2023 Fall/Winter Tourism Times

TOURISM TIMES

FALL/WINTER 2023

Eckert’s Family Farms

Brittany Miller

Eagle Cliff – Miles Cemetery

Hello from the team at Discover Downstate Illinois!

By now you have likely seen our new branding, as we updated our identity in January of 2023 to Discover Downstate Illinois (formerly ILLINOISouth Tourism). While our identity is different, the way we market and promote the many great things our region has to offer remains the same. If you have read previous editions of the Tourism Times, you’ll notice a slight change about this publication. Normally, we print a fall edition and a holiday edition, but this year we have combined the two – making this publication a very important travel tool from September all the way through the end of the year!

We encourage you to Discover Downstate Illinois for the fall and holiday seasons, because there are countless things to experience. Our area is home to haunted trails and pumpkin picking, Oktoberfests and corn mazes in the fall. When the air starts to chill, you can come to our region to experience a dozen different holiday light shows or to pick your own Christmas tree! Remember, while you’re exploring our neck of the woods be sure to tag us in any social media posts you make, or use #DownstateIL. We love to see what you’re up to!

4387

Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, Illinois 62226 618−257−1488 www.downstateil.org

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BOND COUNTY

Bill Walker

Dennis Potthast

CLARK COUNTY

Nora Swalls

Bailey Tait, Secretary

CLAY COUNTY

Amy Allen

Doug Spitzner

CLINTON COUNTY Ann Schroeder

Sandy Timmermann

CRAWFORD COUNTY

Lisa Schaefer

Sara Mehler

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

Billie Chambers

Tania Craig

EDWARDS COUNTY

Debbie Fearn

Dennis Turpin, Treasurer

FAYETTE COUNTY

Mayor Ricky Gottman

Doug Knebel

HAMILTON COUNTY

Beth Sandusky

Dylan Bowling

JASPER COUNTY

Jane Casey

Donna Coad

LAWRENCE COUNTY

Paige Harvey Tom Robinson

MARION COUNTY

Tabitha Meador

Ben Stratemeyer

MONROE COUNTY

Clyde Heller Jim Hill

PERRY COUNTY

Carrie Gilliam

Judy Smid

RANDOLPH COUNTY

Emily Lyons

Ronnie White, Chairman

RICHLAND COUNTY

Julia Eichhorst

Debi Phillips

ST. CLAIR COUNTY

John West

Cathleen Lindauer, Vice Chairperson

WABASH COUNTY

Jim Pfeister

Brenda Bobbitt

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Dan Bronke

Marvin Steinkamp

WAYNE COUNTY

Carrie Halbert

Daryl Hargrave

WHITE COUNTY

Cindy Conley

CITY OF HIGHLAND

Mallord Hubbard

CITY OF PARIS

CONTENTS 1 Hello from the Team at Discover Downstate Illinois 2 A Warm Welcome to Paris 4 Sip’n Cider and Pick’n Apples 8 Fall Fun 12 Southern Illinois Coffee Trail 15 Local Haunts 18 Enjoy a Slice of Downstate Illinois 21 Discover Nature’s Beauty 24 In the Market for Holiday Shopping 26 S’mores & Lights, Need More? 28 Personalized Gifts 32 Holiday Happiness 34 Discover Our App

DARLENE CHAPMAN President/Finance Director dchapman@downstateil.org

CHRISTINE ORR Sales & Marketing Director corr@downstateil.org

ANDY WATERMAN Communications Director awaterman@downstateil.org

ELAINE BYRD Office Manager/ Executive Assistant ebyrd@downstateil.org

JORDAN JACKOVICH Sales & Marketing Manager jjackovich@downstateil.org

JESSICA HAAR Graphic Designer jhaar@downstateil.org

EMILY TITSWORTH Content Creator etitsworth@downstateil.org

TYLER PLETSCH Communications Specialist tpletsch@downstateil.org

CREDITS

Andy Waterman, Author Emily Titsworth, Author Tyler Pletsch, Author Jessica Haar, Publication Designer

A WARM WELCOME TO

Our main goal as a tourism bureau is to make sure that folks both near and far are aware of the many hidden gems that our 21-county region has to offer. We do our absolute best to help market and promote different eateries, attractions, events, and more. We love to help our communities attract new visitors! So, when a community reaches out and wants to be more involved with tourism – we get absolutely giddy with excitement. That leads us to some big news. This year, we welcome the City of Paris as our newest community partner!

The City of Paris is the county seat of Edgar County and the hometown of country music star Brett Eldredge. There are currently a little over eight thousand residents in Paris, which also happens to be celebrating its bicentennial in 2023. City leaders and business owners say they hope to achieve several goals in terms of marketing and promotion while working with Discover Downstate Illinois, including increasing awareness in the community, tourism promotion, collaboration and networking, and economic growth.

Courthouse

“By attracting more visitors, the town can boost its local businesses, including restaurants, coffee and soda shops, hotels, bed and breakfasts, shops, spas, and other services,” explains small business owner Samantha Gonzalez. “Increased tourism expenditure can have a positive impact on the local economy by generating revenue and creating job opportunities for residents and potential residents.”

The interest to start working with Discover Downstate Illinois started in the fall of 2022, according to another small business owner, Corby Dayton. “There were a few businesses that noticed their Facebook posts and started to pay attention for the past year or so to what Discover Downstate Illinois does for small businesses. We wanted to be involved because we care about the growth of Paris and its small business community,” Dayton says.

There are many charming qualities about Paris that visitors will love. If you’re a fan of history, there are several well-preserved architectural gems and landmarks. Visitors can explore the Edgar County Courthouse, which is on the National Register of Historic Places due to its unique architecture. There are also two different agritourism attractions in Paris – Southfork Homestead Pumpkin

Patch and L&A Family Farms. Depending on the season, they also host different events and festivals, offering a glimpse into the local culture and traditions. “Whether it’s the annual Honeybee Festival, Fourth of July celebrations, or holiday parades, visitors can partake in the festivities and experience the vibrant community spirit,” Gonzalez says.

For folks who love the outdoors, Paris boasts eleven different parks including Twin Lakes Park and Blackhawk Park. Twin Lakes features swimming, camping, and fishing opportunities as well as a miniature golf course, while Blackhawk Park is a more primitive 10-acre setting with trails and natural walkways. If shopping and dining are more your speed, there are charming boutiques and a range of different food options from ice cream and pizza to burgers or a café.

So, if you have not made a trip to Paris before – hopefully you can experience the smalltown charm they have to offer sometime very soon!

“

Overall, a visit to Paris promises a blend of history, small-town charm, outdoor recreation, community spirit, and local experiences, making it an appealing destination for tourists seeking an authentic and enriching travel experience.

L&A Farms

L&A Farms

Sip’n Cider and Pick’n Apples

This fall, it’s time to experience some staple seasonal activities and to create everlasting memories. From cheesing with cows to picking the finest apples, we are sure you won’t regret coming to our neck of the woods for a day trip or a week-long vacation.

Looking for the traditional orchard experience?

Braeutigam Orchards in Belleville is the place to go. Pick from Jonathon to Granny Smith apples or pumpkins, squash, and gourds. This 7th generation farm is sure to become an unforgettable stop for your whole family, but it could be an unforgettable stay as well. Braeutigam’s also offers a beautiful 2-bedroom cabin that sleeps 6-8 people. To learn more about the orchard, visit: downstateil.org/ Braeutigams-Orchards

If you have kids or are a kid at heart, you need to run to Millstadt to visit Eckert’s Millstadt Farm. This farm is synonymous for fun as you not only get to pick apples and pumpkins but shoot them out of a cannon too! Oh, and did we mention you can ride camels, watch pig races, attempt to escape from an enormous corn maze, and so much more? Learn more here: downstateil.org/EckertsMillstadt-Family-Fun-Farm

If you love cheese, cows, ice cream, and good times, then we suggest clearing your calendar on Saturday, October 14. Come to Greenville for Marcoot Jersey Creamery’s Fall Fest on the Farm! Take some selfies with their cows in the pasture, play games, and have lunch with a side of their famous fried cheese curds. This event is FREE and runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn more here: downstateil.org/MarcootJersey-Creamery

Another great traditional experience is Grissom’s Lost Creek Orchard over in Greenup. Here, you can pick multiple kinds of apples and pick up a jug of cider. If you’re lucky, you may even find some late blooming pears as well! Don’t forget to pick up a gift box for friends that couldn’t come with you on your trip. For more information, visit: downstateil.org/ grissoms-lost-creek-orchard

One local favorite in our central region is Doll’s Orchard in Pocahontas. This is not a stop for everyone, visit only if you want fresh, flavorful, and ripe apples! The orchard also sells pumpkins and cider on site. Learn more here: downstateil.org/ dolls-orchard

For those in need of some unique experiences, visit Dorney’s Pumpkin Patch in Lawrencevile. From hillbilly putt-putt golf to a gourd slingshot, there is something for everyone! Dorney’s is cash only and admission gains you unlimited access to all activities for the whole day. So, if mining for gold and hayrides sounds up your alley, visit: downstateil. org/Dorneys-Pumpkin-Patch

A new destination to us but a staple in our region is Southfork Homestead Pumpkin Farm in Paris. Southfork is one of a kind when it comes to fall family fun with their western theme board walk, petting zoo, cider donuts, hiking trails, and much more! Unless if you want to turn down a delicious burger from the Outlaw Saloon or if you don’t want to feel the thrill of racing pedal cars, we suggest learning more here: southforkhomestead.com

Over in Flora, Streif’s Country Market will have you sliding into fun with their six slides, climbing wall, themed corn maze, and hundreds of mums and pumpkins to pick! Be sure to bring the whole family on this trip. Learn more here: www.downstateil. org/Streifs-Country-Market

FEATURING

FEATURING

-BULL RIDING

-BULL RIDING

-BRONCO RIDING

-BRONCO RIDING

-LADIES BARREL RACING

-LADIES BARREL RACING

-CALF ROPING

-CALF ROPING

-STEER WRESTLING

-STEER WRESTLING

-IZZY THE GRIZZLIE

-IZZY THE GRIZZLIE

-RODEO CLOWNS

-RODEO CLOWNS

--DUSTI THE ROMAN RIDER & SO MUCH MORE!

--DUSTI THE ROMAN RIDER & SO MUCH MORE!

Wheat Festival

Okawville Heritage From Then to Now Celebrating 75 Years

September 15-17, 2023

This 3 day event is packed with fun things to do for the whole family!

•Rides and Kids Activities

•Bags & Washers Tournaments

•Classic Car Show •Tractor Pull

•Parade •5K •Food •Live Music

•Queen and Jr. Miss Pageant

•And so much more!

For complete Fair Schedule and more info please visit www.okawvillewheatfestival.com or ! OkawvilleWheatFestival

40th Annual

Breakfast with Santa Craft Fair

9am - 4:30pm

Community Club

Flea Market & Vendor Show

9am - 4:30pm

Immanuel Lutheran School

House Christmas Decorating & Holiday Wreath Contests

Live Nativity

Sunday Only - 4pm - 6pm

Community Club Park

For more information call Jackie Bening at 618-541-7708 !

December 2, 2023

Palestine comes to life in the fall, as they play host to the Pioneer City Rodeo over Labor Day weekend. The PRCA Pro Rodeo sanctioned event usually draws crowds of 7,000 people each year. A month later, the Wabash Valley Wine & Arts Festival in Palestine is celebrating its 20th anniversary. There will be over a dozen local wineries to try and several area vendors to purchase a wide variety of items from. It’s always a good time!

Another community that grows quite a bit during one weekend in the fall is McLeansboro. Thousands of people flock to town for the McLeansboro Fall Festival, which is slated for September 7-9 this year and features everything from a carnival to parades. Live music is the real draw each night, as the McLeansboro Fall Festival has hosted musical acts such as Sammy Kershaw and Diamond Rio without charging a dime for admission. This year’s headliners are T. Graham Brown on Friday night and Collin Raye on Saturday!

If you’re not able to make it to our Eastern region for the rodeo, there is one in Randolph County just a couple of weeks later! The Sparta Stampede Rodeo will feature some of the best riders in the Midwest on September 15th and 16th. There will be food, drinks, shopping, and even mini broncs and bulls on hand!

This year marks the 10th anniversary for the always popular Songs4Soldiers benefit concert in Columbia on September 15th and 16th. Country music star Travis Tritt takes the stage on Friday the 15th while rock band Cheap Trick entertains the crowd the following night.

Belleville is a happening place in the fall as they play host to Oktoberfest, Metro East Pride Fest, and the Annual Chili Cook-Off all within a three-week span! Their 42nd Annual Oktoberfest is set for September 15-16, the always entertaining and fun Metro East Pride Fest is September 30th, and the Chili Cook-Off is always the second full weekend in October. If you want all the fall feels, Belleville is the place to be!

Roam the streets of Fairfield and admire artists in their element during the Fairfield Paint Out, September 2630. Last year, nearly 20 artists created over 150 different paintings of things in the community, resulting in about $17,000 in sales for the artists. Even if you don’t buy anything, this event is worth checking out!

Fall Fun

Downstate Illinois is the place to be in the fall, especially if you’re looking for unique events. Our region celebrates everything from art and white squirrels to rodeos and concerts during this time of the year, so read ahead for some dates to mark on your calendars!

For all of the events happening this fall visit downstateil.org/events

The City of Highland certainly has a great tradition going as Art in the Park enters its 19th year. Art lovers can head to Lindendale Park October 13-15 to shop from 60 different artists in nine different mediums, and there is a children’s creation station so that the littles can get in on the action as well!

Pumpkinfest in Waterloo is always a hit with the kiddos and for good reason. When you combine a rockclimbing wall with wagon rides and mix those together with arts and crafts – it’s a child’s dream come true. There are also plenty of local vendors and food there as well, so mark your calendars for October 14th.

The 14th is also going to be a fun and historic-themed day in Vandalia! For more than 50 years they have been hosting visitors for their Grande Levee celebration, which honors the grand receptions that happened in the 1800s to honor government dignitaries. Enjoy live music, great food, and have a chat with Honest Abe!

The Carmi Kiwanis Club is celebrating their 100th anniversary, and the theme of this year’s Corn Days event is the Roaring 20s! Corn Days will take place on October 13-14 with plans for a parade, several musical acts, comedic entertainment and more.

The City of Chester has made a change to their Fall Festival, which will be held October 20-22 this year. The festivities will no longer be held downtown; instead, the fun will be at Cole Memorial Park. There will be shuttles to and from the park, as well as parking for the event. There will be a Kid Zone with bounce houses, local musicians, a parade, and more!

Oblong is the place to be on the last Saturday of October each year, as they host their fun Fall Follies event. There are costume contests, food and vendor booths, and the largest nighttime parade in Illinois!

Another great place to visit each weekend in the fall is Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo, just outside of Nashville. Not only do visitors get to experience llamas, camels, zebras, and kangaroos – but each visitor gets a FREE pumpkin from their patch included with admission.

Pioneer City Rodeo

Fairfield Paint Out

Corn Days

Southern IllinoisCoffee Trail

There’s nothing like sipping hot coffee on a chilly day. It’s one of our favorite fall activities. We love it so much that last year we decided to create an entire trail for coffee lovers. The 2022 Coffee Trail featured 27 shops across our 21-county region. We made heaps of content for our social media platforms, and time and time again we had the same comment: “Why isn’t *insert coffee shop here* on this trail?” The simple answer is that our bureau does not represent every county in Southern Illinois, which is why this year we reached out to other local Tourism Bureaus in Southern Illinois so that we could provide a more inclusive trail.

This year, the Southern Illinois Coffee Trail features over 50 different coffee shops spread over 450 miles. The trail is officially live from September 1st until December 31st and features discounts and special perks for those who participate. To learn more about how to request your Coffee Trail passport, visit our site. If you’d rather keep track of the shops you visit digitally, scan the QR code to head over to our app.

DISCOVER DOWNSTATE ILLINOIS

Around the Corner Coffee Company - Maeystown

The Bold Goat Coffee Company - Fairfield

Cafe 82:3 - Mt. Carmel

Cafe on the Abbey - Columbia

Casey Coffee Company - Casey

The CoffeeHouse Co. - O’Fallon

Colyer Coffee House - Albion

Common Grounds

Coffee Lounge - Flora

Cornerstone

Coffee House - Norris City

Cup of Joy - Robinson

Duo Boutique & Coffeehouse - Norris City

Farm Fancy Brewed

Baked & Crafted - DuQuoin

Fusion Coffee - Fairfield

Gather Okawville - Okawville

Gypsy Queen Coffee - Marshall

Jackson Avenue

Coffee - Charleston

Joe & Onies LLC - Belleville

June’s Breakfast + Patio - Shiloh

New & Noteworthy

The 103 Grounded in Grace

This shop in Carmi offers pastries and breakfast as well as espressobased drinks. While you’re there, shop around and check out their apparel, homewares, and more.

Oh. So. Sweet.

Bakery and Cafe

This bakery located in Carlyle is the perfect stop if you’re in the mood for a sweet treat. Their bakery case is filled to the brim with donuts, cookies, pastries, and more. Their coffee selection has everything from drip coffee and cold brew to lattes, chai, and cappuccinos.

LongStory Coffee

LongStory Coffee - Belleville

Milk & Honey Coffee - Mt. Carmel

Melinda’s Coffee + Bistro - Centralia

Off the Square Coffee Co. - Red Bud

Oh. So. Sweet.

Bakery & Cafe - Carlyle

Olde City Cafe and Bar - Breese

Ophelia’s Cup - Olney

POUR Coffeehouse - Belleville

RAIL Coffee Room - Centralia

The Red Porch Cafe - New Baden

Shimoji Coffee - Greenville

Shimoji Coffee - Vandalia

St. Louis

Coffee World - Mascoutah

Taps and Vine

Social House - Pinckneyville

The Traveling Mug - Casey

The 103 Grounded in Grace - Carmi

6:10 Coffee Company - Salem

Located in Belleville, LongStory Coffee converted an old train depot into a coffee shop. They roast their own coffee and serve specialty lattes, cold brew, and more. If you’re hungry, grab a bite to eat from Clara B’s Kitchen Table, located conveniently inside LongStory.

“visitSI believes that a win for Southern Illinois is a win for Williamson County, and who doesn’t want to taste all the local flavors? By showcasing the coffee shops of the entire region, we can offer visitors a fun road trip experience, while satisfying their love for caffeine. Win-win!

– Ashlee Spiller, visitSI

Explore Mattoon

Ginger Ale’s - Mattoon

Lake Shelbyville

Oliver Coffee Co. - Shelbyville

Mt. Vernon

Bagels & Brews - Mt. Vernon

Southernmost Illinois

Tourism Bureau

Holy Grounds Coffee Shop - Vienna

Steam Cafe - Harrisburg

Longbranch Cafe & Bakery - Carbondale

Faye - Murphysboro

Kiki’s CoffeeHouse - Anna

Cristaudo’s - Carbondale

HeBrewz Coffee House - Jonesboro

Visit Effingham

Ginger Ale’s - Effingham

Joe Sippers Cafe & Roastery - Effingham

visitSI

Stemm’s Cafe & Coffee Shoppe - Herrin

Moore than Coffee - Herrin

Crown Brew Coffee Co. - Marion

The Coffee Trail is such a fun idea, and another great way to help people find wonderful local shops, and experience different areas of Southern Illinois

“

Cold Blooded Coffee & Roastery - Murphysboro

– Carol Hoffman, Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau

Be sure to share your coffee trail adventures with us on social media by using the hashtag #SouthernILCoffeeTrail

Oliver Coffee Co.

Crown Brew Coffee

Local Haunts

Horror and Halloween fans alike, we have a lineup of immersive experiences for you this Halloween season! Read on to learn more about trails, corn mazes, and more!

Escape618 – Belleville

If you’re worried about the weather, we have an indoor experience for you. Located in the heart of Downtown Belleville is Escape618 - the only escape room in town. Their haunted house room fully immerses you in your favorite ghost story. Years ago, a little girl died in the house and is said to haunt it ever since. As the clock ticks down, you and your teammates will solve puzzles and try to escape or risk being trapped with the ghost of Alice for all eternity. This room is suitable for those who are 13 years and older and accommodates up to six people comfortably. For tickets and more information, visit their website escape618.com/our-rooms

RAIL Monster Crawl – Centralia

Coffee lovers and horror fans alike, this next event is for you. The RAIL Monster Crawl is happening this year on Saturday, October 21st. Located in downtown Centralia and hosted by RAIL Coffee Room (visit them on our 2nd annual Coffee Trail), this event encourages dressing as your favorite scary movie monsters.

Kinmundy Log Cabin Haunted Trail – Kinmundy

You’re walking along a wooded trail. It’s dark, and you have the creeping sense that something is watching you. At the Kinmundy Log Cabin Haunted Trails and Cabins, chances are something is watching you! This event is sure to scare even the toughest of people. To learn more, visit their website www.kinmundylogcabinvillage.com

Halls of Madness – Paris

Haunted house fans, this outdoors attraction will not disappoint. The Halls of Madness, located in Paris, IL, are not for the faint of heart. They open every weekend throughout the month of October, and the haunt changes year to year. This year, they offer two separate haunts - the Slaughter Farm and the Wasteland. The Slaughter Farm is located on the backwoods paths. The Wasteland, new for the 2023 season, is a post-apocalyptic world filled with creatures like you’ve never seen before. For more information on tickets and opening hours, visit their website www.hallsofmadness.com

L&A Family Farms – Paris

This local farm transforms ten acres into four separate corn mazes each fall. Along with the challenge of finding the exit, L&A Farms provides challenges to those who enter the maze. Find the checkpoint for the chance to win a prize. Additionally, they offer different levels of spookiness. You can visit the maze during the day or choose to go at night with only a flashlight trying to help guide the way. They also have a haunted corn maze where you never know what’s waiting for you around the corner. They have yet to announce the fall dates, so be sure to check out their website for up to date information. www.lafamilyfarms.com/corn-maze

Ourmembernewest - Paris, IL - has plenty to offer when it comes toevents.spooky

Enjoy a Slice

of Downstate Illinois!

No matter where you might be traveling, food is always one of the top aspects of a trip. It’s exciting to try local fare that you may never taste again. Autumn is a great time for pie, we’re talking pizza pie and the kind you can find in a bakery case. October is National Pizza Month, followed by Thanksgiving and Christmas – which are synonymous with everything from pecan to pumpkin pies. While we couldn’t possibly mention every single bakery and pizza joint in our 21-county region, we have included a handful that can be found in our western, central, and eastern regions.

There is a hidden gem in Cumberland County that almost always has a dozen or more pies on hand, and the flavors change with the seasons. The Fillin’ Station in Toledo offers up traditional flavors like cherry and banana cream, but they also have a few other specialties that will turn your head like Arkansas Possum and Gooseberry!

Salem is home to the Farmhouse Bakery and Café, which is celebrating its 5th anniversary! While their pies are delicious, they also have everything from cinnamon rolls to donuts if you’d like another dessert option.

Our friends in Highland have phenomenal options when it comes to pie. Urban Farmhouse Eatery & Pie Company has a behemoth called the ‘Snickers Pie.’ If you order a slice, make sure to have some milk to go with it.

The other well-known stop for pie right off Interstate 70 near Highland is Blue Springs Cafe, which is known for their famous foot-high pie. These meringuetopped masterpieces are so popular that Blue Springs has been featured on Food Network!

The Fillin’ Station

Blue Springs Cafe

In 2022, we had our Bracket Challenge competition based around pizza in the fall, and our winner was Mascoutah Community Lanes. This bowling alley in Mascoutah serves up awesome pizza on dough that is made fresh daily. You can dine in or take it to go, it is delicious either way! Our favorite is the chicken bacon ranch – you won’t be disappointed.

Our runner-up for the Bracket Challenge pizza edition was Auten’s Pizza House out of McLeansboro. Auten’s has been a staple in Hamilton County for decades, drawing folks from Jefferson, Wayne, White, and other counties around just to try it. In our opinion, they have one of the best taco pizzas around – if that is your thing.

Joe’s Pizza and Pasta is a popular spot for pie, and they have become a mainstay in Downstate Illinois with 14 different locations – but another local pizza joint has grown as well. Bobe’s Pizza now has locations in Albion, Olney, Lawrenceville, and Mt. Carmel. They have a dozen different specialty pizzas including their Honey Mustard Chicken – you don’t hear of that very often!

For more food options, visit downstateil.org/dine

Bobe’s Pizza

Mascoutah Community Lanes

Discover Nature’s Beauty

When the calendar flips to late October and the leaves start to show their vibrant colors, there really is nothing like it. The great news is that with a 21-county coverage area, there isn’t a shortage of places to enjoy nature’s beauty.

By Car

There are a lot of folks that like to take scenic drives during the fall, right? One of the best in our region is the 60-mile stretch of the Kaskaskia Cahokia Trail that runs through St. Clair, Monroe, and Randolph Counties. Bluff Road provides awesome views as you’re driving along, and there are a ton of different places to stop for coffee, craft beer, or even a gorgeous hike.

By Foot

By Bike

Bike trails are another great spot for soaking in the beautiful autumn colors, and there are plenty of those in Downstate Illinois as well. Mill Creek Park in Clark County features 11 miles of trails to ride while enjoying the view of millions of leaves that you don’t have to rake! The Goshen Trail from O’Fallon into Madison County is another great spot to experience the beautiful fall foliage.

For more ideas of where to enjoy fall foliage, make sure to visit downstateil.org/play/ outdoor-recreation

By Boat

Boats provide a different point of view of autumn colors as well! Pyramid State Recreation Area in Perry County boasts 27 different lakes to float on while taking in the sights of acres and acres of trees. Lincoln Trail State Park in Clark County is another great spot to take the boat out and just relax under the yellow, red, and orange colors of nature.

Hiking is another great form of exercise that is perfect for enjoying fall foliage. Bird Haven near East Fork Lake in Olney has a walking path where you can stroll and view tons of wildlife, including the famed White Squirrels! Beall Woods State Park in Wabash County is home to one of the last remaining tracts of virgin timber east of the Mississippi River, so you can discover trees that are 120 feet tall.

Eagle Cliff - Miles Cemetery

Mill Creek Park

Lincoln Trail State Park

In the Market for Holiday Shopping

When it comes to holiday shopping, what better way to find a gift for loved ones than shopping locally. With 21 counties, there are plenty of options for visiting local markets. Here are a few that we suggest checking out!

AppleFest

Salem, 9/16

Head over to the Marion County Fairgrounds for AppleFest 2023. Hosted by the Salem Illinois Chamber of Commerce, this festival will feature all things fall from local vendors, food trucks, family fun, and more.

AutumnFest

Trenton, 9/23-24

Warehouse 300 is a shopping beacon for those in our central region. This year, they are once again hosting their annual Autumn Fest. When it comes to home goods, they have everything you can imagine, and, even better, everything is fall-themed at this event!

Lebanon Fall Festival

Lebanon, 10/7

Lebanon is home to a local favorite fall event: the annual Fall Festival. This year, you can check out over 150 handmade craft and art booths. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for a friend, there is something for everyone at this event.

Mascoutah Fall Festival

Mascoutah, 10/21

Nothing says fall like a chili cook-off!

The Mascoutah Fall Festival is held annually and has vendors, a car show, kids activities, and more.

Fall Markets Fall Markets

Belleville Indie Market

Belleville, 10/28

If you’re looking for unique wares, visit downtown Belleville on October 28th to experience the Belleville Indie Market. Created by the artist Sweet Honey, this market has 40 vendors each selling unique and vintage pieces.

Christkindlmarkt

Belleville

Every year, downtown Belleville is transformed into a winter wonderland with their annual Christkindlmarkt. Inspired by authentic German Christmas markets, this market is the perfect opportunity to shop for unique gifts. The market opens on Black Friday and runs each weekend until December 23rd.

Holiday Markets Holiday Markets

Hometown

Holly Days

Marshall - 12/2

Marshall’s Hometown Holly Days is an event you won’t want to miss.

Starting at 7 a.m. on December 2nd, this event is chock full of all things Christmas. The day features a 5k, breakfast with Santa, food trucks, bounce houses, carolers, and more! For all things shopping, visit Harlan Hall where there will be multiple vendors selling crafts, home wares, and more.

New Baden

Winter Market

New Baden, 12/3

The New Baden Winter Market is back for another year and it’s shaping up to be a great holiday event. This indoor/ outdoor market is happening rain or shine and offers holiday photo-ops along with craft vendors, food trucks, and more.

Weihnachtsfest

Millstadt, 12/3

Located in the small German town of Millstadt is the annual Weihnachtsfest. This event features holiday gifts, handcrafted jewelry, and more. Along with shopping, this event at St. James Parish Center features a Cookie Walk, German food, and a guest appearance from Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

O’Fallon

Christmas Market

O’Fallon, 12/9

A community favorite - Vine Street Market - is hosting their annual Winter Market on December 9th. This market is located at Vine Street Station in downtown O’Fallon and features all things holiday, including baked goods, gifts, and more.

S’mores & Lights, Need More?

Over 4 million lights, countless snowflakes, hundreds of trees, dozens of illuminated miles – it is a spectacle, it is about traditions, it is lasting memories, and it is what makes our light shows worth traveling to. Across 21 counties, we have dozens of light shows each year that are all different from the next and all are worth seeing with your own eyes. We are highlighting just 12 in this year’s issue, so make your way to our app or website to find more to visit!

Du Quoin Holiday Lights

Cedarhurst Lights

Wonderlights

Christmas

One of the longest drivethru light displays we have is the Wonderlights Christmas at Worldwide Technology Raceway in Madison. These lights are tuned to music and consist of over 1 million lights and take you through both an INDYCAR and NASCAR track!

Way of Lights

Another long display is in Belleville for the Way of Lights at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows. Take a drive through the woodlands that surround the Catholic shrine to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Enjoy over 1.5 million lights, illuminated tunnels, and hundreds of trees wrapped in lights. This display is free, but donations are accepted at the end of the drive.

Winter Wonderland

Since 2008, many have flocked to Lebanon to enjoy their Winter Wonderland inside Horner Park. This animated light show includes an 882 sq. ft. waving Santa and a “Seek and Find” game to keep your eyes peeled!

The Lights

Last year, Cedarhurst Center for the Arts in Mt. Vernon began its own display – The Lights. With over 1 million lights, walk through tunnels, s’mores, holiday themed boozy drinks, and countless art displays along the way, The Lights quickly became a favorite among visitors. Admissions for this event go back to Cedarhurst to help with funding. To learn more, visit: cedarhurst.org/ the-lights

Fantasy of Lights

See the Fantasy of Lights in Centralia at Foundation Park this winter to be amazed by the thousands of lights that illuminate the woods and drive of the park. Be sure to look for Santa golfing around the park!

Woburn Christmas Display

A local favorite is located near Greenville and is put on by a lovely family each year. The Woburn Christmas Display draws tens of thousands each year from all over. Located on Woburn Road in Greenville, you can expect to see over 200 animated characters, 44 large displays, and over 100,000 lights! All of this is set up by just a few people and takes months to get ready. Donations are accepted to help fund the walking tour.

Christmas Lights Wonderland

Also in Greenville is the American Farm Heritage Museum’s Christmas

Lights Wonderland. After driving through the display route, be sure to stop for some hot chocolate, cookies, and a ride on the North Pole Express! Donations are accepted and appreciated.

Du Quoin Holiday Lights Display

In need of a 3-mile illuminated drive? Head to Du Quoin for their Holiday Lights experience at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds. Thousands have been flocking to the fairgrounds for over 20 years to see all the different animated displays and to feel the joy of the holidays.

Olney Christmas Light Display

Over in Olney, be sure to see their Christmas Light Display inside of City Park. Enjoy the dozens of displays and animations throughout the park. Be on the lookout for some twinkling white squirrels!

Christmas in the Park

Where else can you take a horse-drawn carriage to view a holiday light

display other than at Flora’s Christmas in the Park?

Not only is Charley Brown Park beautifully decorated, but you can also enjoy the Little Toot Train rides, a petting zoo, and even visit Santa Claus!

Festival of Lights

In Fairfield, not only is the Leo French Park absolutely filled with lights for the city’s Festival of Lights, but you can also see dozens of trees decorated around the courthouse downtown! So, make sure to take in all the joy Fairfield has to offer during the holidays. The holidays are a time for giving and what better way to do that than with a magnificent drive through light display! Travel to

Christmas Lights of Hope

Carmi this winter to take in its Christmas Lights of Hope at the White County Fairgrounds. All donations for the display go back to the non-profit Kicks 4 Kids. While there, be on the lookout for any live reindeer resting before Santa needs them!

Way of Lights

Personalized Gifts

Each year, we all have a list of loved ones to find a gift for and there is always at least one who we have no idea what to get. Maybe this year, try something new and invite them to a DIY class or make something personal and unique that they will love!

If you want to make Christmas into craftmas, take a look inside Courage & Grace DIY Art Studio in O’Fallon and pick up some DIY kits or ship them anywhere in the US! If anyone on your list is hearing wedding bells, Courage and Grace offers a wedding sign package that makes for an amazing gift! They also offer private workshops and birthday party workshops.

For our plant lovers, we recommend heading to Greenville to Evergreen Plant Co. It can be hard to find that perfect potted assortment, but Evergreen takes care of that. We don’t just love this store because you can find unique house plants and succulents, but you can pot them yourself in-store at their potting bar! You can also buy plant inspired swag and coffee in case you need more gift options.

Staying in the St. Louis Metro East, Sawdust and Glitter in Belleville is perfect for the coffee or tea lover on your list. Whether you order a personalized tumbler or plan a tumbler party, Sawdust and Glitter has countless designs! Also make or pick personalized signs or clothing.

While enjoying the holiday lights on Main Street in Columbia, head into Makers on Main Street to make or find the perfect gift. Gift your loved one with a class on DIY and make something for each other! Makers offers instructorled courses where you can learn hands on how to create something truly personalized! You can also choose an item form their creative market comprised of over 60 St. Louis makers and hundreds of gifts from honey to décor, or look at their custom wall that includes items that can be personalized by adding a name or a saying.

Don’t Forget the Saw

Many of us have gone to a tree farm to find that perfect Christmas tree (that may or may not fit in our yard). In fact, roughly 25 million Americans buy their trees from a tree farm every year. These 25 million trees make the tree farm industry over a billion dollars, annually. In the United States’ tree farm industry, you can find over 15,000 farms, 350 million trees currently growing, over 350,000 acres, and about 100,000 jobs. Closer to home, you can find a few dozen tree farms in our region including the ones below!

Opening this holiday season in Fairfield is the Cider Barn Tree Farm. Be one of the first to enjoy choosing your tree, ice skating outdoors, warming up by the fireplace, and eating at specialty food trucks at the Cider Barn this holiday season! After years of planning, the Brokaw family are set to welcome you to their newest endeavor.

If you are in need of the classic tradition of searching for your Christmas tree with your family, look no further than Alfeldt’s Christmas Tree Farm. Located just southwest of Nashville in Oakdale, Alfeldt’s consists of over 40 acres, a gift shop, wreaths, endless joy, and even the occasional Santa sighting!

Located just a few miles off I-70 in Pocahontas is Daniken Tree Farm. Here you can find that perfect tree for your living room and some garland to wrap down the stairs! Open just before Thanksgiving, Daniken Tree Farm draws visitors from all over and is a testament to their stock and good times to be had! Be sure to bring the whole family to scour their 70-acre farm and finish off the day around the bonfire sipping some hot chocolate and cider.

Just a few minutes away from Daniken’s you will find Randy’s Country Barn in Greenville. Make your way here if you need a tree, wreaths, ornaments, and a new family tradition! There’s nothing quite like warming up in a repurposed barn looking at gifts and laughing with friends and family after finding that special tree.

Festival of Trees

Friday, November 17

8th Day Venue

Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

Tickets are $35.00

Limited quantity available

Olde Tyme Christmas

Friday, November 10 4:30pm-8:30pm

Saturday, November 11 10am-2pm

Santa’s Corner

Friday, November 10 6:30pm-8:45pm

Saturday, November 11 11am-1pm

Across from City Hall

Festival of Lights

Daily starting November 24 through January 1 5pm-9pm

Rogier Park

Statehouse Gala

Friday, December 8 6pm-8:30pm

Vandalia Statehouse

Statehouse

Candlelight Tours

Saturday, December 9 5pm-7pm

Vandalia Statehouse

Soroptimist Club

Breakfast with Santa

Saturday, December 2 8am-10am

Unity Baptist Church

2023 Fall Festival

September 9

Square in Newton, IL

Parade, Food Trucks, Craft Vendors, Free Face painting, Kids Games, Car Show, Live Entertainment,  Lip Sync Contest, and More

! Jasper County Fall Festival

Christmas Lights in the Park

Nov. 24th - Dec. 25th

Friday and Saturday 5 pm to 10 pm and Sunday 5 pm to 9 pm.

Peterson Park, Newton, IL

! Christmas Lights in Peterson Park -Newton, IL

Culp Family Christmas Lights

Nov. 24th - Dec. 31st  Willow Hill, IL

! Culp Family Christmas Lights

Welcome to Whoville

November 25

Ste. Marie, IL

Photo Booth, Shopping at the WHOvillage, Ice Skating, Wagon Rides, Live Christmas Tree Sales, and More.

Downtown Shopping & Activities

Friday Nights in December

December 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd

On the square in Newton, IL

Call June at 217-246-3878 for details and updates

Christmas On The Square

December 9

Square in Newton, IL

Lights Parade, Kids Activities, Mistletoe Market, Food Trucks, and more

! Jasper County Christmas

Frozen Jr. At Newton Community High School

December 14 and 15

Newton Community High School, Newton, IL

! Newton Community High School Choral and Theater Department

The streets of Vandalia come to life during the second week of November for Olde Tyme Christmas and their growing Festival of Lights display. It starts with the lighting of a huge Christmas tree on Gallatin Street and the Rotary Lighted Christmas Parade, both on Friday evening. From there, visitors can experience a ton of different activities from shopping at Fashionista Avenue to the Soroptimist Cookie Walk. Santa and Mrs. Claus usually read stories at the Old Statehouse as well, so this event is truly one for all ages!

Not long after the annual Pinckneyville Mardi Gras, the Perry County community hosts visitors for Cracklin’ Christmas. The gathering is centered around shopping and is usually scheduled for the Thursday before Thanksgiving. Aside from shopping, there is a tree lighting ceremony, and a Santa meet and greet.

There is nothing like ice skating outdoors, and the Christmas Magic Festival in Robinson offers that experience and so much more. This event usually happens on the 3rd weekend of November, so mark your calendars for a lighted parade, bonfires, bounce houses, and more!

For one day, the village of Sainte Marie turns into Whoville! Prepare to see the Grinch, Cindy Lou Who, and other characters from the famous holiday story as the Newton County community comes together for tree lighting, wagon rides, and a 5K run. This year’s gathering is set for Saturday, November 25.

Right after Thanksgiving, many of the light shows in the area fire up their displays for the season, and that’s certainly true at Peterson Park in Newton. It is totally free to drive through the display and then head to the illuminated Old Mill Bridge just a few blocks away – which makes for a wonderful family photo.

The day after Thanksgiving is when Christmas in Carlyle takes full effect. We’re talking a Christmas parade, Breakfast with Santa, a Festival of Trees, and more! The biggest draw for folks would be the lights in Carlyle City Park, which is free to experience and features more than 100,000 strands of lights!

On the last Saturday of November, the city of Grayville welcomes folks to town for its Annual Lighted Christmas Parade. The parade itself usually starts around 6 p.m. but there are open houses at local merchants, a Santa meet and greet, and prize giveaways.

There are three communities in Randolph County that pride themselves on holiday spirit. Red Bud and Prairie du Rocher are consistently top voted in River Travel Magazine’s ‘Best Holiday River Town’ contest. Fort de Chartres in Prairie du Rocher hosts its Annual Winter Rendezvous on November 4-5 complete with reenactments, handmade crafts, and period music. Meanwhile, Red Bud is home to Santa’s Village every weekend between Thanksgiving and the weekend before Christmas. There is a community tree lighting, a pajama supper with Santa, a Sunday Funday and more!

HolidayHappiness

time of

is synonymous

Many of the holidaythemed events in our region have been around for decades, so generations of families make it a point to attend them year after year. Here are just some of the holiday gatherings taking place in Downstate Illinois this winter.

For more events as we get closer to the season, visit downstateil.org/events.

This

the year

with tradition, right?

Christmas Uptown in Mt. Carmel is a big deal every year. Once you see the tree suspended over Market Street, it just puts you in the holiday spirit. This event attracts hundreds of people from outside the community every year, making it one of the community’s biggest celebrations. Folks come for the parade, carriage rides, train rides, caroling, a gingerbread house competition, and a ton more. Mark your calendars to attend Christmas Uptown on Friday, December 1st.

Chester’s big holiday draw is Christmas on the River – which runs December 1-3 this year and incorporates a ton of fun as well. We’ve heard a lot of good things about their games, and Santa on the Square is always a hit.

Washington County is full of holiday spirit each year, starting with Okawville who hosts their Christmas Stroll on the first weekend of December. Enjoy decorated house tours, museum tours, a festival of trees and more! The first weekend in December is also a big one for Nashville, as they celebrate their annual Hometown Christmas event. Have a ton of fun with drive-in movies, Candy Cane Lane, and a lighted nighttime parade. In rural Washington County, Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo welcomes visitors for Christmas in the Barn. It’s a chance for folks to enjoy the farm during the colder months with some fun themed Holiday décor and more! It’s open the first three weekends in December.

Christmas in the Heart of Charleston is a long-running tradition that usually takes place on the courthouse square during the first Saturday of December. Highlights include roasting chestnuts, crafting stations, live reindeer, shopping, and live music performed by Charleston High School.

Casey is hosting its 9th Annual Candy Canes on Main celebration on December 1st and 2nd this year! There’s never a bad time to visit Casey thanks to all the Big Things in a Small Town, but this event is definitely one you don’t want to miss. Live music, shopping, bubbles, trains, face painting, a Jeep display and more are all part of the celebration. Oh, and Santa reads a bedtime story to the crowd from a balcony above Main Street. How cool is that?

The small community of Coulterville draws more than twelve times its size each year for its Holiday Light Display, which includes a half-mile walking portion as well as a drive-thru feature. There are well over 2 million lights incorporated into the display. There are also activities, character meet and greets, and free refreshments each weekend. Check it out from December 2-27 this year!

Olde Tyme Christmas

Christmas Magic Festival

Christmas in Carlyle

Discover Our App

We want you to experience our region as much as possible. So, over the last year we have spent countless hours updating our app to make it as immersive as possible. The app allows you to not only find every single venue, eatery, and event that we have listed on our website, but you can also take part in our challenges, tours, and more!

Featured on our app is a category coined “TOURS” which is where we put together various lists of likebusinesses and itineraries. Choose from the everfavorite Coffee Trail to the Trails ‘n’ Routes day trip itinerary. Be sure to check in often as these lists are always changing and being added to as the seasons and major events come along.

Our app is completely free and available for both Android and IOS operating systems. You can also use the app on our website through the “PLAN YOUR TRIP” icon. If you are logged into your free account, all your favorites will transfer between all your devices.

You can plan your own trip to our region and choose from hotels to attend that Saturday night concert or try to make it to all 50+ coffee shops on this year’s trail. Whatever you choose to discover, we highly recommend downloading the app!

September 29 - 30 • Fall Festival

November 3 • Moonlight Madness

December 9 • Breakfast with Santa