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Cahokia Mounds
ahokia Mounds puts visitors in a prehistoric frame of mind. Splash City Waterpark puts them in hysterics. The Mounds, inhabited for 700 years and mysteriously abandoned by 1400, is a significant archeological site, where every month people can participate by washing ancient artifacts. Every summer day at Splash City, people can participate by cavorting exuberantly on the slides, surfing the wave pool… or diving into the world’s largest swimming lesson (June 10). Well, what on earth do these attractions have in common? Both are
um Muse a r Flo
oad Railr t o o T Little
in Collinsville, within view of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. In this horseradish-producing region—and thousands other places throughout the 19 counties stretching across fertile ILLINOISouth, just below the state’s big belly—unique recreational options abound. Now, to see the trains, hop in your auto and cross the plains with us. In Flora, about 90 miles east of Collinsville, is the only coal-fired steam locomotive that still chugs in Illinois. Small fry feel big aboard Little Toot, a miniature train that clacks across a trestle as it steams through Charley Brown Park. In town is the renovated B&O Railroad terminal, where there’s more iron horse lore to explore. For entertainment on the spectrum’s other end, camp at the 100-
idge nnonball Br Wabash Ca
acre park to fiddle with the fiddlers or pick with the pickers during one of several jam sessions, the first of which really heats up May 16-18, only cooling off by the wee hours. A master from nearby Clay City who hand-makes his instruments may join in. Wabash Cannonball Bridge, 60 miles
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h Cit y Wa terpa rk
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2 • Vol.VII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2014
Hello from jo... As we distance ourselves from one of the coldest winters on record, our thoughts turn to a much anticipated spring! We eagerly await the first signs: melodic sounds of birds chirping; jonquils, crocuses, and red buds in bloom; walking barefoot on fresh green grass….hmm…..doesn’t it all sound so delightful? It’s now time to enjoy the “Outdoors!” What better way to spend this spring and summer than traveling around the region and joining in the many, many activi-
ties throughout ILLINOISouth! It’s both easily accessible and economical. Would you believe that we have over 100 events from April through July practically right in your own backyard? Because of all the happenings, we’ve expanded this edition of Tourism Times to 20 pages……..From Indian Market Days to Cheese & Beer Tastings, from Strawberry Festivals to a Pig party, from Heritage Days to yard sales, from car shows to garden tours, from fishing derbies to gun and knife shows, from music festivals to art shows…….and this is just a sampling! If you need additional information: where to go, what to do, plan a
trip, or to answer any questions about our region, please call us @ 618-257-1488 or visit our website @ www.thetourismbureau.org. Or find us on Facebook, etc...... Enjoy! See you down the road……
jo kathmann Pres/CEO
S
cott Winter and Dan Krankeola (marketing and sales) recently returned from the 2014 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism! It is the state’s premier educational forum for the travel industry and focuses on the importance of tourism as a tool, for stimulating and con-
tinuing economic development within Illinois. The conference was hosted by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (IDCEO), Office of Tourism (IOT) and The Illinois Council of Convention & Visitor Bureaus (ICCVB).
Both enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about marketing travel, group tours and sales, destination best practices, how to target special markets, the hotel industry and more! In addition to the educational forums and our own Governor Pat Quinn, keynote speakers included: Bridget Brennan, CEO of The Female Factor and Author of “Why She Buys” and Eric Whitacre, Grammy-Winning Composer/Conductor and creator of the Ground-Breaking Virtual Choir.
Would you like your brochure or rack card sent to 8,000 potential visitors?
We’ll distribute them for you!
Your information will be inserted in plastic bags and handed out at trade shows and events and given to meeting, reunion and sports groups staying in area hotels. They will also be added to packets mailed out as fulfillment for web, phone and regional advertising requests. Call Dan at 618-257-1488 and ask about the Brochure Distribution Service. For a nominal fee, we’ll help get the word out about YOU!
To carry Tourism Times at your restaurant, store, visitors center or place of business, Call Sarah Meier, 618-257-1488 or smeier@thetourismbureau.org
Comments? Questions? Let us know! Keep us in the loop. We want your input for the monthly e-newsletter and our website. 618-257-1488 or info@thetourismbureau.org
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Blood, Sweat, Tears (and Paint) Create Top National Art Show
elleville—Patty Gregory is the volunteer’s volunteer. Busier than a one-armed paper hanger, she seems to generate her own gravity. Her boundless enthusiasm for art, knack for team-building and very fat Rolodex have over a dozen years catapulted Art On The Square to No. 5 in the nation. According to an independent industry publication, the juried outdoor show was No. 1 in the U.S. in 2008, then for three years straight—2010, 2011 and 2012. It’s been in the top five or better seven times, which is significant: Reportedly, serious art buyers try to hit the top five shows every year. (In 2013, a show somewhere on the left coast was tops... although that’s way out there, and not important right now.) More than 100 fine artists selected from among 1,000 hopefuls will exhibit their talents and the fruits of their labors around the spectacular fountain in Belleville’s Public Square on May 16th, 17th and 18th. This is not your grandmother’s crafts festival, but a gathering
of some of the best artists anywhere, from the States and “across the pond,” including Italy and Germany.The latter
is apropos, given that Belleville, an allAmerican German burg, is celebrating its 200th anniversary. “An Affair to Remember” is this year’s theme, and director Gregory plus her all-volunteer team have gone all out (and nearly nonstop) since the 2013
show to ensure this year’s even better than ever—although not necessarily bigger.Volunteers say 100 to 105 exhibitors feels about right for the space: In the traffic circle ’round the fountain and stretching along the blocks north, south, east and west along Illinois and Main streets. Two outdoor cafés will feature offerings from 20-some restaurateurs; wine will be available. Plus: a hands-on area for budding young artists, a competition for highschoolers, and a design stage where browsers and buyers can see how fine paintings and sculpture may complement their décor. Fine jazz and philharmonic performances will add to the ambience. Visit artonthesquare.com (Editor’s note: A tip of the Abe Lincoln top hat to Patty Gregory, one of four finalists, for a 2014 Lincoln Award, which recognizes tourism industry stars who make a visit to Illinois such a trip! Congratulations to Jim & Sandy Belote, Owners,The Beall Mansion, Alton, IL for being the recipient of this year’s award.)
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from page 1 southeast, once carried choo-choos across the famed Wabash River near St. Francisville; today it’s a restored one-lane chain of spans for motorists. Then, unless you’re chicken about sauce on your shirt, pork up at Mount Carmel’s RibberFest, an officially sanctioned K.C.-style BBQ festival April 25 and 26. Gas up, hop in and head back west about 155 miles to Prairie Du Rocher (oui, c’est Francais) and Fort De Chartres, where the first of two annual historical reenactments of how lives were led during the early 1700s is staged June 6-8. Primitive camping only (no hookups, no radios.) Period dress is expected. Only muzzle-loading flintlock rifles and natural bows (fiberglass? Non.) allowed during competitions. Rendezvous are interpretations of fur trappers gathering for trade, so there’ll be no Chinese trinkets masquerading as Native American. Items for sale must approximate goods available in the 18th century, when this was French territory. An hour or so north, in Greenville, it’s quite quirky—at DeMoulin Museum, where period regalia and paraphernalia from fraternal lodges are on exhibit at a former American Legion hall. Seventeen vintage initiation devices dating to 1892 are on display, so if you’re
Marcoot Dairy
mystified about goings-on behind the International Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) doors, here’s your chance to view a compendium of odd odds and ends that represent eras of the 20th century: 3,500 doo-dads representing 30 states. It’s not all that weird—DeMoulin’s core business today is band uniforms. (Visit demoulinmuseum.org) Meanwhile on our trek we’ve seen plenty of agricultural activity—from afar. Greenville is but one place where you’re invited to see it up close, particularly during Farm Heritage Days at American Farm Heritage Museum, July 25-27. You can experience anything from potato harvesting (keep all you can pick up after a row’s done) to tractor pulling (beastly diesel workhorses drag weighted sleds) and wheat threshing. Got milk? Once you observe dairy operations at nearby Marcoot Jersey Creamery, you’ll understand why the cows come home. Whew. If watching all that hard work made you hungry, down the road about 10 miles you may savor one of the best slabs of beef anywhere, at Nuby’s in Pocahontas.
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Waterloo welcomes the Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition, “Hometown Teams” Congratulations to the Monroe History Museum and the surrounding community as they have been chosen by the Illinois Humanities Council to host “Hometown Teams“ and local supporting exhibit “From Fields to Dreams” as part of the Museum on Main Street program—a national/state/local partnership to bring exhibitions and programs to rural cultural organizations. The Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition celebrating Sports in American communities will be coming to Monroe County July 26-September 6, 2014. “Hometown Teams” will capture the stories that unfold on the neighborhood fields and courts, and the underdog heroics, larger-than-life legends, fierce rivalries and gut-wrenching defeats. For more than 100 years, sports have reflected the trials and triumphs of the American experience and helped shape the national character. Whether it is professional sports or those played on the collegiate or scholastic level, amateur sports or sports played by kids on the local playground, sports are everywhere in America. Contact Norma Reheis at njreheis@hotmail.com for additional information.
Mini Abe Zip-lining, racecar driving, amusement park rides…Abe Lincoln sure does get around – well, sort of. The Mini Abe campaign by the Illinois Office of Tourism has generated almost 200,000 views on YouTube, been the buzz all over social media and has caught the attention of Ad Week, Laughing Squid, Examiner.com and BuzzFeed – which called the ad Mini Abe’s Spontaneous Fall “The best State Tourism Ad Ever Created.” Mini Abe, an action figure in the likeness of the 16th President, is making his rounds throughout Illinois visiting attractions, museums restaurants and more. Look him up on YouTube or search #MiniAbe on social media to see what the buzz is about. We’ll be welcoming him as our guest the week of May 12, and look forward to showing him everything ILLINOISouth has to offer. Be sure to follow our blog, Facebook and Twitter to see what shenanigans ensue!
1927 W aterlo o Base ball Te am
Vandalia Board Meeting In January, we made our way to the Vandalia State House Historic Site for our annual board reception. In spite of snowy weather, the entire staff and most board members were in attendance. As we gathered in the general assembly of the House of Representatives, Board Member, and Vandalia Mayor Ricky Gottman opened the meeting with a warm welcome. State Representative John Cavaletto then shared about the importance of preserving historical sites such as the beautiful, 200-year-old, space where we were gathered. Prior to the meeting, Site Director Steve Riddle offered tours of the facility and shared the history of the State House – the oldest existing capital building in the state. Everyone had a great time. It was a treat to have such a personal experience in this incredible ILLINOISouth landmark.
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Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear Belleville, Happy Birthday to you!! Congratulations to the City of Belleville on celebrating their Bicentennial!! The city has a year-long celebration in store with specially planned events so be sure to check-out their website so you can join in on some of the festivities! more information, For belleville200.com or contact Belleville Tourism at 618-233-6769.
Just up the stairs from the main entrance, three rooms have been converted into studios for resident artists. Mixedmedia artist Alicia Scolarici, Ceramics specialist Nancy Young Spence and Soap Maker Becky Ripplemeyer all call the Tiadaghton house home, creating and selling out of private spaces as well as offering individual classes to aspiring artists looking to expand their horizons. A recently renovated add-on behind the house will serve as a group classroom in the warmer months. Following his retirement, Jim and Holly spent months fixing up the house, meticulously placing their own antiques and fixtures, and visiting area art shows and galleries to curate pieces of all mediums and in all price ranges. After almost 40 years of working incredibly long hours, Jim said that working together on the project was an absolute joy for the couple – and the love and passion that went into it creates a delightful atmosphere that can’t be missed in this new hometown treasure. The Tiadaghton house is open Wednesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 – 4 p.m. Find out more: www.tiadaghtonhouse.com
The Tiadaghton House For those familiar with the charm and class exuded by downtown Lebanon, you are certainly aware of the beautiful boutique shops and local eateries that line the brick streets. Right at home on St. Louis Street is a new space seeking to add a little more color to this historic district. The Tiadaghton House opened in August and strives to “create a community of like-minded artists and craftsmen” from around the region, says co-owner Jim Lovell. Jim and his wife Holly purchased the beautiful 100year-old house after retiring from 39 years of service in the Air Force. Five rooms downstairs and four upstairs feature paintings, sculptures, wood-carvings, jewelry, furniture and all other sorts of arts and crafts from over 60 artists and artisans, the majority of whom come from within 20–30 miles of the home.
Getting Social Since last summer we’ve taken steps to promote the Bureau through social media networks like Facebook and Twitter.These services have been beneficial for us and have helped us extend our reach to thousands of people. In November, we launched a blog as a way to share information and create a resource for people looking to travel to ILLINOISouth – so far hundreds of people have looked at our articles highlighting special events, attractions and offers and we’re looking forward to continuing to grow this new media and expand our visibility to the community and beyond. Additionally, we have changed the format of our E-newsletter to serve as a digest of what we offer on the blog, in theTourism Times and more! We’re very excited about these changes and hope that you’ll find us online and follow along. Stay Connected: Facebook/Twitter username: ILLINOISouth Blog:TheTourismBureau.org/blog Sign up for the Times Online: TheTourismBureau.org/contact
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CALENDAR of EVENTS APRIL 2014 April 5 – June 29 The 40 Years War, 1775-185 As It Affects Illinois Monroe County History Museum Waterloo The series consist of 48 different programs about the title subject. 618-248-5885
April 26 - 27 Spring Fling Eckert’s Country Store & Farm Belleville Join us for delicious cooking and gardening demos and exhibits, live entertainment and fun things for kids. 618-233-0513
April 23 Vandalia Lion’s Club Circus Vandalia 618-283-1152
St. Louis Antique Festival Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville The St. Louis Antique Festival features over 100 quality dealers from 32 states. 618-233-0052
April 25 - 26 Annual Wabash Ribberfest Barbecue Contest Downtown Mt. Carmel KCBS sanctioned barbecue championship that features food vendors and live entertainment. 618-262-5116
MAY 2014 May 1 - 3 SASS U.S. Open Cowboy Championships World Shooting and Recreational Complex, Sparta 618-295-2700 May 3 Locust Street Historic Fair Centralia Come for a fun day that includes crafters and artisans, food and drink, antique car show, historic walking tours, historic train presentation, Independent Silver Band Concert and more! 618-533-7623
April 25 - 27 Spring Indian Market Days Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Spring Indian Market Days will have Native American artists and vendors displaying and selling their crafts, artwork, clothing, jewelry and more. 618-346-5160 April 26 Flying 4 Kids Kite Fly Joe Glik Park, Edwardsville Come out to see amazing air displays by members of the Gateway Kite Club and their two line stunt kites. Participants get to decorate their own kite and are encouraged to bring their own kites too for the fun fly. 618-692-7538 Memorial Open Bass Tournament East Fork Lake, Olney 618-392-4022
Storytelling Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville A Native American storyteller will share traditional Native American lore. 618-346-5160 Spring Farm Day Willoughby Farm, Collinsville After the long cold winter, spring is back and we’re celebrating with demonstrations and items for sale from local vendors. Say ‘hello’ to the piglets chicks, goats, lambs and see a sheep shearing and wool spinning demonstration.There will be many free activities for all ages, include hayrides, straw pyramid, corn table, scavenger hunts, nature walk and more. 618-346-7529 May Market Lebanon The streets will be filled with plants, antiques, gardening items, artisans, food, music and friends.This event is a gardener’s delight. 618-537-8420
Cheese and Beer Tasting Marcoot Jersey Creamery, Greenville Guests will sample several Marcoot cheeses paired with unique beers brewed by Schlafly Beer, St. Louis, Missouri. In addition to the tasting, guests will also tour the Marcoot Dairy Farm and cheese making facility. 618-664-1110 May 3 - 4 Gun & Knife Show Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville This hunting and trade show is Illinois’ largest and will have firearms and knife dealers buy-sell-trade along with guns, knives, ammo, scopes, accessories and FOID cards processed. 618-233-0052 May 4 Fruhlingsfest/Springfest Maeystown You are cordially invited to enjoy the quiet beauty and German flavor of Maeystown, a 19th century village nestled in the Mississippi bluffs. Springfest is an antique and garden show and food fair. 618-580-5875 May 8 - 10 IHSA State Bass Fishing Finals Dam West Recreational Area, Carlyle Lake Visit this exciting pro-style fishing tournament featuring high school teams from all over the state. 618-594-2468 May 10 May Market Day Waterloo Join us for a day of shopping, dining and entertainment in beautiful downtown Waterloo! 618-939-5300 St. Louis Nitro Rendezvous Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 May 10 – 11, 17 - 18 Strawberry Festival Eckert’s Country Store & Farm, Belleville Enjoy outdoor festival foods, country music and free wagon rides at this old-fashioned all-American festival. Kid’s activities include pony rides, play area, petting farm, carnival rides and inflatables. Strawberry treats in the bakery, custard shop and restaurant! 618-233-0513
May 15 - 18 Springfest Toledo Friday night is the Queen Pageant and free barbecue.There’s entertainment all weekend and a car show and Fireman’s Chicken Dinner Sunday. 217-849-4303 May 16 Armed Forces Tribute Program Vandalia Statehouse,Vandalia This program honors local servicemen and woman, currently serving or retired. Music will be provided. 618-283-1152 May 17 NHRDA and Torc Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 Abate Family Fun Fest Downtown,Vandalia Plans call for a motorcycle show, kids’ activities, vendors and more! 618-283-1152 Germantown Bulldog Dash Schoendienst Field, Germantown 5K Run/Walk & 2K Run/Walk 618-523-4253 May 16 - 17 Randolph County Pig Party Steeleville Eagles, Steeleville Competitors at this KCBS sanctioned competition barbecue cook-off will be vying for a $10,000 purse.The event will also feature live music; beer stands both nights and vendors. 618-965-9076 May 17 - 18 Belleville Antiques & Collectibles Flea Market Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville Over 600 tables and 300-400 vendors selling antiques and collectibles feature both old and new merchandise. 618-233-0052 May 18 Annual Centralia Coin Show Centralia Recreation Complex, Centralia The Coin Show will feature 40 dealer tables to buy and sell U.S. and World coins and paper money. 618-533-4200
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8 • Vol.VII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2014 from page 7 May 18 Gateway Triathlon Dam West Recreation Area, Carlyle Lake Bike, swim and run for a day of fun. 618-594-2484 Kids Day Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Hands on activities, crafts and dancing makes this event fun for kids of all ages! 618-346-5160 St. Patrick-Ruma Strawberry Festival St. Patrick Parish, Ruma Come and enjoy a fried chicken dinner with strawberries and ice cream, quilt-cash bingo, country store, raffle, silent auction, and magic shows. 618-282-3176
May 24 - 26 Memorial Day Festival Eckert’s Country Store & Farms, Belleville Enjoy outdoor festival foods and live entertainment at this old-fashioned all-American festival. Free wagon rides, kid’s activities include pony rides, children’s play area, petting farm, carnival rides and inflatable. 618-233-0513 May 26 Memorial Day Services Civic Park, Granite City 618-877-3059
St. Jacob Strawberry Festival Village Park, St. Jacob The Strawberry Festival will have strawberry desserts, food and drink, crafts for sale, children activities and a 1,000 person fun bike ride over multiple routes. 618-644-2142 May 23 - 25 NMCA Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 May 24 Nature/Culture Hike Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Let an archaeologist and naturalist guide you through 3 miles of various ecozones. 618-346-5160
May 29 - June 1 U.S. Open Trap World Shooting and Recreational Complex Sparta 618-295-2700 May 30 - 31 Alhambra Homecoming Township Park, Alhambra Rides, games, food, parades & live music 618-488-2552 20th Annual Jasper County Strawberryfest Newton This 2 day festival celebrates strawberries in Jasper County, and will have free family entertainment, music, games, food and crafts. Fun for everyone on the square in Newton! 618-783-3399
May 30 - June 1 IDPA State Championships World Shooting and Recreational 618-295-2700 Complex Sparta
JUNE 2014 June 1 Doll, Toy & Miniature Show Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville There are over 600 dealers and 150 tables of dolls, miniatures, toys and teddy bears. 618-233-0052 June 4 Ainad Shrine Circus Olney City Park, Olney This world-class circus combines traditional acts with contemporary thrills. Tigers, elephants, ponies, dogs and clowns share the three-ring with heart pounding aerial and high wire acts, acrobats. It’s great fun for everyone! 618-843-4868
June 5 - 8 The Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall Aviston Park, Aviston As part of the village of Aviston’s sesquicentennial Celebration, the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall be will on exhibit at the park. 618-228-7508 June 6 - 8 International Horseradish Festival Woodland Park, Collinsville Since 1987, the International Horseradish Festival has celebrated the multifaceted and vastly underutilized horseradish and has attracted people from miles around for fun, entertainment, food and drink in the process. Come to the festival for live music, food booths, root toss, root golf, root sacking contests, craft fair, Bloody Mary contest, horseradish recipe contest, children’s area, the annual Horseradish Root Derby and much more. 618-344-2884
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June 7 East Fork Bassmasters Open Bass Tournament East Fork Lake, Olney 618-392-4022 SCTP Illinois State Championship World Shooting and Recreational 618-295-2700 Complex, Sparta Open House Marcoot Jersey Creamery, Greenville Help the Marcoot family celebrate its 4 year anniversary of making delicious artisan cheeses. We have several family friendly activities planned for the day including butter churning, pin-the-tail on Jessie the Jersey, calf petting area and more! 618-664-1110 June 7 - 8 Annual Fort DeChartres Rendezvous Fort de Chartres State Historic Site Prairie du Rocher The Rendezvous is a re-creation of the traditional French fur trapper’s holiday of the Eighteenth Century, and is one of the oldest and largest events of its kind in the United States. Join with buckskinners, militiamen, artisans and entertainers as they celebrate life in the shadows of the great fortress known as Fort de Chartres. 618-284-7230 Shriners Circus Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville This is a traditional circus with clowns, aerial acts and more for the family. 618-233-0052 Heritage Days Okawville This delightful backyard - outdoor picnic festival has entertainment, surrey rides, heritage crafts, vendors, great home-made food, flea market, town wide rummage sales, games for the kids and more! 618-243-5694
summer
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Midwest Airport Fun Days St. Louis Downtown Airport Cahokia The Midwest’s newest Aviation event offers free, family-friendly fun! Be introduced to Midwest Aviation and see their products and services such as unique aircraft and flight training. Interact with local pilots with opportunities to fly. In addition, there are concerts and other family-friendly activities. 314-605-3328 Open House at Creole House Creole House, Prairie du Rocher Guided tours of cr. 1800 Creole House, National Register of Historic Places site are offered featuring the French/American transitional architecture. 618-282-2245 June 12 - 13 SASS Wild Bunch State Championship World Shooting and Recreational Complex, Sparta 618-295-2700 June 12 - 14 Neoga Days Jennings Park, Neoga Along with the carnival will be a parade, quilt show, games and entertainment on stage. 217-895-3237 June 13 - 14 Route 66 Festival Edwardsville City Park, Edwardsville Bring your family and friends and find fabulous food, local talent, historic displays, fine art, inflatables for the kids, great entertainment and a classic car show and cruise! 618-692-7538
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April 25 - 26 St. Pius V Rummage Sale St. Pius V, Walsh In addition to this huge indoor rummage sale, there will be a bake sale and quilt raffle as well as lunch being served. 618-853-4404 City Wide Yard Sale Columbia Over 80 yard sales throughout the city of Columbia! 618-281-7144 April 26 Village Wide Yard Sales New Baden Throughout the community there will be 100 yard sales, and the New Baden Jaycees will be serving BBQ! 618-588-3813 City Wide Yard Sales Albion Cast-offs become treasure during Albion’s city-wide rummage sale. 618-445-2303 May 3 City-Wide Yard Sales Grayville Maps will be available for the city-wide yard sales. 618-375-7158 Community-Wide Yard Sale Millstadt 100+ registered participants will be indicated on a free map distributed to potential customers. Food and beverages will be sold by Millstadt Historical Society at the Community Center. Sidewalk sales and special promotions offered by Millstadt businesses. 618-476-3696
Community Yard Sale Steeleville City wide yard sale! Community yard sale maps can be picked up at 1st National Bank Steeleville or Village Hall the week before the yard sale. 618-965-3441 May 10 Village Wide Yard Sales Albers 618-248-5154 May 17 City-Wide Garage Sale Noble Each year on the 3rd Saturday of May the village of Noble’s city-wide garage sale takes place. 618-723-2212 Village-Wide Yard Sale Hamel 618-633-2484 City-Wide Yard Sale Mascoutah City-Wide Yard Sale! A list of participant addresses can be found on the city’s website. 618-566-2964 June 7 City-Wide Garage Sale Lebanon There will be over 50 private garage sales throughout the city. Maps are offered at City Square. 618-532-8420 GLOW City Wide Yard Sale Waterloo 618-939-8600
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12 • Vol.VII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2014 from page 9 June 13 - 14 Glen Carbon Homecoming Glen Carbon The annual event has a parade, carnival rides, games, wide variety of food, live entertainment and a spectacular fireworks display. 618-288-1200 June 13 - 15 Schweizerfest Highland Come and celebrate Highland’s Swiss heritage with activities, rides, entertainment and food as well as a parade on both Saturday and Sunday nights. 618-781-0472
Secret Garden Tour Lebanon This self-guided tour of several outstanding “hidden” and secret gardens of Lebanon allows you to explore serene shade gardens, manicured landscapes and perennial flower gardens. 618-537-8420 Raptor Awareness Show Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Learn about lives of birds of prey through a demonstration and flight show by the World Bird Sanctuary. 618-346-5160 Monroe County Garden Tour Maeystown The Monroe County Master Gardeners will host a garden tour featuring Historic Homes of Maeystown. 618-939-3434
Illinois SASS State Championship World Shooting and Recreational Complex, Sparta 618-295-2700
Parish Picnic & Homecoming Evansville Picnic with food, beer, wine, and raffle. 618-853-4435
Street Fair Carlyle Join us for music, food, rides, games, poker and washer tournaments, Little Miss Contest, water wars with area fire departments, crafts and so much more. 618-594-2468
Train Show American Farm Heritage Museum Greenville The American Heritage Railroad show will include several displays with the opportunity to buy train equipment and supplies; in addition the American Heritage Railroad will be running all day. 618-664-9733
June 14 Glen Carbon/Edwardsville Annual Garden Tour Glen Carbon & Edwardsville Visit 8 beautiful private gardens and the gardens at the historic 1820 Stephenson House.The gardens may be toured at the leisure of the ticket holders. 618-344-4230
Goomna Adventure Race Silver Lake, Highland Co-ed three person teams compete in an outdoor adventure race that includes running, biking, swimming, canoeing, orienteering and much, much more! 618-651-1383
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800-442-1488 June 14 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Race Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 Greenville Graffiti Car Show Downtown Greenville This fun car show is open to cars and trucks 1989 and older for judging. Registration is from 9:00 a.m. until noon with the awards given at 3:00 p.m. Actor James Best, who played Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane on "The Dukes of Hazzard” will be this year's celebrity guest judge. 618-664-9272 June 14 - 15 32nd Annual Belleville Antique American Show & Sale Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville 25 dealers from 11 states will have early American pattern glass, carnival glass, Depression glass, elegant glass and dinnerware and pottery from the Depression Era for sale. 618-233-0052 June 17 Porta Westfalica Festival Courthouse Square,Waterloo This wonderful German festival celebrates Waterloo’s Sister City relationship with Porta Westfalica, Germany.The parade is followed by entertainment all evening along with great food, beer, wine, inflatable rides for the kids, crafts, games and more. 618-939-5300
June 20 World’s Largest Swimming Lesson Splash City Family Waterpark Collinsville Join participants at aquatic facilities around the world as we help to set a new Guinness World Record. Tragically, drowning is the second leading cause of accident death for children under 14-years-old. Attend this for the free lesson and to help spread awareness of water safety. 618-346-4571 June 20 - 21 Swansea Fire Dept. No Holds Barred BBQ Competition Schranz Park, Swansea You will be in for a treat at this competition. In addition to delicious barbecue there will be rides and music. This event is sanctioned by the St. Louis Barbecue Society. 618-779-5100
June 20 - 22 Splash for Rescues Eckert’s Country Farms, Belleville This dog diving competition will have dogs jumping off a 40’ dock into 35’ long, 4’ deep pool of water to compete for distance, speed or height. It’s a 3-day event the whole family will love. In addition to the dog competition, there will be live music. 618-233-0513
June Jamboree Village Park, New Baden Friday night there will be a tractor pull, rides, and food and Saturday night will have a parade, rides, food and truck pull. 618-588-3813
June 21 Radtour Columbia Dust off your bike for a 25, 40 or 60 mile scenic bike ride which also includes a scavenger hunt and geocaching route. 618-281-7144
Mascoutah Rodeo Scheve Park, Mascoutah Along with the rodeo there will be food and beverages for sale and children activities such as a bull riding machine. 618-566-2964
Secret Garden Tour & More Salem Garden tour, vendor fair and live music. 618-267-1238
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14 • Vol.VII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2014 from page 13 June 21 - 22 Belleville Antiques & Collectibles Flea Market Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville There are over 600 tables and 300-400 vendors selling antiques 618-233-0052 and collectibles. Super Chevy Show Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison All things Chevy - drag racing, car show, ride and drive and more. 618-215-8888 June 22 Summer Solstice Sunrise Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville It’s worth waking early to view the sunset on what will be the year’s longest day. Arrive at the Woodhenge reconstruction to hear an explanation of the discovery, form and function of this ancient post circle monument. 618-346-5160 June 27 - 28 Marine Homecoming Village Park, Marine There will be a parade, music, bingo, food, drink, vendor booths and carnival 618-887-4531 rides. June 27 - 29 Street Machine Nationals Du Quoin State Fairgrounds Du Quoin The grounds will swell with beautiful, high-performance street machines, hot rods and street trucks from across the nation. Plus, witness the tuned-up Performance Marketplace for the latest aftermarket parts, Burnout Competition, Dyno Challenge, Meet the editors of Car Craft, Miss Street Machine 317-236-6515 Contest and more. June 28 Leclaire Lake Fishing Derby Leclaire Lake Park, Edwardsville Kids bring your fishing pole and bait for a morning of outdoor fun around the lake.There will be prizes for those participants who catch the biggest fish 618-692-7538 and the most fish. Annual Waterloo Optimist Truck & Tractor Pull Monroe County Fairgrounds Waterloo Antiques start pulling at 10:00am, Farmers Classes start at 2:00pm, Garden Tractors and ATVs start at 4:00pm and Pick-up Trucks start at 6:30pm. Food, beverages and other refreshments will be available. 618-960-3199 Tractor Drive American Farm Heritage Museum Greenville A fun tractor drive leaving the Museum grounds in the morning, having lunch along the route and returning to the Museum in the 618-664-9733 afternoon. Carlyle Sailing Association Open House Carlyle Come tour the facility and take rides on as many different sailboats as desired. A sampling of kayaks will also 618-594-3622 be available.
Carlyle Sailing Association Luau and View Carlyle Fireworks Carlyle All are invited to this social event that will have food and drink. Later in the evening watch the Carlyle Fireworks from the harbor property, an excellent vantage point. Reservations required. 618-594-3622 June 28 - 29 Gun & Knife Show Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville This hunting and trade show is Illinois’ largest and will have firearms and knife dealers buy-sell-trade along with guns, knives, ammo, scopes, accessories and FOID cards processed. 618-233-0052
JULY 2014 July 3 Night of Fire and Thunder Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 July 3 - 5 Carnival Vandalia Lake,Vandalia Come enjoy the afternoon at the 618-283-4458 Carnival! July 5 Wicked Wheels Car Show Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel Car, truck, motorcycle and antique tractor show. Whether you have a car, motorcycle or antique tractor, you are invited to come out for a chance to win one of over 100 total prizes that will be awarded. This show is a must see for any car enthusiast. 618-263-5191 July 5 - 6 MindsEye Beepball Tournament Laderman Park, Belleville Teams from St. Louis, Missouri and the Metro East battle it out to see which team reigns supreme at the game of Beepball, or blind baseball. 618-394-6444 July 11 - 12 Fire Department Homecoming Picnic Lebanon Come for the parade both nights, and then stay for live music, carnival rides, games and food. 618-537-4976 July 11 Tour de Belleville Belleville Registration begins May 1. Since its inception in 2006, proceeds from this event purchased a speed monitor, four emergency call towers, street crossing lights at two intersections, and a patrol bicycle for the Belleville Police Department. 618-233-6810 July 11 - 12 Smithton Turner Picnic Turner Hall, Smithton Enjoy music, food (Turner’s Famous Fish), games and fun. 618-277-9690 July 11 - 13 Belleville Knife Show Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville Come see and shop for new and antique knives, factory and custom knife related merchandise and accessories. 618-233-0052
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4 of July th
events
July 1 - 5 Patriots in the Park Wilson Park, Granite City This event includes an auto show, carnival with food, live entertainment and rides. Don’t miss the incredible fireworks display on the 4th! 618-877-3059 July 2 - 4 4th of July Steeleville Carnival and rides, food stands, live music and beer stand. Craft stands before and after parade. On the 4th there will be a 3k Firecracker Race and then a parade in the morning with the main event, the fireworks at 10:00 p.m. 618-965-3362
July 3 Blast Off Parade and Fireworks Albers 618-248-5154 Lebanon Fireworks Horner Park, Lebanon Come out to Horner Park and see the beautiful fireworks! 618-537-4976 July 4 4th of July Celebration American Legion Park, Columbia Come celebrate the country's independence with a patriotic bike parade, bingo, kloepper and washer tournaments, music, food and fireworks! 618-281-7144 Picnic in the Park Dupo Community Park, Dupo Celebrate with live music, food, games, kickball and washer tournaments, crafts and a large fireworks display at dusk. 618-286-3280
June 28 Freedom Day Toledo Celebrate independence with corn dogs, Kitten Ball and lots of contests (pizza eating, Little Miss and Mister, etc.) fireworks, music and food. 217-849-2000 Carlyle Lake Spectacular Carlyle Lake This all day event has live music, a sandcastle building contest, volleyball tournament and fireworks show that can be viewed by boat or on land. 618-594-2484 June 28 - 29 West Salem 4th of July Celebration West Salem Events for the weekend include, Town Wide Yard Sale, 5K Run/Walk, Raffle and fireworks as well as a car show. 618-456-3167 July 1 - 4 Annual Carnival & 4th of July Celebration Fairview Park, Centralia The carnival will have entertainment, games and fireworks. 618-532-5910
Fireworks Display Glik Park, Highland Come early to enjoy food from various vendors and fun family activities and then enjoy a wonderful fireworks display. 618-651-1386 Liberty Bell of the West Patriotic Celebration Kaskaskia Come out to Kaskaskia and hear and see Patriotic music & talks, ring bells for Liberty, French Marine Salute, traditional
food available and tours. 618-826-2667 Old Fashioned July 4th Celebration Scheve Park, Mascoutah This hometown celebration, features softball and kickball tournaments, rides, kids’ games, food & drinks, raffle, poker, artisans, fireworks and more! Music provided by various local groups with the US Air Force Band of MidAmerica playing in the evening. 618-566-2964 4th of July Alhambra Food & fireworks
618-488-2552
Fireworks Display Olney City Park, Olney 618-395-7302 July 4 – 6 Fantastic 4th Weekend Mt. Carmel Mt. Carmel shows you how to celebrate the 4th with 4 days of family events. From the “Thank a Veteran Parade,” kicking off on Thursday morning, all the way to the annual “All You Can Eat Rotary Corn Day” on Sunday, you’ll find lots of reasons to be in Mt. Carmel on this Independence Day Weekend! 618-263-2093 July 5 Fireworks Vandalia Lake,Vandalia
618-283-4458
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16 • Vol.VII, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2014 from page 14 July 12 Pork Day Court House Square, Ablion Pork Day offers great family entertainment that includes music, parade, Little Miss Pork Queen Contest, kids korner, vendors and off course barbecue! 618-445-2303 July 12 - 13 Abraham Lincoln Pageant Rogier/Rummelin/Sonnemann Parks Vandalia At Rogier Park the pageant will be along the walking trail. There will be encampments and other activities. 618-283-1534 July 13 World’s Largest Catsup Bottle Festival Birthday Party and Car Show American Legion Post 365, Collinsville Birthday party games, entertainment and food for adults and kids.The car show is a special feature of the day. 618-344-8775 July 14 - 19 SCTP & SPP National Team Championships World Shooting and Recreational Complex, Sparta 618-295-2700 July 18 - 19 Central City Lion’s Festival Lion’s Park, Centralia 618-204-9710 July 19 Dash ‘n Splash 5K Run/Walk & After-Party Splash City Family Waterpark Collinsville Professionally timed 5K run/walk on a flat, paved surface followed by a private party with dinner and music at the waterpark.The after party is open to 5K participants and their guests. 618-346-7529 Lipstick Women’s Show Gateway Center, Collinsville A fun filled day for a gal and all her friends! Shop at the many different booths related to fashion, cosmetics, exercise, hair styling, jewelry, clothing, health care and so much more! 800-289-2388 Ruma Tractor Ride & Show Ruma Community Park, Ruma Take an 18 mile ride around the area the come back to the park for BBQ and tractor games. 618-282-3528 Celebrity Chef Lasata Wines, Lawrenceville Join us for a social evening of food, wine and entertainment at beautiful Lasata Wines. Celebrity Chef features local Celebrities who will showcase their cooking talents to attendees. 618-943-3516 July 19 - 20 Belleville Antiques & Collectibles Flea Market Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville Over 600 tables and 300-400 vendors selling antiques and collectibles both old and new. 618-233-0052
July 19 - 20 Pegasus Productions Psychic Fair Gateway Center, Collinsville Come to the psychic fair for an educational, interesting and spiritually uplifting experience to nurture and encourage all who are on the path of growth and enlightenment. 618-345-8998 July 20 Ellis Grove Fire Department Car Show Ellis Grove Big car show with all makes and models. 618-853-3473 July 25 - 26 Smithton Homecoming Turner Hall, Smithton There’s music, food, rides, games, bingo and much fun to be had! 618-473-3366 July 25 - 26 Gateway Rubber Stamp Getaway Gateway Center, Collinsville The Gateway Rubber Stamp Getaway will have rubber stamp shopping and classes. 618-345-8998 July 25 - 27 Heritage Days American Farm Heritage Museum Greenville Spend the day seeing the tractor-cade and farm heritage demonstrations. Children can ride the train and play tractor games and other activities; plus there’s food, crafts, a petting zoo and more! 618-664-9733 July 26 Fun Ford Weekend Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 July 26 - 27 Great Train Expo Belle-Clair Expo Center Belleville The Great Train Show will have operating model trains, riding train, hundreds of tables of model train merchandise and accessories. 618-233-0052 July 26 - September 6 Smithsonian Institution, Hometown Teams: Sports in American Communities History Museum of Monroe County,Waterloo Hometown Teams do more than just play games; they shape our lives. Come celebrate how team sports and recreational activities have been woven through the social fabric of Monroe County over the last 100 years. 618-939-5008 July 28 - August 5 71st Annual Novena to Our Lady of the Snows The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, Belleville Each evening focuses on a different aspect of healing: emotional, spiritual, physical, financial, etcetera and will also feature music, a special reflection, a healing ritual and special prayers; and will conclude with a candlelight rosary procession. 618-397-6700
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Fine Arts April 17 - 22 County School Art Show Artworks Gallery,Vandalia Artwork from children in grades kindergarten through 12th is featured in this art show. 618-283-4866 April 26 Met at the Hett: Cosi Fan Tutte The Hett , Lebanon Be part of a worldwide audience from a “better than front row seat” for the New York’s Metropolitan Opera Emmy award-winning “Live in HD” series of high-definition simulcast transmissions to over a million viewers 618-537-6863 in 35 countries. May 3 Masters of Soul Jane Knight Auditorium at Kaskaskia College, Centralia Featuring music made famous by record labels such as Motown, Masters of Soul is a celebration of the legendary songs and performers that defined soul music.The show features stylishly costumed fully choreographed performances of both male and female groups backed by a live band. 618-545-7800
May 4 Saint Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra The Hett, Lebanon The region’s finest young musicians, ages 12 to 22; represent 35 schools throughout greater St. Louis and beyond. Fun for all ages! 618-537-6863 May 8 – 11, 15 - 18 Spamalot Looking Glass Playhouse, Lebanon 618-537-4962 May 11 Met at the Hett: La Cenerentola The Hett, Lebanon Be part of a worldwide audience from a “better than front row seat” for the New York’s Metropolitan Opera Emmy award-winning “Live in HD” series of high-definition simulcast transmissions to over a million viewers in 35 countries. 618-537-6863
May 16 - 18 Art on the Square Public Square, Belleville More than 100 artists show and sell their work at the #1 Art Show in the Nation. Activities for children, a design stage, entertainment and a wonderful food court are all part of the fun. 618-233-6769 May 30 – 31 June 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-18 July 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 Summer Concert Fest Eckert’s Country Store & Farm, Belleville We are excited to host our third-annual Summer Concert Fest, featuring 15 weekends of live music on Friday and Saturday nights.The live music will take place in the plaza area, outside the Country Store from 7pm - 9pm.This FREE event is perfect for all ages.We will have kids’ activities and custard as well as appetizers and wine/beer available for purchase. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a beautiful evening with family and friends. If it rains, the concert will be canceled. 618-233-0513
June 8, 22 July 6, 20 Music at Metter Metter Park, Columbia This outdoor concert in the park features different bands playing great music. Refreshments will be available and don’t forget to bring a lawn chair or blanket. 618-281-7144 June 11 - 14 Mary Poppins Granite City High School Performing Arts Center, Granite City 618-451-5808 June 14 Art and Wine on the Square Downtown Lawrenceville Artists are contacted by invitation to bring up to 3 pieces of art for a juried show. Oliver Wines and others will be represented, as well as a selection of craft beers. Wine and food pairings will be offered during the festivities and lunch and dinner specialties at the local downtown eateries. 618-943-3516 June 14 - 22 Amateur Town & Country Art Show Artworks Gallery,Vandalia The Art Show features amateur and youth art and photography as well as some professional divisions. 618-283-4866 June 20 - 21 Copperhead Music Festival World Shooting and Recreational Complex Sparta 618-295-2700 June 27 Battle of the Bands Splash City Family Waterpark, Collinsville Talented teens show what they’ve got at this event.The competition is open to bands with members between 12-21 years old and is held after hours at Splash City. 618-346-4571 July 10 - 13 Theatre in the Park: Disney's Peter Pan Jr. Northside Park, Breese County Showcase presents Disney's Peter Pan Jr. 618-526-2866 July 11 - 13 Contemporary Indian Art Show Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville A juried art show and sale of fine art by Native American artists. 618-346-5160
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June 14 - 21 Perry County Fair Perry County Fairgrounds Pinckneyville 618-790-4868 June 22 - 28 Jasper County Fair Newton 618-783-3399 July 4 - 12 Richland County Fair Olney City Park Fairgrounds, Olney 618-395-7302 July 8 - 14 Washington County Fair Nashville 618-327-3700 July 11 - 20 Randolph County Fair Randolph County Fairgrounds Sparta Food, livestock, tractors and other agricultural displays, rides and more. 618-443-2916 July 12 - 19 Fayette County Fair Brownstown 618-245-6221
July 13 - 19 Clinton County Fair Clinton County Fairgrounds, Carlyle 618-594-4169 July 16 - 26 Edwards County Fair Albion 618-445-3246 July 16 - 27 Clay County Fair Flora
618-662-3247
July 18 - 25 Wabash County Youth Exhibition Mount Carmel 618-262-5116 July 20 - 27 Monroe County Fair Monroe County Fairgrounds,Waterloo 618-939-7796
July 22 - 27 Madison County Fair Madison County Fairgrounds Highland The Madison County Fair will have product displays, livestock, arts & crafts, carnival rides, food, live music and arena events such as stock car races, tractor pull, demolition derby and 4-H Show. 618-654-6656
July 26 - August 1 Lawrence County Fair Sumner Bring the family and enjoy: 4-H Shows, 4-H Auction, Queen Pageant, Little Miss Contest,Truck Pulls,Tractor Pulls, Mud Races, Demolition Derby, Rodeo, 4-H BBQ, Livestock Shows, Battle of the Barns, Kiddie Tractor Pull, Horse Show, Hay Bale Throw and much, much, much more! 618-936-2851 July 26 - August 2 White County Fair Carmi 618-382-7606 Wayne County Fair Fairfield 618-842-6116 Marion County Fair Salem 618-548-1251
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July 31 - August 5 Bond County Fair Bond County Fairgrounds Greenville Music, food, farm exhibits, parade, animal judging and auctions, tractor pulls, truck pulls, demolition derby, queen contest, various exhibits and activities. 618-622-1412 August 6 - 9 St. Clair County Fair Belle-Clair Expo Center Belleville The St. Clair County Fair will have agriculture exhibits, livestock barns, carnival, arena events, free entertainment in the Expo Hall, commercial exhibitors and fair food. 618-233-0052 August 16 - 23 Greenup-Cumberland County Fair Greenup 217-923-1507
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