food. At5:00 p.m., participate in the HalloweenCostume Contest followed by Trunk-or-Treating around the Village Square. 618-456-3167

October 30Keyboard PraiseSt. Matthew United MethodistChurch, BellevilleThis unusual concert features: 10grand pianos, the St. Matthew organand talented musicians of all ages play-ing hymn arrangements and light clas-sical music. Admission is free with loveoffering appreciated. 618-397-5994

Witches Night OutLebanonSharpen the point on your hat, oil thebroom and fluff up the cat. Leave thelittle goblins where they’re at andcome to Lebanon’s scariest shoppingevent. Restaurants and shops will beopen. A fortune teller strolls the street.The spooky music and historic build-ings provide a haunted backdrop forsome wicked good fun. It’s a “ghoul’snight out.” Costumes are encouraged;it’s quite a sight to see! 618-537-8420

Halloween ParadeLeu Civic Center, MascoutahIt’s a party with food, costume contestsand children’s games, plus a parade at 2 p.m.! 618-566-2175

October 31EdGlen Chamber of Commerce Halloween ParadeEdwardsvilleOver 100 floats, marching bands,school groups and entertainers take tothe streets of Edwardsville to experi-ence this 90+ year tradition known asthe biggest Halloween celebration inthe Metro-East. 618-656-7600

Trunk or TreatToledo 217-849-2000

Trunk or TreatCourthouse Square, WaterlooOrganizations provide a safe trick or treating environment for the kids.The event features a Candy CheckPoint sponsored by the Waterloo Fire Department and Monroe CountyEMS. 618-939-8600

Vol. IX, Issue II, Fall 2016

4387 N. Illinois, Suite 200Swansea, Illinois 62226

7/16, 50M

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Fall Tourism Times