Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019 • 1
TOURISM
TIMES
S ilAway by Pat White
ILLINOISouth Tourism is fortunate to have the Carlyle Sailing Association (CSA) located in our region at Eldon Hazlet State Park on Carlyle Lake. CSA is one of only four or five sailing associations in the United States. The next closest one is in Annapolis, MD. Their purpose is to encourage people to enjoy the sport of sailing through classes, social events, regattas, races and other activities.
CSA is not a private club, although they offer several levels of membership and most of the amenities of a Yacht Club without the exclusivity and high price tag. Only sailboats or paddle crafts (canoes, kayaks, etc.) are allowed in the harbor, as their main purpose is to teach and promote sailing. The Harbor facility can accommodate 280 boats in a “dry sail” format (kept on trailers), plus 100 beachcats. Besides the marina, CSA offers a wide range of activities for annual fee payers during the six-month season May through October. You don’t have to own a boat to learn to sail or enjoy many of the events and activities the Asso-
@
ciation offers. Never sailed and not sure you’d like it? There’s a list of skippers on the website (www.csa-sailing.org) who will be happy to take you out on the lake. They are ready and willing to share the joy of sailing with you. The only thing you need are soft-soled shoes and sunscreen. A fleet of 25 boats are leased for activities, and CSA rents boats to qualified skippers for half or full days (i.e., 9:00am to 5:00pm) on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and Monday through Thursday by appointment. Reservations are encouraged, but not required. Check the website or call 314-3259283 for more information. continued on page 3
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4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, Illinois 62226 618-257-1488 Toll free: 800-442-1488 www.ILLINOISouth.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOND COUNTY Amy Marcoot Dennis Potthast, Treasurer CLARK COUNTY Norma Calvert Bailey Maulding CLAY COUNTY Clint Green Chris Thompson CLINTON COUNTY Jim Sullivan Sandy Timmermann CRAWFORD COUNTY Open Chair CUMBERLAND COUNTY Billie Chambers Tania Craig EDWARDS COUNTY Martha Speir Dennis Turpin FAYETTE COUNTY Mayor Ricky Gottman HAMILTON COUNTY Jerry Prince Monica Tucker
ILLINOISouth.org
Hello From Dan... Warm greetings as we welcome another fun-filled travel season! Hopefully you’ve packed away your winter clothes and replaced them with your fun-in-the-sun attire…specifically, your swim suit because you’re going to need it! Learn all about sailing at Carlyle Lake, and experience some awesome waterparks throughout the region…outdoors, sun, water and most important…fun, make for the right combination here in ILLINOISouth! Planning a little weekend get-away… make those reservations, pack the car and experience all ILLINOISouth has to offer! Be sure to checkout our Road Trippin’ section on Page 10 for some great overnight ideas, and don’t forget the Calendar of Events section on Page 16.
We continue to showcase our very own “Made in ILLINOISouth” makers, so learn more about these fine crafters in our own back yard...they produce some incredible products! We’ve got some special anniversaries happening throughout our territory, so make note to visit these communities and experience all the festivities and excitement! Clark County, Wayne County and The City of Vandalia are celebrating their “Bicentennial,” and Fairview Heights is celebrating their “50th” Anniversary! Thanks for visiting and enjoy some ILLINOISouth fun!
DAN KRANKEOLA President/CEO
dkrankeola@ILLINOISouth.org
JASPER COUNTY Jane Casey Diane Scott LAWRENCE COUNTY Jim Gardner Bill Gray MADISON COUNTY Rosemarie Brown Mayor Allen Adomite MARION COUNTY Sonya Germann, Vice Chairman Ben Stratemeyer MONROE COUNTY Clyde Heller Jim Hill MONTGOMERY COUNTY Sarah Waggoner Valerie Belusko PERRY COUNTY Judy Smid Carrie Gilliam RANDOLPH COUNTY Emily Lyons Ronnie White RICHLAND COUNTY Belinda Henton, Secretary Karen Bell ST. CLAIR COUNTY Cathleen Lindauer John West WABASH COUNTY Jim Pfeister Rod Rodriguez WASHINGTON COUNTY Marvin Steinkamp, Chariman Doris Povolish WAYNE COUNTY Gary Sloan Royce Carter WHITE COUNTY Cindy Conley Kathy Sands
STAFF MEMBERS DAN KRANKEOLA President/CEO
dkrankeola@ILLINOISouth.org
CHRISTINE SOPIARS Executive Assistant
csopiars@ILLINOISouth.org
JON WEAVING Sales & Marketing Manager jweaving@ILLINOISouth.org
ANDY WATERMAN Sales & Marketing Manager awaterman@ILLINOISouth.org
DARLENE CHAPMAN Finance Director
dchapman@ILLINOISouth.org
TIFFANY GARAVAGLIA Content Marketing Manager/ Social Media Specialist tgaravaglia@ILLINOISouth.org
TAMBER WADE Graphic Designer
twade@ILLINOISouth.org
JORDAN JACKOVICH Visitor Services Coordinator jjackovich@ILLINOISouth.org
JEREMY DRAKE Distribution Representative
CREDITS
JON WEAVING Project Manager ANDY WATERMAN Author TIFFANY GARAVAGLIA Publication Designer KINGERY PRINTING COMPANY Printing
To submit an event for Tourism Times, visit ILLINOISouth.org/events
Congrats to Columbia!
Congratulations to the City of Columbia, and Tourism Coordinator, Sue Spargo, for bringing home a 2019 Illinois Excellence in Tourism Award. Columbia was honored at the Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism in February, for Best Branding Initiative behind their POP-UP SHOP which opened in late 2018. As you’ll read more about on page 9, the City of Columbia transitioned a one-room school house into POP-UP SHOP Columbia, and saw a 574 percent increase in foot traffic since its days as a welcome center. In November and December of 2018 alone, the local economy in Columbia saw an extra $8,000 in retail sales thanks to the POP-UP SHOP. Job well done, and many congratulations to Sue Spargo and the City of Columbia for your Illinois Excellence in Tourism Award!
800-442-1488
Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019 • 3
Me m b e r s e n j oy a lot of benefits like great racing, social activities, free pool access and free camping, as well as the new three hour introductory sailing course.
Hooked yet? For more information go to www.csa-sailing. org, Facebook or call 314-3259283 where actual people answer the phone! CSA is located at Eldon Hazlet State Park off Hwy 127 north of Carlyle. Follow the signs inside the park.
Cale dar of Eve ts from page 1
Families are discovering the benefits of sailing, also, judging by the growth of CSA’s Junior programs. They hire a Junior Director each summer and have added a Kinder Camp for ages 5 – 7, in addition to the weeklong Junior Sailing Camp for ages 1016. The classes and camps incorporate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) lessons in a fun and exciting way. “Sailing is a walking science class,” said longtime CSA member and Vice Chairman of the Board, Ted Beier. “It has lessons in wind, weather, hydraulics, water quality and so much more. ”Parents whose children are learning to sail have noted an increase in their sons’ and daughters’ self-confidence, self-reliance and sense of responsibility,” Beier added. Although some activities require a membership, non-members can often “pay as you go.” Everything else is provided. Associate Membership is available for anyone wanting to “test the waters” as it were. According to Beier, 80 – 90 people take advantage of this option every year. The majority renews annually, and 30% or so end up buying a boat. There’s something magical and peaceful about being on the water powered o n l y by t h e w i n d and your skill. It gets into your blood.
Here’s a sample of some of the events scheduled for this summer. Check the website for details.
May 11, June 15, July 13 – Hare and the Hounds Cruse Races May 18 – Try Sailing Day May 19 – Racing Clinic May 30 – June 1 – Adult Sailing Seminar June 2 – 7 – Junior Sailing Camp June 29 – Independence Day Sail and Party July 13 – Moonlight Cruise July 26 - 28 – Kinder Sail Camp Please go to Illinoisouth.org/events for CSA Fall events
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r e t a W , r e Wat ! e r e h w y r e v E by Pat White
Finally, the weather is warming up and soon it will be HOT! About the time the kids are out of school, it will be swimsuit season for real. Few of us are blessed with a backyard pool, but fortunately, many of ILLINOISouth’s communities have built splash pads, pools and wonderful aquatic centers that are open to the public. In an effort to keep our residents and visitors calm, cool and collected, here’s a sample of some of the best places to get wet no matter where you are in ILLINOISouth!
WESTERN Splash Pads:
DUPO SPLASH PAD
Grand Opening May 25. Cool down with 5 above ground and 14 below ground spray features with a fenced in Pavilion. Contact Village Hall for private party rentals. Dupo Park, Bluffview Elementary Ln. villageofdupo.org
NATIONAL SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF THE SNOWS
The Splash Pad at the playground is surrounded by a walkway colorfully depicting the story of Creation. 442 S. DeMazenod Dr., Belleville www.snows.org
O’FALLON SPORTS PARK
The free Splash Pad is located near an all-weather synthetic playground designed for toddlers, and a premium family playground. The Park offers many other amenities including soccer fields, pavilions and more. Exit 14 off Interstate 64, O’Fallon
Pelican Cove, Robinson
O’Fallon Splash Pad
ofallonfamilysportspark.com/sportspark
SWANSEA SPLASH PAD & SWANSEA KINGDOM
The Medieval Castle has lots of secret passages, a tic-tac-toe board, and a climbing wall along with the usual swings, monkey bars and slides. Nearby, the Splash Pad is a perfect spot to cool off after fighting dragons and knights in shining armor. Schranz Memorial Park, 377 Honeysuckle Lane, Swansea
swanseail.org/parksAndRecreation. html
THE REC COMPLEX OPENING SPRING 2019
This new facility’s four lane zero entry pool has certified lifeguards, exercise classes, swimming lessons, and more! Enjoy a few twists and turns on the waterslide, create some fun on the splash pad, and dominate a game of water volleyball or basketball before a relaxing float in the lazy river. Bunkum Rd., Fairview Heights recfh.com
800-442-1488
WILSON PARK
Not just a pool, this outdoor swimming complex/aquatic center includes a corkscrew slide, one meter diving board, zero-depth entry beach, kids pool with a frog slide, water sprays and a teardrop waterfall. 2900 Benton St., Granite City granitecity.illinois.gov
KORTE RECREATION CENTER In addition to the indoor pool, there’s an indoor slide and toddler play feature with special Toddler Times, where little ones can enjoy the area without the big kids around! Swim classes and recreational swim hours available. 1 Nagel Dr., Highland
Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019 • 5
MCKENDREE METRO RECPLEX
Zero depth entry in the recreation pool gradually increases to a depth of four feet. Perfect for anyone with mobility issues or parents with small children. Another section of the pool features two lap lanes with a constant depth of 4 ½ feet. The final section features four deep-water lap lanes with depths ranging from 5 feet to 6 feet. The competition pool has ten lanes ranging in depth from 8 ft. to 14 ft. with two one meter diving platforms and one five meter platform. There is seating for 600 spectators for events. Hwy 50 at Troy Scott Rd., O’Fallon MetroRecPlex.com
highlandil.gov
continued on next page
Wilson Park, Granite City
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CENTRAL
MUSGROVE AQUATIC CENTER
T h e C e n t e r f e a t u re s a 395,000 gallon swimming pool, bathhouse, water slide and water umbrella. The facility provides a zero depth entry area, stairs and lift for easy access into the water.
Recreation Complexes and Aquatic Centers: CENTRALIA RECREATION COMPLEX
The competition pool has six 25-yard lanes available for your swimming workout. The CRCY swim team and the Barracudas train and compete in this pool. The 2,000 square ft. family pool is heated and designed for leisure swimming. Kids love the raindrop fountain and water slide. The pool is surrounded by a lounging deck where parents can comfortably watch while children swim. 115 E. Second St., Centralia
centraliarecreationcomplex.com
BRYAN FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER
The center has an eight-lane, 25-meter lap pool with one and three meter springboard diving and zero depth entry. What child wouldn’t love the children’s interactive play feature with tipping bucket, waterslide and water cannons, a waterslide plunge pool with two slides, the tropical-themed lily pad walk, and a 720 sq. ft. tot pool with a play feature? Bryan Memorial Park, Salem
Musgrove Park, 305 E. Florence, Olney ci.olney.il.us
JAKE BENDER MEMORIAL POOL
Newton Aquatic Center
SE Corner County Rd. and Fairground Rd., City Park
EASTERN Aquatic Centers
NEWTON AQUATIC CENTER
It’s known for its zero entry feature, meaning you can walk directly into the pool without the use of a ladder or steps. The pool features a fountain center, two small slides, and a kiddie pool section. Also, in the 11ft area there is a springboard, a high dive, and a large slide.
A new aquatic center opened in 2010 with a state-of-the-art bathhouse and concession area, 90’ spiral water slide, wade-in zero depth area, lap pool and diving area with two one-meter diving platforms.
MT. CARMEL MEMORIAL POOL
The facility is handicap accessible, offering shower facilities, swimming lessons, water aerobics sessions, a water slide and concessions.
ci.pinckneyville.il.us/park-lake-pool. html
PELICAN COVE
Featuring a pirate ship, water slide, and umbrella spray; this pool is a family favorite that’s fun for all ages. Robinson City Park, 1201 S. Cross cityofrobinson.com/parks-recreation/
Peterson Park, 701 E. Marion St.
cityofnewtonil.com/peterson-park
369 County Rd. 1100 E.
wabashcountychamber.com
salemfamilyaquaticcenter.us
Community Pools WESTERN
CENTRAL
EASTERN
KENNETH HALL MEMORIAL WATER PARK Jones Park, 1301 N. Park Dr., E. St. Louis
BREESE COMMUNITY POOL Northside Park, 475 N. 10th St, Breese
ALBION CITY POOL City Park, 27 W. Walnut St.
eaststlouisparkdistrict.org
FREEBURG MUNICIPAL POOL Freeburg Recreational Park, 300 E. Hill St. freeburg.com
HIGHLAND COMMUNITY POOL SWIM CENTER 2123 Park St. highlandil.gov
MASCOUTAH POOL Scheve Park, 901 N Sixth St. Mascoutah Mascoutah.org
MILLSTADT VILLAGE POOL 305 W. Parkview Dr. villageofmillstadt.org/pool.htm
O’FALLON MEMORIAL POOL 411 E 5th St. ofallon.org
breese.org
CARLYLE CITY POOL 1090 Lake Rd., Carlyle
carlylelake.com/public-pools/
ELDON HAZLET PARK SWIMMING POOL 20100 Hazlet Park Dr., Carlyle 618-594-8701
FAIRVIEW PARK SWIMMING POOL W. Broadway & Hwy. 161, Centralia cityofcentralia.org
DU QUOIN MUNICIPAL POOL Westside Park, 640 W. Park St. duquoin.org/pool
LEGION MEMORIAL SWIMMING POOL 906 E. Illinois., New Baden
newbadenil.com/swimming_pool
MEMORIAL PARK POOL 118 Memorial Park Drive, Nokomis countyoffice.org/nokomis-memorial-park-pool
VANDALIA PUBLIC SWIMMING POOL 1001 W. Fillmore, Vandalia vandaliaparks.org
albionchamber.org
ECKERLE PARK 225 E Main St. cityofcarmi.com
LEO FRENCH MEMORIAL PARK 601 Park Ave, fairfield-il.com
CHARLEY BROWN PARK Old Hwy. 50, Flora florail.gov
GRAYVILLE CITY POOL 915 Memorial Dr. cityofgrayville.com
MCLEANSBORO CITY POOL 802 South Marshall St.; McLeansboro mcleansboro.us/mcleansboro-city-pool/
800-442-1488
4204 MAIN STREET BREWING COMPANY
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also many different events and specials to enjoy at 4204, so make sure to find them on Facebook, at mainstreetbrewingco.com, or give them a call at (618) 4167261.
Walk down the craft beer aisle at one of your local supermarkets or liquor stores, and you’ll have a plethora of options in front of you. Odds are, one of those tasty beverages is likely to be made by 4204 Main Street Brewing in Belleville. Since opening in 2014, 4204 Main Street Brewing has exploded in popularity – which means Founder and CEO Todd Kennedy has had to greatly increase production capabilities. In the five years 4204 Main Street Brewing has been in operation, they’ve added a canning line and a large-scale production facility in Belleville. The production facility is home to a twin 30-barrel brewhouse, one of only two in the United States. If you visit the original brewery and beer garden, there is an array of core craft offerings and specialty crafts that you can choose from – depending on the season. The great thing is, 4204 Main Street Brewing has something for any beer enthusiast. Take a look at their menu and you’ll see everything from IPAs to lagers, and pilsners to porters. There are
HUBBART WOOD
As you drive into Hillsboro on Route 16, there’s an unsuspecting building that has a couple of garage doors, and a large pile of trees that have been cut up are sitting outside. Nothing to see here, right? Not so fast. Inside this unsuspecting building you’ll find a wood carving shop, a showroom, and most importantly - a home. Montgomery County native Chris Hubbart and his wife Brianne decided to get rid of their house in order to make their business, Hubbart Wood, a reality. Instead of spending money on a mortgage, they converted part of the shop into a home to raise their three children.
ABE’S GOURMET POPCORN SHOP
If you’re looking for variety, Abe’s Gourmet Popcorn in Belleville is right up your alley. Owner Dave Schoenborn and his staff are always coming up with different, creative flavors. At any given time, Abe’s has over thirty different varieties of popcorn to choose from. No flavor is off limits at Abe’s, they’ve made everything from dill pickle popcorn, to a cinnamon bun flavor. Schoenborn uses an Illinois-based food distributor for all of their ingredients to ensure a true Illinois Made product. To find out more about Abe’s seasonal, specialty, and premium flavors you can find them on Facebook or online at abesgourmetpopcorn.com. You can also give them a call at (618) 2339010.
Like many Illinois Made businesses, Hubbart Wood started with a story. A few years ago, Chris cut down ten trees in Hillsboro in order to get internet. Unfortunatley, the saw mills wouldn’t take the trees because there wasn’t a large enough quantity. So Chris took a chainsaw and crafted an entry bench with his last name on it, from there word-of-mouth spread about his artistic abilities - and business took off. Chris and Brianne have a passion for art, design, and crafts - and it shows in their work. But they also have a passion for mak-
ing Hillsboro and Montgomery County a better place. They start by using all local trees for their works, trees that other saw mills don’t want. From there, they use their talent to craft some amazing works of art. They’ve done everything from Michael the Arc Angel to Abe Lincoln, but one of their recent favorites is a bench for Indian Springs Golf Course in Montgomery County. Hubbart has also won first place at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta for his Wile E. Coyote piece. Many of these works of art reside in a showroom inside the Hubbart Wood shop - alongside pieces from other area artists, which are for sale. Bottom line, if you’re a fan of beautiful artwork and of supporting local business - Hubbart Wood is a must visit. For more information you can find them on Facebook, at hubbartwood.com, or you can give them a call at (217) 556-2979.
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and s e t o N City Hall and Saturday, August 3rd the Anniversary Party in the Park featuring a parade, car show, live entertainment and much more. In addition to Fairview Height’s birthday two exciting attractions are also opening this spring, Urban Air Adventure Park and the Rec Complex. Please log on to cofh.org for more information. MIDAMERICA AIRPORT
St. Nicholas Landmark, Chester
ST. NICHOLAS LANDMARK
At 189 years old, the Landmark Building is one of the oldest and most iconic places in Chester. In its storied history, the Landmark has played host to Mark Twain and Charles Dickens, along with other early leaders of Illinois. Most recently, the building sat vacant for nearly a decade before undergoing renovations – and just a few months ago, the Landmark was brought back to life as a brew pub. The folks at St. Nicholas Brewing Company opened the St. Nicholas Landmark as its second location – offering unique pub fare, great beer, and a one-of-a-kind experience in this historic building on the banks of the Mississippi River. For more information on their menu and hours of operation, find them on Facebook or online at stnicholasbrewco. com/chester/ FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS 50TH!
The City of Fairview Heights is turning 50 this year and has some fun things planned to celebrate. The City will feature numerous events throughout the summer but two key events are Heritage Day on Saturday, June 29th at
MidAmerica Airport in Mascoutah is one of the fastest-growing passenger airports in the nation, and now airport officials say an expansion is needed. The airport has grown over the years and is now accommodating approximately 300,000 passengers per year. The expansion will help the airport get passengers in and out more efficiently, and the plan includes expanding the gate and baggage claim areas, upgrading security and adding a children’s play area. The project is expected to cost $30 million and the airport is applying for federal grant money to help with the project. If everything goes as planned the expansion will take place in September of 2019. flymidamerica.com OPERA HOUSE BREWING
Built in the 1800s, the Hillsboro Opera House is undoubtedly a storied landmark in Hillsboro. Unfortunately, it did sit vacant for over four decades until two local couples boug ht the building and started the restoration process. Troy and Jennifer Marcolini teamed up with fellow Hillsboro residents Jeremy and Jami Schmidt,
Opera House Brewing Company, Hillsboro
to turn the building into the Opera House Brewing Company. In August of 2018, Opera House Brewing Company opened for business – showcasing craft beer collaborations with other local brewers. For more information regarding Opera House Brewing Company, you can find them on Facebook. operahousebrewing.com VANDALIA BICENTENNIAL
2019 is a big year for Vandalia, as the state’s second capital turns 200! One of the many unique things about Vandalia, is that from its inception – it was already predetermined that it would be the state’s capital city. The land where Vandalia sits was donated by Congress to the new state of Illinois, and five commissioners were tasked to travel the land and choose the location for the new capital city. This year, Vandalia will celebrate the 200 th anniversary of its founding from June 13th-16th. The Bicentennial Board has planned several events for the celebration including plays, a Civil War re-enactment on Saturday, a Grand Levee, as well as a community concert with several acts. It will all wrap up on Sunday with a community picnic, community church service, and time capsule event. For more information on Vandalia’s Bicentennial Celebration, you can find them on Facebook or visit vandaliaillinois.com/2019-bicentennial/ CLARK COUNTY BICENTENNIAL
Bicentennial birthday celebrations are also in motion for Clark
County this year! At the time of its formation in 1819, Clark County included about a third of the state of Illinois and extended as far north as the present state of Wisconsin. Clark County was named for George Rogers Clark, the older brother of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and an officer of the army of Virginia that captured the Northwest Territory from the British during the Revolutionary War. The folks in Clark County have several events planned throughout the year to celebrate the county turning the big 200. For more information on events, or to volunteer to help with the events – please contact any Chamber of Commerce in Clark County. WAYNE COUNTY BICENTENNIAL
It’s a l s o a special year for Wayne Count y, w h i c h i s celebrating its 200th birthday as well! When Wayne County was established in 1819, it formed from Edwards County. The County is named after General “Mad Anthony” Wayne, an officer in the Revolutionary War and Northwest Indian War. Celebrate Wayne County’s Bicentennial during Founder’s Festival in Fairfield on June 15th! Hit the downtown square on Main Street for music, art, history, food, local business deals, crafts and activities for all ages. 618-842-7684 O’FALLON STATION
A new and exciting addition to downtown O’Fallon adds a farmer and artisans’ market, additional private event opportunities, c o m m u -
800-442-1488
Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019 • 9
Pop-Up Shop, Columbia
nity festivals and crafty classe s . T h e O ’ Fa l l o n St a t i o n , located at 212 East 1st Street, will be the home of the Vine Street Market, scheduled for the second weekend in May through the third weekend in October. The market will feature local producers, culinary vendors and a variety of artisans from 8-noon for 24 weeks spring through fall. In addition to the market, the new brick building, reminiscent of yesteryears train depots, boasts eight beautiful, oversized glass garage doors and space large enough to host ample sized events. Outside of the market, the city of O’Fallon will utilize the building for a variety of community events and festivals, and it will also be available for private rental. As an added layer of community outreach, the O’Fallon Station will host an assortment of art and craft type classes which will be held in the facility throughout the year. For information regarding the Vine Street Market visit ofallonstation.com or contact Sarah Burton at sburton@ofallon.org. For private rental information contact O’Fallon Parks and Recreation at parks@ofallon.org or 618-6240139.
POP-UP SHOP
Pop-up shops have exploded in popularity recently, and for good reason. Popups allow retailers to connect with customers face-to-face a n d b u i l d a w a re n e s s f o r their brands. On top of that, launching a pop-up shop is 80 percent cheaper than a traditional retail store. In late 2018, the Department of Community Development in Columbia capitalized on the pop-up shop craze turning one of its vacant properties in a highly visible and well-traveled area on Illinois Route 3, into POP-UP SHOP Columbia. POP-UP SHOP Columbia offers tenants a low-cost, short-term agreement that engages customers and helps build retail in Columbia. For more information on shopping, or applying to be a vendor – find the POP-UP SHOP Columbia on Facebook, or at popupshopcolumbiaillinois. com
Celebrate g intoin Spr&inSummer Spring
2019 Events
May 4th - Courthouse Cruise-In June 1st - Marcoot Jersey Creamery's Cheesefest June 8th - Train Show June 15th - Greenville Graffiti Car Show June 29th - Hummingbird Festival July 6th - Fourth Fest *featuring free concert and fireworks* July 26th-28th - Farm Heritage Days August 1st-6th - Bond County Fair
618-664-1644
GreenvilleIllinois.com
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A D R Trippin’ EAST FORK LAKE
When you think of Olney, white squirrels almost immediately come to mind – but there is another attraction well worth mentioning. East Fork Lake is prime ground for a day trip, full of outdoor adventures.
The White Squirrels of Olney
If you’re looking to get on the water, the 935-acre lake offers great fishing. When you cast your line, there’s a chance you may reel in bluegill, channel catfish, bullhead catfish, crappie, bass, walleye and red ear. For those looking for competitive fishing, there are
several different fishing tournaments on East Fork Lake almost every weekend throughout the summer. East Fork Lake is also a great place to bring a kayak and paddle along undeveloped shoreline, simply to observe the abundance of wildlife that call the lake home. White squirrel sightings at the lake are not uncommon, especially from the water – but you can also catch a glimpse of great blue herons, king fishers, and other interesting birds. For those looking to stay on land, there are several things around East Fork Lake to keep you busy for the day. Miller’s Grove is located on the south side of the lake, and is complete with three covered shelters, a playground, electricity and restrooms. It’s also an excellent location to do some bank fishing. Also be sure to check out Bird Haven, as well as Rotary Park – which features a disc golf course, fitness path, two covered picnic shelters, a playground and restrooms. ci.olney.il.us/ (618) 395-7302.
NEWTON LAKE
When you’re done visiting the Burl Ives memorial in Newton, a short drive out of town will take you to one of the best lakes for bass fishing in the Midwest – Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. The 1,700+ acre lake is home to a 22-mile trail system open to hiking, running, cross country skiing, and equestrian use. There is also a separate five-mile trail meant specifically for mountain biking. Although the trails are popular, hunting and bass fishing are the main attractions of Newton Lake. Professional fishing legend Denny Brauer refers to the lake as an “Outdoor Sportsman’s Paradise.” For those looking to experience the lake for an extended time, look no further than the Outdoor Sportsman’s Lodge. The Lodge has six private log cabins and can host up to 24 guests at one time. Aside from the accommodations, the Outdoor Sportsman’s Lodge offers all-inclusive fishing packages, daily guide service, and boat rentals. outdoorsportsmanslodge.com 618-752-5075.
East Fork Lake, Olney
800-442-1488
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Hidden Lake Winery, Aviston
Twelve Oaks Vineyard, Carlyle
ness that is proud to offer qualiWhat’s better than exploring ty, hand-crafted wines. The first a new area while spending time three tastings are free at Twelve outdoors and meeting new peo- Oaks, and once you’re ready to ple? Experiencing it all with a buy a bottle – there’s no better place to enjoy it than their outglass of wine, of course. door area. There are plenty of paThe Carlyle Lake Wine Trail tio tables with umbrellas to take a was established in July of 2017 seat, look out over the pond, and is made up of four and simply relax. wineries that each twelveoaksvineLE br in g the i r ow n RLY LAK yard.com A unique ways of The fourth wine-making and final stop to the table. on the Carlyle The westernLake Wine most winery Trail is a short on the trail is W ten miles southHidden Lake IL I A N east, at Crooked Winery in Aviston. E TR Creek Winery in Hidden Lake WinCentralia. The first thing ery produces their wine with locally-grown fruit and you may notice that sets Crookbottle it in their cellar. It will ed Creek apart from the other only run you $3 to sample ev- stops on the trail…the horses. ery delicious wine variety that Aside from wine, Crooked Creek Hidden Lake has to offer. Hidden Lake Winery also offers a full dining menu that includes everything from shared plates to pizza, and salads to steak. hiddenlakewinery.com After you’re finished at Hidden Lake, a 20-minute car ride northeast will land you at Bretz Wildlife Lodge and Winery in Carlyle. They have red, white, blush, and fruit wines to enjoy, and the best part…wine tasting is complimentary at Bretz Wildlife Lodge and Winery. If it’s a beautiful day to enjoy their wine outdoors, Bretz does have an open-air bar as well as a sand volleyball court. If you get hungry, the lunch and dinner menus at Bretz Wildlife and Lodge are something to behold. There are well over a dozen appetizers to choose from as well as soups, sandwiches, salads, steaks, seafood and other entrees to sink your teeth into. wildlifelodgeandwinery.com When you’ve had your fill at Bretz Wildlife Lodge and Winery, the next stop on the Carlyle Lake Wine Trail is only six miles south. Twelve Oaks Vineyard is located in a beautiful country setting south of Carlyle. The grapes grown on the Twelve Oaks property are maintained by a small, family-owned busi-
CARLYLE LAKE CABINS
After a full day of visiting all of the stops along the Carlyle Lake Wine Trail, you can kick your feet up and spend the night at a cabin
on Carlyle Lake. Each rustic cabin has a view of the lake, along with an option of ranch style or loft style cabins with an individual porch. Every cabin also offers a full-service kitchen, fireplace, outdoor grill, full-size bathroom and fire pits. The cabins can accommodate up to six people, with three beds and a hideaway bed in the sofa. For those who love to travel with their pets, there are pet-friendly cabins as well. For more information, or to reserve a room, visit carlylecabins.com or call (618) 594-7666.
Carlyle Lake Cabins
E
C
CARLYLE LAKE WINE TRAIL
is well-known for their horse farm. Crooked Creek Winery offers a range of easy sipping sweet wines, to more complex dry wines. Either way, when you find the wine that suits you – Crooked Creek has the perfect spot to sip in peace and watch the family horses graze the surrounding pastures. crookedcreekwinery.com carlylelakewinetrail.com
-OPEN TO THE PUBLIC-
LESS THAN 5 MILES FROM SAFB
2
NHL SIZE ICE RINKS
LEARN TO SKATE CLASSES
10
LANE COMPETITION SWIMMING POOL
50
GROUP FITNESS CLASSES
LEARN TO SWIM FREE CHILD CARE CLASSES
10% MILITARY DISCOUNT 205 REC PLEX DR. O’FALLON
| 618.589.3800 | METRORECPLEX.COM
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Direct Flights to:
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www.FlyMidAmerica.com
618-664-1644
GreenvilleIllinois.com
14 • Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019
ILLINOISouth.org
800-442-1488
Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019 • 15
MEMBERSHIP
EQUALS ROI
Just when you think you can’t afford advertising, ILLINOISouth Tourism steps in with a marketing opportunity that works and fits your budget! Not only will we help plan, design and place advertising or promotions, we’ll help you pay for it too! With the Bureau’s buying power and professional help, every member can benefit from marketing their business or community. How’s that for a deal?
Gateway Motor sports NHRA The AAA Insurance NHRA Midwest Nationals at Gateway Motorsports Park is the largest 3-day event on the facility’s always growing schedule, attracting approximately 75,000 fans to witness all the heart pounding, 10,000 horsepower Nitro action. With that much power involved, it’s something you simply have to see and feel to believe for yourself. This great event features all the biggest names in professional drag racing, including 16-time Funny Car champion John Force and four-time Top Fuel Dragster winner Antron Brown.
Our venue and the events we produce truly are an economic engine for the St. Louis Metro East. Hotels, restaurants and many local businesses see the bump in the bottom line when the NHRA and other governing bodies come to host events with us,” Blair added. “We’ve experienced some success with our fan-centric approach and the motorsports industry has taken note. But, we couldn’t do it without the great support of the local racing fans, community leaders and strategic partners like ILLINOISouth Tourism.”
all said and done, the 19th Annual Du Quoin Holiday Lights Fair was publicized in newspapers, basketball tournament programs, rack cards, radio ads, television commercials and more. With a late September date now on the schedule since the facility reopened in 2012 with local owner Curtis Francois, the weekend normally features great weather and nearly perfect track temps, allowing drivers to post track records and providing unmatched entertainment to the devoted fans that flock to the venue from all over the Midwest. Every ticket is a pit pass, offering unprecedented access to the drivers and teams when they aren’t making passes on the track. ILLINOISouth Tourism has been a big part of the media campaigns tied to promoting Gateway’s national events for several years. “Simply put, their support and enhancement of the media buys has allowed our budget to go farther than ever before,” said Chris Blair, GM & Executive Vice-President at Gateway Motorsports Park. “Because of their willingness to partner with us, we’ve been able to increase the awareness of our events, have increased ticket sales and continue to deliver events in a firstclass, family-friendly atmosphere.
Located just 5 minutes from downtown St. Louis and covering more than 340 acres, Gateway Motorsports Park is the largest outdoor entertainment venue in the St. Louis Metro area. To purchase tickets for the 2019 season, visit www.Gatewaymsp. com/tickets.
Du Quoin Holiday Lig hts There’s no question that the Holiday Lights Fair in Du Quoin has become a must-stop for those looking to get into the Christmas spirit. For 19 years, the Holiday Lights Fair has steadily grown in the number of visitors, and the number of days it is open. In 2018, the Du Quoin Tourism Commission wanted to make sure the Holiday Lights Fair kept growing – so they decided to blanket the media market. By the time it was
“As the volunteer marketing coordinator for Du Quoin Tourism Commission, I couldn’t do the job effectively or efficiently without I L L I N O I So u t h To u r i s m ,” s a i d Heather Genesio, Co-Vice President and Marketing Coordinator for the Du Quoin Tourism Commission. “The work they did for our 2018 Holiday L i g h t s Fa i r w a s outstanding! Their
talented graphic designer created advertisements that perfectly captured our event, printed media was designed, ordered, and delivered in a timely fashion, and everything was perfectly coordinated,” Genesio added. “All I had to do was share our ideas and vision for the event and approve all the media.” The other way that Du Quoin Tourism Commission spread the word about the 2018 Holiday Lights Fa i r, w a s t o use some of their budget on a Facebook advertising package. It was the first time they had done so, and the results were outstanding. By the time the Holida y Light s Fair was finished, their Facebook ad had been seen over 981,000 times! “ M r. A n d y Wa t e r m a n i s fantastic to work with and he made sure we stayed within our budget while still getting the best reach possible,” Genesio explained. “I look forward to working with ILLINOISouth Tourism for many years to come.”
16 • Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019
ILLINOISouth.org
Calendar of Events Make plans to visit during some of these great events! For more details, please visit our website.
Central
To Submit an event: An event form must be completed and submitted for each event. Visit ILLINOISouth.org/events-upload Event submission deadlines for our printed publications are: Spring/Summer: January 15th, Fall: May 1st, Holiday: August 1st. Event information received after this date may be listed on the website, but is subject to exclusion from the printed publications.
Western
Eastern
Please keep in mind your events should be “Visitor Friendly” and bring people in from outside your area. Priority is given to events that produce overnight stays. Because of space limitations, we cannot include local fund-raisers, weekly/monthly activities (Bingo, Bunko, etc.), church picnics or fish frys/weekly dinners. We reserve the right to edit submissions.
April 12 - 13
SUN
7
APRIL
City Wide Yard Sale
MON
TUE
WED
THU
FRI
SAT
1
2
3
4
5
6
8
9
10 11
Columbia 618-281-7144
Spring Market Place
12 13
18 19 20 17 16 15 14 25 26 27 21 22 23 24 28 29 30
Robinson Community Center 618-546-1557
EVENT COLOR KEY WESTERN REGION
April 26
St. Matthew UMC, Belleville 618-397-5994
Frontier Community College, Fairfield 618-842-6116
Joy of Easter Concert
April 19
Adult Easter Egg Hunt The Weingarten, Belleville 618-257-9463 April 19 - 21
April 12 - 14
Capitol Theater, Waterloo 314-939-7469
April 20
April 13
Jaycee’s Spring Fling
Mascoutah Sportsman Club 618-566-2964
Southern Illinois Sheep and Craft Festival Monroe County Fairgrounds, Waterloo 618-939-8536 April 14
Columbia Trails Homebrew Festival Borsch Park, Valmeyer 618-792-1490
Motorcycle Swap Meet
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052
EASTERN REGION
April 17 - 19
Student Directed One Act Play
MASC Presents “Is He Dead?”
CENTRAL REGION
Lindenwood University, Belleville 618-239-6175
Belleville Flea Market
Community Art Show
Rotten Egg Hunt
Bolm-Schuhkraft Park, Columbia 618-281-7144 April 26 - 27
Smok’n in the Park Barbeque Turner Park, Smithton 618-233-4180
Village Wide Yard Sale Maryville 618-345-7028
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052
April 26 - 28
Du Quoin Jaycee’s Easter Egg Hunt
Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515
Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515
Easter Egg Hunt
Wilson Park, Granite City 618-877-3059
Spring Bloom Festival Silverlake Park, Highland 618-651-1386
Spring Duathlon Litchfield High School 217-324-8147
Illinois Ranch Horse Association
Midwest Pro Mod & Super Chevy Show Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888
Spamalot
Avon Theater, Breese 618-526-2866 April 27
Arbor Day Celebration Fairview Park, Centralia 618-533-7623
800-442-1488
City Wide Garage Sale New Baden 618-588-3813
Fashion Promenade
St. Clair County Historical Society, Belleville 618-234-0600
Flyer Fest Spring Carnival Zion Lutheran School, Litchfield 217-324-3166
Grand Opening/Open House Rest Up Camping and RV Corral, Grayville 618-375-0310
Home Brew & Music Walk Downtown Belleville 618-233-2015
Old World Meets New World Concert Lindenwood University, Belleville 618-239-6175
Saints and Sinners Tour
Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019 • 17
St. Clair County Law Day 5K Run/Walk Downtown Belleville 618-233-1416 April 27 - 28
St. Louis Antique Show Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052 April 28
Metro East Community Chorale Spring Concert
St Augustiine of Canterbury Church, Belleville 618-233-3813
Vietnam War Display VFW Hall, Olney 618-392-4226
April 30 - May 8
Skip Barber Racing School
Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 888-932-1949
Johnny & June’s, Flora 618-662-5646
All Summer Lo g Check out these reoccurring events. April - May (Saturdays) May 31, June 14, 21, 28, Farmer’s Market July 5, 12, 19 Library Park, Flora Peanut Butter & Jam 618-662-8313 Festivals Downtown Square, Highland April - May (Weekends) 618-654-3721
Baby Bonanza
Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo, Nashville 618-424-7979 April 13-14, 19-20
Easter Egg-Citement Eckert’s Farms 618-233-0513
April 13 - May 3
Smithsonian Exhibit Marshall Public Library 217-826-2535
April 14, May 12, June 9
Litchfield Pickers Market Downtown Litchfield 217-324-8147
May 4 - November 2 (Saturdays)
Old Town Farmers Market Belleville Main Street 618-233-2015
May 6, June 3, July 1
Divas’ Night Out Belleville Main Street 618-233-2015
May 11 – 12, 18-19, 25-27
Strawberry Festival
Eckert’s Belleville Country Store & Farms, Belleville 618-233-0513
June 1, 22, 27, July 6, 13, 20, 27
Centralia Carillon Summer Series Centralia Carillon 618-533-4381
June 2, 16, 30, July 14, 28
Music at Metter Park Metter Park, Columbia 618-281-7144 June 3 - July 29
Concerts in the Park Belleville Parks and Recreation 618-233-1416
June 5, 12, 19, 26, July 3
Cummins Municipal Band Series Olney City Park 618-395-7302
June 5, 12,19, 26, July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Wednesday Night Workout Series Metter Park, Columbia 618-281-7144 June 6, 13, 20, 27
Live in Library Park
May 11 - October 19
Downtown Litchfield 217-324-8147
O’Fallon Station 618-624-0139
June 6, 13, 20, 25, 27, July 18, 25
Vine Street Market
May 28, June 4, 11, 18, 25, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Summer Band Concert Series
Sounds of Summer Concert Series Bower Park, Olney 618-392-2241
Monroe County Bandstand, Waterloo 618-939-8600
June 14, 21, 28 July 5,12,19,26
May 28 - August 8
Downtown Square, Highland 618-654-3721
Summer Movie Series
The EDGE & Lincoln Theater, Belleville 618-475-6169
Muny Band Concerts
July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Summer Night Concerts Keyes Park, Du Quoin 618-542-8338
For detailed information on events, please visit our website at ILLINOISouth.org/events
18 • Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019
ILLINOISouth.org
Calendar of Events SUN
MON
5
6
MAY
TUE
7
WED
THU
FRI
SAT
1
2
3
4
8
9
10 11
16 17 18 15 14 13 12 23 24 25 19 20 21 22
Flora 618-662-5646
Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888
Variety Show Western
Downtown Greenville 618-664-1644
Bellevue Park, Belleville 618-233-1416
Designer Bag Bingo Turner Hall, Columbia 618-281-7144
Historic Locust Street Fair Downtown Centralia 618-533-7623
May 3 - 4
City Wide Garage Sale Alhambra 618-488-3505
City Wide Yard Sale Flora 618-662-8313’
Kids’ Day
Fort de Chartres, Prairie du Rocher 618-284-7230
May Market
Downtown Lebanon 618-808-0311
Mayfest
Spamalot
Downtown Waterloo 618-939-8600
Avon Theater, Breese 618-526-2866
Noble Village Car Show
May 4
Ariston Relighting Ceremony Ariston Café, Litchfield 217- 324-2023
Community Wide Yard Sale Steeleville 618-965-3134
Community Yard Sale Mascoutah 618-566-2964
Courthouse Cruise-In
Fishing Derby
May 3
Hwy 55 Burgers & Fries, Litchfield 217-324-3455
St. Louis Nostalgia Rendezvous
Eastern
Beer-B-Que
Downtown Waterloo 618-939-8600
Classic Car Cruise
Bellecourt Manor, Belleville 618-233-5490
Vandalia Kite Festival
Kaskaskia College – Vandalia Campus 618-283-1152
Vintage in the Ville Pinckneyville 618-357-3243
Youth Baseball/Softball Parade Wilson Park, Granite City 618-877-3059 May 4 - 5
Gun & Knife Show
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052
Flea Market
St. Clair County Event Center, Belleville 618-830-7552
Noble Village Park 618-723-2212
May 5
Spring Fling Festival
Village of Maeystown 618-580-5875
American Farm Heritage Museum, Greenville 618-664-9733
Flora Depot 618-662-5646 May 11
Spring Style Show American Black & Tan Coon Hunt
Hwy 55 Just For Fun Cruise Ins
May 10 - May 11
Central
30 31 26 27 28 29
May 1 - 4
May 10
Fruehlingsfest/Springfest
John Crouch Flea Market Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515
Brick Street, Lebanon 618-537-8420
Downhill Derby Square, McLeansboro 618-925-4488
Hare & Hounds Cruise Races Carlyle Sailing Association 314-325-9283
Spring Crash Demo Derby Olney 618-395-7302 May 16 - 19
Toledo Spring Festival Courthouse Square, Toledo 217-849-2000
Inagural NMRA Gateway Rumble Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 866-694-3475 May 17
Rivertown Showdown Tri-City Speedway, Granite City 618-931-7836 May 17 - 19
Art on the Square
Downtown Belleville, Belleville 618-233-2015
Niehaus Cycle Sales Customer Appreciation Days Niehaus Cycle Sales, Litchfield 217-324-6565
For detailed information on events, please visit our website at ILLINOISouth.org/events
800-442-1488
Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019 • 19
First Responders Picnic
Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association
East Fork Bass Masters Spring Derby
IHSA State Bass Fishing Finals
East Fork Lake, Olney 618-395-7302
Carlyle Lake, Carlyle 618-594-2468
Movie in the Park
May 19
May 18
Fireman’s Park, Maryville 618-345-7028
Schiber Court Parking Lot, Maryville 618-345-7028
Noble Village Garage Sale Noble 618-723-2212
Red Berries & Bluegrass Festival
Trinity Gardens and Homestead, Mascoutah 618-566-4200
Run Your Own Race Korte Rec Center, Highland 618-651-1386
Songs for Soldiers
Monroe County History Museum, Waterloo 618-939-5008
Tour de Tilden Bike Ride Tilden City Park 618-443-8789
Try Sailing Day
Carlyle Sailing Association 314-325-9283 May 18 - 19
Belleville Flea Market
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052
Blue Carpet Corridor Route 66 Passport Run Niehaus Cycle Sales, Litchfield 217-556-8409
Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Du Quoin 618-542-1515
Concert in the Park Fireman’s Park, Maryville 618-345-7028
Racing Clinic
Carlyle Sailing Association 314-325-9283
Red, White & Blue Revue Concert St. Paul UCC, Belleville 618-233-3303
Strawberry Festival
St. Jacob Township Park, St. Jacob 618-644-2142
St. Patrick’s Strawberry Festival Ruma 618-282-3176
May 24 - 26
Maifest
Memorial Park, Nashville 618-327-3700
Splash Pad Grand Opening Dupo Park 618-286-3280 May 25 - 27
Memorial Day Weekend Fun
Rest Up Camping and RV Corral, Grayville 618-375-0310
Memorial Weekend Festival
Eckert’s Country Store & Farms, Belleville 618-233-0513 May 26
Cemetery Walk Mascoutah Cemetery 618-566-2964 May 27
Memorial Day 5K Run/Walk Memorial Day Parade Downtown Belleville 618-233-6769 May 30 - June 1
Adult Learn to Sail Seminar Carlyle Sailing Association 314-325-9283 May 31
Shriners Parade/5k Run & Walk Downtown Belleville 618-874-1870
Troy Family Summer of Fun Movie Night
May 25
Tri-Township Park, Troy 618-667-8769
Lindendale Park, Highland 618-651-1386
May 31 - June 2
Lion’s Club Annual Biathlon
Memorial Day Service Elmwood Cemetery, Centralia 618-533-7623
MASC Presents “The Dixie Swim Club” Capitol Theater, Waterloo 314-939-7469
20 • Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019
ILLINOISouth.org
Calendar of Events MON
SUN
JUNE
TUE
4
2
3
9
10 11
16 17 18 23 30
WED
5
Central
THU
FRI
7
28 29 24 25 26 27
June 1
CHEESEFEST 2018
Fit Foodie Tri
Downtown Marshall 217-826-2034
Western EVENT COLOR KEY WESTERN REGION
Classic Car Cruise
June Rendezvous
Brick Street, Lebanon 618-537-8420
Fort de Chartres, Prairie du Rocher 618-284-7230
Lebanon Women’s Club City Wide Yard Sale
Shriners Circus
Downtown Waterloo 618-939-8600
Imagine Hillsboro Concert Series
Sherwood Forest Campground, Hillsboro 217-556-4246
Jaycee’s Fishing Tournament Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515
Museum Open House Day St. Clair County Historical Society, Belleville 618-234-0600 June 1 - 2
Alhambra Homecoming Alhambra
618-488-3505
CENTRAL REGION
Flea Market
Marcoot Jersey Creamery, Greenville 618-664-1110
GLOW Community Yard Sale
Eastern
EASTERN REGION
Metro East Pride Fest Belleville Main Street 618-233-2015
Movie in the Park
Schiber Court Parking Lot, Maryville 618-345-7028 June 8 - 9
St. Clair County Event Center 618-830-7552
Lebanon 618-537-8420
American Farm Heritage Museum, Greenville 618-664-9733 Carlyle Lake 618-594-2468
8
12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22
AHRR Train Show
Crappie USA Tournament
SAT
1 6
June 8
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052 June 2
Doll, Toy, and Mini Show
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052
Optimist Club Car Show Downtown Waterloo 618-939-8600
Millstadt Tin Man Half Marathon and 5K Millstadt Village Park 618-719-1911
June 2 - 7
Junior Sailing Camp Carlyle Sailing Association 314-325-9283
Heritage Days
Schlosser Complex Historic Site, Okawville 618-243-5694
Quilts From the Heart
June 4
Whiteside School, Belleville 618-791-6674
Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888
Southern Equine Horse Show
Shrine Circus
June 6
Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515
Tri-City Speedway, Granite City 618-931-7836
June 9
June 7
Courthouse Square, Waterloo 618-939-8600
Car Load Night
Hwy 55 Just For Fun Cruise Ins
Hwy 55 Burgers & Fries, Litchfield 217-324-3455
Movies in the Park Wilson Park, Granite City 618-877-3059
Spring Fest
Downtown Concert Series
Kids Fishing Derby Charley Brown Park, Flora 618-662-5646 June 13
Picnic in the Park
MTC City Park, Mt. Carmel 618-626-5116
Mascoutah 618-566-7355
June 13 - 15
June 7 - 9
South Cleveland Street, Farmersville 217-891-6103
MASC Presents “The Dixie Swim Club” Capitol Theater, Waterloo 314-939-7469
Schweizerfest
Downtown Square, Highland 618-882-8478
Farmersville Irish Days
June 13 - 16
Neoga Days
Downtown Neoga 217-895-3839
Vandalia 200th Celebration Downtown Vandalia 618-283-1152
800-442-1488
June 14
Explore Waterloo Architectural Tour Downtown Waterloo 618-939-5300 June 14 - 15
June Jamboree New Baden Park 618-588-3813
Maeystown Homecoming Village of Maeystown 618-580-5875
Street Outlaws No Prep Kings
Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 June 15
Bicycle Rodeo
Niehaus Cycle Sales, Litchfield 217-556-8409
Cabella’s King Kat Fishing Tournament
Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019 • 21
NASCAR Gander Outdoor Truck Series Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888
Cannonball Downhill Derby Downtown Mt. Carmel 618-626-5116
Juneteenth
Laura Leake Park, Centralia 618-533-7623
Sips and Sounds Wine Festival Johnny & June’s, Flora 618-662-5646
Tractor Drive
American Farm Heritage Museum, Greenville 618-664-9733 June 22-23
Knife and Gun Show
Carlyle Lake 618-594-2468
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052
Clotfest 8
June 23
Craft Beer Walk
Monroe County History Museum, Waterloo 618-939-5008
Courthouse Pub, Hillsboro 720-635-3619 Downtown Belleville 618-233-2015
Crazy Casey Days Downtown Casey 217-932-4460
Fishing Derby
Drost Park, Maryville 618-345-7028
Founder’s Festival Downtown Fairfield 618-559-2389
Freedom 68 Veterans’ Retreat American Obstacle, Kinmundy 217-690-3367
Greenville Graffiti Car Show
Finding Local Historical Sites with Dowsing
June 27
Master Gardener’s Open Gate Open House Drost Park, Maryville 618-345-7028 June 28 - 29
Caseyville Independance Day Picnic & Fireworks Caseyville Park 618-344-1234
June 28 - 30
Illinois Ranch Horse Association Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515
Downtown Greenville 618-664-9272
June 29
Hare & Hounds Cruise Races
Carlyle Lake 618-594-2468
Carlyle Sailing Association 314-325-9283 June 15 - 16
Belleville Flea Market
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052 June 16
Tub Tobias Bicycle Classic
Montgomery County Courthouse, Hillsboro 720-635-3619 June 18
Porta Westfalica German Festival Downtown Waterloo 618-939-8600 June 21 - 22
Fireman’s Picnic Dupo Firehouse 618-286-3280
Roots-N-Que
Uptown Mt. Carmel 618-626-5116
4th of July Fireworks Spectactular Dam Jam
5K Freedom Fun Run Lake Lou Yaeger Picnic Area 3, Litchfield 217-324-8147
Changes Come to Historic Maeystown... 1989-2018 Monroe County History Museum, Waterloo 618-939-5008
Hummingbird Festival Stoecklin’s Orchard, Donnellson 217-537-3801
Independence Day Sail and Party Carlyle Sailing Association 314-325-9283
Optimist Truck and Tractor Pull
Monroe County Fairgrounds, Waterloo 618-939-4681
Toledo Development Freedom Days
June 21 - 23
Toledo 217-849-2000
Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515
Heritage Day
Street Machine Nationals
June 22
Fit for Life Classic
Lake Lou Yaeger Picnic Area 3, Litchfield 217-851-9056
Fairview Heights 618-489-2000 June 29 - 30
Marine Homecoming Village Square, Highland 618-887-4531
For detailed information on events, please visit our website at ILLINOISouth.org/events
22 • Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019
ILLINOISouth.org
Calendar of Events SUN
JULY
THU
FRI
SAT
4
5
6
TUE
WED
1
2
3
8
9
10 11
Drost Park, Maryville 618-345-7028
Central
Vandalia Lion’s Club Fireworks Display
12 13
Vandalia Lake 618-283-1152
18 19 20 14 15 16 17 25 26 27 21 22 23 24 28 29 30 31
July 6 - 7
Flea Market Western
Eastern
CENTRAL REGION
EASTERN REGION
July 2 - 4
Annual Carnival & 4th of July Celebration
July 2 - 6
Patriots in the Park Wilson Park, Granite City 618-877-3059
4th of July Bike Parade & Celebration Metter Park, Columbia 618-281-7144
4th of July Celebration Southwest Park, Fairfield 618-842-6116
4th of July Celebration Charley Brown Park, Flora 618-662-5646
Downtown Centralia 618-533-7623
Fireworks at Nashville Memorial Park Nashville Memorial Park 618-327-3700 Glik Park, Highland 618-651-1386
Fireworks Spectacular & Cummins Municipal Band Special Olney City Park 618-395-7302
July 4th Celebration & Fireworks Scheve Park, Mascoutah 618-566-7355
4th of July Celebration West Union 217-889-3901
4th of July Veteran’s Parade
Fireworks Display
July 4
St. Clair County Event Center, Belleville 618-830-7552 July 7
EVENT COLOR KEY WESTERN REGION
Fairview Park, Centralia 618-532-5910
Downtown Greenville 618-664-9272
Kayaking on Drost Lake
MON
7
Fourth Fest Celebration/ Fireworks
Picnic in the Park Dupo Park 618-286-3280
John Crouch Flea Market Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515 July 12
Tour de Belleville Bike Ride July 4 - 7
Downtown Belleville 618-233-1416
Uptown Mt. Carmel 618-626-5116
July 12 - 13
Independence Day Weekend Fun
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052
Fantastic 4th Weekend
Rest Up Camping and RV Corral, Grayville 618-375-0310
Belleville Knife Show
Bluegrass Reunion & Jam Session
July 5 - 7
Charley Brown Park, Flora 618-662-5646
Hoyleton Community Club 618-231-7493
Fireman’s Picnic and Parade
Hofbraufest
Illinois Junior Rodeo
Downtown Lebanon 618-537-8420
Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515
July 13
July 6
Picquet Park, Ste. Marie 618-455-3227
Classic Car Cruise
Cork and Pork Festival
Brick Street, Lebanon 618-537-8420
For detailed information on events, please visit our website at ILLINOISouth.org/events
800-442-1488
Hare & Hounds Cruise Races and Moonlight Cruise Carlyle Sailing Association 314-325-9283
You Don’t Have to Leave Monroe County to Find Greatness
Monroe County History Museum, Waterloo 618-939-5008 July 13 - 14
Americas Rallycross
Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 July 14
Downtown Concert Series Courthouse Square, Waterloo 618-939-8600 July 18 - 20
St. Jacob Homecoming Township Park, St. Jacob 618-664-5666 July 18 - 21
Explore Waterloo Christmas in July Downtown Waterloo 618-939-5300
Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019 • 23
July 20 - 21
Belleville Flea Market
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052 July 26 - 28
Farm Heritage Days
American Farm Heritage Museum, Greenville 618-664-9733
Illinois Cutting Horse Association Du Quoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-1515
Kinder Sailing Camp Carlyle Sailing Association 314-325-9283 July 27
Movie in the Park
Schiber Court Parking Lot, Maryville 618-345-7028
Summer Intergenerational Orchestra Belleville Philharmonic Society 618-235-5600
Uncorked Festival
July 19
Red Hills State Park, Sumner 618-943-3516
Wilson Park, Granite City 618-877-3059
July 27 - 28
Movies in the Park
July 19 - 20
Central City Lion’s Festival Lion’s Park, Centralia 618-204-9710 July 20
1858 Steamboat Disaster in St. Louis
Monroe County History Museum, Waterloo 618-939-5008
Luau with “The Boat Drunks”
Great Train Expo
Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052
Sizzling Summer Sidewalk Sale Belleville Main Street 618-233-2015
July 28 - August 5
Annual Healing Novena
National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, Belleville 618-397-6700
Johnny & June’s, Flora 618-662-5646
July 31 - August 3
Shriners Jeep Rally
Uptown Mt. Carmel 618-626-5116
Olney 618-395-7302
Ag Days
Cou ty Fair Schedule June 10 - 15
July 19 - 28
Martinsville Agricultural Fairgrounds 713-865-0022
McLeansboro 618-926-1813
Martinsville Agricultural Fair
Hamilton County Fair
June 19 - 23
July 20 – 27
Butler 217-825-7952
Oblong 618-544-3792
Montgomery County Fair
Crawford County Fair
July 5 - 13
July 21 - 28
Wayne County Fairgrounds, Fairfield 618-599-2718
Monroe County Fairgrounds, Waterloo 618-939-8600
Wayne County Agricultural Fair
Monroe County Fair
July 6 - 13
July 22 - 26
Olney City Park 618-392-0766
Flora 618-662-5646
Richland County Fair
Clay County Fair
July 9 - 13
July 23 - 28
Nashville 618-327-3700
Madison County Fairgrounds, Highland 618-654-6656
Washington County Fair
Madison County Fair
July 12 - 20
July 27 – August 1
Sparta 618-443-2916
Sumner 618-843-7138
Randolph County Fair
July 13 - 20
Fayette County Fair Brownstown 618-427-5285 July 14 - 20
Clinton County Fair Carlyle 618-594-4169
Lawrence County Fair
July 28 – August 3
White County Fair Carmi 618-382-8671
July 28 - August 4
Marion County Fair Salem 618-548-1251
July 17 - 27
Edwards County Fair Albion 618-445-3615
For detailed information on events, please visit our website at ILLINOISouth.org/events
ILLINOISouth.org
Vol. XII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2019
4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, Illinois 62226
03/19, 60M
Spring/Summer • FREE
TOURISM
TIMES h s i Spl lash Sp Everything Water in Southern Illinois Ready to spend some time in the water this summer? Check out all the water activities around our 23 counties! (Continued on page 1)
