2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

TOURISM

TI M E S

SPRING/SUMMER 2022

! , n s o e s n i a g e n S E l r e u v o a Y r T t r r a e t m S m u S s ’ It

Stay Cool

THIS SUMMER

VISIT OLNEY, ILLINOIS Between hanging out at the pool, boating at the lakes, exploring parks and nature trails, and relaxing at the wineries, there is a lot of fun to be had in Olney! In the summer, make sure to swing by on Thursdays to enjoy the Sounds of Summer Free Concert Series in June and July.

Visit our website: www.cityofolney.com 618-395-7302 | ! City of Olney, Illinois

Piney Creek Ravine c Midwest Nomad Family

4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, Illinois 62226 618−257−1488 www.illinoisouth.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOND COUNTY Jes Adam Dennis Potthast, Treasurer

MARION COUNTY Sonya Germann Ben Stratemeyer

CLARK COUNTY Nora Swalls Bailey Maulding, Secretary

MONROE COUNTY Clyde Heller Jim Hill

CLAY COUNTY Amy Allen Doug Spitzner

PERRY COUNTY Carrie Gilliam Judy Smid

CLINTON COUNTY Jim Sullivan Sandy Timmermann

RANDOLPH COUNTY Emily Lyons Ronnie White, Chairman

CRAWFORD COUNTY Lisa Schaefer Sara Mehler CUMBERLAND COUNTY Billie Chambers Tania Craig EDWARDS COUNTY Debbie Fearn Dennis Turpin, Deputy Treasurer FAYETTE COUNTY Mayor Ricky Gottman HAMILTON COUNTY Jerry Prince Monica Tucker JASPER COUNTY Jane Casey Mindy Hartke LAWRENCE COUNTY Paige Harvey Tom Robinson

RICHLAND COUNTY Karen Bell Belinda Henton ST. CLAIR COUNTY John West Cathleen Lindauer, Vice Chairman WABASH COUNTY Jim Pfeister Brenda Bobbitt WASHINGTON COUNTY Dee DeMoss Marvin Steinkamp WAYNE COUNTY Gary Sloan WHITE COUNTY Cindy Conley CITY OF HIGHLAND Mallord Hubbard

STAFF MEMBERS DARLENE CHAPMAN President/Finance Director dchapman@illinoisouth.org

JORDAN JACKOVICH Sales & Marketing Specialist jjackovich@illinoisouth.org

CHRISTINE ORR Sales & Marketing Director corr@illinoisouth.org

DENA WOODS Web Designer & Content Specialist dwoods@illinoisouth.org

ANDY WATERMAN Communications Director awaterman@illinoisouth.org ELAINE BYRD Office Manager/ Executive Assistant ebyrd@illinoisouth.org KATERINA ENGLE Graphic Designer & Social Media Specialist kengle@illinoisouth.org

ROSLYN HAZLITT Office Assistant rhazlitt@illinoisouth.org

CREDITS

Andy Waterman, Author

Greetings From the Crew at ILLINOISouth!

Now that the weather has warmed up, there is no question that folks are ready and raring to go pretty much anywhere. The pandemic undoubtedly slowed down travel, events, and so much more over the last couple of years. Road trips had a resurgence in 2021, and it appears as though it will continue into 2022. Several travel experts say that nine in ten Americans plan to travel in the next six months, and we would love to see you make a trip (or seven) to our region.

CONTENTS 1 Greetings from the Crew at ILLINOISouth 2

It’s Cup Time!

4

News & Notes

8

What’s Your Story?

12 Eat Your Way Through ILLINOISouth 16 Spend Some Time in Highland 20 Sounds of Summer

ILLINOISouth Tourism covers 21 counties in southern 22 Events Illinois, so you can experience everything from agritourism adventures to some of the largest roadside attractions in the world. This particular publication is heavily focused on events, and there are plenty of those that have resumed their normal schedules for 2022. We’re talking everything from music festivals and art fairs to the first ever NASCAR Cup Series Race at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison. While we worked our hardest to include every single event that was submitted to us, we still recommend that you check our website for an extremely up-to-date listing of each event that is taking place in ILLINOISouth over the next few months. Our event calendar can be found at illinoisouth.org/Events, and we also urge you to keep a close eye on social media pages for an event, community, or attraction as they often have updates for visitors if something needs to change.

Hopefully the following content will spark a few travel ideas for you this spring and summer. Our communities are undoubtedly happy to host you, and we would LOVE for you to take pictures of your adventures and use the hashtag #ilsouth. We always get excited to see and hear about everyone’s experience while they’re in ILLINOISouth. Have fun out there!

Scan Me

Katerina Engle, Publication Designer

We make every effort to verify the information contained in the Tourism Times; however, we suggest that you call to confirm the hours of operation, rates and reservation requirements before visiting.

Breese Printing & Publishing, Printing

© Copyright 2022 ILLINOISouth Tourism illinoisouth.org

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It’s Cup Time!

W

ithout a doubt, the biggest event in ILLINOISouth this summer will be hosted at World Wide Technology Raceway. For the first time ever, the NASCAR Cup Series is coming to Madison on Sunday, June 5th. WWT Raceway is the only track in the United States to now host the premier series for each of the three preeminent racing organizations: NASCAR, INDYCAR and NHRA. It’s quite the accomplishment for WWT Raceway owner Curtis Francois, who has turned the facility into one of the top racing venues in the country over the last decade. “I set some ambitious goals when I took over the racetrack and to see them come to fruition is a dream come true,” Francois says. “I can’t wait to celebrate this incredible victory with our fans,” he adds.

Speaking of fans, there has been quite the buzz around the big Cup Series making its way to southwest Illinois. Since the announcement last September, thousands of folks around the Midwest have made it a point to purchase tickets, some of them months ahead of time. “I was really excited to hear the news about the race coming to WWT Raceway,” explains Mike Kasper, who will be making the four-hour trip from the Chicago suburbs to witness the race. “I am a new NASCAR fan, but I know there used to be races at Chicagoland Speedway. I never got the chance to see an event there, so

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2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

I can’t wait to see my first NASCAR race live and in-person at World Wide Technology Raceway.” While many people attending the race are lifelong NASCAR fans, Kasper admits he just started watching the sport a couple years ago. “Oddly enough, the pandemic drew me to NASCAR,” he says. “In 2020 when all sports paused, NASCAR was one of the first to return to action. I was hungry to watch any sports and NASCAR filled that void. The more I watched, the more I enjoyed it. It’s been fun to learn a new sport that I haven’t interacted with in the past. It’s also great to learn more about the drivers and their different personalities and driving styles,” Kasper adds.

There is no doubt that this Cup Series will be a financial boon to our area of southwest Illinois. Fans like Kasper have taken multiple days off from work to really enjoy the weekend. An economic impact study recently completed by The Rawlings Sports Business Management Department at Maryville University projects that this NASCAR Cup Series race will produce at least $60 million in economic impact for this market.

The campgrounds at WWT Raceway will open on Wednesday, June 1st with a Fan Fest scheduled the next day at Ballpark

c Rebekah Armstrong @rebekahannarmstrong

Village in St. Louis. There will be a NASCAR Cup Series hauler parade from the racetrack through downtown St. Louis that evening as well. On Friday, June 3rd the action really heats up – with spectator gates, the infield fan experience, and the midway opening at 10 in the morning. Racers will be practicing throughout the day for both the Cup Series race and the Camping World Truck Series race. On Saturday, gates open bright and early at 7 in the morning, with Cup Series qualifying starting at 10. The NASCAR Truck Series race will kick off at 12:30 on Saturday afternoon. That night there will be a Party on Pit Road, an iHeart Radio concert, and more! Of course, the big race is Sunday at 2:30, but there will be plenty of live entertainment for fans to enjoy before that. All times are subject to change of course, so please be on the lookout for more information as the big race nears.

One thing is for sure, World Wide Technology Raceway is THE place to be this summer. The Cup Series race promises to be a can’t miss event, whether you’re a race fan or not! The track will also host Formula Drift racing in July, along with a slew of other events throughout the summer. We hope to see you at the track…oh, and don’t forget those ear plugs! illinoisouth.org

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Rainbow Ranch

Marshall Community Pool

Carlyle Lake

Illinois Country Harvest: Heritage Farm & Gardens

Illinois Caverns

c Forever Young Photography

NEWS &NOTES There is always something new and noteworthy going on in the 21-county territory of ILLINOISouth.

Here are is a quick collection of things to keep on your radar throughout the next few months!

Farm Heritage Days, Greenville One of the most popular events each summer can be found at the American Farm Heritage Museum in Greenville.

It is three days full of tractor parades, a flea market, threshing and bailing demonstrations, and much more. This year’s event is scheduled for July 29th-31st.

Fit Foodie Triathlon and 5K, Marshall Start the day by burning off a ton of calories by competing in a triathlon and finish it by sinking your teeth into a bunch of delicious grub from local food trucks! The Fit Foodie Triathlon & 5K in Marshall is a unique event that grows each year. This year’s competition is slated for Saturday, June 4th.

Big Things Happening in Flora The old Flora Town Theater has undergone a dramatic makeover, as well as a name change! The recently renamed Nostalgia Theater will provide an opportune venue for all types of fine arts activities and performances in areas such as: music, dance, photography shows, art shows, 4

2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

c Leslie Ann Ewell

comedy, and theater productions.

Keep an eye out for upcoming shows and performances as renovations are complete. The other big news in Flora comes from Little Toot Railroad in Charley Brown Park. For the last several months crews have been working on a longer route for the railroad. They anticipate having the new track open

by Memorial Day weekend!

Come Sail Away!

Head to the Carlyle Sailing Association on Saturday, May 14th for Try Sailing Day. If you have ever wanted to test your hand at sailing, now is your chance, and it’s completely free! It’s also just a good opportunity to spend a couple of hours on the water at Carlyle Lake, if that floats your boat!

Awesome Art Keep an eye out for McLeansboro artist Nicholas Burke, owner of Carbon Forge Design. The Hamilton County native recently had a sculpture entitled Buckminster Tesla displayed in an exhibit at the Cedarhurst Center for

inhale, exhale,

sail

Come Sailing at Carlyle Sailing Association CSA welcomes anyone who wants to sail. Sailing can be a relaxing commune with nature or wet, wild, and athletic, or somewhere in between. Experienced instructors will show you the ropes in a fun and safe environment. Affordable “get started” offerings provide boats, lessons, plus social, cruising, and racing activities—all you need is the desire to make your dream a reality!

Upcoming Events Try Sailing Day - May 14 (FREE!) Take a ride on different types of sailing craft!

Adult Sailing Seminar - June 2-4 Junior Sailing Camp - June 12-17 Kinder Sail Camp - July 22-24

Learn more at www.csa-sailing.org Find us on !

Carlyle Sailing Association (314) 325-WAVE

illinoisouth.org

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the Arts in Mt. Vernon. This ‘Made in ILLINOISouth’ artist is racking up accolades hand over fist!

Market Time!

This time of year is the best opportunity to hit up several different farmers markets throughout our region of southern Illinois. One of the largest, most popular markets is Vine Street Market at O’Fallon Station in O’Fallon. Every Saturday morning from May to October you can find a wide variety of vendors to shop from including pottery, fresh baked bread, meat, produce, wine and more! In southeast Illinois, the Sainte Marie Farmers Market in Jasper County is another market worth visiting. Look them up from June through October at Picquet Park every Saturday morning from 8 in the morning until noon.

Markets in Wabash County, Vandalia, and several other communities are also popular, so be sure to keep an eye out on our events calendar for dates and times!

Illinois Caverns Re-Open for Season Plan a descent into the Illinois Caverns this summer! This natural wonder reopened for the season in April and will be open to visitors through October.

Until last summer, the Caverns had been closed since 2010 due to White Nose Syndrome in bats, along with staffing issues. It’s the second largest cave system in the state, stretching for miles.

Party Like it is 1722!

The village of Prairie du Rocher in Randolph County is celebrating a VERY impressive milestone this year, as it’s their 300 th anniversary! There will be festivities throughout the year, so be sure to keep an eye on our events calendar. If you make it to Prairie du Rocher, you should definitely check out Illinois Country Harvest: Heritage Farm & Gardens. Their fresh flower u-pick experiences are unique and quaint. Stroll the fields and the farm’s winding paths and pick a beautiful bouquet of farm fresh flowers to take home in an Illinois Country Harvest fabric wrapped quart jar. Individual and or group reservations can be made at www.illinoiscountryharvest.com.

Art on the Square Returns to May Date Due to the pandemic, Art on the Square in Belleville was forced to cancel in 2020, and the event was moved to October in 2021. This year, the big event is back to it’s original May Show – which is Friday the 13th through Sunday the 15th this year. As usual, admission is free, and the juried show will be full of talent, live music, and food.

Happy Anniversary!

Two Washington County staples are celebrating milestones this year.

2022 marks the 40 th anniversary of Okawville Heritage Days, a two-day event slated for June 11-12 this year.

As always, this family-friendly

Art on the Square 6

2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

gathering will feature everything from flea markets to live entertainment.

While you’re in the area, be sure to visit Rainbow Ranch Petting Zoo between Okawville and Nashville.

They are celebrating their 20 th year in business and would love to see you at the farm to experience everything from Max the Macaw to kangaroos.

Experience the Largest Water Fountain in America If you visit Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park in St. Clair County this summer, make sure to go around noon to experience the eruption of the Gateway Geyser. It is the largest water fountain in the country, reaching heights of up to 630 feet. It is only active at noon for ten minutes during the summer. Another great reason to go to this park is for their 4th of July celebration. There is no other place in southwestern Illinois with a better vantage point for fireworks!

MidAmerica Airport in Midst of Expansion If you have been to MidAmerica Airport lately, you have noticed quite a bit of construction. The facility is undergoing a multi-million-dollar expansion funded by state and federal dollars.

A ribbon cutting is planned for late fall, and the extra 50,000 square feet of space should be fully functional for guest use by December.

Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park

c MEPRD

MASCOUTAH

I L L I N O I S Located just off Interstate 64 (exit 23), adjacent to Scott AFB, home to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport, 30 minutes from downtown St. Louis.

Parks • Dining • Lodging Heritage Museum • Historic Downtown Antique & Specialty Shopping

Spring/Summer Events: May 20 Springfest on Main Street

July 4 Fourth of July Celebration & Fireworks, Scheve Park

August 5, 6, 7 Homecoming, Scheve Park

City of Mascoutah

www.mascoutah.org 618-566-2964

M City of Mascoutah, Illinois Mascoutah Chamber of Commerce

www.mascoutahchamber.com 618-566-7355

M Mascoutah Chamber of Commerce illinoisouth.org

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What’s Your Story?

When it comes to traveling, we’re all storytellers. There are parts of any adventure that we love to recount and pass along to our family and friends. To celebrate those tales, we have started a new campaign in 2022 called ‘What’s Your Story?’ It’s an opportunity for those who have visited our region to share their memories, and hopefully entice readers to experience southern Illinois as well! The following story out of Fayette County comes to us from Roger Sanders, who takes pride in discovering the backroads of rural America.

Train Museum

c Roger Sanders

Fayette County, Illinois – “A River Runs Through It” Roger Sanders, Two Lane Rambler

A

ny trip to Fayette County would necessitate spending a day in downtown Vandalia doing a “walk-about” to check out a few of Abraham Lincoln’s haunts when he served in the Illinois legislature in the early 1800’s, when this city was the state capitol. After spending a day on foot, it’s time to get in your car and cruise to some of Fayette County’s smaller communities and rural attractions.

Interstate 70, US Hwy 40, and US Hwy 51 all cross the Kaskaskia River just east of Vandalia. The river is and has always been an important element in Fayette County’s history. I recall how much I loved the 1992 movie, “A River Runs Through It”. That thought explains Fayette County and its relationship to the Kaskaskia River. Without the existence of the river, the county’s story might have been drastically different. In fact, Vandalia was chosen as the location for the state capitol from 1836-39 partially because it was on the banks of the river.

Heading north of Vandalia on Highway 51 for about 10 miles will take you to the middle of Ramsey, near where the Illinois Central Railroad intersected with the Nickel Plate Road until the 1950’s.

The Nickel Plate Illinois Central Interlocking Tower, a box car, and a Nickel Plate bay window caboose stand as a testament of bygone days when the intersecting railroads made Ramsey a prosperous hub. The three structures comprised a railroad museum for several years, until its closure in 2016, and it is still well-kept, even if no longer maintaining open hours.

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WE ARE SOCIAL Dive into ILLINOISouth's social media for all the latest happenings in our region, along with inspiring images and videos that will spark ideas for your next trip!

M Facebook @ILLINOISouth

UPCOMING EVENTS

Farmers Markets Charters Patio

June 17 & 18, 2022 Vandalia Statehouse

Live Music Every Weekend June-September Downtown Vandalia

2nd Saturday of each month from May-October

M Charters Patio

Farmers’ Market

M Vandalia Statehouse

P

State Historic Site

LinkedIn @ILLINOISouth Tourism

V YouTube @ILLINOISouth Tourism

TikTok @illinoisouthtourism

Download the ILLINOISouth Tourism App on Apple or Android to help plan your trip!

M Vandalia, Illinois

Stay up-to-date with events at vandaliaillinois.com/calendar-of-events

Instagram @ILLINOISouth

S

May 14, June 11, July 9 · 8am-11am

Grande Levee

WITNESS

®

DISTILLERY Located in Vandalia, IL, WITNESS® Distillery and Whiskey Underground are open Fridays and Saturdays for tasting, tours and specialty cocktails.

Our products are made with spring water and locally-sourced grains.

• Bourbon • Vodkas • Rye • Rums To make a tour reservation, check www.witnessdistillery.com or call 618-283-9900.

Follow us on Facebook!

M Witness Distillery illinoisouth.org

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Another hidden gem in Fayette County can be found at the site of the old Wren Bridge, which was the means of crossing the Kaskaskia River from 1898 on. While the bridge is no longer there, two other unusual things will gain your attention: a 40’ cross and a spring flowing with fresh water. The cross, which was built in 2005, has memorial plaques attached to its base honoring many of the previous inhabitants of Carson Township and the surrounding area. The spring, meanwhile, has a water wheel and has been plumbed for ease of access and it has been tested to insure safe consumption. I watched as folks came from far and wide just to fill containers with its super fresh water.

Buckstop Archery

c Roger Sanders

Outdoorsmen can get their “fix” at Buckstop Archery, which is nestled in the country south of Brownstown. With trained and experienced bow technicians on hand, competitive pricing, and both indoor and outdoor shooting ranges, Buckstop is the most complete facility for bow hunters in this region. Archers can find inspiration for their future conquests amongst the 50 or so stuffed animals displayed in the store. Many of them obtained on legal hunts in Africa and nearly all of whom were killed by bow and arrow. Dare I say it’s like a museum of exotic animals?

Elsewhere in Fayette County, you should seek out the Village of St. Peter. From there, turn west onto 900 N and drive a few miles into the Kaskaskia and Wilberton township area of Fayette County. You will find a variety of businesses in this area called the Dutch Prairie Mennonite Shops, including a country store, several repair shops, greenhouses, produce and baked goods sellers, bee equipment makers and even a blacksmith. Watch out for horses and buggies, they are not moving at your speed.

To read about more rural adventures in ILLINOISouth from Roger Sanders, visit his website at twolanerambler.com. If you have a story from our region you would like to share with us, we’d love to hear it!

Please email us at info@illinoisouth.org.

40’ Cross in Fayette County

c Roger Sanders

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2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

40TH Annual

Heritage Days Okawville, IL

Activities Include:

All the Splendor of a Simpler Time.

Community Yard Sale (starts on June 10th)

Farmers Market Bread Making

Live Entertainment on Saturday 11:30am-4:00pm & Sunday 10:30am-1:30pm

Kids Games & Activities

Live Auction Sunday @ 2:00pm

Homemade Food

Homemade Ice Cream

Tour the Schlosser Complex

Craft & Vendor Show

And More...

Country Store

June 11 & 12, 2022 10:00am-4:00pm, both days

Village of Okawville myokawville.com | 618-243-5972 M Village of Okawville - Village Hall

Original Springs Hotel

Super 8 Motel

618-243-5458

618-243-6525

j y t n u o C r e p s a J T h e Pl a c e to B e

Great Outdoor Activities Excellent Accommodations Fine Selection of Restaurants Several Specialty Shops FOLLOW US ON M FACEBOOK!

EMBARRAS RIVER TOURISM COUNCIL visitjaspercountyil.org and visitnewtonil.org

JASPER COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 618-783-3399

illinoisouth.org

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Soulcial Kitchen

c Soulcial Kitchen

Tetzel Prime

c Kaytlyn Ramos @ourownchaos

Eat Your Way Through ILLINOISouth We all have to eat, right? Whether you’re traveling to eat, or eating while you travel, there are so many opportunities for delicious cuisine in ILLINOISouth. Here are a few recommendations that come highly rated by visitors and locals alike. If you’re looking for even more options, visit our website at illinoisouth.org/Dine.

PIZZA

QUICK BITES

HOT & NEW

Carl’s Pizza, Greenup If you’re driving along Interstate 70 through Cumberland County, a stop at Carl’s Pizza in Greenup is a must. Carl’s offers half a dozen specialty pizzas to try. On top of that, they also do Chicagostyle deep dish pizzas as well as gluten free options, including cauliflower crust.

Tetzel Prime, Casey If you get snacky while exploring all the Big Things in Casey, a stop at Tetzel Prime is a must! These folks take soft pretzels to the next level, offering up everything from traditional pretzel sticks to pretzels baked with ham, cheese, and pineapple.

Griffin’s Pizza House, Bridgeport Talk about a hidden gem! Griffin’s Pizza House is tucked away in Lawrence County, but this Bridgeport institution is beloved by many. They always offer up a special pizza each month, and no flavors are off limits. If you’re feeding a group of people, they even have a 28” pizza that feeds at least 15 people!

Famous J’s, Mt. Carmel If you’re around Wabash County and in need of a quick meal, look no further than Famous J’s Drive-Thru. They have everything from burgers and chicken strips to pork tenderloin sandwiches and some of the best specialty hot dogs you will find in southeastern Illinois.

Soulcial Kitchen, Fairview Heights What do you get when you combine food trucks, an ever-changing list of menu items, and an awesome venue?

The answer is Soulcial Kitchen in Swansea. They have so many food options from Mexican and BBQ to smash burgers. There is a dine-in location, and an outdoor area with food trucks – including one that is a Space Shuttle. You have to see this place to believe it!

Larry Bobe’s Pizza, Lawrenceville Another southeastern Illinois pizza joint worth visiting is Bobe’s Pizza in Lawrenceville. There are a few different locations for Bobe’s, but the one in Lawrenceville is the original. They are well known for their pizza bowls, which is everything you would find on a pizza, except the crust!

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2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

MiCasa Sub Shop, Red Bud A good old fashioned cold cut sandwich is never a bad option for a quick bite to eat, and some of the best sandwiches in ILLINOISouth can be devoured at MiCasa Sub Shop in Red Bud. Aside from a variety of hot and cold sandwiches, they also serve up wraps, soup, salads, and special items throughout the year.

Iron Saddle Ranch & Saloon, Salem For some good fun to go along with your meal, look up Iron Saddle Ranch & Saloon in Salem. Iron Saddle just opened its restaurant this spring and offers a large menu. Aside from that, they also have a mechanical bull on-site as well as line dancing on certain nights.

Gilligan’s Sweet Treats, Chester In 2021 a group of teenagers opened Gilligan’s Sweet Treats in Chester. This lot of friends have concocted a plethora of goodies, including ice cream cones that are coated with frosting, cereal, sprinkles, you name it. There have been as many as 28 different flavors of ice cream available, with nearly 30 toppings.

We Open at 11 A.M.!

Wednesday - Sunday

LOCALLY OWNED

SERVING

LUNCH AND DINNER

Bring this ad in for a FREE small appetizer!

New Kitchen OPEN with NEW Menu!

REAL People, REAL Food, REAL Drinks and REAL GOOD!

Bar and Eatery (618) 235-5010 • 200 E. Main, Downtown Belleville www.thecopperfire.com Call or watch social media for updates.

illinoisouth.org

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c Espressions Coffee Roasting Co

SIT DOWN & ENJOY Gottzz’s, Carmi Take a load off and enjoy both lunch and dinner at Gottzz’s in Carmi. This place has gained a reputation for having some of the best old-fashioned food in southeastern Illinois. Their horseshoes are huge and quite tasty, and there are eight different salad options if you’re looking for something a little lighter.

Dessert is quite intriguing with menu items such as Funnel Cake Fries and Raspberry Cheesecake Chimichangas.

COFFEE CREATIONS

SWEET TREATS

Espressions Coffee Roasting Company, Greenville For some of the biggest, sweetest, most creative coffee drinks around, look up Espressions in Greenville. Just take a look at their social media pages and see what we’re talking about. They have Chocolate Chip Cookie Crumble Iced Lattes served in a Mason Jar, for goodness sakes!

Chilly Willy’s, Olney While ice cream is not the only thing that you can get at Chilly Willy’s in Olney, it’s certainly prominent on the menu. They have everything from shakes and malts to sundaes and frozen custard cakes. There is even something called a ‘Williwaw’ which is any topping of your choosing blended into the ice cream.

Colyer Coffee House, Albion One of the neatest looking coffee shops in southeastern Illinois is Colyer Coffee House. Located in downtown Albion right across from the Edwards County Courthouse, this old home turned coffee shop is just a downright cozy place to get a cup of joe and some baked goods, or lunch.

Jackson Avenue Coffee, Charleston For the last two decades Jackson Avenue Coffee has become a staple of downtown Charleston. If you’re a fan of chai tea, they do some amazing flavors including Cherry Pie Chai. They also display pieces from local artists, and they often host musicians in their back room. On top of all that, they’re also connected to a bookstore. This place is a total experience!

Kristy’s Sweet Treats & Edible Creations, Robinson If you’re visiting the iconic Heath Museum & Confectionary in Robinson, make it a point to stop at Kristy’s Sweet Treats & Edible Creations. Variety is the spice of life here, as they always have rotating dessert options. The Monster Cookies are always a hit with the kiddos, and you can never go wrong with cherry chip cake when they have it!

Ice Cream Korner, Iuka If you ask the locals in Marion County where to get the best ice cream, many of them will send you down Highway 50 to Ice Cream Korner in Iuka. They have so many flavors and varieties it’s kind of ridiculous, but we can tell you one thing, their banana split is GIGANTIC.

Grecian Steakhouse of Pinckneyville Have a HUGE appetite? Take a drive to Pinckneyville and pull up a chair at the Grecian Steak House. These folks offer an all you can eat steak buffet every Saturday night and a Prime Rib buffet on Sundays. Of course, there are other great menu items from burgers to gyros.

One thing is for sure, if you leave here hungry, that’s on you!

BJ’s Saloon, Newton Just east of the Newton Lake Dam in Jasper County you will find BJ’s Saloon, home of some of the best bar food in our region. Their appetizers are awesome, ranging from jalapeno corn nuggets to pickle fries. They also have the ‘Gut Buster’ Challenge, which consists of a pork tenderloin sandwich, a burger, and a huge pile of fries!

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c BJ’s Saloon

DESTIN / FT WALTON BEACH, FL (VPS)

JACKSONVILLE, FL (JAX)

FT MYERS / PUNTA GORDA, FL (PGD)

CHARLESTON, SC (CHS)

SARASOTA / BRADENTON, FL (SRQ)

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (MYR)

ORLANDO / SANFORD, FL (SFB)

PHOENIX / MESA, AZ (AZA)

FT LAUDERDALE, FL (FLL)

SAVANNAH, GA (SAV)

TAMPA / ST. PETE, FL (PIE)

at FlyMidAmerica.com

oo ht e L

LAS VEGAS, NV (LAS)

www.AllegiantAir.com

UPCOMING EVENTS May 6-7

Optimist Club Beer-B-Que

May 21

FirebirdFest

Every Tuesday, June – August Free Summer Band Concerts

Second Sundays, June - August Downtown Concert Series

June 4

CommunityYard Sale

June 5

Optimist Club Car Show

June 10-11

St. Peter & Paul Picnic

June 21

Porta Westfalica German Festival

Explor oree Waterloo

July 24-31

Monroe County Fair

Dine • Shop • Play

www.waterloo.il.us | M City of Waterloo, IL - Government illinoisouth.org

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6th Street Lofts

c Credit 6th Street Lofts

Patty Cakes

The Olde Wicks Factory Reception c Olde Wicks Factory

Patty Cakes

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2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

Covered in Chocolate

Schlafly

Spend Some Time in Highland There are some communities that offer so many different things, it’s best to slow down, take your time, and really immerse yourself in everything there. Highland is one of those communities. This city of 10,000 people has really started to make a name for itself when it comes to food and hosting different events. Here are some highlights for your upcoming visit to Highland!

EATS

HOST

STAY

The food scene in Highland is top notch, and that’s no joke. It’s tough to list every notable restaurant in town, but there are a few by category that you need to visit. In terms of a pub and grub type of atmosphere, both The Railshake and Schlafly Highland Square deliver the flavor.

Schlafly is one of the newest additions to Highland, opening in December of 2021. We highly recommend their beer flights for those who like to sample several things at once. While their menu is great, the Schlafly Smash burger has quickly become a fan-favorite, thanks to the generous amount of beer cheese smothered over the burger patties! Dessert options are aplenty in Highland as well, with three different establishments specializing in different goodies. The Chocolate Affair is sweet tooth heaven, they have everything from truffles and toffee to hand-dipped chocolate covered Oreos.

Patty Cakes specializes in cakes of all kinds obviously, but if you’re just stopping in to pick something up quickly, their cupcakes are the way to go! There is also Urban Farmhouse, which is VERY well known for their pie. Just a word of warning if you get their Snickers Pie – you’ll need about 17 glasses of milk to wash it down!

You may not know it, but one of the premier places to host an event in southern Illinois can also be found in Highland. The Olde Wicks Factory is well known for its weddings, as they played host to 56 wedding parties in 2021 alone! Many of them bring in out of town guests, which is a great aspect of tourism! “We’ve been busy over the last four and a half years rehabbing the former Wicks Organ building, from an 80,000 square foot dilapidated factory into a beautiful and historic Special Event Center with 6 unique venue options,” says Jennifer Ostrander, Owner and Venue Coordinator for The Olde Wicks Factory. “We’ve hosted just about every type of event or celebration there is, but looking forward, we would also like to host conferences, work force training classes, off-site meetings, vendor fairs or any other gathering that requires a large amount of space,” she adds.

The newly opened 6th Street Lofts is a beautiful venue not far from the Olde Wicks Factory, that is a GREAT option for spending the night while you’re in Highland. It sleeps up to 10 adults, there are two full bathrooms, a fully functional kitchen and more! “We have enjoyed serving our guests this past year, and have been very lucky that everyone who stays loves the space,” explains Kelly Hunt and Matt Bugger, Owner/Operators of the 6th Street Lofts. “People have stayed for many occasions including anniversaries, birthdays, weddings and more. We promote all of our local businesses by referring people and they do the same for us. Highland is really great that way and we are grateful to be part of this wonderful community.”

PLAY There is also plenty to do while you’re in Highland. Outdoor enthusiasts will love a walk around Silver Lake Park, which is also home to a great disc golf course. Highland’s Economic Development Coordinator Mallord Hubbard says there are also several entertainment options to provide fun for the whole family. “The owners of the historic Lory Theater have recently opened Mac’s Family Fun Time, which is a terrific choice for a birthday party or night out with the kids,” Hubbard explains. “Within walking distance of the Lory Theater is Bailout Escape Rooms, perfect for a challenging but entertaining experience to share with your friends, family, or co-workers,” Hubbard adds.

Discover I L L I N O I S Thursday Night Live Concert Series June 30 – September 15 Free and open to the public from 7:00p-9:00p

Pavilion Rentals 618-654-6071 Scan the QR Code to download the form

Outdoor Pool

General Swim & Private Party Rentals

Korte Recreation Center

Daily Admission, Indoor Pool, Party Rentals

Eight Different Parks & A Dog Park Friday Peanut Butter & Jam Festivals

Starts June 17 from 11:30a-1:00p

illinoisouth.org

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Music at Metter in Columbia

c City of Columbia

Music at Cross Street Station in Robinson c Robinson Chamber of Commerce

Sounds of Summer in Olney

Sounds of Summer B

elieve it or not, there are several different ‘niches’ in the world of tourism. There is agritourism, where folks visit farms and wineries, voluntourism is the act of traveling somewhere to volunteer your time, and there is also music tourism. As it sounds, music tourism is the act of visiting a place for a music festival or other musical performances.

When the weather warms up, so does the music scene in ILLINOISouth. From Vandalia to Robinson, there are over a dozen different communities in our region that offer weekly musical performances for an extended stretch each spring and summer.

One such community with a great music scene is Olney.

They have two music events each year, one is the Sounds of Summer Free Concert Series, each Thursday from 6-9 in the evening in Bower Park. The concerts are held in June and July, excluding the week of the Richland County Fair. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs to enjoy summer evenings filled with music in downtown Olney. Nearby restaurants and bars can help make this into a full evening

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2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

from start to finish! The other music event in Olney has been happening for decades. The Cummins Municipal Band plays at the Bandshell in the Olney City Park on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. starting in June through July 4th. The concerts are free for the public to enjoy. Since its inception in 1870, the band has performed every summer except for a couple of years during World War II. The Cummins Municipal Band in Olney is believed to be the oldest continuously operating municipal band in Illinois!

The City of Trenton hosts Concerts in the Park on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from June all the way through September. City Administrator John Marquart says the goal of these musical gatherings is simple. “To bring people out to enjoy music, socialize, and perhaps go to a local restaurant. We also schedule food trucks,” Marquart explains. “We hope visitors take away that we have a beautiful park, and a unique downtown for shops and eateries,” he adds.

Shop, Dine, Stay & Play Experience our Great. Big. Small Town.

Belleville, Illinois is Home to...

• Unique Attractions • Art Galleries & Historic Museums • Dining & Entertainment • Hiking & Biking Trails Running & Walking Events • Golf Courses & 25 Parks with over 250 Acres of Recreational Space • Antique & Boutique Shops • Special Events held year-round

For more information about the City of Belleville, Illinois, please contact our Tourism Office at 800-677-9255 or visit our website at belleville.net.

UPCOMING EVENTS City of Salem/YMCA Doubles Disc Golf Tournament Saturday, May 7

Bryan Memorial Park

May Market

Friday, May 20, 5 – 9PM and Saturday, May 21, 10AM – 3PM

PLAY IN SALEM

DISC GOLF COURSE • aquatic center • inclusive playground

A Fair Barn (3416 Hotze Road)

Whippoorwhill Rodeo Saturday, May 21, 7PM

Iron Saddle Ranch (3734 Cross Road)

Biloxi Blues

June 3, 4, 10, 11 at 7PM and June 5, 12 at 3PM

Salem Community Theatre & Cultural Center (119 S. Broadway)

Family Day in the Park

Saturday, June 6, 10AM – 2PM

Concert in the Park

Bryan Memorial Park www.salemil.us • 618-548-2222 •

M City of Salem, Illinois - Municipality

Monday, July 4, 3-8:30 PM, Fireworks at 9PM

Bryan Memorial Park, Salem Reservoir illinoisouth.org

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In southwestern Illinois, there is a new collaboration between businesses in Belleville that centers around music. The Venue on Main, Seven, Copper Fire, Bennie's Pizza and Cigar Inn formed ‘Live Music Row.’ All of these venues frequently had musicians performing in their establishments, so they decided to team up to make this area a musical destination of sorts. “Each place is unique and offers a variety of genres of music,” says Renae Eichholz, Co-Owner of Copper Fire. “We absolutely love live music and feel it is vital for Downtown and creating a vibrant atmosphere. We wanted to find a way for people to find out what live music is available each week in Downtown Belleville,” she adds.

Summer Concerts in ILLINOISouth Albers

McLeansboro

Belleville

Olney

Centralia

Cummins Municipal Band in Olney

Robinson Shiloh

Columbia

Trenton

Du Quoin

Vandalia

Fairfield

Waterloo Live Music Row in Belleville c VENUE on Main

While folks can experience Live Music Row each week, the group is working on two big events this spring and summer. The event is called ‘Experience Live Music Row,’ and the dates are set for May 7th and August 13th. “The goal is to feature musicians at an all-day event,” explains Conni Tilley of the Venue on Main in Belleville. “Most locations will have music starting at noon, featuring different musicians on the hour. This allows music lovers from all over the area to come and find their new favorite musicians. All of the locations are walkable from each other. We will encourage the public to walk the row for great live music, dining and shopping,” Tilley says. In many ways, music helped keep some of these venues going during the pandemic – so Eichholz says this type of event is a no-brainer. “Music fills the heart and sometimes soothes the pain. COVID-19 nearly destroyed restaurants, bars, and the musicians. We think that bringing the two industries together has been a tremendous boost to our businesses and our community.”

Municipal Band in Waterloo c City of Waterloo

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2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

www.marshall-il.com

X\

Marshall Farmers Market Every Friday Starting June 3, 2022 4pm-7:30pm

S

ave the Date!

Friday

Aug. 26, 2022 6pm - 10pm

34th Anniversary

Gather around the Courthouse Square this summer to enjoy Marshall’s Farmers Markets! Purchase locally grown produce, plants, fresh baked goods, handmade crafts, and so much more! Stick around to hear the City Band perform at 8pm.

Apply to become a vendor today! marshallilchamber.com/marshallfarmers-market Follow our Facebook page for updates!

M Marshall Farmers Market

Saturday

Aug. 27, 2022 10am - 8pm

Midwest Salute to the Arts is on for 2022! Be sure to come out August 26, 27 and 28 to enjoy the art festival we all love so much!

MARSHALL COMMUNITY POOL

WORLD’S LARGEST GAVEL

Sunday

Aug. 28, 2022 11am - 5pm

www.midwestsalute.com | M P Midwest Salute to the Arts

Amazing artists | Great Entertainment | Delicious Food | Family Fun

MARSHALL BAND STAND

Shiloh I`ll lliinois The Pl ace To Be

,

Enjoy a small town atmosphere just minutes from the big city. Fish at Three Springs Park, explore history at the Freedom Rock Park, and have fun with your dog at our Dog Park!

The Village of Shiloh • 618-632-1022 • shilohil.org •

M Shiloh, Illinois illinoisouth.org

21

Sca n

nt! ve

EVENTS

m sub it an e to

IN ILLINOISouth

Monroe County Fair c Matt Munsell | @mdm photography

WESTERN REGION MAY May 1 54th Annual Model T Swap Meet GCS Credit Union Ballpark, Sauget Fruehlingsfest Springfest Historic Maeystown WHS Band Parents Flea Market Waterloo High School, Waterloo A Night at the Opera with Christine Brewer Saint Paul United Church of Christ, Belleville Spring Concert & Art Show Gibault Catholic High School, Waterloo May 4 Wide Open Wednesday World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison May 5–15 Oliver!

Looking Glass Playhouse, Lebanon lookingglassplayhouse.com May 6–7 Mother Road Rendezvous World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison Optimist Club Beer-B-Que Downtown Waterloo May 6–8 Bright Star presented by MASC Capitol Theatre, Waterloo masctheatre.org 22

2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

May 7 Tour de Stooges Bicycle Ride McKendree University - Melvin Price Convocational Center, Lebanon tourdestooges.com Free Fishing Derby Bellevue Park, Belleville Lebanon May Market Downtown Lebanon on Brick Street Experience Live Music Row Downtown Belleville French Colonial Life in 18th Century America History Museum of Monroe County, Waterloo May 11 Shiloh Music in the Park Klucker Hall, Shiloh May 12–15 NMCA and NMRA Super Bowl of Street Legal Drag Racing World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison May 13–15 2022 Art on the Square Downtown Belleville

May 14 Lakers Classic Car Cruise Downtown Lebanon on Brick Street May 14–15 Strawberry Festival Eckert’s, Belleville May 18 Wide Open Wednesday World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison May 19 Divas’ Night Out Belleville May 20 Mascoutah SpringFest Scheve Park Ag Bldg., Mascoutah Midnight Madness World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison Whiskey Road Show Singer Songwriter Series Venue on Main, Belleville May 20–22 10 th Annual Smok’n in the Park Smithton Turner Park, Smithton

May 14 Heirloom & Native Plant Sale Illinois Country Harvest Heritage Farm & Gardens, Prairie du Rocher

May 21 Hummingbirds as Pollinators

by Stacey Novy History Museum of Monroe County, Waterloo

Vintage Baseball Game Prairie du Rocher

FirebirdFest Downtown Waterloo

May 21–22 Belleville Flea Market Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville Strawberry Festival Eckert’s, Belleville Millpond Maifest Millpond Brewing, Millstadt May 23 John Mohl Memorial Golf Tournament Acorns Golf Links, Waterloo May 25 Shiloh Music in the Park Klucker Hall, Shiloh May 28 Earl Steiner Memorial Biathlon Lindendale Park, Highland Caffeine and Chrome Gateway Classic Cars, O’Fallon May 28-29 Strawberry Festival Eckert’s, Belleville May 29 Midwest Bird & Animal Breeders Swap & Sale Monroe County Fairgrounds, Waterloo May 30 2022 Memorial Day 5K Run/Walk Laderman Park, Belleville Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony Downtown Belleville Memorial Day Ceremony Courthouse Square, Waterloo May 31 Summer Band Concert Season Opening Night Courthouse Lawn, Waterloo

JUNE June 1–5 U.S. Open Trapshooting Competition World Shooting & Recreational Complex, Sparta June 2 Waterloo Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament Annbriar Golf Course, Waterloo June 3 Belleville Shriner’s Parade Downtown Public Square, Belleville

June 4 World Wide Technology Raceway NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Toyota 200 World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison

June 10–12 Schweizerfest Downtown Square, Highland

The Marvels Under Our Feet! - A Look at Fogelpole Cave and the Subterranean Nature Preserve History Museum of Monroe County, Waterloo

June 12 Downtown Waterloo Concert Series Downtown Waterloo Bandstand

Community Concert Series Waterloo Lebanon Car Cruise Downtown Lebanon Lebanon City Wide Garage Sale Lebanon Community June 4–5 Summer Market St. Clair County Event Center, Belleville 52nd Annual Fort de Chartres Rendezvous Fort de Chartres, Prairie du Rocher June 5 World Wide Technology Raceway NASCAR Cup Series Race World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison Doll Show Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville Optimist Club Car Show Courthouse Square, Waterloo June 7 Doll and Miniature Show Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville Summer Band Concert Season Every Tuesday in June Courthouse Lawn, Waterloo June 8 Prairie du Rocher Party in the Park Prairie du Rocher Village Park Shiloh Music in the Park Klucker Hall, Shiloh June 10 Love a Senior Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville Shine Your Light Gala The Falls, Columbia

St. Peter and Paul Picnic Waterloo

June 16 Divas’ Night Out Belleville June 17 Gibault Summer Classic Golf Tournament Annbriar Golf Course, Waterloo June 17 & 24 Peanut Butter and Jam Festivals Downtown Highland June 17–19 Summer Speed Spectacular World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison June 18 The History of Scott Air Force Base (1917-Present) by Mark Wilderman History Museum of Monroe County, Waterloo June 18–19 Belleville Flea Market Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville June 19 WWTR Bracket Series World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison June 21 Porta Westfalica Festival and Parade Courthouse Square, Waterloo June 22 Prairie du Rocher Party in the Park Prairie du Rocher Village Park Shiloh Music in the Park Klucker Hall, Shiloh June 23–26 Alice in Wonderland Jr. Looking Glass Playhouse, Lebanon lookingglassplayhouse.com June 24-26 All-American Bracket Classic World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison June 25 Caffeine and Chrome Gateway Classic Cars, O’Fallon Craft Beer Walk Downtown Belleville illinoisouth.org

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June 25–26 Gun Show Belle-Clair Fairgrounds and Expo Center, Belleville June 26 Music at Metter Park Metter Park, Columbia June 29 Wide Open Wednesday World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison June 30 Highland Thursday Night Live Concert Series Downtown Square, Highland

JULY July 1 Midnight Madness World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison

July 8-9 Mopar Blast and Friday Night Frenzy World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison

July 21–24 TB Promotions Twin Fifties World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison

Knife Show Belle-Clair Fairgrounds and Expo Center Belleville

July 23 Lebanon Christmas in July Downtown Lebanon on Brick Street

July 8-12 Randolph County Fair Randolph County Fairgrounds, Sparta

Mother Jones and the Coal Miners Labor Movement by Loretta Williams History Museum of Monroe County, Waterloo

July 9 WWTR Bracket Series # 7 World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison Natural History of Illinois Caverns & Other Significant Caves of SW Illinois History Museum of Monroe County Waterloo

July 1, 8, 15, 22 Peanut Butter and Jam Festivals Downtown Highland

July 9–10 Prairie du Rocher 300 th Birthday Celebration Historic Brickley Lot, Prairie du Rocher

July 2 Lebanon Car Cruise Downtown Lebanon

July 10 WWTR Bracket Series # 8 World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison

2022 Blacklight Run 5K World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison

Downtown Waterloo Concert Series Downtown Waterloo Bandstand

July 2–4 Baseball Tournament and Valmeyer Mid-Summer Celebration Borsch Park, Valmeyer

July 11 Downtown Concert Series Downtown Waterloo

July 4 4th of July Bike Parade and Activities Columbia 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks American Legion Park, Columbia Steeleville Firecracker 3K American Legion, Steeleville Mascoutah’s Fourth of July Fireworks Scheve Park, Mascoutah

July 13 Shiloh Music in the Park Klucker Hall, Shiloh July 14 Highland Thursday Night Live Concert Series Downtown Square, Highland July 15 Black Friday Christmas in July Downtown Waterloo

July 5 Summer Band Concert Season Every Tuesday in July Courthouse Lawn, Waterloo

July 16–17 Belleville Flea Market Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville

July 6 Wide Open Wednesday World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison

July 20 Prairie du Rocher Party in the Park Prairie du Rocher Village Park

Prairie du Rocher Party in the Park Prairie du Rocher Village Park

July 21 Divas’ Night Out Belleville

July 7 Highland Thursday Night Live Concert Series Downtown Square, Highland 24

2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

Highland Thursday Night Live Concert Series Downtown Square, Highland

July 24 Music at Metter Park Metter Park, Columbia July 24–31 Monroe County Fair Monroe County Fairgrounds, Waterloo July 26-31 Madison County Fair Madison County Fairgrounds, Highland July 27 Wide Open Wednesday World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison Shiloh Music in the Park Klucker Hall, Shiloh July 27-August 4 Annual Healing Novena Belleville July 28 Highland Thursday Night Live Concert Series Downtown Square, Highland July 29–August 2 AIM Grand National Youth Trapshooting Championships World Shooting & Recreational Complex, Sparta July 30 Caffeine and Chrome Gateway Classic Cars, O’Fallon Joe Zolper’s Builders Brawl World Wide Technology Raceway, Madison Elvis Tribute with Bill Cherry Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Belleville

CENTRAL REGION MAY May 5 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse Spring Choir Concert Kaskaskia College, Centralia

May 6–7 Carlyle Spring Wide Yard Sales Carlyle 2022 Vintage Market in the Ville Pinckneyville Fairgrounds May 6–8 Illinois Cutting Horse Competition Du Quoin State Fairgrounds May 7 2022 Spring Fling Festival and BBQ Competition American Farm Heritage Museum, Greenville

See Centralia

Upcoming Events Locust Street Fair May 7th from 10am-2pm

Downtown Centralia

Salem Disc Golf Tournament Bryan Memorial Park, Salem

May 10 Spring Instrumental Concert Kaskaskia College, Centralia

August 19-21

August 12-14

Visit Centraliaballoonfest.com for more information

Raccoon Lake

Carillon

CSA Hare and Hounds Carlyle Sailing Assn. Harbor, Carlyle

Greenville Classic Car Cruise-In Bond County Courthouse Square, Greenville

Centralia Balloon Fest

More Reasons to Visit Centralia

Museum Day Greenville

Locust Street Historic Fair Downtown Centralia

Nat. Boat Racing Assoc.

Long Course Nationals

Lakes

centraliacarillon.org

Lake Centralia & Raccoon Lake

65 bell instrument plays throughout the day and during the summer concert series

Fishing, kayaking, boating, boat racing, and much more

Parks

Photo Complements of Trisha Mifflin

Fairview Park, Foundation Park, Laura Leake Park, Bicentennial Park, & Centralia Dog Park Disc Golf, baseball fields, nature trails, and much more

Visit Our Website SeeCentralia.com 618.533.7623

Follow us on Facebook!

Facebook.com/SeeCentralia

May 12 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse May 13 Carlyle Farmers Market Carlyle VFW May 13–15 Southern Equine Horse Show Horse Arena at Du Quoin State Fairgrounds May 14 Crappie USA Carlyle Try Sailing Day with CSA Carlyle Sailing Assn. Harbor, Carlyle Vandalia Farmers Market Vandalia May 19 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse May 20–21 May Market in Salem A Fair Barn, Salem 2022 IHSA State Bass Fishing Finals Carlyle Lake

Fort de Chartres

M A R C H T O T H E B E AT O F H I S T O R Y

Join us for The 52nd Annual Fort de Chartres Rendezvous!

Saturday & Sunday, June 4 & 5, 2022 10 AM-5 PM Free Admission • $5 Parketing Fee Military Drills • Cannon Firings • Traders Craft Demonstrations • Period Music & Food

Illinois Humanities, the Illinois affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, is a statewide nonprofit organization that activates the humanities through free public programs, grants, and educational opportunities that foster reflection, spark conversation, build community, and strengthen civic engagement.

1350 State Route 155 | Prairie du Rocher, IL 62277 | www.fortdechartres.us | illinoisouth.org

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May 20–22 Du Quoin Spring Shootout Du Quoin State Fairgrounds

June 9 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse

June 24-26 Du Quoin Street Machine Nationals Du Quoin State Fairgrounds

May 21 Kids to Parks Day Carlyle

June 10–12 Charters Patio Live Music Vandalia

Charters Patio Live Music Vandalia

Whippoorwill Rodeo Iron Saddle Ranch and Saloon, Salem

Biloxi Blues Salem Community Theatre & Cultural Center, Salem

May 26 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse

June 11 2022 King Kat Fishing Tournament Carlyle Lake

June 25 New Baden Farmers Market New Baden Village Park Hummingbird Festival Stoecklin’s Orchard, Donnellson June 30 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse

May 27–29 Du Quoin State Fair Horse Show Western and English Horse Arena at Du Quoin State Fairgrounds

American Heritage Railroad Model Train Show American Farm Heritage Museum, Greenville

May 28 New Baden Farmers Market New Baden Village Park

Vandalia Farmers Market Vandalia

July 1–2 Bond County Fourth Fest Downtown Square in Greenville

June 11-12 Heritage Days Schlosser Complex Historic Site, Okawville

July 1–3 Charters Patio Live Music Vandalia

June 11–18 Perry County Fair Pinckneyville Fairgrounds

July 1-4 Annual Carnival & 4th of July Celebration Fairview Park, Centralia

May 28-29 Nashville Town Wide Yard Sale Nashville Community

JUNE June 2 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse June 2–4 Adult Sailing Seminar with CSA Carlyle Sailing Assn. Harbor, Carlyle June 3–4 Carlyle Street Fair Courthouse Square, Carlyle June 3–5 Charters Patio Live Music Vandalia

June 12-17 Junior Sailing Camp with CSA Carlyle Sailing Assn. Harbor, Carlyle June 16 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse June 17–18 Grande Levee Vandalia Statehouse New Baden June Jamboree New Baden Community Park

Biloxi Blues Salem Community Theatre & Cultural Center, Salem

June 17–19 Charters Patio Live Music Vandalia

June 4 Dairy Days Downtown Greenville

June 18 CSA Hare and Hounds Carlyle Sailing Assn. Harbor, Carlyle

Greenville Farmers Market 201 S. Second St, Greenville

Centralia Juneteenth Laura Leake, Centralia

Cheesefest Marcoot Jersey Creamery, Greenville

June 22 Trenton Concerts in the Park Trenton Community Park

June 6 Salem Family Day in the Park Bryan Memorial Park, Salem

June 23 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse

June 8 Trenton Concerts in the Park Trenton Community Park

June 24 Carlyle Farmers Market Carlyle VFW

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2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

JULY

July 2 Greenville Farmers Market 201 S. Second S, Greenville 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular Carlyle Lake Independence Day Sail & Party with CSA Carlyle Sailing Assn. Harbor, Carlyle July 4 Salem Fireworks and Music Bryan Memorial Park, Salem Nashville Fireworks Memorial Park, Nashville July 7 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse July 8-10 Charters Patio Live Music Vandalia July 8-13 Fayette County Fair Fayette County Fairgrounds, Brownstown July 9 Vandalia Farmers Market Vandalia CSA Hare and Hounds Carlyle Sailing Assn. Harbor, Carlyle

July 9-10 Hoyleton Hofbraufest Hoyleton

EASTERN REGION MAY

July 10 Downtown Summer Concert Series The Yard at Crooked Creek Winery, Centralia

May 1-7 Black and Tan Days - American Black & Tan Coonhound Assn. Hunt Olney City Park

July 12–16 Washington County Fair Washington County Fairgrounds, Nashville

May 6-7 City Wide Garage Sale Jasper County Communities, Newton

July 13 Trenton Concerts in the Park Trenton Community Park

May 7 Willow Creek Spring Market Willow Creek Venue, Fairfield

July 14 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse

Jasper County Chamber Jeep Run West End Reception and Events, Newton

July 15–17 Charters Patio Live Music Vandalia July 17-23 Clinton County Fair Carlyle July 21 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse July 22–24 Charters Patio Live Music Vandalia

Music Trivia Fundraiser Quail Creek Country Club & Resort, Robinson May 14 Races for All Paces O’Brien Stadium, Charleston Carmi Drag Racing Carmi Airport, Carmi Richland County Spring Crash Demolition Derby Richland County Fairgrounds, Olney

May 19-22 Toledo Spring Festival Downtown Toledo May 21 Carmi Drag Racing Carmi Airport, Carmi May 22 White Squirrel Saddle Club Western Horse Show Olney May 26-28 Neoga Days Jennings Park, Neoga May 28-September 24 18th Street Farmers Market Every Saturday, Charleston

JUNE Cummins Municipal Band Every Wednesday in June Olney City Park, Olney June 1-September 28 Farmers Market on the Square Every Wednesday Downtown Charleston Square

Kinder Sailing Camp with CSA Carlyle Sailing Assn. Harbor, Carlyle July 27 Trenton Concerts in the Park Trenton Community Park July 28 Nashville Farmers Market Nashville Courthouse July 29 Carlyle Farmers Market Carlyle VFW July 29–31 Farm Heritage Days American Farm Heritage Museum, Greenville Charters Patio Live Music Vandalia July 29–August 6 Marion County Agricultural Fair Marion County Fairgrounds Salem July 30 New Baden Farmers Market New Baden Village Park

Relax from the Grind in Picture Perfect

Pinckneyville Museums Locally Owned Shops Restaurants Festivals Overnight Accommodations Pyramid State Park Hiking & Biking Kayaking & Canoeing Hunting & Fishing

For updates on activities or events, call 618-357-8775 or visit ci.pinckneyville.il.us illinoisouth.org

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June 1-September 28 Farmers Market on the Square Every Wednesday Downtown Charleston Square June 2-July 28 Sounds of Summer Every Thursday at Bower Park, Olney June 3-August 26 Marshall Farmers Market Every Friday at the Courthouse Square, Marshall June 4 Fit Foodie Triathlon & 5K Downtown Marshall June 4-August 27 Sainte Marie Farmers Market Every Saturday at Picquet Park Cross Street Market Every Saturday at Cross Street, Robinson June 10-11 15th Annual Crop 4 A Cure Floyd Henson Jr High School, Flora June 11 6th Annual Veterans Jeep Run MVP Happy Holler, Newton Carmi Drag Racing Carmi Airport, Carmi June 18 Roots ‘N’ Que Harris Insurance Pavilion, Mt. Carmel Concerts at Cross Street Station Cross Street Station, Robinson June 19-25 Jasper County Fair Jasper County Fairgrounds, Newton June 22 Micro Wrestling MVP Happy Holler, Newton

June 25 18th Annual and Final Nick’s Race Sam Parr State Park, Newton

July 14-16 Sidewalk Sale Days Downtown Robinson

Toledo Development Freedom Days Downtown Toledo

July 15-24 Hamilton County Fair McLeansboro Fairgrounds, McLeansboro

Carmi Drag Racing Carmi Airport, Carmi Summer Hootenanny Oblong Park and Lake, Oblong Concerts at Cross Street Station Robinson

JULY

July 16 Grand Opening of The Woods Event Center & Bar Robinson July 16-22 Wabash County Fair Wabash County Fairgrounds, Mt. Carmel

July 1-4 Fantastic 4th Weekend Mt. Carmel

July 20-30 Edwards County Fair Albion

July 4 4th of July Celebration Robinson

July 21-30 Clay County Fair Clay County Fairgrounds, Oblong

Cummins Municipal Band Every Wednesday in June Olney City Park, Olney Olney’s Fireworks Spectacular Richland County Fairgrounds/Olney City Park July 9 Cork and Pork Jeep Run Picquet Park at the Water Tower, Sainte Marie Kiwanis Krawl Mt. Carmel Park, Mt. Carmel Carmi Drag Racing Carmi Airport, Carmi

July 22-30 Richland County Fair Olney July 23-30 Crawford County Fair Crawford County Fairgrounds, Oblong July 23 Carmi Drag Racing Carmi Airport, Carmi Concerts at Cross Street Station Robinson

Cork and Pork Festival Picquet Park, Sainte Marie

July 30 Uncorked Festival Red Hills State Park, Sumner

Concerts at Cross Street Station Cross Street Station, Robinson

3rd Annual Jeepin for the Paws Ambraw River Eagles, Newton

July 9-16 Wayne County Agricultural Fair Wayne County Fairgrounds, Fairfield

July 30-August 5 Lawrence County Fair Lawrence County Fairgrounds, Sumner

Vine Street Market at O'Fallon Station

Scan to see all event listings!

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2022 Spring/Summer Tourism Times

Adventure Awaits IN CARLYLE, ILLINOIS

Home of Illinois' Largest Man-Made Lake

The City of Carlyle and Carlyle Lake offer many opportunities for recreation and relaxation!

• Local Shopping & Restaurants

• Governor’s Run Golf Course

• Carlyle Lake Wine Trail

• Disc Golf

• Parks & Playgrounds

• Camping

• Beaches

• City Pool

• Hiking

• Swimming

• Tennis Courts

• Bike Trails • Fishing • Boating & Sailing

UPCOMING EVENTS Spring City Wide Yard Sales May 6–7 City Pool – Opening Day May 28 Farmers Market May 13 • June 24 • July 29 August 26 • September 30 Crappie USA • May 14 IHSA State Bass Fishing Finals May 20–21 Kids to Parks Day • May 21 Street Fair • June 3–4 King Kat Tournament • June 11 Firework Spectacular • July 2 Clinton County Fair • July 17–23

City of Carlyle, Illinois

Carlyle Lake Project Office

618.594.2468 • admin@carlylelake.com www.carlylelake.com M City of Carlyle, Illinois

618.594.2484 M Carlyle Lake carlylelake@usace.army.mil

4387 N. Illinois St., Suite 200 Swansea, Illinois 62226

3/22, 55M