2018 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

Vol. XI, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2018 • 1

C

Heath Museum and Confectionary

from Cover

By Pat White

rawford officially became a county in December, 1816, two years before Illinois achieved statehood. Robinson is the county seat and home to several Fortune 500 companies: Marathon Petroleum Co., Hershey Chocolate USA and Dana Sealing Products Corp. Pepsi MidAmerica has plans for a plant here in the near future.

The city’s entertainment venues include three area golf courses; the VFW Military Museum in the renovated Depot; the Crawford County Historical Museum; and the natural beauty of Washington Park’s walking trails, fishing pond and creek. Robinson City Park is busy all summer at the pool, waterslides, splash park and ballfields.The Park will host the Ohio Valley Babe Ruth Tournament this year and the Fest of Ale in September.

The inviting downtown features restaurants, unique stores and, of course, the Heath Museum and Confectionary. The Heath bar was created in Robinson in 1914 and is still produced by Hershey. The Museum has an old-fashioned soda fountain serving ice cream, milk shakes and other goodies as well as regular size and mini Heath bars (mmm, take home a bag).

The Heath Harvest Festival and Christmas Magic activities are centered downtown, also.

Nearby Palestine, called the Pioneer City, was chartered in 1811 and officially incorporated in 1855, giving

it the distinction of being the oldest town in Illinois. The resurgence of the downtown area means shoppers can find art galleries, antique shops, unique gift stores, cafes and more. Leaverton Park is a great space to spend time outdoors with playgrounds, picnic shelters and sports facilities.

Several events throughout the year like the Wine & Art Festival and Holi-

day activities bring visitors from miles away.The largest event is the Fall Festival and Pioneer City Rodeo that draw crowds numbering 10,000+ over Labor Day Weekend. This is the 52nd year for the rodeo. If you’ve never seen bull and bronc riding, barrel racing and similar events, now’s your chance. Be sure the kids get into the calf scramble and have your camera handy! On Saturday, volunteers feed 2,000 people at the Chuckwagon Breakfast for a free will donation (800 lbs. of sausage, over 400 lbs. of pancake batter, at least 1,200 cartons of milk, and a minimum of 200 gallons of coffee!). The weekend also includes Main Street Market Madness, Lunch with the Clowns (a kid favorite) and the huge Labor Day Parade.

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Pioneer City Rodeo

Wine & Art Festival, Palestine

ILLI-

2 • Vol. XI, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2018

Hello from Dan...

Temperatures are up and snow is down (melted that is), so once again the Spring/Summer travel season is gearing up!

If you’ve been hibernating a bit too long, it’s time to make those reservations, pack the car and experience all ILLINOISouth has to offer! And now, there are even more exciting things to see and do as we officially welcome Crawford County…our 23rd County! You’ll learn just a smidgeon of all the fun in our cover story.

ILLINOIS Made continues to showcase the best of the best throughout the STATE, and we’re extremely proud to acknowledge four award winners right here in our own backyard...check them out on Page 8.

As we continually look to improve marketing efforts, we’d like to hear from you, our readers. Please take just a couple of minutes to fill out the online Survey noted below. Don’t worry If you’re not that computer savvy, call 618-257-1488, and we’ll be happy to email it or send you a copy of the Survey in the mail. We’re working on some exciting changes and your input is a valuable resource.

The State’s Bicentennial is in full swing, so be sure to celebrate this special year in ILLINOISouth, and don’t forget to send us those pictures!

Dan Krankeola President /CEO ILLINOISouth

Do you read the Tourism Times? What’s your favorite feature?

Do you share it with friends and family?

Inquiring minds want to know!

Please take a few minutes to fill out our Tourism Times Survey. Go to illinoisouth. org/survey to tell us what you like or don’t like about our seasonal newsletter.

The survey is short, but your feedback is a big help to us as we strive to provide the best regional information possible. All survey entries received by May 31st will be placed into a drawing for a $100 Visa gift card.

If you aren’t a computer user, call the office at 618-257-1488 and we’ll mail you a copy. Thank you!

#ILSOUTH

PHOTO CONTEST Things are heating up in ILLINOISouth, and we would like to see some pictures from your adventures throughout the area. Take your camera with you or enter photos you already have in our 2018 #ILSouth contest. Submissions are being accepted April 11 – July 11, 2018.

One finalist will be chosen from each of our three geographic areas (see map pgs.

12-13). Our social media followers will vote for the People’s Choice winner on Friday, July 13th. Please name files as: “Photographer’s Name, Photograph Location, County Name” (ex: John Smith, Little Wabash River, Wayne County).

You could Win...

• Each Finalist (3) will receive a $100 gift card.

• The People’s Choice winner will receive two tickets to an INDYCAR race at Gateway Motorsports Park in Madison.

Rules & Guidelines Photos must be 2MB in size. Photos from smartphones can be uploaded. Photos of private property are not eligible. Only high-quality color submissions will be accepted. Submit your photos and see full Rules and Guidelines at illinoisouth.org/photo-contest/ Only photos taken in the ILLINOISouth region will be eligible (Counties: Bond, Clark, Clay, Crawford, Clinton, Cumberland, Edwards, Fayette, Hamilton, Jasper, Lawrence, Madison, Marion, Monroe, Montgomery, Perry, Randolph, Richland, St. Clair, Wabash,Washington,Wayne,White). Use of watermarks on the photo is prohibited.

800-442-1488 from page 1 Did you know that oil was discovered in Oblong, IL in 1906? According to the Illinois Oilfield Museum, “…three men from Pennsylvania had leased a bunch of land in the area, but didn’t know where to drill. With a couple of female companions and a bottle of whiskey, they set off on a buckboard, determined that when the bottle was empty, they would throw it over their shoulders and drill where it landed. They did and Shire No. 1, became the discovery well for the Crawford County oil boom.” Whether the story is actually true or not isn’t important, because oil is still being drilled all over this area. This Museum is one of only seven in the country and is full of the history of this industry and its effect on the county.

But oil isn’t all you’ll find in Oblong. The county fairgrounds host the County Fair in July, an Antique Tractor & Engine Show with a gas powered engine exhibitions, flea market, food and craft vendors, tractor pulls, and more in August; a Summer Hootenanny in July (they say “this is a party in the park, not a cross between an owl and a goat”); a Metal Artisans show in October; Fall Follies with live entertainment, food courts, 5K run and “Illinois’ Largest Nighttime Halloween Parade” the last Saturday in October.

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4 • Vol. XI, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2018 from page 3 Early settler stories abound in Crawford County, and the town of Hutsonville has one of the saddest. In the late winter of 1812, Isaac Hutson, his wife and six children were the first white settlers in an area that was still wilderness inhabited by wild animals and a tribe of Indians. One day in April, Hutson went to the mill in Palestine and didn’t return until late.

As he approached his home, he discovered his cabin in flames and his entire family and a nearby neighbor killed by a band of Indians. Completely devastated, Hutson left the area and joined the army.

The town didn’t forget its heritage, however, and built the Hutson Memorial Village in their memory.

Consisting of several wooden buildings: a church, home, inn, store, barn and museum, the Park honors the founder. Downtown, there is a special

Christmas Tree Walk each year with trees decorated by local families.

Current residents also celebrate the annual Riverfest, sponsored by the Fire Department (August 3 & 4, 2018).

Visitors and residents enjoy a car and motorcycle show, live music, a street dance, 5K run and parade. Friday night, the festivities are on the river right at Main Street. Saturday the activities are at Hutsonville Park.

The Village of Flat Rock was founded by John W. Jones in 1876. He was a very successful merchant, although not much is known about the early years of the settlement. Flat Rock’s population was largest during the oil boom in the early 1900s, but today, it’s primarily a small residential town. During Homecoming the second weekend in August, the population swells as folks come to visit old friends and relatives and enjoy the festivities. Popular events include frog races and a large flea market.

Check our calendar at

illinoisouth.org/events for dates and details of Crawford County events.

Robinson Chamber of Commerce 618-546-1557 robinsonchamber@hotmail.com Palestine Chamber of Commerce 618-586 -2222 palestinecofc@frontier.com Oblong Chamber of Commerce 618-592-4355 info@theonlyoblong.com Hutsonville Village Hall 618-563-4971 Flat Rock Village Hall 618-584-3332

Flat Rock Homecoming

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6 • Vol. XI, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2018

New Places to Eat, Drink, Shop and Stay!

Hofbräuhaus St. Louis – Belleville is now open on IL-15 across from the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows!

The Belleville location is the eighth and largest Hofbräuhaus location in America with seating for 1,100 people at a time. Hofbräu Original, Dunkel and Hefewiezen will be brewed on-site along with seasonal brewmaster selections. There’s more than just beer though. The whole family will enjoy traditional German cuisine and live bands from Germany and Austria seven nights a week at traditional social-style tables in the massive beer hall. Make your plans to visit this exciting new attraction to experience Oktoberfest any time. Visit HofbrauhausStLouis.com for more information.

Crafty Sugar Company opened in Belleville with an “old school” Root Beer Float as the signature soda concoction. Kind of tells you everything you need to know, doesn’t it? Candy, ice cream and craft sodas draw everyone with a sweet tooth – young and old into the store. 104 E. Main St., Belleville The Tibbetts House Bed, Breakfast & Books in Highland is designed to satisfy all your comfort needs – a cozy bedroom, homemade breakfast and your favorite author all in one spot. Formerly The Chocolate Affair (which has moved to the Square), this historic 1914 home has three literature-themed guest rooms. Climb into the Victorian fourposter in “Sherlock Holmes’” 221B Baker St. room; cuddle up under the blue patchwork quilt on the heavy wooden bed in the room patterned after the book, “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children;” or move into the “West Egg” room based on “The Great Gatsby.” Owners Brett and Mindy Casto combined their love of the written word and hospitality for a perfect getaway. Bookstore open to the public:Tues. – Fri. 10am – 6pm, Sat. 10am – 2pm, (1st and 3rd Saturday of the month 4 – 6pm for family game nights). Most books, $2. They accept trade-ins and donated books. Thetibettshouse.com, Facebook, 801 9th St., Highland, Reservations: 618-772-8161

Visitors to the “World’s Largest and other Big Things” attractions in Casey now have a new boutique hotel in which to stay. Twelve efficiency studios are getting great reviews at the Eighteen-Ninety Sleepover. Exposed brick, wood floors and large windows add to the 1900s atmosphere with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Nightly, weekly and monthly rates are available.

Reservations: 217-232-2959; eighteen-ninetysleepover.com; Facebook eighteen-ninety sleepover * 14 South Central, Casey Peonies & Milk Boutique is owned and operated by a mother/daughter duo, who repurpose vintage furniture using various paint techniques.

According to the Facebook page, the “boutique features home decor, jewelry, gifts, painting supplies and will soon offer workshops.” 218 E. State St., O’Fallon, FB @peoniesandmilk, peoniesandmilk.com, 618-416-3969

Judge Sidney

Breese

New Life for Clinton County Historical Society Museum Sometimes it takes “fresh eyes” to spearhead revitalization of a place that’s been around for a long time.The Clinton County Historical Society has recently experienced this when Mary Essen discovered the Museum located in Judge Sidney Breese’s home built on Franklin St. in Carlyle in 1866. When Mary joined the board (she’s now President), her excitement about the Judge’s career in Illinois sparked new interest in him and his ties to Abraham Lincoln, the Illinois Supreme Court and Clinton County.

Breese was born in 1800 in New York and moved to Kaskaskia in 1818 – the same year Illinois became a state. He studied law with his cousin, Elias Kent Kane. Just two years later, as Assistant Secretary of State, Breese transferred state records toVandalia, the new state capital. (Little known fact – Carlyle missed being chosen as the new capital by one vote in the legislature.)

Over the next four decades, Breese held many positions in his public career: U.S. State’s Attorney, IL Supreme Court Justice, U.S. Senator and Speaker of the House of Representatives are a few. On the Illinois Supreme Court, he presided over a case in which Abraham Lincoln argued, and won, the freedom of Nance Legins-Costley.

Nance was the first slave Lincoln freed. Breese and Lincoln remained friends, and Breese gave a memorable eulogy about the President.

With all his accomplishments, Breese is best remembered as the “Father of the Illinois Central Railroad.” Starting in 1835, he began lobbying for a railroad connecting the Illinois and Michigan Canal with the lower Mississippi River across to the Pacific Ocean. It took 15 years before the Railroad bills were passed and signed. His tombstone in the Carlyle cemetery reads, “He who sleeps beneath this stone projected the Illinois Central Railroad.”

Since 1985, when the Historical Society purchased it, the Museum’s collection has grown to include furniture, toys, clothing, bedding, kitchen equipment, tools, journals and more that fill the rooms and tell the stories of life in the 19th and 20th centuries.Visit on October 8 for the Fall Festival offering tours, music, food and vendors from 1 – 5pm.

Regular hours: Thursdays, 10am – 3pm and the first Saturday of the month, 1 – 4pm or by appointment.

618-594-7907

Peonies & Milk owners, Mother/Daughter, Kim (l) and Kelly

Congratulations to the City of Waterloo for winning the Best Event in 2017 award for their Eclipse Solarbration at the recent Governor's Conference on Tourism held in Chicago! Sarah Deutch accepted the award.

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SIU Carbondale’s Social Media Team. As an undergrad at SIU Carbondale, Landon studied Advertising/Integrated Marketing Communications. He also received his Master’s degree from SIU in Media Management in 2013.

…in Visitor Services

DeMoulin Museum has new digs in Greenville.

Congratulations Are in Order!

The very eclectic DeMoulin Museum has opened in a larger space at the former Central Christian Church in Greenville. The Museum celebrates the DeMoulin brothers, who began their business in 1892 creating lodge initiation devices and paraphernalia like the Bucking Goat, Invisible Paddle Machine and Lifting and Spraying Machine. The Museum, which opened in 2010, has many of these unusual items on display. Today, DeMoulin Bros. & Co. is still in operation and is the largest manufacturer of marching band uniforms in the country. Museum hours: September - May: Sat: 10am – 2pm; June - August: Fri: 1 – 3 pm, Sat: 10am – 2pm, Sun: 2 – 4pm. 205 S. Prairie St., 618-664-4115, demoulinmuseum.org, Facebook: DeMoulin Museum As reported on the Golf Channel, Golf Advisor’s 2017 list of the Top 50 Golf Courses in the U.S. ranks Annbriar Golf Course in Waterloo #7! According to the website (golfadvisor.com), they received 150,000 reviews from 92,000 golfers to determine the rankings. For more visit annbriar.com, @annbriargolfcourse or 1524 Birdie Ln., 618-939-4653.

Art on the Square is a nationally top ranked art show in large part because of Patty Gregory. Patty and a team of volunteers turned an idea into one of the best events in the region.This year, Patty was awarded the Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award for her tireless community involvement with Art on the Square and other events.The Boy Scouts of America have also honored her with their Distinguished Citizen Award. Our congratulations!

Because of the efforts of Patty, the City of Belleville, Belleville Tourism, corporate sponsors and more than 600 volunteers each year, this successful event was awarded the St. Louis Regional Arts and Education Council Award for “Arts Collaboration.”

They were honored for all the outreach into the schools, such as the Artist in Annbriar Golf Course

Residence program, High School Sculpture in the City and City Wide Sculpture in the City, as well as community and government collaboration.

New Faces at ILLINOISouth… …in Sales & Marketing Landon Brooks joined ILLINOISouth Tourism in October 2017 as Assistant Sales and Marketing Manager. He is responsible for a variety of tasks, including sales and providing marketing services to the Bureau’s Tourism Partners. Landon is currently the chair of the Belleville Area Young Professionals and is on the Board of Directors for the BASIC (Belleville Achieve Strength in Character) Initiative. He was also named as one of the up-and-coming professionals in the BND’s “People to Watch” in 2017.

Prior to coming to ILLINOISouth, Landon worked as the Marketing & Communications Manager for the Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce. He has also served as a Graduate Assistant for SIU Carbondale’s Center for Inclusive Excellence, and was a Graduate Assistant for

(l-r) Landon, Tamber and Kyle.

The first smiling face visitors see at the office belongs to Tamber Wade, who joined the Bureau in November 2017, as Visitor Services Coordinator. She provides excellent support to the ILLINOISouth team, and makes sure that everyone knows what events are happening in the 23 counties!

A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Tamber has more than six years’ experience as a graphic designer. She began studying her trade in 2011 and continued her passion at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, where she obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in May 2017.

Over the course of her work, she has won various national and local design contests, designed and instructed for prominent educational organizations and marketing agencies, and is also a published children’s book illustrator.

…in Web and Technology To keep up with online technology and make sure illinoisouth.org is always current, Kyle Tipton was contracted in December, 2017, as WordPress Content Coordinator. He has his Masters in Instructional Design & Technology from Fontbonne University in St. Louis and has three years of digital marketing experience.

Kyle is working on the website and mobile site to make both easier to navigate and more user friendly. He is improving the functionality of the mobile site and the search engine optimization on the website.

He is also creating more interactive access to the Visitors Guide and Tourism Times online, so they are easier to read.

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Eckert's Country Store & Farms

Congratulations to our Stars!

We love all of our MADE in ILLINOISouth businesses, but special congratulations are due to Excel Bottling Company, Breese; Stumpy’s Spirits, Columbia; Mullen’s Salad Dressing, Palestine; and Eckert's Country Store & Farms, Belleville, which were selected for the Illinois Office of Tourism’s Illinois Made program.

The Bureau received a letter from TimeZoneOne, the Office of Tourism’s PR firm, which stated,“Illinois Made celebrates makers, creators, and artisans of Illinois— the craftspeople, artists, family-owned businesses, small-batch breweries, distilleries, foodies, and farmers that make Illinois thrive. The Illinois Office of Tourism will be promoting these local Makers in [our] area on [their] social media channels (@EnjoyIllinois), website, newsletter and during media interviews and future FAM trips.”

Grown Here, Poured Here The newest winery in ILLINOISouth is located on a 150year-old family farm in Red Bud, IL. The Pour Vineyard is owned by Mike and Judy Pour, who “…wanted to bring the feel of the vineyards in Napa, Tuscany and Bordeaux to their own backyard.”

Currently they grow Chambourcin, Vignoles, Vidal Blanc, Seyval Blanc, Corot Noir, Frontenac Blanc and Marquette varieties of grapes for their wines. As more vines mature, additional vintages will be added.

The tasting room is in the middle of the 6-acre vineyard

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overlooking a large lake and rolling farmland. There is shaded seating underneath the vineyard pavilion and outdoor seating near the lake.The tasting room is open Sunday afternoons from 1 – 6pm.The renovated barn and grounds are perfect for weddings and special events. Several beautiful vistas make great backdrops for photos, as well. For more information or to book an event, call 618-304-4516 or visit pourvineyard.com. 9673 S. Prairie Rd., Red Bud

Hand Crafted and Built to Last If you’re a fan of Chip and Joanna Gaines’ show “Fixer Upper” on HGTV, then you’ve seen the incredible tables, chairs and other furniture made

by Clint Harp for their clients. If you’ve been jealous of these beautiful pieces and wished there was someone like Clint closer to home than Waco, TX, wish no more. Check out the fabulous work being done at Dogwood Vintage in Trenton, IL.

This family-owned business can make just about anything a customer wants and often works from photos on Pinterest. They use locally milled lumber as often as possible and create pieces that will be in your family for generations. Facebook.com/dogwoodvintage, call/text 618-789-7100, or @DogwoodVintage71 to find out more.

The

Chamber

Wa ba s h Cou nt y I l li noi s

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Membership= ROI

Just when you think you can’t afford advertising, ILLINOISouth Tourism steps in with a marketing opportunity that works and fits your budget! Not only will we help plan, design and place advertising or promotions, we’ll help pay for it too! With the Bureau’s buying power and professional help, every member can benefit from marketing their business or community. How’s that for a deal?

McLeansboro Mayor Dick Deitz (l), pictured with Jerry Prince, was the first car down the ramp.

Super Sized

Fall Festival

McLeansboro’s Fall Festival was the cover story in the Fall 2017 issue of Tourism Times. Jerry Prince, who has been Chairman of the General Entertainment and Public Relations Committee for the event since 2000, worked with the Bureau to publicize it through the story and online.The festival draws thousands of people to the town square in September. “We had record crowds on Thursday and Friday nights along with increased attendance on the final day for the new Gravity Powered Downhill Derby and the expanded Classic Country Concert,” Prince said.

Social media was used for the first time to publicize the event. The Bureau ran organic social media posts about the event online and sent email reminders.

“We’d never done much online before,” Prince said. “I had people from as far away as New York get in touch with me about our entertainment lineup and the other activities planned. It brought McLeansboro to a whole new audience.”

The Gravity Powered Downhill Derby, patterned after the Soap Box Derby of yesteryear, was such a success, they plan to have more races this year on June 30th kicking off the July 4th celebrations, as well as September 8th during the Fall Festival.

Watch our calendar on illinoisouth.org, the E-newsletter and Facebook for reminders and updates. To join the next Derby, call Jerry Prince, 618-925-4888.

Happy Holidays in Belleville

With a full schedule of activities starting the day after Thanksgiving, Belleville had a lot to promote during November and December.The fun began with a holiday parade and Santa’s arrival and the annual Gingerbread house competition.

Then the activities continued with trolley rides on Main Street, the Christkindlmarkt and more. ILLINOISouth Tourism was pleased to put together a comprehensive social media campaign to bring people to the area to enjoy all the holiday festivities and encourage shopping in the unique stores and boutiques.

“This past holiday season was the perfect time to test ILLINOISouth Tourism’s Digital Event Marketing Package for The City of Belleville,” stated Cathleen Lindauer, Belleville Tourism Director. “We needed a presence on the web with social media for our extensive holiday season, and this ad campaign filled the bill.

With over 117,000 impressions our investment of $500 was the most cost-effective media placement and proved to be an outstanding success for Belleville’s events. I was even surprised and pleased with the numerous times I saw our own campaign ad on our office computers viewed. We definitely will take advantage of this great digital marketing endeavor that the ILLINOISouth Tourism Bureau offers to their members.”

For information about the Digital Event Marketing or other advertising opportunities, call Jon or Landon at 618-257-1488.

Successful

Art Show

in Highland

When an event is successful, but has a lot of competition, it’s even more important that the advertising is carefully placed. Over the past 14 years, Art in the Park has seen many art-related events crop up near Highland. As the last show of the “season” (October) and the farthest out, the Highland Arts Council finds itself in this position.

ILLINOISouth Tourism has been able to help with ad placement and has added to the event’s budget. “We appreciate the Bureau staff ’s help with media placements and especially the additional money added to our budget,” said Darwin Weiss. Darwin has been a member of the Arts Council and worked with the Bureau for many years. This past year, ads were run in local newspapers, the St. Louis PostDispatch’s Feast and GO! Magazines, on several radio stations and on two St. Louis television stations. “We have many repeat artists,” Darwin added,“because they appreciate the hospitality we offer and coming to a well-run show.

Several of the artists commented that our advertising worked well for them.”

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Road Trippin’

Take it

F

utside

INALLY, IT’S WARM! After this year’s bitter cold, it’s so nice to get outside in the sun. What better way to say goodbye to Winter than to pile family and friends into the car and hit the road. These “roads” are actually two Trails and a Route, but they definitely fit the definition of Road Trippin’! Enjoy exploring!

Explore

Belleville Route 15

Southern Illinois

Beer Trail

Taking a hint from the wine trails that have become so popular, the owners of St. Nicholas Brewing in Du Quoin banded together with 14 craft breweries, one distillery and one vineyard in Southern Illinois. They have created a Trail consisting of three “loops” showing their locations on the map. Visitors can comfortably do one loop in a day and visit three or more places. The more adventurous can go for a “two loop” weekend staying overnight at one of the many bed & breakfasts or hotels/motels nearby.

Two of the loops fall within counties served by ILLINOISouth Tourism: the Red Loop is The Old Bakery Beer in Alton, Recess Brewing Co. in Edwardsville, Peel Brewing Co. in O’Fallon

and Excel Brewing in Breese. The Blue Loop consists of Stumpy’s Spirits Distillery in Columbia, Hopskeller Brewing and Stubborn German Brewing in Waterloo, Lieferbrau Brewery in Red Bud, White Rooster Farmhouse Brewery in Sparta and St. Nicholas Brewing in Du Quoin. The Green Loop takes you farther south to Pomona, Cobden, Murphysboro, Elkville and Christopher. Flyers are available at all locations and more details are on Facebook: Southern Illinois Beer Trail.

IL Route 15 through Belleville offers mile after mile of attractions that are banding together with Belleville Tourism and ILLINOISouth Tourism to encourage visitors to “Follow the Route to Fun!” The latest and largest new place is the Hofbräuhaus German restaurant and brew house. Modeled on the original in Munich, Germany, it’s one of only eight (and the largest) in the U.S. Across the street is the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows, which is a destination for thousands of visitors each year for the annual Novena, Christmas Way of Lights, Masses and other special events. A couple of miles down the road, take the IL 13 exit to Main St. to find 4204 Main Street Brewing Co. This is a great place to hang out with friends and sample their craft beers with seating inside or on the outdoor covered patio.

Back on Rte.15, travel to the IL 158 exit to visit The EDGE (Eats, Drinks, Games & Entertainment).

Boasting the largest Laser Tag arena in the country, ds vespers Sports Bar and Restaurant, 5-screen theaters and an arcade, the whole family will be happy here. Down the road from the EDGE is Bel-Air Bowl, where not only can you bowl or play arcade games, but

this is a popular gathering spot for groups with banquet space downstairs. Nearby, check out a variety of events at Belle-Clair Fairgrounds and Expo Center. Shows with everything from Antiques, guns & knives, arts & crafts and more are shown and sold here.

Hop back on Rte. 15 East, and the next stop is Eckert’s Country Store and Farms. The Country Store with a bakery and deli, Garden Center and Restaurant are open yearround. The Orchard is open in season.

Don’t miss the events with food, kids’ activities and pick-your-own fruits and vegetables. Recently opened just a couple of blocks east of Eckert’s, the St. Clair County Event Center has regular auctions, Picker’s markets, flea markets, trade shows and more. A short drive down the road is the final spot (for now) on this fun route – The Weingarten. Tucked back away from the road, this lovely place beckons visitors to sit, relax, sip a glass of wine and enjoy spending some time in the country. Believe it or not, we’ve only traveled 11.4 miles as the crow flies, but what fun is packed into that space!

618-257-1488 or illinoisouth.org for more info.

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Route 66 Hike and Mountain Bike Trail at Lake Lou Yaeger Litchfield has a proud history as a Route 66 town. Several attractions like the Ariston Café, Niehaus Cycle Sales and Jubelt’s Bakery & Restaurant have been serving Route 66 travelers for generations. Now there’s a Route 66 Trail for mountain bikers and hikers that covers 6.6 miles round trip through beautiful wooded land at Lake Lou Yaeger. Mountain bikers find difficulty ranges from easy to hard and hiker skill levels are moderate.

A road trip here can be for a day to hike or bike the trail, or a weekend to pitch a tent or hook up the RV. The 1200+ acre lake offers boating and skiing, a marina, fishing for bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish, and swimming at the public pay beach.

The beach house has showers, restrooms, a snack bar and lifeguards on duty. The 300-acre park area has five beautiful picnic areas, two playgrounds, pavilions, rest rooms, convenient outdoor stoves, and allows horseback riding on the trails. Primitive and trailer camping is available at two campgrounds. Trailer pads include hookups, flush restrooms, city water and free shower facilities.

Visitlitchfield.com. 866-733-5833

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CALENDAR of EVENTS

APRIL 2018

April 8 – October 14 Litchfield Pickers Market Downtown Held every second Sunday, this is the largest outdoor pickers market in the region. Specializing only in items prior to 1980, visitors are bound to find amazing treasures, live entertainment and food vendors.

217-324-8147 April 12 - 15 “Noises Off ” Play Lindenwood University, Belleville An entertaining play for all to enjoy!

800-677-9255 April 13 & 14 City Wide Yard Sale Columbia See ColumbiaIllinois.com for a directory of the 100+ sales. Map available Tuesday, April 10. Times vary depending on location.

618-281-7144 April 13 - 15 Carrera Classic presented by Porsche St. Louis Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison This show is the perfect compliment to Sunday’s Cars and Coffee event as the Midway will be packed, and you can watch the PCA event from our grandstand. gatewaymsp.com Spring Marketplace Robinson Community Center The show now has juried crafts, and includes primitives, antiques, vintage, jewelry, repurposed, and shabby chic.

618-546-1557 Food vendors available.

April 13, 14, 15, 20, 21 & 22 “An Inspector Calls” Capitol Theater,Waterloo Live theatre performance by the Monroe Actors Stage Company (MASC).

314-939-7469 April 14 Columbia Trails Homebrew Festival Borsch Park,Valmeyer Last year there were over 25 Homebrewers with over 60 different beers. With admission, get an armband to gain entry, a tasting glass, and the ability to vote for your top 3 favorite brews. The brewer who receives the most votes from the public will have the opportunity to brew at Stubborn German Brewing Company in Waterloo.

618-504-2444

To submit an event, a Calendar of Event Form must be completed and submitted for each event. The form can be found at ILLINOISouth.org/events-upload.

Please keep in mind your events should be “visitor-friendly” and bring in people from outside your area. Priority is given to events that produce overnight stays.

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

Deadline for Event submissions: Spring/Summer Issue: January 15th, Fall Issue: May 15th, Holiday Issue: August 27th.

Event information received after this date is subject to exclusion in the Calendar of Event section.

For more details on events, check our website or Like us on Facebook.

Fashion Promenade St. Clair County Historical Society,Belleville Enjoy a delicious lunch and an original fashion show featuring items from the museum collection.

618-234-0600 O’Fallon Grand Prix O’Fallon A multi-day bicycling event bringing racing excitement to Southern Illinois. Call or visit ofallongrandprix.com for race times and other information.

618-530-2648 Southern Illinois Sheep and Craft Festival Monroe County Fairgrounds,Waterloo Events include working sheep dogs, sheep Olympics, Kids Corner and sheep shearing. See the exhibit area with spinning and weaving demonstrations, craft items, and more.

618-939-8536 April 14 – November 3 Old Town Market Downtown Belleville Every Saturday a variety of vendors of homegrown produce, meats, preserves, jams, jellies, soaps, art and more set up at the market.

618-233-2015 April 15 Motorcycle Swap Meet Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center Belleville View vendors with everything to do with Motorcycles and more! 618-233-0052

Vandalia Kite Festival Kaskaskia College,Vandalia It’s time for fun and games plus FREE KITES while supplies last (State Farm tent) or bring your own.

Spin the wheel for more prizes!

618-283-0951 April 15 & 16 Tin Man Half-Marathon and 5K Village Park, Millstadt Register online at http://itsyourrace.com New courses cover gently rolling terrain. More water stations and restroom facilities have been added.

618-719-1911

April 19, May 17, June 21 & July 19 Ladies Night Out Main Street, Belleville Shop Belleville’s Main Street with fun discounts and prizes, $5 Fee 618-233-2015

April 21 Belleville Ale Fest 4204 Main St. Brewing Company Belleville Enjoy a variety of Craft Beer Samples and bands throughout the day.

618-233-2015 Explore Waterloo Art Walk Downtown Participating merchants and restaurants will feature artwork by local artists with specials and discounts!

618-939-8600 Downhill Derby Exhibition Downtown McLeansboro Individuals, businesses or communities that might want to build a car and compete in the race on June 30 or September 8 should come.You’ll learn a lot at the Exhibition. Time Trials at 9am, Race begins at 10am.

618-925-4888 Weekends in April and May Baby Bonanza Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo, Nashville Come see all the critters and feed the new lambs, kids, calves and more.

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800- 442-1488 April 27 & 28 Ribberfest Barbecue Championship Uptown Mt. Carmel This 2-day event features food vendors, a BBQ competition, LIVE entertainment, the infamous Downhill Derby, and much more!

618-262-5116 April 27 - 29 “Party on the Pipes” Lincoln Theatre, Belleville Variety of musical performances featuring the pipe organ.

618-233-0018 Spring Indian Market Days Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Indian artists and vendors display and sell crafts, artwork, clothing, jewelry, etc. Artists are from all different tribal affiliations and will be set up throughout the Interpretive Center.

618-344-9221 April 28 Transportation Show Niehaus Cycle Sales, Litchfield This event promotes all types of transportation.

217-556-8409 Home Brew & Music Walk Downtown Belleville Sample a variety of Home Brews & Craft Beers while listening to several musical performances. 618-233-2015 St. Clair County Law Day 5K Run/Walk Downtown Belleville Join the competitive 5K Run & Walk.

618-233-1416 St. Louis Antique Festival Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville Over 500 antique vendors from the Midwest have unique items to view and buy!

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MAY 2018 May 3 – 6 American Black & Tan Coon Hunt Flora 618-662-8313 May 5 Fishing Derby Bellevue Park, Belleville A fun competitive fishing derby for all to enjoy!

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continued on page 18 Village Wide Rummage Sale Beckemeyer Maps of the rummage sale locations will be available at Casey’s General Store and Germantown Trust & Savings Bank. 618-227-8331

ILLINOISouth.org

18 • Vol. XI, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2018 from page 17 Courthouse Cruise-in Downtown Greenville Check out the cars parked around the Courthouse Square.

844-404-9212 Spring Crash Demo Derby 618-395-7302 Olney Kids’ Day Fort de Chartres, Prairie du Rocher Interpreters help kids try their hand at 18th century rope making, archery, games and other activities. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. Concessions available for sale.

618-284-7230 Locust Street Historic Fair Downtown Centralia The Fair offers crafters & artisans, food vendors, an antique car show and historical presentations.

618-533-7623 May Market St. Louis St., Lebanon Shop 60+ vendors offering plants, furniture, wood crafts, jewlery, handmade soap, essential oils, art and crafts - plus a selection of tasty homemade desserts!

618-808-0311 Mayfest Downtown Waterloo Enjoy music at the bandstand and shop at our many vendors, enjoy great food, and spend the day.

618-939-5300 Spring Farm Day Willoughby Farm, Collinsville Enjoy craft vendors, hayrides, music, games and all the animals out to celebrate the return of spring! $2 per person, max of $10 per family. Kids 5 & under/Free 618-346-7529 May 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 & 27 Strawberry Festival Eckert’s Country Store & Farms Belleville Pick your own strawberries and enjoy a wagon ride, music and more!

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May 5 & 6 Swap Meet & Collectibles Flea Market American Farm Heritage Museum Greenville Find what automotive & tractor parts you need.

618-664-9733

St. Louis Nostalgia Rendezvous Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison Meet Butch Patrick (TV’s Eddie Munster), nostalgia drag racing, hot rod car show, pin-up girl contest, rockabilly bands and DJs. 618-215-8888

May 5 & 6, June 23 & 24 Gun & Knife Show Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center Belleville Buy, sell and trade guns, knives, ammo, scopes and accessories. FOID cards are processed.

618-233-0052

Sweetie and the Toothaches Concert Metter Park, Columbia Take in sounds of the 1930’s and stroll the promenade for food and shopping. Main Street retailers and restaurants will be on site.

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May 5 & 6, July 28 & 29 Illinois Cutting Horse Association DuQuoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-8338 May 6 Fruhlingsfest/Springfest Maeystown Enjoy this Antique and Garden Show and Food Fair in the quiet beauty and German flavor of this 19th century village nestled in the Mississippi bluffs.

618-580-5875 May 11 & 12 Flora Depot Variety Show Flora 618-662-8313 May 12 Spring Festival Woodland Park, Collinsville Join CARD for fishing to face painting, a petting zoo and live music. There will be plenty of activities for all ages.

618-346-7529 Gateway Triathlon Carlyle Lake Enjoy the excitement of three events: swimming, cycling and running. Starts at the Dam West Day Use Area beginning at 9am.

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May 12, June 2, July 14 Hare & Hounds Cruise Races Carlyle Sailing Association Eldon Hazlet State Park Be part of the crew for these fun cruise races. Stay for the evening “chill and grill” social. Advance reservations required.

314-325-9283 May 12, June 9 & July 7 Hwy 55 Cruise IN Hwy 55 Burgers & Fries, Litchfield Fun cruise at a 50s style diner with 50s style music. Great food and get together with different events.There will be a 50/50 drawing and other giveaways.

217-324-3455 May 18 Movies at Metter Metter Park, Columbia Outdoor movie in the park featuring Moana on 25’ inflatable screen!

Concessions available. Bring lawn chair or blanket.

618-281-7144 Springfest on Main Street Mascoutah Join us for fun food, vendors, music and other activities. 618-566-7355

May 18 – 20 Art on the Square Belleville Once again this Top Ranked art show is drawing artists from around the world to show and sell their work.

100+ artists in all media will be chosen for this juried show. A children’s area, high school art competition, music, food courts, a design stage and more are offered. artonthesquare.com Customer Appreciation Days Niehaus Cycle Sales, Litchfield Join us for demo rides, vendors, bands, drawings, great food, good times and the Show of Lights Ride thru downtown Saturday night at 9 pm.

217-324-6565 May 19 Try Sailing Day Carlyle Sailing Association Eldon Hazlet State Park Tour the facility and take rides on as many different types of sailboats as desired. There are smaller boats that kids from 8-years-old can handle. Kayaks available too. csa-sailing.org 314-325-9283 Red Berries & Bluegrass Festival Trinity Gardens and Homestead Mascoutah Hear George Portz and the Friends and pick up some organically grown strawberries and delicious homemade desserts and treats, plants, barn quilts and art work. There’s a children’s pavilion, bounce house and more.

618-566-4200 Tour de Tilden Bike Ride Tilden Village Park Registration starts at 8am and the ride starts at 9am. This is a family-friendly bike ride on rural, low traffic, paved roads in and around Tilden, IL. visitbikereg.com.

618-443-8789 May 19 & 20 Cowboy Mounted Shooting DuQuoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-8338 May 20 St. Jacob Strawberry Festival St. Jacob Township Park It’s a day filled with strawberry desserts, food, entertainment, crafts and fun and games for families, plus a Trailnet Bicycle Club ride featuring five different lengths of routes for cyclists of all skill levels.

618-644-2142 Kids Day at Cahokia Mounds Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Kids of all ages will have fun with hands-on activities and demonstrations about archaeology and Cahokia Mounds, crafts, activities, games, and dancing. Free souvenir photo with TapSnap.

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800-442-1488 May 25 - 27 Maifest Memorial Park, Nashville Slow-pitch Softball Tournament, Jr Baseball Tournament, Music, Food, Games, Novelties & More. Sponsored by the Nashville Lions Club.

618-327-3700 May 25, June 1, 15, 22 & 29, July 6, 13 & 20 Peanut Butter & Jam Festivals Downtown Square, Highland Local charities, businesses, and vendors come together to provide a place to eat and relax for all ages while taking in some great entertainment.

618-654-3721 Every Friday & Saturday from May 26 – July 28 Summer Concert Series Eckert’s Country Store & Farms Belleville Bring a lawn chair (seating is limited), sit outside and hear a variety of musical groups.

618-233-0513 May 26, June 30 Ladies Roller Derby Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville A fun time to watch ladies roller derby up close with lots of action.

618-233-0052 May 29 Memorial Day Parade Downtown Belleville Crowds line the streets for this large parade honoring those who presently serve and have served! 618-233-6769 May 29 – August 28 Waterloo Municipal Band Concerts Monroe County Courthouse Waterloo The Band performs concerts every Tuesday night between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Music selections include marches, show tunes, and more.

618-972-4821 May 31 – June 2 Adult Sailing Seminar Carlyle Sailing Association Eldon Hazlet State Park This three-day “learn to sail” program, led by certified by US Sailing instructors, is open to all adults, and no sailing experience is required. csa-sailing.org 314-325-9283

June 1 & 2 International Horseradish Festival Uptown Collinsville Since 1988 people from around the Midwest and the country have come to celebrate the multi-faceted and vastly under-utilized spice member of the mustard family. Join us for fun, entertainment, great food and drink. internationalhorseradishfestival.com June 2 CHEESEFEST 2018 Marcoot Jersey Creamery, Greenville Join us for our first (and soon to be annual) CHEESE OLYMPICS! There will be interactive games, “cooking with cheese” demonstrations, and of course, free samples of our cheese!

618-664-1110 GLOW Community Yard Sale Downtown Waterloo Come find some great deals! A map of participating residents can be found at waterloo.il.us.

618-939-8600 Hook’n in the Park BCDC Park, Beckemeyer Come to watch the tractor pulls!

618-227-8331 Imagine Hillsboro Concert Series Sherwood Forest Campground Hillsboro The biggest and BEST summer c oncerts are back again with a stellar lineup! Food on site and coolers permitted. Family friendly. In case of inclement weather, concerts are moved to the Hillsboro Moose Lodge.

217-556-4246 Museum Open House Day St. Clair County Historical Society Enjoy viewing Belleville’s museums with tours and activities throughout the day.

618-234-0600 Nature Culture Hike Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville This three-mile hike through archaeological and natural areas is led by an archaeologist and a naturalist. Come prepared to hike through grasslands, marsh and forest areas. Bring water, snack and insect repellent.

618-346-5160 Ice Cream Social Downtown Mascoutah 618-566-7355

JUNE 2018

Shriners Circus Belle-Clair Fairgrounds, Belleville View this one-of-a-kind Shriners Circus for the whole family to enjoy!

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June 1 June Festival Newton Square, Newton Join us on the square in Newton for our annual summer festival. Food, music, and fun!

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Bassmasters White Squirrel Derby Olney 618-395-7302

Shriners Parade Downtown Belleville Enjoy this large Shriner’s Parade full of bands, floats and more!

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Mudbug Festival Downtown Grayville Crawfish boil, shrimp and fish are on the menu for a great day.

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20 • Vol. XI, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2018 from page 19 June 2, 9, 16 & 30 Centralia Carillon Summer Series Centralia Carillon Downtown Centralia Guest Carillonneurs will perfom. Bring your lawn chairs. A free climb of the tower will be available after every artist concert.

618-533-4381 June 2 & 3 48th Annual Rendezvous Fort de Chartres, Prairie du Rocher The boom of cannons, the smell of campfires and a parade of colorful uniforms will transport visitors back to the 1700s. This free event (parking $5) features shooting competitions, military drills, dancing, music, food, and traders of 18th-century-style goods. 618-284-7230 June 3 Doll, Toy, and Mini Show Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville Vendors will have everything and anything to do with dolls, toys and miniature items on view and for sale!

618-233-0052 Optimist Club Car Show Downtown Waterloo Last year over 175 amazing cars registered for the show. Come out for a great day of family fun, or bring your hot rod to show off in the beautiful historic downtown!

618-939-8600 Shriners Circus Gateway Motorsports Park, Belleville View this one-of-a-kind Shriners Circus for the whole family to enjoy! soilshrinercircus.com

Kids’ Fishing Day Charley Brown Park, Flora Bring the family for a fun day at the lake.

618-662-8313 June 3 - 8 Junior Sailing Camp Carlyle Sailing Association, Carlyle This five day program is open to all kids 10 thru 16 years of age, and sailboats are provided. All meals, snacks, and camping are included.

Certified adult training, chaperone, and medical staff on site throughout.

Advance reservations are required. csa-sailing.org 314-325-9283 June 5 Shriners Circus Madison County Fairgrounds Highland View this one-of-a-kind Shriners Circus for the whole family to enjoy! soilshrinercircus.com June 6 Shrine Circus Olney

618-395-7302

June 6 – July 4 Cummins Municipal Band Concerts Olney 618-395-7302 June 6, 13, 20, 27, July 11, 18, 25 Wednesday Night Workout Series Metter Park, Columbia Workout in the park! A variety of workouts with modifications will be offered. All ages. Post workout treats sponsored by HMSCA businesses.

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June 7, 14, 21, 28, July 5, 19, 26 Sounds of Summer Concert Series Bower Park, Olney This is a free concert series that offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy great music for all ages. Bring your lawn chairs.

618-392-2241 June 8 & 9 Vintage in the ‘Ville Perry County Fairgrounds Pinckneyville A collection of eclectic vendors show and sell their wares. 618-571-1309 June 8 - 10 DieCon Gateway Center, Collinsville This Adventure Game convention has Board Games, Role Playing Games (RPGs), Collectable Card Games (CCGs) and Miniatures Games. With over 100 different games being played, you’re sure to find something you like.

618-345-8998 Heritage Days Festival Linn Park Amphitheater & Martinsville Fairgrounds, Martinsville Bring your lawn chair and enjoy food from local restaurants before the FREE Lloyd Wood Show concert Friday. Saturday and Sunday events at the Fairgrounds feature a Draft Horse, Haflinger and Mini Horse Show, Antique Farming Demo, music, and family activities. Sunday, David Davis, Trick Rider & Trainer, leading Cowboy Church closes the show.

713-865-0022 Schweizerfest Downtown Square, Highland Featuring great music, a variety of food, games, rides, and a parade on Saturday & Sunday, you are sure to enjoy yourself.

618-882-8478 June 9 AHRR Train Show American Farm Heritage Museum Greenville Several train displays will be set up with the opportunity to buy train equipment and supplies. The American Heritage Railroad train will be running. It’s fun for all ages.

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June 10, 24, July 1, 15, 29 Music at Metter Park Metter Park, Columbia Outdoor concert in the park featuring various bands like the Waterloo German Band! Food and beverages available for purchase. 618-281-7144 June 11 - 17 Agricultural Fair Martinsville Agricultural Fairgrounds FREE State Fair-Quality carnival rides,demolition derby, your favorite fair foods and nightly entertainment are highlights. A spectacular fireworks show wraps up the week.Visit martinsvilleagfair.com for the week’s activities.

713-865-0022

June 9 & 10 Blue Carpet Corridor: Route 66 Scavenger Hunt Ariston Cafe, Litchfield Celebrate Route 66 with this multitown scavenger hunt. For information on Litchfield’s stamp location log on to VisitLitchfield.com/events.

217-324-8147 Heritage Days Heritage House, Okawville Leave the electronics at home and let the kids play the old fashioned games.

Great food, music, auction, flea market and more.

618-243-5694 Rubber Stamp Show Gateway Center, Collinsville The show has been promoting artistic rubber stamps since 1997.

618-345-8998

June 10 Explore Waterloo Architectural Tour Downtown Waterloo Come find out the history behind several of the buildings along Main and Mill Street that date back to the 1800s! You will even get to descend two levels below JV’s Downtown Bar & Grill into their stone cellars.

618-939-8600 Military Heritage Day Monroe County Courthouse Waterloo The event will include a military vehicle show and interactive activities for children with military costumes for dressing up and sitting in one of the vehicles for a special photo op.

Reenactors from several war eras will perform.

618-939-5300

June 14 & 15 This is Our Music!

Newton This IL200 event focuses on the heritage of Illinois and Jasper County, featuring “The Mighty Balladeer,” Burl Ives.

618-783-3399 June 14 - 16 Irish Days Farmersville Come and enjoy traditional Irish food, games for adults and kids (including a pedal tractor-pull contest), carnival rides, tractor and truck show, and a beer garden with different bands playing each night!

217-891-6103 June 15 & 16 Grande Levee Vandalia Statehouse,Vandalia A two-day party appropriate for the dignitaries that a frontier state capital attracted during the 1830s. Today’s events include craft demonstrations, children’s activities, bluegrass music and food vendors.

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Lincoln Heritage Festival Rogier Park,Vandalia Dramatazations portraying citizens and dignitaries of the Capital era will be happening along the walking trail.

618-283-2728 June 15 – 17 Street Machine Nationals DuQuoin State Fairgrounds 618-542-8338 June 16 Clotfest 8 Courthouse Pub, Hillsboro Listen to live regional music and celebrate another year passing. This is the 8th year of the social community event.

Come out and raise a glass in celebration!

720-635-3619 Craft Beer Walk Downtown Belleville Enjoy a variety of Craft Beers and entertainment on Main Street.

618-233-2015 Crazy Casey Days Downtown Casey Family fun event includes classic car show, Swap Meet, Artisan craft fair, retailer specials and City Wide Garage Sale.

217-932-4460 Graffiti Car Show Downtown Greenville This show is a nostalgic day of classic cars, Hollywood stars, oldies music and great food.

618-664-9272 Tub Tobias Bicycle Classic Montgomery County Courthouse Hillsboro Join the “No-Drop” bicycle group ride with two optional routes, one long (25-30 miles) and one short (4-6 Miles).

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22 • Vol. XI, Issue I, Spring/Summer 2018 from page 21 June 16 & July 21 Farmer’s Market Downtown Hillsboro Food, entertainer’s for the kids, music, music, music and vendors!

217-960-0350 June 19 Porta Westfalica German Festival Downtown Waterloo Traditional German fare of pork sausage and potato pancakes is available. The Waterloo German Band and the Waterloo Municipal Band perform. The parade featuring floats and marching bands starts at 6pm.

618-939-8600 June 20 - 24 Montgomery County Fair Enjoy tasty food, animal and craft shows, and of course, FREE carnival rides each evening with paid gate admission.

Motocross races Friday night. Saturday is Kid’s Day with an epic demo derby that evening. Sunday enjoy truck and tractor pulls starting at noon!

217-272-4489 June 23 Fit for Life-Healthy Heart St. Francis Hospital, Litchfield Finisher Medal for ALL who run or walk the ENTIRE Fit for Life Series! The Healthy Heart 5K Run/Walk is the 1st race of a 3 race series. The 4K and a 10K are in August. Join us for 1 race or all 3 races! Awards to top male and female finisher and top 3 age-division finishers for males and females: Please register for the Fit for Life Run/Walk Series ONLY. 217-851-9056 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Gateway 200 Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison Get your tickets for the coolest doubleheader of the season at Gateway Motorsports Park. The NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the ARCA Midwest Tour will shoot it out in incredible races.

Gatewaymsp.com Trouble & Company in Concert Linn Park Amphitheater, Martinsville Bring your lawn chair and sing along with your all-time favorites from Motown, ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s hits to Country and Do-wop. Dine in the park with specialties offered by local restaurants before the concert. martinsvillelinnparkamphitheater.com 713-865-0022 Sips & Sounds Wine Fest Flora 618-662-8313 June 24 Summer Solstice Sunrise Observance Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville The Summer Solstice observance is held at Woodhenge and includes an informal talk about the importance of Woodhenge.

618-346-5160 June 28 – July 1 Beauty and the Beast Outdoor Stage, Breese North Park Clinton County Showcase presents this Summer Youth Musical.

618-526-2866 June 29 & 30 Marine Homecoming Village Square, Highland Both nights include a parade, food, drinks, music, games, rides and vendors till 11:59pm.

618-887-4531 June 30 – July 4 Ohio Valley Babe Ruth Tournament City Park, Robinson This is regional baseball at its finest.

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June 29 – July 1 Independence Celebration Downtown Raymond Celebrate Independence Day early with a truck/car/motorcycle show (all categories), food, carnival rides, live entertainment, games and beer tent with live bands each night!

Registration is at 9am.

217-710-3787 June 29 – July 4 Fantastic 4th Weekend Uptown Mt. Carmel There will be various events each day leading up to the beloved 4th of July parade and the very popular Fireworks by the Wabash River.

318-262-5116 4th of July Celebration Robinson City Park Everyone will enjoy the carnival rides, food booths, nightly entertainment, car show, baseball and softball tournaments and a spectacular fireworks show.

618-544-3834 June 30 5K Freedom Fun Run Lake Lou Yaeger Picnic Area 3 Litchfield Kick off your holiday early. This family friendly race is electronically timed and good for participants of any age.

217-324-8147 Independance Day Picnic & Fireworks Caseyville Park A variety of activities are planned: food items for sale, music by DJ Big Papa G, games and inflatables, Firecracker Car Cruise, Condiment Art Contest for kids and Corn Eating Contests for kids and adults. Fireworks start after dusk. caseyville.org.

618-344-1234 Gravity Powered Downhill Derby Downtown McLeansboro Homemade “cars” will sail down the ramp to compete in this gravity-powered derby. Individuals and businesses are welcome to enter. The event will 618-925-4888 begin at 9:00 am.

Optimist Truck and Tractor Pull Monroe County Fairgrounds,Waterloo Come for a day full of tractor and truck pulls including an antique class, farmer class, garden tractors and pickup trucks.

618-939-4681 Fireworks Spectacular Dam West Recreation Area Carlyle Lake Celebrate Independence Day with live music, sandcastle building contest, volleyball tournament concluding with a wonderful fireworks display.

The fireworks can be viewed by boat or shore in the Dam West and East Recreation Areas.

618-594-2484 Independence Day Sail and Party Carlyle Sailing Association, Carlyle All are invited to come to this social event with food and drink provided (donation and advance reservation required). Later in the evening, watch the Carlyle fireworks from the CSA harbor property; an excellent vantage point. For reservations: csa-sailing.org in June.

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Fourth Fest Fireworks Downtown Greenville Party with the Kentucky Headhunters to celebrate. 844-404-9272 Hummingbird Festival Greenville 844-404-9272

JULY 2018 July 1 - 4 Carnival and 4th of July Celebration Fairview Park, Centralia The four day event features a carnival, games, food vendors, beer garden, cake walk, parade and a fireworks 618-533-7623 display in the park.

July 4 Imagine Hillsboro Cardboard Boat Regatta Hillsboro Beach The Regatta is open to participation from businesses, schools, youth groups, groups of friends, and nonprofit organizations desiring to build a boat and participate! Join us in a team-building experience like none other and have fun while doing it.

Creativity is encouraged!

217-556-4246 4th of July Bike Parade Immaculate Conception School Columbia Children decorate their bikes and join the parade to Metter Park for games, activities and treats.

618-281-7144 4th of July Celebration American Legion Park, Columbia There’s fun for all ages with Bingo, Kloepper & washers tournaments, food & drink stands & fabulous fireworks!

618-281-7144 Lion’s Club Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show Carmi The Show will also have tractors, lots of trophies, dash plaques and awards.

There will also be a swap meet, craft vendors, food and drinks and fireworks after dark! 618-382-5711 Fireworks Display Glik Park, Highland Come early to enjoy food from various vendors and fun family activities.

618-651-1386 Imagine Hillsboro Concert Series Sherwood Forest Campground Hillsboro The biggest and BEST summer concerts are back again with a stellar lineup! Food on site and coolers permitted. Family friendly. In case of inclement weather, concerts are moved to the Hillsboro Moose Lodge.

217-556-4246 4th of July Veterans Parade Downtown Centralia The parade on West Broadway starts at the RR tracks and heads west ending at Fairview Park. Enjoy an awards ceremony, recognition and celebration activities in the park. 618-533-7623

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800-442-1488 Celebration & Fireworks Scheve Park, Mascoutah Lots of activities and great fireworks at the Park.

618-566-7355 Fireworks & Municipal Band Special Olney 618-395-7302 4th of July Celebration Flora Sponsored by the Kiwanis Club.

618-662-8313 July 6 – 8 Hofbraufest Hoyleton Celebrate with delicious food, music, vendor/craft fair, games, parade, car show and quilt auction.

618-231-7493 July 6 – 15 Richland County Fair Olney 618-395-7302 July 7 Hall’s Summer Thunder Tour Farmersville Square, Farmersville Feed your need with this annual car, truck and bike show! Enjoy live music, food and venders at this family 217-891-6103 friendly event.

Summer Hootenanny Oblong Music is the star of this show! theonlyoblong.com July 10 – 14 Washington County Fair 801 E Holzhauer Dr., Nashville Spend the day enjoying the ITPA Tractor Pull, local Tractor Pull, Kiddie Tractor Pull, Demolition Derby, amusement rides, Glow Run, food, & 4-H Events. Free parking & free gate.

618-327-8881 July 13 Tour de Belleville Bike Ride Downtown Belleville A competitive family fun evening event riding through the city.

618-233-1416 July 13 & 14 Fireman’s Picnic Lebanon Live music, food, carnival rides and a parade both nights are highlights of this festival.

618-537-8420 Bluegrass Reunion & Jam Festival Flora 618-662-8313 July 13 - 15 Belleville Knife Show Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville A variety of vendors display and showcase speciality knifes from the Midwest and beyond! 618-233-0052

Nokomis Homecoming Celebration Nokomis City Park Annual community celebration includes events such as pageants, softball, beer pong, washers and 3-on-3 basketball tournaments, bingo, 5K Walk/Run, craft vendors, tractor show, antique car cruise-in, live entertainment, Homecoming Parade on Saturday, grand fireworks finale.

FB: @nokomishomecoming July 14 Cork & Pork Festival Picquet Park, Saint Marie The festival starts at noon with pork, beer, wine and music. 618-783-3399 Kevin Horner, Ventriloquist, Illusionist & Comedian Linn Park Amphitheater Martinsville The show is appropriate for all ages and includes clean comedy with a splash of magic and a lot of audience participation. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the FREE show. Dine in the park before the show. martinsvillelinnparkamphitheater .com 713-865-0022 July 14 & 15 Contemporary Indian Art Show Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Native American artists from across the nation sell paintings, prints, sculpture, basketry, metal work, pottery, jewelry, bead work and other fine art.

618-346-5160 Burl Ives Celebration Newton Randy Sparks of the New Christie Minstrels pays tribute to Newton’s favorite son.

618-783-3399 July 15 - 21 Clinton County Fair Carlyle Fair goers enjoy exhibits, carnival rides, games, tractor pulls, and delicious food. Concessions,Vendors & Carnival open Mon. – Sat. at 5:30 p.m. Parking – $3 a night or Parking Pass – $12 for the week.

618-594-2468

July 19 – 28 Clay County Fair Flora

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July 20 -21 Central City Lion’s Festival Lion’s Park, Centralia This two day festival offers live music, food, beverages, raffles, cake wheel, poker stand, inflatables and Wamac’s Lil’ Toot Train.

618-204-9710 July 21 Big Dawg Dare Wolff Farms, Litchfield Come out for the 5K mud run/ obstacle course.

217-246-2895 July 21 & 22 Old Tyme Tractor Show Lake Hillsboro Park, Hillsboro Highlights include: tractor and lawn tractor games, stationary gas engines, antique lawn mowers, pedal tractors and antique trucks/cars. Kids will enjoy a kiddie tractor pull, pedal races, crafts, and everyone will like the parade Saturday morning.

217-556-6065 July 22 - 29 Monroe County Fair Monroe County Fairgrounds Waterloo Fair exhibits include farm implements, farm animals, arts and crafts, 4-H projects, floral, art and photography, quilts, and garden produce. Carnival rides are also featured along with Grandstand events and demolition derby.

618-939-7796

Crawford County Fair Crawford County Fairgrounds Oblong Don’t miss the carnival with midway, fair queen pageant, 4-H exhibits, demo derby, 618-592-4355 tractor pull and more.

July 24 - 29 Madison County Fair Highland Exhibitors, spectators, workers, and the local community come together to provide educational opportunities, facilitate entertainment, and show exhibits that are fun and educational. See arts & crafts, horticulture, livestock and more.

618-654-6656 July 27 - 29 Heritage Days American Farm Heritage Museum Greenville Highlights are tractor pulls, field demonstrations, antique fire truck and gas engine displays, live music, Grand-Scale railroad, food, vendors, steam engine, Baker Fan, sawmill, and threshing. Golf carts, the Lil’ Red Barn Museum and Pedal Pulls daily.

318-664-9733 July 28 Andy Avery in Concert Linn Park Amphitheater, Martinsville Andy Avery is a singer, musician and evangelist. The former lead singer for Journey shares his life story and musical talents. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the FREE show. Dine in the park beforehand. martinsvillelinnparkamphitheater.com 713-865-0022 July 28 & 29 Great Train Expo Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center Belleville This unique display is like walking into a museum.View fabulous train exhibits with lots to see and buy! 618-233-0052 Hydroplane Boat Races Raccoon Lake, Centralia The Outboard Power Boat Races are presented by the National Boat Racing Association and Outboard Drivers Association. Concessions available.

618-532-1160 July 29 Old Settlers Days Celebration Open Car Show and Old Time Fair Downtown Hillsboro The Open Car show hosts an impressive 27 classes! Registrationis from 9am-Noon; Show & Shine Noon-3:30pm; Trophy Presentation 4pm.

217-532-3933

4387 N. Illinois, Suite 200 Swansea, Illinois 62226

4 /18, 60M