Fall Tourism Times

Vol. X, Issue II, Fall 2017

The town of McLeansboro will double in size when the annual Fall Festival on September 9 – 11, 2017 rolls around. Thanks to the Kiwanis Club volunteers, led by Festival Chairman Jerry Prince, this September weekend event has been getting bigger and better each year.

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from Cover Almost every city and village in ILLINOISouth puts on a fall festival (check our calendar for dates and locations). Nearly all of them feature some or all of these activities: exciting rides; vendors selling your favorite carnival food; arts & crafts for souvenirs and gifts; a special “cuteness factor” at the Little Miss and Mister pageant; local musical entertainment; and a parade with marching bands and decorated floats. So what sets McLeansboro’s festival apart? How do they draw more than 7,000 people on Saturday night?

Perhaps a little of the history will help make it clearer. Back in the 1960s, McLeansboro, like many other small towns in southern Illinois, started holding Dairy Days. Usually this was a one-day event on a Saturday

by Pat White

where farmers brought their produce and other products for sale. A cow or two would be tethered in the town square, so the kids and city folk got to try their hand at milking. Hopefully, some smart vendor would sell homemade ice cream or cheese or other fresh dairy treats.

Over the years, Dairy Days evolved into larger Fall Festivals as more and more people in and out of town wanted to be involved. In McLeansboro, the Kiwanis Club took over the festival in the late 60s to help support their mission “Serving the Children of the World.” Then in 2000,

they decided to separate their festival from all the others. As a band director, car enthusiast, farmer and active member of Kiwanis, Jerry Prince was a natural to take on the challenge. He had contacts in the music industry and elicited financial support from ten local businesses to hire popular country

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Hello from Dan...

If you’re asking “What happened to Summer?” it's probably because of all the fun you had in ILLINOISouth! Don't stop now! Fall is here, and there's just as much to do as the weather cools off.

Hopefully you have your “Eclipse” sunglasses by now and are awaiting the big day, August 21st. It’s the talk of the town(s) and everyone is finalizing their activities and events for the special day. Make sure you’re “in the know” with our Calendar of Events section.

Not only is the Eclipse front and center, but Gateway Motorsports Park is excited to welcome back INDY CAR on August 26th. Things are really heating up at the track, so get ready to start your engines!

ILLINOISouth is your “go to” destination for all things Fall and Fun. Now that the kids are back in school it’s time to plan some weekend adventures. Mark your calendar for fall festivals, pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, Halloween activities and so much more!

Dan Krankeola President /CEO ILLINOISouth

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

P. S. Be sure to take a look at our updated website! There are lots of photos and detailed information to help you find all the fun in ILLINOISouth.

WOW!

We’ll distribute them for you!

Another Allegiant Destination from MidAmerica St. Louis Airport!

We insert your literature into plastic bags which we distribute at trade shows, events, meetings, reunions and to sports groups staying in area hotels.

They’ll also be added to packets mailed out as fulfillment for web, phone and regional advertising requests.

We’re getting spoiled! Allegiant Airlines announced the addition of year-round, nonstop service to Phoenix, AZ via PhoenixMesa Gateway Airport (AZA)! This brings the total number of destinations out of MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) to nine: Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Destin/ Fort Walton Beach, Fort Myers/Punta Gorda, Jacksonville, Orlando/Sanford and Tampa/ St. Pete in Florida.

Allegiant’s low-cost, nonstop service coupled with MidAmerica’s convenience, shorter lines at check-in and security and expanded parking, are attracting more and more passengers from the Metro St. Louis area and southern Illinois. In addition to the low fares making travel to these destinations easier, flights that connect to international carriers significantly reduce the cost of traveling to South America and other destinations out of the country.

Ready to go? Make your reservations at Allegiant.com.

Call Jon at 618-257-1488

and ask about the Brochure Distribution Service.

For a nominal fee, we’ll help get the word out about YOU!

To carry Tourism Times at your restaurant, store, visitors center or place of business, Christine Sopiars, 618-257-1488 or csopiars@ILLINOISouth.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@ILLINOISouth.org

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800-442-1488 from page 1 music artist Dan Seals to perform in concert that year.

This proved so successful that for the last 16 years the entertainment lineup has included Larry Gatlin, Mo Bandy, Marty Haggard, Mickey Gilley, Little Jimmy Dickens, the Oak Ridge Boys, Mel Tillis and many more singers and songwriters. Each year, the lineup draws a larger audience. This year the Family Tradition Concert on the Main Stage on the Square stars members of four of Country Music’s most famous families, who are celebrities in their own right: Michael Twitty (Conway Twitty’s son); Georgette Jones (George Jones’ daughter); Marty Haggard (Merle Haggard’s son) and Statler Brother Jimmy Fortune.Where else can the whole family go to a FREE concert of this caliber?

“The financial support of businesses, the community, churches and corporations and accommodations by the city make it possible for a city of 3,000 to more than double,” said Prince. He noted that not only have the crowds grown, but the sponsorships have also gotten much larger.The schedule of events has also expanded.

Each festival has a theme, and each night features a different special entertainment in addition to the usual rides and vendors.

Thursday night is traditionally Gospel Night. Scott Wattles & The

Blue Suede Shoes Crew will present a “Tribute to the Gospel Music of Elvis Presley.” Friday will rock at Retro Night. Dance to music from the 50s to the 80s headlined by Exile, and check out the car cruise with featured vehicles like the red ’57 Chevy convertible pictured on page 1.

On Saturday morning, a new event, The Fox Hollow Downhill Derby, will roll down East Main St. This is a gravity-powered race of homemade cars, and the competition is fierce! Families, church groups, businesses and organizations design, build and enter a car for a fun day of racing in several different divisions. A ramp will start the cars down the hill with spectators lining the street to cheer on

their favorites. Sound like fun? Entries are accepted up until race day.

Saturday evening’s fun starts at 6:00 p.m. with the big parade that takes at least an hour to wind through town.Then settle in for the main event concert. Now that you know what sets McLeansboro’s Fall Festival apart, bring your lawn chairs or blankets on Thursday, September 9 – Saturday, September 11 for a fabulous time!

As Prince says, “[We’ve gone from] milk cows on the square to national acts coming in to headline the event!” You won’t want to miss it!

To find out more about the festival, call Jerry Prince at 618-925-4888. For Downhill Derby rules and entry information, call Prince or Jerry White (618516-1187) or Jim Lutz (618-919-0335).

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Lebanon Celebrates Charles Dickens In 1842, author Charles Dickens made a trip to America to visit the prairies. One of his stops was in Lebanon, IL, where he stayed at the Mermaid Inn. On September 23, 2017, Dickens Fest will celebrate this famous visitor with Mermaid House tours (yes, it’s still there!), costume contests, carriage rides, pie eating contest, vintage games and kids activities.

Circle the date on your calendar and plan to come from 10:00am – 5:00pm. For more information, call 618-537-8420 or www.lebanonil.us. While in Lebanon, look for the tree “sculpture” next to Looking Glass Playhouse. This creative way of preserving history is the remnant of a dying 55-year-old oak tree. Instead of cutting it down and leaving a stump, a chain saw carver made a stack of books with titles drawn from places and activities in Lebanon.

INDYCARS Are Back!

The last INDYCAR Race held at Gateway Motorsports Park was in 2003. On August 26, 2017, drivers and race fans will be here again at the Bommarito Automotive Group 500, the 15th race of the Verizon INDYCAR Series. The list of race winners at the track is impressive: Paul Tracy, Alex Zanardi, Michael Andretti, Juan Pablo Montoya, Al Unser Jr., Gil de Ferran and Helio Castroneves, who is returning this year to defend his title. According to Gateway’s website, 21 drivers turned laps in the two practice sessions in May. Conor Daly of AJ Foyt Racing led with

the best lap in the No. 4 ABC Supply Chevrolet at 176.907 mph (25.4371 seconds). Castroneves was second fastest in the No. 3 Team Penske Chevrolet (174.559 mph).

The credit for bringing INDYCAR back to Gateway goes to Curtis Francois, a former racer who drove in the 2002 Indy Lights race at the track. Francois took over ownership of Gateway in 2012 and has added NASCAR trucks and NHRA drag racing to the schedule. As Francois said in an open letter to fans on the track website, “My team and I love the work we do here, and we are committed to bringing fans, drivers, teams, and sponsors the most exciting racing experience anywhere in the Midwest. Last year alone, nearly 1,000,000 fans crossed the gates of Gateway Motorsports Park to see professional and amateur racing at its finest.

Since 2012, we’ve brought world-class racing back to the track including NHRA, NASCAR, USAC, karting, off-road racing, and a variety of local and regional programs.” And now INDYCAR is back!

Tickets are on sale at www.gatewaymsp.com or call the Ticket Office at 618-215-8888 Monday – Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm.

Total Eclipse of the Sun! The final countdown is on to Monday, August 21, 2017, when southern Illinois will experience a Total Eclipse of the Sun! The longest time of darkness will begin around 1:21p.m., and last 2min, 38sec at Carbondale, IL and 2min, 40sec at Makanda. Everyone is encouraged to find a spot to watch beginning at noon. Be prepared for larger than usual crowds and possible traffic and parking issues.

VERY IMPORTANT: Wherever you are, if you plan to look at the eclipse, be sure you have ISO-certified eclipse viewing glasses! It is very dangerous to try to see it without these glasses – normal sunglasses are NOT enough protection. The gift shop at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville is giving away eclipse glasses in August as long as supplies last. They are also available online.

There are many activities planned including an Astronomy, Science & Technology Fair, an Arts & Crafts Fair and Eclipse Comic Con at SIUCarbondale; the 4-day Moonstock Festival at Walker’s Bluff in Carterville, headlined by Ozzy Osbourne; Total Eclipse in the Park, Columbia and Waterloo’s Solarbration. For more info: southernillinoiseclipse.com.

NEW! Outdoor Tactical Laser Tag American Obstacle is well known for ziplining and individual and group adventures. Now, thrill seekers who would rather keep their feet on the ground can try out the new Tactical Laser Tag.The playing field is roughly three acres of wooded grounds with trails and switchbacks throughout the course. Bunkers are set up at opposing ends of the course so that teams can strategize and plan for attack. Cost is only $18 per person for 1.5 hours of play and comes with your very own Game Master to lead groups through a series of different games. Discounts are offered for those that want to zipline and laser tag all in the same day.

Book a reservation at www. americanobstacle.com or call 217-690-3367. Also check out the Facebook page (American Obstacle) for great pictures and updates. American Obstacle is located at 7859 IL-37 (12.8 mi. north of Salem, IL in Marion County).

Shop the Chirping Frog Wear comfortable shoes at this mall, because it has 11,500+ sq.ft. of space filled with antique and vintage furniture, collectibles, artisan wares, home décor, accessories and more.

Sixty-two (or more) dealers like Antique Oddities, Susie’s Antiques and Collectibles, Wordsmith Reclaimed Wood Signs and Sue Sue’s Doo Dads, just to name a few, offer a wide variety of items to collectors, junkers and anyone looking for unusual items for the home or as gifts.

Owner Margot Mantle opened the Chirping Frog in November, 2016. The name came from her love of reptiles and amphibians of all kinds, especially frogs. On a trip to the Southwest, she saw a sign spelling out “frog” as “Faithfully Rely On God.” It gave a new meaning to her favorite amphibian and inspired the name of her latest venture.

Visit the store at 7479 State Rte. 4 in Worden, just off I-55. Like it on Facebook at thechirpingfrog. Open Daily, 9am – 5pm, 618-633-2320.

Mark your calendar to come to Fall Market Days on October 7 & 8 for special sales. Going to the Litchfield Pickers Market on Sunday? The Chirping Frog is only a 26 minute drive south of Litchfield on I-55. Easy to do both!

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Gotta Love the TICs! ILLINOISouth Tourism celebrates National Tourism Week in May by visiting the Tourist Information Centers in our region and beyond. This spring, Christine Sopiars, the Bureau’s Executive Assistant, took to the highways and stopped in at five TICs to express our appreciation for their hard work. It’s amazing how many of the folks who man these centers are the same familiar faces that have been there for years. With Visitors Guides, brochures, maps and a smile they answer questions and help travelers navigate the area and discover all we have to offer.Thank you all!

hland, C – Hig I T e k d, La Silver ot picture West (N e g r o Ge Wolfe) Sh a n n o n

Cumberland Road TIC – (l-r) Rob Minge, Molly Bellamey, Diane Ratliff, City of Charleston/ Tourism & Christine

IL

Fort Mass ac TIC – Metropo Matt Du lis, IL rham & A lisa Goin es

Homestead TIC – Hamel, IL Barbara Wetzel & Abe Syrus

Rend Lake North TIC – Whittington, IL Marlene Mezo & Gene Ragin

Salt Kettle TIC – Oakwood, IL Becky Wilken & Roger Bowen

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Road Trippin’

FF

T

here are two things that every successful road trip has to have… great food and fun things to do!

ILLINOISouth has you covered for both with these day or overnight trip suggestions that are a little off the beaten track. Get a copy of the ILLINOISouth Visitors Guide or go to illinoisouth.org for nearby lodging.

TRACK !

Western Region From the day the doors opened, Beast Craft BBQ has been a hit. Even though it’s not on a major highway or in a big city, word-of-mouth advertising and articles in FEAST and Sauce magazines bring hungry patrons from all over the St. Louis metro area and beyond. Chef and Pitmaster David Sandusky left the fine dining world in 2014, and with his wife, d Dirty Frie

Ribs at A

the BEATEN

e Fine Swin

Meggan, brought his hand-crafted barbecue to Belleville.

Regular patrons have learned to come early and often. They know they might have to stand in line for a little while, but it’s worth it to try whatever is on the weekly menu. Everything is fresh – premium meat is smoked and sold daily.There are no cans, freezers or microwaves in the kitchen. There’s a huge selection of craft beer, and the atmosphere is casual. To make it even better, the Sanduskys give back to the community in the form of donations to local charities. No wonder they sell out every day! Beast is located at 20 S. Belt W, Belleville, IL; 618-257-9000; beastcraftbbq.com, @beastcraftbbq; Hours:

11am – 9pm daily or until sold out. Take out and catering is available.

Once you’re here, Beast Craft BBQ is only a couple of blocks west of BelleClair Fairgrounds & Expo Center where weekend shows are a big draw. Check our calendar for monthly Flea Markets, Gun & Knife Shows, Craft & Vendor Fair, Largest Yard Sale, Motorcycle Swap and more. If Beast Craft shopping is a passion, downtown BBQ S andwi ch Belleville is less than a mile north on Hwy 159 with several blocks of unique shops. More details at his first professional competition. The Belleville.net and bcfairgrounds.net. rookie finished with a 3rd place win overall! Since then, he’s won many other competitions and developed several bestselling sauces.

Now this nationally-known BBQ champion has opened his first restaurant in New Baden, IL with a menu Championship barbeque from the featuring Championship Pulled Pork, winner of the 2015 Illinois State Prime Texas Brisket, Competition champion BBQ team is the signature Ribs and Hickory Smoked Chicken. of A Fine Swine BBQ. Pitmaster It’s all fresh meat delivered daily and David Stidham has been a lover of barbecue since he was a child. Maybe growing up in Memphis, TN had something to do with that! A few years ago, after perfecting his skills with wood, smoke and meat, and with encouragement from his sons, he entered

Central Region

Jessica Feldmann, Moment in Time Photography

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cooked low and slow then served with fresh-made sides. To top it all off, there’s fruit cobbler or gooey butter cake for dessert. A Fine Swine is located at 423 W. Hanover St. (IL 161), New Baden; 618-588-5141; afineswine.com; Hours: Tues. – Sat. 11am – 8pm; Sun. 11am – 6pm or until sold out. Catering and online ordering available.

Continue the adventure 13 miles east on IL 161 with a visit to Bob’s Civil War Fort.This exact replica was built stone by stone starting in 1984 and is the lifetime achievement of Bob Eversgerd. It includes a jail, one room home, livery, log cabins, lookout towers, cannons, laundry, wagons and so much more. Be sure to stop in at the museum and see the cases of Native American arrowheads and other artifacts that were discovered around the property. Bob enjoys giving tours, but best to call in advance. He has caller ID (no voicemail) and will call back, or you can drive by. If the doors to the Fort are open, go on in. 6251 Shoal Creek Rd., Germantown (Google maps says Bartelso). 618-523-4749; Search “Bob’s Civil War Fort” on Facebook for visitors’ photos. I said it was an adventure!

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Eastern Region In 1982, Helen Tuttle opened the Moonshine Store in a general store built in 1912 near Martinsville, IL. In addition to some grocery items, Helen began cooking up her Moonshine Burgers for the locals. It didn’t take long before word spread that these were the best hamburgers in Illinois!

Helen is retired now, but her daughterin-law, Lisa Tuttle, said the family is keeping the grill, and Helen’s reputation, going.

Every day the place is crowded with people who stand in line to order the legendary meat and cheese on a bun.

Many of them come from all over the country. They’ve heard about Moonshine online at onlyinourstate.com or roadsideamerica.com, or on TV on the Travel Channel and Bill Geist’s CBS Sunday Morning segment (see it on YouTube). Many return after

coming for the Moonshine Lunch Run, which attracts thousands of bikers each spring. Lisa said they served 3,362 burgers on this one day this past April.The date for the next Run is already set for April 14, 2018.

Moonshine is open Monday – Saturday at 6:00am, but don’t dawdle, the grill is turned off at 12:30pm – sharp. The store, which sells mainly souvenir items, closes at 1:00pm.While you’re there, check out the World’s Largest Horseshoe in Martinsville and the many other World’s Largest things 7.5 mi. east on U.S. 40 in Casey.

Information: 6017 E. 300th Rd., Martinsville; 618-569-9200; Facebook: MoonshineStore Writer’s note: Information for these articles was drawn in part from their Facebook pages and websites.

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Bicentennial

PHOTO CONTEST

2018

is the state of Illinois’ Bicentennial Year! Plans are being made now to mark the occasion, including here at ILLINOISouth Tourism.We are discussing design plans for our 2018 Visitors Guide that will explore the past and celebrate the present.We’d like you to be part of it by sending in photos of your friends and family enjoying day or overnight trips or activities in ILLINOISouth!

We want to help you explore ILLINOISouth, so enter to win a $250 Gas Card! Plus your photo could be used in our Visitors Guide, Tourism Times newsletters, on our website or our Facebook page! Enter often for multiple chances to win.

Send photos electronically to photocontest2018@illinoisouth.org. Be sure to include the name, address, phone number and email of the person sending it in and the location where the photo was taken. All places must be within the ILLINOISouth Tourism 22 county region (see map, pgs.

12-13). Keep your phone or camera handy! Entry deadline is November 1, 2017.

Rules: You must be 21 years of age or older to enter. All entries will be added to the prize drawings. Photo use will be determined by editorial staff. Photos that are not submitted through photocontest2018@illinoisouth.org or that do not have contact information included will not qualify. Photos become the property of ILLINOISouth Tourism. Submitting a photo authorizes ILLINOISouth Tourism to use it for promotional purposes including publishing in the annual Visitors Guide,Tourism Times newsletter, Facebook page or ILLINOISouth.org website, etc. By sending a photo, entrant gives ILLINOISouth Tourism permission to publish in print or online any person pictured, including parental/guardian permission for minor children.

Contest ends November 1, 2017. Winners will be announced January 4, 2018. For questions or other information, call 618-257-1488.

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Live Oak Wine Décor Ever notice how wine lovers enjoy not only the vintage in the bottle, but also everything associated with making and enjoying wine? Favorite collectibles might be glasses or charms or stoppers – even a wine cooler or rack. If this sounds familiar, there’s a place in Millstadt that is a must-see.

Dave Chaput has been making things out of wood for many years. While living in Denver, CO, he saw artisans using wine boxes and barrels to fashion furniture, trays, signs and other wine-related items. After retiring and moving to Illinois, he opened his workshop/store, Live Oak Wine Décor. Dave’s creativity expanded to include personalizing many of the items he makes and sells.The shipping crates and wine barrels he uses are imported from California and Minnesota. Some whole barrels are rented out with table tops for use as rustic furniture pieces at weddings and other events. Most are dismantled and turned into furniture, lazy susans, trays, decorative accessories like barrel stave candle holders, and custom pieces.

Recently a customer brought him the wrought iron legs from his wife’s grandparents’ old sewing machine. Dave used the legs as the base of a coffee table that the man gave his wife for their anniversary.

This kind of custom, personalized work is one of his favorite things to do. Names and dates can be added to all kinds of things for wedding, birthday, anniversary or other special gifts.

As this is a one-man operation, it’s best to call before coming in to browse through the shop. Usually Dave is there, but he doesn’t want anyone inconvenienced if he has a dentist appointment or something.

The shop is located in an old hardware store with tin ceilings and big front display windows at 513 S. Jefferson St. in Millstadt.

Phone is 618-476-6153 or shop online at www.liveoakwinedecor.com

Code 3 Spices It’s not too hard to understand where the name Code 3 came from when you see the rubs and sauces produced by this Collinsville company. Every grill master will be cooking with “lights and sirens” using the Rescue Rub, Grunt Rub, 5-0 Rub, Sea Dog Rub, Backdraft Rub or Patriot sauce (original or spicy) when they barbecue.

Chris Bohnemeier, a BBQ enthusiast and grill master and Mike Radosevich, a Police Officer of 12 plus years, joined forces to create a BBQ competition team. After winning multiple awards in local BBQ competitions, they found a local manufacturer to replicate their special seasoning blends. Not only will these delicious rubs and sauces wind up on everything grilled, but they’ll also become stars of the kitchen spice rack.

Both men share a passion for our first responders and those in military services. From their own lives and the lives of family members, they understand what first responders and the military contribute to all of us. Now, portions of each Code 3 Spices sale is donated to organizations that support police, fire, medical and military personnel.

Code 3 products are for sale online or at some local meat markets and grocery stores in the Metro-East, including Schnucks and Eckert’s Country Store.

To find a store near you or to order online, visit www.code3spices.com.

Leaf Dressing How did Shane Stay, Illinois native, former professional soccer player, comedian, restauranteur and author begin making and distributing salad dressing? It seems like an odd combination even in this eclectic career that includes earning a Bachelor of Arts from Sonoma State University (CA) and a Master of Arts from Southern Illinois University. “The salad dressing started out as a hobby,” Stay explains. “I made it up on my kitchen table, then friends kept telling me I should bottle it. I think it’s like most entrepreneurs, the business was driven by customer demand.”

In 2008, that demand led Stay to a bottling company in Collinsville and the production and distribution of Leaf Dressing. It has proven to be a good move - in 2010, the dressing took First Place in the California Taste Test and was a Double Gold Medal Winner at the Sonoma County Fair in 2014.

At first, the dressing was sold in smaller local outlets and online. Now distribution includes Schnucks Markets in the Metro-East along with locations like the two Farmers Markets and Happy Hop Homebrew and Gourmet in Belleville and the Carbondale Co-op.

It’s also available online and at promotions, festivals and events. The dressing comes in two versions, Original and Spicy, and is popular as a marinade.

Stay has written three books: World Cup Russia: The Complete Review (out in 2018), Why American Soccer Isn’t There Yet (2014) and The Cairo Story (A historical book about Cairo, Illinois) (20072008). He offers a combined sale of Why American Soccer Isn’t There Yet and the dressings on his website and at book signings and other events. Proceeds from these sales are donated to Metro-East Humane Society (Illinois) and MetroEast Lab Rescue (Illinois). To place an order, find out about an upcoming event or other information, visit www.leafdressing.com and Facebook @ShaneStayAuthor.

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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?

Fall in

Centralia Video is a great enhancement to a website, and the City of Centralia decided to produce four seasonal films to show off the places and events that make this community a fun destination. Enter ILLINOISouth Tourism.

With the Bureau’s help, the first of the videos, Fall in Centralia, is up and running. The city also created a designated website for tourism (seecentralia.com) that has a link to the video and other visitor information. It can also be accessed from the Tourism button on cityofcentralia.org.

Kala Lambert, Economic Development Director for Centralia, said, “Working with ILLINOISouth to create a video that highlights the attractions and events in Centralia has been an excellent experience. Our board was not exactly sure what we wanted, and the staff at ILLINOISouth was always eager to make adjustments and create a video we were happy with in the end. I would recommend seeking their assistance in any venture related to tourism.”

Columbia’s New Brochure ILLINOISouth Tourism has helped produce hundreds of brochures and rack cards over the years. These are a great way to spread the word about an attraction or an entire community. Recently, the Bureau worked with the City of Columbia to create a new 8-page piece that rings all the bells and blows all the whistles of this growing city.

Sue Spargo, Community Relations & Tourism Coordinator for Columbia, in conjunction with their Tourism Advisory Committee, worked with the Bureau on the project. “With so many new attractions like Stumpy’s Spirits & Distillery, additions to Historic Main Street and spaces for weddings, meetings and events in Columbia, we

Cahokia Mounds’ Facebook Post

Prior to the Spring Equinox Observation event at Woodhenge in March, ILLINOISouth Tourism created a Facebook post for Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, one of our members. The post results are impressive: Reach: 16,943; Reactions (combined Likes, Comments & Shares): 623; Total Post Clicks: 1,128.

Are You Online?

wanted to get the word out to potential visitors,” Sue said. “The benefits of our Ruby level membership at ILLINOISouth Tourism Bureau include production of promotional materials, so we asked the Bureau to help us create a new brochure that would showcase Columbia’s best attributes. We worked closely with Tiffany throughout the design process, and Sandy worked with her contacts to get us excellent prices on printing the brochure. Our membership also gives us a discount on the printing process and our contract with CTM, which affords us the opportunity to distribute our brochures throughout the region. From design to distribution, the Bureau guided us through the entire process, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the results!”

Social media is more and more important as a promotional tool for tourism.

ILLINOISouth Tourism uses several outlets: our website, enews, Facebook, Google and the Blog to publicize the events and attractions in our 22 counties. Advertising on Facebook, for example, is a relatively inexpensive and effective way to reach a large audience. Advertisers can choose as narrow or broad a demographic and geographic parameter as they want. The younger the audience (under 55), the more likely they are to get all of their news and other information online, but the convenience of smart phones is making believers out of people of all ages. As a member, let our team work with you to maximize your online presence.

Like us on Facebook for timely current posts. Sign up for the e-newsletter and visit our website (illinoisouth.org) to see what’s in the area. Read the Blog (illinoisouth.org/blog) for articles and events.

If you’d like to hop on the Social Media train, but don’t have a ticket, let us know.

Call 618-257-1488 for more information.

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CALENDAR of EVENTS

AUGUST 2017

August 2 & 3 Old Settlers Days Downtown, Hillsboro Visit the household science and handwork/sewing exhibits and participate in contests, Sertoma Club turtle race, dog and food shows and more. 217-313-6299 August 2 - 5 Ag Days Uptown, Mt. Carmel This four day carnival, amusements, and vendors festival is home to the famous and one-of-a-kind Lemon Shake-up.

618-262-5116 August 3 - 6 Annie Get Your Gun Northside Park, Breese Presented by the Clinton County Showcase. Show starts at 8pm.

618-526-2866 August 3 - 8 Bond County Fair Bond County Fairgrounds, Greenville Enjoy music, food, farm exhibits, parade, animal judging, auctions, tractor & truck pulls, demolition derby and more.

618-622-1412 August 4 PB&J Festival Downtown Square, Highland BABALOO will entertain and other activities are planned for all ages.

618-654-3721 August 4 & 5 57th Annual Homecoming Water Street, Butler All-you-can-eat fresh river fish fry on Friday night and events for the kids start the fun! Saturday has over 10 classes of tractor pulling and one of the largest truck pulls in Central Illinois.

217-532-3711 August 4 - 6 Homecoming & AugustFest Scheve Park, Mascoutah Enjoy live music, carnival rides, truck and tractor pulls, 4-H show and parades at 5pm.

618-566-2964

To submit an event, a Calendar of Event Form must be

completed and submitted for each event. The form can be found at www.ILLINOISouth.org/events-upload.

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

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

Deadline for Event submissions: Spring/Summer Issue: January 15th, Fall Issue: May 1st, Holiday Issue: August 1st.

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

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

August 5 Archaeology Day Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Get involved in demonstrations of ancient crafts, tours of excavations, washing artifacts from the digs, playing Indian games and more. 618-346-5160

August 5 & 6 Hydroplane Boat Races Raccoon Lake, Centralia The Races are presented by the National Boat Racing Association and Outboard Drivers Association. $2/adults; free/12 & under.

618-553-7664

Corn Fest Charter Oak Schoolhouse, Schuline Take a tour of the historic one-room schoolhouse and Country Store with music and a $9 dinner of corn on the cob, fried chicken, Indian pudding and more.

618-826-2667

August 6 Giant Flea Market Du Quoin State Fair Grounds Expo Hall Mark your calendar for the first Sunday of the month January through November. 618-542-8338

August 5, September 2 Summer Concert Series Sherwood Forest Campground Hillsboro The Summer Concert Series is back and bigger than ever!

217-532-3711 August 5, September 2, October 7 Brick Street Classic Car Show Historic Downtown, Lebanon A collection of more than 100 classic cars and trucks from Southern Illinois and Missouri are on display with 50’s and 60’s music playing. Prizes awarded for different categories.

618-537-8420

White Squirrel Triathlon Musgrove Park, Olney Sign up for the annual White Squirrel 618-395-7302 Triathlon.

Fahrradtour Scheve Park, Mascoutah If you like potato pancakes, bratwurst and knockwurst with sweet sauerkraut, you’ll love this annual German Heritage Augustfest! 314-436-1324 The Way We Worked the Fields Monroe County History Museum Waterloo Learn how we played and worked in the dirt, with many tidbits of farming practices and farm life. Presented by Kevin Hirsch.

618-939-5008 August 9 - 12 Cisne Reunion Cisne Square The celebration features gospel music/church night, contests, entertainment, craft and flea market vendors, kids activities and more!

618-588-0348 August 11 Cruisin’ the Dam Car Show Mariner’s Village Resort, Carlyle It’s a late summer car show that features vintage cars, live entertainment, food, games and plenty of fun!

618-594-2484

Vol. X, Issue II, Fall 2017 • 15

800- 442-1488 Night at the Museums Waterloo Discover the unique displays within the History Museum of Monroe County, the Bellefontaine House and Peterstown House with special exhibits and activities. 618-939-5300 August 11 & 12 Ceramic and Fired Arts Belle Clair Expo Center, Belleville Shop for beautiful ceramics and 618-233-0052 more!

Party at the Beach Veteran’s Park, Pontoon Beach Enjoy vendor booths, fire/police displays, carnival rides, children’s activities, bands, a 5K run/walk and more.

618-931-6100 August 12 Noble Chowder Noble Village Park Chowder and other food items, entertainment and a raffle are featured.

618-723-2212 Night Out & Block Party Waterloo Join us for specials at participating merchants and restaurants and join 618-939-8600 the street party.

August 13 Bridal Show Gateway Center, Collinsville Vendors will offer fashion shows, displays and items for sale for brides and grooms.

618-345-8998 August 13, September 10, October 8 Pickers Market Downtown, Litchfield Only pre-1980s antiques, vintage items and re-purposed/up-cycled items are featured.

618-939-8600 Burnt Toast & the Jam Monroe County Bandstand,Waterloo Bring blankets and lawn chairs, grab a bite to eat and sit back and relax at this FREE family-friendly concert!

618-939-8600

August 13 - 19 Clark County Fair Fairgrounds, Marshall Lucas Oil Tractor pulls, horse pulls & races, carnival, motocross, demo derby, food & craft vendors are highlights. A $6 gate admission gives you access to all the rides all night long. Parking is free. 217-826-2034 August 16 - 20 Thresherman’s Steam, Gas & Threshing Show Perry County Fairgrounds Pinckneyville Explore 100 years of farming history with antique equipment, demos, tractor events, entertainment and more.

618-318-0745 August 17, September 21, October 19 Ladies Night Out Main Street, Belleville It’s girls’ night out shopping, prizes and a party.

618-233-2015 August 18 & 19 Columbia Days Summer Festival Turner Hall & Metter Park Columbia Bring the family for the amusement rides, games, live music, Sunday parade and more.

618-281-7144 Freeburg Homecoming Freeburg Recreation Park It’s a fun-filled picnic with raffles, music, truck and tractor pulls, washer tournament, art and craft show, rides, beverages, and more! 618-304-8673 City Wide Rummage Sales Pinckneyville More than 75 sales run in conjunction with the American Thresherman’s show. Maps are at the Pinckneyville Press, 111 N. Walnut St. 618-357-3243 August 18 - 20 Balloon Fest Foundation Park, Centralia Forty hot air balloons are onsite for races, glows and tethered balloon rides.

There’s music, craft fair, children’s activity area, games, cardboard boat races, car show, fireworks and more.

618-553-7664 Germantown Spassfest Schoendienst Park, Germantown Special events include a Beer Run, human foosball, a custom motorcycle show and a parade with rides, games, raffles and continuous music.

618-523-4202

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16 • Vol. X, Issue II, Fall 2017 from page 15 Clark County Antique Power Club Clark County Fairgrounds, Marshall This event features a tractor show, demonstrations, kids activities, Coon Holler Kids, train barrel rides and just good ol’ fun!

217-826-2034 August 18 - 26 Greenup-Cumberland County Fair Cumberland County Fairgrounds Greenup Tanya Tucker will perform live Friday, 217-923-1507 August 25th at 7pm.

August 19 Villagewide Yard Sales Noble 618-723-2212 White Squirrel Cruisers Car Show Olney City Park Don’t miss the annual car show, and what a show it is!

618-392-0708 Waggoner Car Show Waggoner Centennial Building The Show is open to cars, trucks and bikes and is famous for its SIX FOOT TROPHIES! 217-532-3941 August 20 100th Anniversary Celebration Flora Historic Depot Come for tours of the facility, entertainment and refreshments. 618-713-1764

August 21 Total Eclipse in the Park Bolm-Schuhkraft Park Columbia Enjoy live music and food trucks while preparing to view the Total Eclipse in Bolm-Schuhkraft Park.

Eclipse viewing glasses available for purchase at the event while supplies last.

618-281-7144 Waterloo’s Solarbration Monroe County Fairgrounds,Waterloo Join us for an Out-of-this-World experience! View the Total Solar Eclipse with live music, great local food vendors, an artisian fair and some science industry experts to MC the event. Don’t be left in the dark!!

618-939-8600, ext 211

August 25 Movies at Metter Park Columbia Finding Dory is the featured film. Bring lawn chairs and a blanket. Concessions available.

618-281-7144 ext. 134 August 25 - September 4 DuQuoin State Fair DuQuoin Fairgrounds Rides, vendors, competitions and special performances by Switchfoot, Granger Smith, Nelly and more. 618-542-1515 August 25 & 26 Prairie Days Community Park, St. Peter Come for entertainment Friday night with a parade at 1pm. on Saturday and other activities.

618-322-0708 Waterloo Homecoming Monroe County Courthouse,Waterloo The event features live music, carnival rides, games, a parade on Saturday and plenty of food and drink. 618-830-6293 August 25 - 27 Midwest Salute to the Arts Moody Park at Longacre Fairview Heights 100 Award winning artists in 11 mediums display and sell their art. Enjoy artist demos, entertainment, children’s area and gallery.

Midwestsalute.com August 26 Beers, Bands, & BBQ Jonny and Junes, Flora Lickin’ My Chicken & Pullin’ My Pork BBQ sponsor this all day event and 11 hours of music. Doors open at 9am.

618-662-8313 Fall Citywide Rummage Sale Neoga Search for treasures throughout town.

217-895-3237 INDYCAR Race Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison The Bommarito Automotive Group 500 is the 15th race of the Verizon INDYCAR Series.

Ticket Office: 618-215-8888 August 26 & 27 Little Pig Cookoff and BBQ Competition BCDC Park, Beckemeyer This pork steak competition with live music and activities for all is a full day of fun.

618-227-8331 Gun & Knife Show Belle Clair Expo Center Belleville Buy, sell and trade guns, knives, ammo, scopes and accessories.

FOID cards are processed.

618-233-0052 St. Paul’s Kirchenfest St. Paul Catholic Church, Highland Kirchenfest is German for church festival and this one offers a lot: the Bavarian skillet dish prepared in a 500lb skillet, a sit-down chicken dinner, music, games, auction, flea market, a competitive run, bike ride and more.618-654-3721

August 31 - September 3 Grayville Days Downtown, Grayville Join us for live bands, food & craft vendors, parade and spectacular fireworks. Don’t miss the challenging 5K on Saturday!

618-375-3671

SEPTEMBER 2017 September 1 & 2 Midwest WingFest St. Clair Square Mall Fairview Heights There’s more entertainment, a bigger kids’ area, a national recording artist, wing eating contest and top quality food from local and national vendors.

Midwestwingfest.com September 1 - October 31 Pumpkin Patch Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo, Nashville Tour the farm and pet the animals, then pick a pumpkin to take home.

Don’t forget to get a photo with Ginger the Giraffe! Open Wednesday – Saturday or by appointment.

618-424-7979

September 2 & 3, 9 & 10, 16 & 17, 23 & 24, 30 Apple Fest Eckert’s Farm, Belleville Wagon rides, live entertainment, festival foods, children’s activities and more. Ride a pony, feed a goat and enjoy the rides.

618-233-0513 September 3 Picnic & Exhibition Kaskaskia Church Complex Tour the historic Immaculate Conception Church & Liberty Bell of the West Shrine. Festival offers tractor/truck pulls, bingo, country store, games and more. 618-826-2667 September 7 - 10 Antique Power Days Marion County Fairgrounds, Salem Come out for a consignment auction, flea market, toy show, tractor pulls, parade of power, equipment demos and more.

618-548-1251 A Midsummer Night’s Dream Avon Theater, Breese Shakespeare’s play will be presented by the Clinton County Showcase.

618-526-2866

September 2 Modern Technology of the Past Victorian Home Museum, Belleville Come and introduce your smartphone to its great-grandparents!

618-234-0600 September 2 & 3 St. Louis Antique Festival Belle Clair Fairgrounds, Belleville Find the best in vintage wares from 90 top quality antique dealers from around the nation.

618-346-0975 September 2 - 4 Popcorn Fest Fairview Park, Casey Enjoy a weekend filled with music, food, entertainment, crafts and Sunday car show.

217-932-5869 St. Elmo Labor Day Downtown, St. Elmo Experience hometown charm with a parade, car show, gospel sing, vendors and entertainment!

618-829-3319

September 8 Discover Historic Waterloo: Block Party Downtown,Waterloo Participating merchants, museums and historic sites show what’s special in the city.

618-939-8600 September 8 & 9 Frontier Days Downtown, Geff Come see the re-enactment of life on the frontier.

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Vol. X, Issue II, Fall 2017 • 17

800-442-1488 September 8 – 10 38th Annual Popeye Picnic Chester Join Popeye and friends for rides, inflatables, bands, flea market, car cruising, balloon art, juggling, cartoons, statue unveiling, pet show, wiener dog race, a 5K, wrestling, trivia, RC airplane show and lots more.

618-826-4567 Harvestfest Christy St., Sumner Nightly entertainment, car show, parade and bike day are highpoints of the festival.

618-553-2865 Homestead Harvest Days Louis Latzer Homestead, Highland Tour the most modern house around in the early 1900s. See demos of threshing, old-time crafts, gas and steam engines, antique tractors, kids activities and more.

618-654-3721 RC Jet Rally Litchfield Municipal Airport Come out to watch these amazing remote controlled planes.

217-324-8147 September 9 Village Wide Yard Sales Albers 618-248-5154 Court House Cruise-in Downtown, Greenville This cruise is open to all licensed makes and models of cars, trucks and motorcycles. There will be a DJ playing 50s and 60s music plus attendance prizes.

618-664-2244 Bicycle Classic Downtown Olney The event is for those of all ages and features races and bike rides with prizes to be awarded. 618-392-2241 Memorial 5K Run Tri-Township Park,Troy Run begins at 8am. active.com September 9 & 10 American Indian Educational Days Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Learn about Indian customs, culture, beliefs, clothing and dance.

There will be storytelling, flute playing and dance performances.

618-346-5160 Jasper County Fall Festival Jasper County Courthouse Square Newton Free music, games, and crafts for all ages. There’s a parade of bands and antique car show Saturday and gospel concerts Sunday.

618-783-3399

Muzzle Loading Black Powder Artillery Safety School Fort de Chartres State Historic Site Prairie du Rocher Artillery re-enactors participate in yearly safety training and demonstrate live cannon firing.

618-284-7230 OOPA & The Sofa Kings Monroe County Bandstand Waterloo Bring blankets and lawn chairs, grab a bite to eat and sit back and relax at this FREE family-friendly concert!

618-939-8600 Craft and Vendor Show Belle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville More than 200 top crafters and direct sales vendors are here for one-stop shopping fun.

618-233-0940 September 9 - 11 Fall Festival McLeansboro Themed entertainment each day with nationally known country music stars Saturday night.

(See cover story for more.) 618-925-4888 September 10 Wine & Art Festival Bretz Wildlife Lodge & Winery Carlyle Enjoy the wineries, crafters, artists, vendors and more with music both days!

618-594-8830 Generation Gap Band Moose Lodge, Casey Cha Cha, swing dance or two-step to a great country band. Cash bar.

217-382-4344 Litchfield TriathLou Lake Lou Yaeger Beach House Litchfield Sign up for the annual Sprint & Olympic distance triathlon.

217-324-8147 9/11 Memorial 5K Run/Walk Downtown, Belleville 618-233-6769 September 11 Moment of Remembrance Ceremony Belleville Fire Administration Office and Engine House #4, Belleville The Ceremony honors all those who perished in the attacks of 9/11/2001. It takes place at the new September 11 Memorial.

618-233-6518 x1245 September 13 - 16 Lawrence County Fall Festival Courthouse Square, Lawrenceville Rides, good vendors and more at the County’s biggest and most popular event.

618-943-3516 September 13 - 17 Fall Fun Fest Downtown Fairfield Activities starting with Gospel and other music, and adding more music, contests, rides, a car show, parade and Outrageous Dog Show as the days go on. Local craft and food vendors and civic organizations will line the streets every day.

618-842-6116 September 14 - 16 Elmwood Speaks Elmwood Cemetery, Centralia Come for the historic tour written and enacted by actors of the Centralia Cultural Society.

618-533-7664

September 15 & 16 Oktoberfest Celebration Public Square, Belleville Celebrate German heritage with bands, children’s area, beer, wine and food courts.

618-233-6769 Italian Fest Uptown Collinsville The Italian flag banners are out signalling the start of this festival of food, music and fun Italian-style.

618-344-2884 Shadows of Elmwood The Flora Depot, Flora Take an historic tour of Flora’s Elmwood Cemetery.

618-713-1764 Mt. Carmel Homecoming Mount Carmel High School Not from here? That’s okay, come to the parade, alumni celebrations, tailgating and football game.

618-262-5116 Country Barn Market Noble Shop vendors offering vintage finds, antiques, crafts, and more inside a fully restored curved roof barn & outside in the barnyard.

618-843-2276 September 15 - 17 Whale-of-a-Sail Regatta CSA Harbor in Hazlet Park, Carlyle All sailboat owners are welcome. Crew positions available for leisurely cruise races or competitive closed course racing.

Watch the racing with lunches and party attendance available for purchase.

Advance reservations recommended.

314-325-WAVE (9283) Hill’s Fort Living History Event American Farm Heritage Museum, Greenville See soap making, wood-working, rope making, blacksmith, butter churning, games for the kids and more. Watch the re-enactors of the Hill’s Fort Battle and 1812 Rangers.

618-664-9733 Marshall Autumn Fest Downtown, Marshall Enjoy food, vendors, crafts, raffles, a large parade on Saturday, kids activities, 5k run, top notch entertainment, a car show on Sunday, wine tasting, beer garden, pancake breakfast and more!

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18 • Vol. X, Issue II, Fall 2017 from page 17 Wheat Fair and Festival Okawville Carnival rides, games, antique tractor pull and washers tournament, plus homemaking and 4-H exhibits and school projects.

There’s also a large float parade.

618-243-5694 September 16 Paint History Plein Air Art Auction Downtown, Belleville View artists at work during this outdoor art exhibition. Artwork will be auctioned 618-233-6769 to the public.

Southeastern Vintage Trailer Rally Red Hills State Park, Sumner Visit the Open House from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and see the vintage campers on display.

618-263-2811 Wamac Fest Wamac City Park, Centralia Join the fun with a carnival, entertainment, food, games, sport competitions, live bands, kids’ games and beer garden.

618-533-7664

Missouri Atlatl Association Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Annual competition and demonstration of this ancient spear throwing device.

618-346-5160 Outrageous Dog Show Downtown, Fairfield Registration begins at 3:30 p.m., and the show begins at 4:00 p.m. 618-599-1107 Paws in the Park Patriot’s Park, Greenville Bring your furry friends for a dog costume parade, dog contests, microchipping, photos, silent auctions, food and dogs and puppies ready to be adopted.

618-664-9272 Street Art Fest Highland Square Artists transform the sidewalks as they create fabulous street paintings in chalk.

Shop at the local artist’s expo, join the Run for Color and visit the children’s area.

618-654-3721

Apple Fest Bryan Memorial Park, Salem During the day there will be food and craft vendors, country music, pony rides, face painting, bouncy house and games 618-548-3010 for the children.

September 16 & 17 Frontier Days Caseyville Park Watch demonstrations of skills of the past, visit the kids area, try your hand at the tomahawk throw. The Gateway Dulcimer Society will play on Saturday.

618-540-2399 September 17 Apple Pie Ride Mills Apple Farm, Marine Ride through the farm on the 5-mile route. BBQ, beer and fresh-picked apples and bakery goods available.

314-436-1324 September 21 - 23 Fall Festival Greenup There are lots of new events and great entertainment for the whole family.

217-923-3401 September 22 & 23 Songs 4 Soldiers Bolm-Schuhkraft City Park Columbia Free concerts from several bands, food and drink and games and bounce houses for the kids. Donations and proceeds go to help veterans.

618-779-8511

Bluegrass Reunion & Jam Session Charley Brown Park, Flora 618-662-8313 Dairy Days Norris City Celebrate agriculture with music and lots of food. There’s a queen contest on Friday and the parade on Saturday.

618-378-3453 September 22 - 24 Gem and Jewelry Show Gateway Center, Collinsville Enjoy a marketplace of gems, beads and jewelry.

301-294-1640 Golden Eagle Intertribal PowWow Lake Lou Yaeger: Picnic Area 4 Litchfield Learn about Native American cultures at this gathering of many Nations (Powhatan, Cree, Cherokee, Blackfoot, Choctaw and many more).

There will be storytelling, children’s dances, treats and gifts, handcrafted vendors, auctions, raffles and much more.

217-324-8147

September 23 Dickens Fest Downtown, Lebanon Enjoy Mermaid House Tours (Charles Dickens stayed here), costume contest, carriage rides, pie eating contest, vintage games and kids activities.

618-537-8420 Model A Day Fred B Johnson Park, Nokomis Model A Fords built from 1928 - 1931 and restored are on display.

217-563-8311 Optimist Blue Army Bull Bash Bull Riding Monroe County Fairgrounds Waterloo Join us for a night of fun presented by the CBR, Championship Bull Riding!

618-477-7240 September 24 Wheels & Wine Fun-Raiser & Car Show The Weingarten, Belleville Twenty-three classes of cars will be on display.

618-257-9463 Fall Equinox Sunrise Observance Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville Meet at Woodhenge at 6:35am for the Fall Equinox Sunrise and an informal talk.

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Vol. X, Issue II, Fall 2017 • 19

800-442-1488 September 29 & 30 Fall Festival Courthouse Lawn & Square Nashville This is a fun outdoor event with craft/vendor & food booths, kids area, pet parade, princes/superhero parade & live entertainment.

618-327-3700

Wine and Ale with Abe Vandalia Statehouse Raise a glass of wine or beer with the 16th President at this tasting event. $20/person includes a commemorative glass.

618-283-1161

September 29 – October 1 Archon 41 Gateway Convention Center, Collinsville Explore this expansive, fan-run, Science Fiction / Fantasy Convention. This year’s Guest of Honor is George R.R. Martin. 800-289-2388

OCTOBER 2017

AAA Insurance NHRA Nationals Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison Get tickets for the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series national event with Top Fuel Dragsters and Funny Cars at speeds in excess of 618-215-8888 330 mph.

September 30 Main Street Marathon Downtown, Belleville The course includes a stretch of Main St. and paved trails. It’s a Boston Marathon qualifier. 618-233-6769 Fall Festival North Park, Breese Chili cook off, home brew contest, live music, bounce houses, petting zoo, and more activities are planned.

618-526-7731

Appleknocker Festival Flora High School Celebrate all things apple.

Entertainment includes the Kahok Dancers and other activities.

618-662-8894 Sooeyfest Neoga Enjoy free ham & bean dinner, kids games, pie and soup contests, petting zoo, pork smoke-off, beer tent and entertainment!

217-895-3237 Fall Festival Olney City Park Enjoy crafts and art that are handmade by several artists. There’s live entertainment, food vendors and fire truck rides!

618-395-2868

October 1 FestiFall Metter Park, Columbia Listen to SMASH Band, find unique merchandise and food & drink, including German potato pancakes!

Lots of activities for the kids. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket.

618-281-7144 ext. 134 Du Bois Center Fall Festival Du Bois Center Come out for the food, music, crafts, pontoon boat and hay wagon and arena horse rides.

618-787-2202 Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show Downtown, Grayville 50 trophies will be awarded. Dash plaques and grab bags for the first 100 entries, plus prizes and giveaways throughout the day. 618-375-7158 Amazing Adventure Civic Center, New Baden Take a trip through Clinton County featuring fun challenges for all ages.

Enjoy food, drinks, games and raffles at the New Baden Civic Center.

618-588-3813 October 6 & 7 Chili Cook-off Downtown Belleville The competition is fierce as former winners defend their title and newcomers attempt to win their division in this annual event. Taste one or all, but come hungry.

800-677-9255 October 6 - 8 Midwest Jr.’s Super Series Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 October 7 5th Annual Chili Chase & Kids Pepper Dash Downtown, Belleville 618-233-2015 A Grave History of Death Victorian Home Museum, Belleville Learn how people in the past viewed the end of life.

618-234-0600 Fall Farm Day Willoughby Farm, Collinsville Hayrides, live bluegrass music, vintage farm tools, kids’ activities and more make this a fun day. 618-346-7529 Fall Festival Keyes City Park, Du Quoin Enjoy a day full of food, craft and merchandise vendors, kids’ corner, chili cook-off and more.

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20 • Vol. X, Issue II, Fall 2017

Apple Days Downtown Greenville Join the fun around the square with food, vendors and more.

844-404-9272

from page 19 Enfield Mule Days Downtown, Enfield Enfield has celebrated mule breeding since 1921. The festival has a gospel sing, kids’ games, contests, street dance, and annual events such as beard growing or look-alikes. The pet parade and craft show is followed by a parade and mule judging on Sunday.

618-963-2621 Fall Festival on the Farm Marcoot Jersey Creamery, Greenville There will be cheese! There will be cider! There will be cows! There will be plenty of reasons to come out to the farm from 10am-7pm.

618-664-1110 Harvest Market Main Street, Hillsboro Enjoy food, entertainers for the kids, lots of music and vendors.

217-313-6299 Fall Festival Historic Downtown, Lebanon Come see more than 100 crafters’ handmade items and enjoy the food, music and children’s activities at this family-oriented event. 618-537-8420 Deep Rock Car Cruise Litchfield Museum & Route 66 Welcome Center Cruise on old Route 66 with cars 217-324-5420 from 1930-1977.

Citywide Garage Sale & Pumpkin Festival Tri-Township Park and citywide Shop for treasures around town, then come to the park from 10am – 3pm for fall festival fun. troycoc.com October 7 & 8 West Fork Encampment Lake Lou Yaeger: Picnic Area 4 Litchfield Don’t miss the historic reenactment of military and colonial life between 1750 and 1820. Everyone welcome.

217-324-8147 Chestnut Festival St. Francisville The event features a Saturday parade, many vendors and lots of fun.

618-240-3017 October 7, 14 & 21 Annual White Squirrel Count Olney Volunteers help to track the health and population of Olney’s famous white squirrels. They canvass designated routes around town to count white squirrels, gray squirrels, fox squirrels and stray cats.

618-395-7302 October 8 Meat Shoot & BB Gun Shoot New Baden American Legion 618-588-3813 October 12 Witches’ Ghoulish Night Out Historic Main Street, Columbia Food, brew, shopping & fun is in store for witches. Contests & prizes!

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800-442-1488 October 13 A Ghostly Evening Historic Creole House Prairie du Rocher 618-284-7396 October 13 & 14 Corn Days Main Street, Carmi Entertainment, a giant parade, food vendors and rides highlight the event.

618-382-7606 Super Chevy Show Gateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888 Octoberfest Steeleville Village Hall The fun begins Friday evening with a parade and continues with food, beer, music, craft fair, washer tournament, kids’ activities and a variety show.

618-559-7635 Haunted Trail & Hayride Waterloo Sportsman’s Club Have A SPOOKTACULAR TIME! We Dare You to come for food, concessions and games for kids.

618-458-9927 October 13 - 15, 20 - 22 Robert’s Here Avon Theater, Breese This play is presented by the Clinton County Showcase. 618-526-2866 October 14 Applefest Schwartz Orchard, Centralia Enjoy a fun-filled day of activities with games, straw maze and face painting. Baked goods, mums, pumpkins and apple cider are available.

618-533-7664 Celebrate Centralia Carillon Park and Downtown Centralia A festival of art, wine and music featuring local artists, musicians, food vendors is planned with award winning wineries, vineyards and craft breweries.

618-533-7664

Fall Nature Culture Hike Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, Collinsville Take a three-mile hike through archaeological and natural areas led by experts. Bring water, a snack and 618-346-5160 insect repellant.

Fall Festival Moody Park, Fairview Heights Enjoy games, rides, crafts, food and a Monster Egg Hunt! 618-489-2040

Artifact Identification Day Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site Collinsville A panel of archaeologists are available to examine and determine the age, culture, material and function of your Indian artifacts. No monetary appraisals are given.

618-346-5160

Fall Family Festival American Farm Heritage Museum Greenville The children’s costume contest, pumpkin painting, games, face painting, train rides and more is fun for everyone.

618-664-9733

October 19 Witches & Warlocks Night Out Waterloo Visit participating merchants and restaurants for specials and activities for a spooky good time!

618-939-8600

Chili Cook Off Hanover St., Okawville Come hungry for Chili tasting and additional food items, entertainment, beer & wine tasting.

618-533-7664 Riverside Monroe County Bandstand,Waterloo Bring blankets and lawn chairs, grab a bite to eat and sit back and relax at this FREE family-friendly concert!

618-939-8600 PumpkinFest Downtown,Waterloo Rides, music, pumpkin games and contests and more make this a great event.

618-939-8600 October 14 & 15 Harvestfest Berryville Vineyards, Claremont A new vintage will be released and live music, hayrides, grapevine wreath tossing and more will add to the fun.

618-869-2054 Art in the Park Lindendale Park, Highland Paint your weekend with fine art, mouth-watering food and superb entertainment. Shop for works of art in twelve categories. There’s a special area for children.

618-654-4727

French & Indian War Encampment Fort de Chartres State Historic Site Prairie du Rocher The event is open and free to the general public.

618-284-7230

October 19 - 21 Haunted Happenings Looking Glass Playhouse, Lebanon Enjoy a walking tour of Brick Street with ghost stories for all ages told by LGP actors.

618-537-4962

October 15 Masterworks Chorale Fall Concert Belleville Help the Chorale kick off their 44th season.

618-304-9094

October 20 & 21 The Haunted Trail McDonalds, Carlyle Climb aboard the hay wagon for a ride down to the Little Prairie Nature Trail where ghouls and goblins await you!

618-594-2484

Art in the Park Cole Memorial Park, Chester The show features only original works of art in 13 mediums.

618-826-1430 Fall Festival Cole Memorial Park, Chester Don’t miss the Scarecrow Competition and displays, games, hayrides, Wiener & S’mores Roast, vendors, craft booths, pickers, rides and more!

618-826-1430

October 20 - 22 American Thresherman Fall Festival Perry County Fairgrounds Pinckneyville Daily demos and displays of steam and gas engines, draft horses and pony activities, rope making, saw mill, corn shredding and shelling and more.

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22 • Vol. X, Issue II, Fall 2017 from page 21 October 21 Chili Cook Off & Arts and Crafts Dupo Community Park In addition to the chili booths there will be arts and crafts, prizes, food, music, games and walk of honor ceremony.

618-286-3280 Howl-oween Hairball Fairfield Elks Come out for a Halloween costume contest for Animals Requesting Friends.

There will be cash prize awards.

618-599-1107 Trunk or Treat Downtown, Lebanon It’s a party with music, food, prizes and treats for kids.

618-537-5420 Spooktacular 5K/Costume Contest City Hall, Mt. Carmel Dress up for the 5K, kids’ fun run and costume contest.

618-262-5116 Fall Craft Fair First United Methodist Church O’Fallon Shop for handmade craft items, jewelry, photography, paintings and much more.

618-632-2354

Chili Cook-Off & Fall Vintage Market Downtown, Pocahontas Enjoy the wonderful antique stores, restaurants, local/homegrown produce and more!

618-779-7966 World War II DAY and Brewfest Fort de Chartres State Historic Site, Prairie du Rocher The event is open to the general 618-284-7230 public.

Wing Festival Downtown Belleville The city is famous for having great events around the Fountain, and food is always a star player. It was chili in early October, and now wings will take center stage. Come taste and vote for your favorite. 800-677-9255 Fall Fest & Chili Cook-off Mascoutah It’s definitely time to celebrate fall and try out chili recipes. Whether you compete or come to taste, don’t miss a crisp fall day with activities for everyone and good food!

618-566-7355

October 21 & 22 Pumpkinfest VFW Post 5694, Highland This event features carnival rides, live music, food vendors, craft and artisan vendors, and pumpkin sales, contests, 618-654-3721 crafts, etc!

October 22 Route 66 Half Marathon, 5K, Mile Dash Skyview Drive In, Litchfield The course is closed to all thru traffic and brings out great volunteers for athlete and course support. There’s fun signage, SWAG shirts and CUSTOM Die Cast Finisher medals.

217-324-8147 98 Years of 4H Monroe County History Museum, Waterloo Pam Jacobs presents an overview of the history and growth of our University of Illinois Extension youth 618-939-5008 programs.

Fall Festival Mt. Carmel Sponsored by Wabash Valley Youth in 618-262-5116 Action.

October 27 Trick or Treat Trail Downtown, Highland Kids 10 & under, put on a costume and come for an afternoon scavenger hunt. There’s treats and prizes waiting 618-654-2366 for you.

Halloween Parade TrustBank, Olney The Parade will begin at the bank. A costume contest will take place at 618-395-4311 5:30pm.

Trunk or Treat 2nd Street, Greenville Bring the kids in costume to explore the goodies in cars parked along the 844-404-9272 street.

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800-442-1488

Pumpkin Patch & Rotary Club Children’s Parade Downtown, O’Fallon The children’s bike parade is downtown with trick-or-treating at participating businesses. Polaroid pictures of the children in their Halloween costumes are free.

618-624-4503 Mardi Gras Pinckneyville Start off with a run, pancake breakfast, enormous vendor fair, and car show. End the day at the amazing night time parade. Take a chance at the amazing 50/50 drawing (last year’s winner got over $30,000!).

618-357-3243

October 28 Halloween Parade & Fall Festival Craft Fair Recreation Complex & Downtown, Centralia There are floats, marching units, horses, old fire trucks, costumed characters, school bands and more in this parade that’s older than the Macy’s parade. Festival activities go on all day.

618-533-7664 7 Gates of Hell Ride Woodland Park, Collinsville Take a spooky ride through the “seven gates of hell” that if completed by midnight opens the portal to the “Hell Hounds.”

314-436-1324 Halloween Hi-Jinks Historic Main Street & City Hall, Columbia Trick or treat at Main St. businesses, then stop by City Hall for more activities and a costume contest.

618-281-7144 Harvest Hootenanny 5K Lake Lou Yeager: Picnic Area 3 Litchfield Sign up for the run. $30 entry fee 217-324-8147 Chili & Soup Cook-Off with Cupcake Wars New Baden Village Park Tasters Choice competition for Chili and soup with prizes for both. A Craft Fair, bounce houses etc. provide fun activities.

618-588-3813

Trunk or Treat Toledo All super heroes and princesses, ghosts, goblins and other costumed characters are invited to participate.

217-849-2000 Halloween Parade Flora Bring the family for this evening parade featuring floats, bands, decorated cars and costumed marchers and so much more.

618-662-8313 October 29 Witches Night Out Downtown, Lebanon Sharpen the point on your hat, oil the broom and fluff up the cat. Leave the little goblins where they’re at and come to Lebanon’s scariest shopping event. Costumes are encouraged; it’s quite a sight to see! 618-537-8420 October 31 Trunk or Treat Downtown,Waterloo It’s a safe, family-friendly night when cars line Main St. and hand out candy to the Trick or Treaters. Candy Check Point with free food and snacks for kids is at the Waterloo Fire Department.

618-939-8600

4387 N. Illinois, Suite 200 Swansea, Illinois 62226

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