Fall Tourism Times 2015

Vol. VIII, Issue II, Fall 2015

4387 N. Illinois, Suite 200Swansea, Illinois 62226

7/15, 50M

••FALL - TT 2015-FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 7/1/15 10:56 AM

Vol. VIII, Issue II, Fall 2015

4387 N. Illinois, Suite 200Swansea, Illinois 62226

7/15, 50M

••FALL - TT 2015-FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 7/1/15 10:56 AM Page 1

Vol. VIII, Issue II, Fall 2015 • 1

crocks, primitives and pottery, andblue “canning” jars. Or, select one-of-a-kind decorations for a banquet orcountry wedding!

Fabulous Finds by Jerri Allen,Olney: 618-919-0532 This unique emporium offersFrench Country, shabby chic, primi-tives, upcycled and repurposed treas-ures. You crazy kids might even finditems that you could fashion into“steampunk”… simply from pickingthrough what other shoppers passedoff as “just junk”… here or at anyother of stores we featured.

For a complete listing of AntiqueShops throughout ILLINOISouth,visit: www.thetourismbureau.org

eople who love totrade in antiques area very special breed.They live for the“find,” like the cou-ple who buy therickety old woodenchair at a garage sale

for 15 bucks—then, before driving offto the next poor soul’s house, can’t re-sist telling the clueless sellers that it’santebellum. Few are that snarky, of course.They’re a community not unlike theexperts on Pickers or Pawn Stars.They see through the rust, grime andflaking paint to see what’s beneath.They recognize character and value. Plenty of antiquers buy and sell inILLINOISouth, the 20-county corri-dor that stretches from St. Louis eastto the Indiana border like a belt thatholds up a paunch facing west. Some are big, some are small,some are malls. Some trade in true an-tiques… that is, items that have beenaround a century or more… some in“collectibles.” Most have a little ofsome, a little of the other. For many,antique just means that they don’tmake ‘em like they used to, or you hadsomething similar at home growing

up, or you collect fine

French china. (And don’t mind the lit-tle “flea bite” on that glazed whitepitcher from around 1920. Turn thechipped side to the wall and nobodywill notice.) Some collectors love to displaywell-used farm implements, inside andout. There’s plenty of that aroundhere, from Fairview Heights to Olney. One thing to remember: Wher-ever it is, no antique store is ever thesame place twice! So come early,come often.

St. Clair Antique Mall, FairviewHeights: 618-628-1650 One of the region’s several an-tique malls is only 15 minutes fromdowntown St. Louis. Two hundreddealers offer a dizzying array of good-ies, so make a day of it. If there was aspecialty here, it would be primitives,crock ware, glassware and furniture.Just across I-64 is one of the region’smajor retail malls and dozens of big-box stores, where you can take a breakto shop for some new stuff.

Windows on Broadway, Highland: 618-651-4401 There are nearly 100 windows onthis building, thus the name. Wantsome old magazines or 45 RPM sin-gles? Check. A butter churn or bowl-

ing pins? You got it. But the2,100-square-footatrium graced by allthose windows? Prob-ably not. It’s more thanan antique store; it’s adestination for intimatespecial events with akitchen and bar.

The Antique Mall of Perry County,Nashville: 618-336-5300

Seventy-plus ven-dors have it all, from qualityantiques to vintage col-lectibles… all on one floor, in12,000 square feet of space.

Vintage Collections AntiqueMall, Mt. Carmel: 618-262-2513 Some collectors want things thatare vintage or “retro,” regardless ofwhether they’re truly antique. You’llfind those here, too. Various genres areavailable, from primitives to costumejewelry. Dealers are always welcome.

Prairie Albion Antique Mall,Albion: 618-302-2146 Are you a “repurposer”? Thisplace is chock full of stuff you’ll wantto work with. There are stoneware

Fabulous finds by Jerri Allen

Prarie Albion Antique Mall

Vintage Collections Antique Mall

Windows on Broadwa

y

The Antique Mall of Perry CountySt. Clair Antique Mall


2 • Vol. VIII, Issue II, Fall 2015

Hello from jo...

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

We’ll distribute them for you!Your information will be inserted in plastic bags and handed out at trade shows and events

and given to meeting, reunion and sports groups staying in area hotels. They will also be added to packets mailed out as fulfillment for web, phone and regional advertising requests.

Call Dan at 618-257-1488 and ask about the Brochure Distribution Service. For a nominal fee, we’ll help get the word out about YOU!

To carry Tourism Times at your restaurant, store, visitors center or place of business,

Christine Sopiars, 618-257-1488 or [email protected]

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 [email protected]

Cory Jobe is the Director of the IllinoisOffice of Tourism (IOT), where he is respon-sible for leading the state’s tourism industrymarketing and development efforts. Mr. Jobeworks in collaboration with tourism industryprofessionals to promote visitor travel bothdomestically and internationally, and to helpgrow the tourism industry throughout thestate. Leading a robust tourism industry sup-ports the state’s economic growth and jobs,contributes to the tax base and increases thequality of life for Illinois residents.

Prior to his appointment by Gover-nor Bruce Rauner in January 2015, Mr.Jobe was the Deputy Chief of Staff forthe Illinois Office of the Comptrollerfrom 2011 to 2015. In addition, he serveson the Springfield City Council as theelected alderman of Springfield’s 6thward, which includes tourism attractionslike the Dana Thomas House and theLincoln Home National Historic Site. Mr. Jobe served as leader of the Peo-ples Economic Development Corpora-tion from 2006 to 2010, and as Directorof Economic Development for the Illi-nois State Treasurer’s Office from 1997 to2006. While at the treasurer’s office, hewas instrumental in developing Experi-ence Illinois, a first-of-its-kind low inter-est loan program, which funded more

than $35 million in various state projectsover three years, such as the revitalizationof downtown business districts, restoringhistorical buildings and lodging facilities,establishing sporting venues, and devel-oping wineries and orchards. Mr. Jobe is a native of Robinson,Illinois, and currently resides in Spring-field. Outside of work, Mr. Jobe serveson the board of directors for the Boysand Girls Club of Central Illinois, TheHope Institute for Children and Fami-lies, The Phoenix Center and theSpringfield Urban League. He holds de-grees from Lincoln Trail College andSangamon State University. In his sparetime, you will find him dining at restau-rants across the state as an avid foodie oron one of Illinois’ many golf courses.

There’s something to be said for the“old and the new!” How about a “quasqui-centennial?” If you can pronounce ANDdefine it, you are an educated individual!And, speaking of the old……a featured ar-ticle brings the “Way back When to theHere and Now!” Antique shops aboundnot only in our region but all around thestate; it’s simply a matter of request for a copyof the Illinois Antique Guide. Do you want a different trip to thepast? Hop aboard a hay wagon and find“historical figures” being re-enacted at theElmwood Cemetery in Flora, Il. (youdon’t get more “past” than that!)

Focusing on the “New,” There areCraft Breweries cropping up everywherethroughout the region. Check out the“bubbling over in ILLINOISouth” arti-cle to learn more. Discover the Kaskaskia CahokiaTrail and its 60 mile long corridor! Orhow about taking “Selfies on 66?” As always, check out our popular“Calendar of Events” section and enjoyall that ILLINOISouth has to offer.And last, but not least, our good friend,Cory Jobe, is the new Director of the

Illinois Office of Tourism. He hasdriven many miles in the last fewmonths travelling throughout the stateof Illinois in support of our thrivingtourism industry! Way to go, Cory! And to you our friend intourism…See you down the road!

jo kathmannPres/CEO


Vol. VIII, Issue II, Fall 2015 • 3800-442-1488

It’s a brew-volution, and yourold best friend Bud should be wiserfor it by now. Well, if you’re startingto prefer wheat, fruit- or pumpkin-flavored beers brewed in smallishbatches, you won’t mind that poke atthe region’s biggest, all-American(Belgian) brewery. (I mean, what’sthis strawberry-rita swill the makerof the so-called Great AmericanLager is trying to make us swallownowadays?)

Craft beers are the rage allaround. A new proponent of the“designer” beer is Bill Meier ofExcel Bottling Co. in Breese, makersof Ski and more than a dozen othersoda flavors. Excel launched a newdivision, Excel Brewing Co., just shyof two years ago. One variety isLefty’s Lager, named for the grand-father who founded the local bottlerin 1936.

“Soda sales are declining,” saysMeier. Meanwhile, beer industry ex-perts say the market share of craftbeers has risen sharply, more than 20percent in the last two years. To coina phrase, looks like Meier “et al” arein the clover… well; hops, that is.

Increasingly, beer makers arecoming out of their basement orgarage operations to fashion brewsthat are local-local-local. Aficionadosof these frosty, foamy adult beveragesneed only visit the nearest bar orfamily-owned pizza joint to see that

there are at least a half-dozen more op-tions nowadays than Stag or Bud Light.There may be Schlafly from St. Louis,which started almost 25 years ago as notmuch more than a tap room.

Or there may be a couple varietiesfrom Kaskaskia Brewing Co. in RedBud… and, if not today, then soon. The

new owner has seen sales increasethree-fold since he took over thebusiness in March.

Mature adults prefer a betterbeer, beer crafters say. Most justwant it cheap. You certainly don’thave to be a beer snob to enjoy asuperior product, but you alsodon’t have to put up with weak,flavored yellow water, as some beercrafters call today’s corporateproduct.

Meanwhile, “fresher productjust tastes better,” notes Meier. Sohe tries to keep his inventory aslow as he can. Would you sell apizza that’s been out of the oventoo long? The four DeGoniabrothers sure wouldn’t. But theDeGonia Bros. don’t spin dough;at this writing, the longtime homebrewers were planning a micro-brewery in a revitalized section of

downtown Granite City. (OMG…how about a double chocolate stout?)

Making beer is a labor of love. Butto survive in a fragmented commercial

market, expansion is key, so long as you

CRAFT BEERS

Did we say pizza and beer? InO’Fallon is Peel Wood Fired Pizza andBrewery, which hasn’t yet celebrated itsfirst birthday. Neither has Recess Brew-ing in Edwardsville. Meanwhile inMadison County, Alton will welcome asecond location of Belleville’s 4204Main Street Brewing Co., if it hasn’t al-ready. And in Centralia, you can sampleMakraft Brewing Co.’s product at theirtap room.

So, let’s click glasses and raise someluscious local foam to our mouths!

For more information on theBreweries throughout ILLINOISouth,visit: www.thetourismbureau.org

Makraft Tasting Room

Greg, Rod and John from the ExcelBrew Crew

Bubbling Over in ILLINOISouth

Kaskaskia Brewing Co.

don’t get too big or growtoo fast. Obviously, craftbrewing is economically fea-sible, with industry observerstoday counting upwards of3,000 microbreweries fromcoast to coast.

Growlers from RecessBrewing


discover the region’s diverse history.Explore the evolution of nativecultures, French colonial roots,Revolutionary War era settlement,early Illinois statehood, westwardexpansion, European immigrationand agricultural significance alongthe Trail.

The dramatic bluffs of the sce-nic Mississippi River Valley shapethe natural landscape of the Trail.Rolling oak-hickory forests,prairies and farmlands includingquaint, historic villages and ruralback roads make this 60-mile

journey one you will never forget. In 2014, the Illinois GeneralAssembly proclaimed the Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail as an Illinois Historic andScenic Route. Monroe, Randolph and St.Clair Counties and their respectivemunicipalities, are working together toimprove and promote this historic andscenic corridor for the world to explore,appreciate and enjoy. Call our office today (800.442.1488)to request a brochure detailing theattractions along the trail or [email protected] for otherinquiries.

4 • Vol. VIII, Issue II, Fall 2015 thetourismbureau.org

A Historic Tour of Flora’s ElmwoodCemetery

Enjoy an informative and entertain-ing evening as patrons board hayride wag-ons and are transported into ElmwoodCemetery. You’ll stay aboard the hayrideand stop at approximately 8 different grave

locations and find several “histor-ical figures” buried there, “re-en-acting” their stories! Don’t missthis unique & exciting commu-nity event presented by THEFLORA ROTARY CLUB.Friday & Saturday, September18-19, 5PM-9PM.Tickets are available for pur-chase at the event. Tickets are$5.00, children ages 3 and underare free. Concessions & seatingavailable while you wait at The

Flora Depot, 223 Railroad St., Flora, IL.For more information: 618-713-1764.Photos courtesy of Erin Maxwell

Kaskaskia RiverhouseMarina & Campground

New owners have taken this develop-ment to a whole new level. The updates andrenovations are astonishing. Finished in woodtones and steel, the bar and restaurant, simplyknown as The Riverhouse, provides guestscomfortable seating in the newly expandedbar and dining room. Open seven days a week,visitors can quench their thirst or enjoy a tastymeal from the galley. Step outside where a real treat awaits youat the Parrothead Landing. The open air Tiki

bar with its colorful furnish-ings will tickle your senses andmake you feel like you are on aTropical Getaway.

Stay a few hours or make thisyour home away from home. The resort ac-commodates guests who want to stay over intheir Campgrounds or Boat Slips with daily,weekly, monthly and yearly rates. Entertainment in many forms is the sig-nature addition to the complex. Besidesmusic in the bar most every weekend, the re-sort is hosting The Kaskaskia River Festivaland many other events throughout the Sum-mer/Fall season.Aug. 1 — (KRF) The Kentucky Head-hunters, Stella James, and Miranda Hagan.Aug. 25-29 — The National Crawfish andGumbo Festival featuring chefs fromLouisiana, Florida and across the country. Zy-deco Crawdaddies, Bill “The Sauce Boss”Wharton, The Funky Butt Brass Band.Sept. 6— (KRF) Travis Tritt. The WoundedWarrior concert, with special guest NatalieStovall.Sept. 19-20 — Lucas Oil Dragboat RacesSept. 26 — The 97.5 Rock FestivalOct. 10— (KRF) Will Hoge and Sunday Best

The Kaskaskia Riverhouse Marina andCampground is still evolving and expects toadd many more activity centers. To stay in-formed, pay them a visit at 1 Harbor PointDrive, New Athens, IL, follow them on thewebsite: kaskaskiariverhouse.com or onfacebook, facebook.com/Kaskask-iaRiverHouse.

Illinois Antique Guide

If the Cover Story on Antiques inILLINOISouth isn’t enough, be sure to re-quest the new Illinois Antique Guide. This re-cently issued guide was compiled andproduced by the Great Rivers Country Re-gional Tourism Development Office based oninformation submitted by Illinois’ Conventionand Visitors Bureaus. Enjoy hundreds of won-derful antique shops within ILLINOISouthand beyond. Enjoy the “treasure hunt”throughout the State as you search for an-tiques and collectibles! For a FREE copy of the Illinois AntiqueGuide, contact: The Tourism BureauILLINOISouth: 618-257-1488

Fort de Chartres, Prairi

e du Rocher

Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trailof Illinois’ First Road

Travel on the King’s Road…KingLouis XV of France, that is! Frenchcolonists gave this name to the Kaskaskia-Cahokia Trail (KCT) in the early 1700s.More than 300 years later, the road is stillused today in southwestern Illinois. In this region, the Illinois, Missouri,Ohio, Kaskaskia and Meramec Riversconverge with the Mississippi, andthroughout history provided reliabletransportation for exploration, settlementand trade. Overland trailswere used to accessinterior lands beyond andbetween the rivers. The KCT can betraced to American Indianpeople around 11,000BC, who over time builtlarge civilizations withmound cities along thetrail. When the Frenchestablished permanentsettlements at Kaskaskiaand Cahokia, they namedthese villages after the native Illini people. Other forts and settlements grew overthe next 100 years along the east side ofthe Mississippi River Valley. This first roadspawned other routes that led to Illinoisbecoming the 21st state in 1818, withKaskaskia serving as the first state capital. The 60-mile long corridor connects

visitors with many opportunities to



Mastermind Vodka

Wine and Beer are not the only bev-erages in town… Dan recently toured the MastermindVodka Distillery in Pontoon Beach. In2008, Carl Levering hatched a plan to har-vest quality and show the world just whatkind of spirits could come from the heart-land. So began the journey that wouldlead to the first distillery in MadisonCounty IL, since 1882. Carl’s intent was to produce a pre-mium vodka here in the United States.All premium vodkas were produced in-ternationally. Mastermind is proud tosay, their vodka is “Certified 100%American Made”, also certified glutenand GMO free! The philosophy behind the produc-tion: use Midwestern grain that is har-vested by local farmers who maintainunparalleled control over their crop. AsMidwesterners, we know that the bestgrains in the world are grown right herein our own back yard. They ensure per-fection by working with small hand-crafted batches that can be carefullyproduced and sold at a competitive price.This is not the easiest way to create vodka,but it’s the only way to craft perfect vodka! Mastermind Vodka can be found inover 700 locations throughout Illinois,Missouri and Nebraska. Be sure to stop by Party at theBeach (August 14 & 15) in PontoonBeach this year as Mastermind Vodka willbe exclusively served! Group Tours of the Distillery areavailable Thursday-Saturday, 12pm-8pmand must be scheduled in advance bycalling 855-668-6352 or email:[email protected]

Be a Winner!Scenic Byway Launches “Selfies On 66” Campaign!

Out exploring Route 66 in Illinois?Take a selfie! Be creative and captureyourself and friends at Illinois Route 66landmarks or even more out-of-the-wayharder to find sites along the road. Post iton Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram withthe hashtag #MyIL66. Each month, the Illinois Route 66Scenic Byway will select three photos tobe highlighted on their social media out-lets, and the photo with the mostlikes/comments/shares will win an IllinoisRoute 66 license plate and baseball hat!But it gets better...once per year, theByway will let voters choose from the 12monthly winners, and the photo that getsthe most likes/comments/shares will winthe grand prize: a basket full of IllinoisRoute 66 memorabilia, gift certificatesand more! “This is a fun way to engage ourtravelers along Illinois Route 66 and tosee how innovative they get with the pic-tures they come up with,” said Bill Kelly,Exec. Director of the Illinois Route 66Scenic Byway. “The goal is to have folksspend more time at our attractions andalong the road and this becomes an inter-active way of doing so.” This is an ongo-ing campaign with no official expirationdate. It is important that the Byway canverify the photo was taken along IllinoisRoute 66. Entries can be submitted onselfieson66.com or any of the Byway’s so-cial media platforms. Open to US residents ages 18+. Formore information, contact the IllinoisRoute 66 Scenic Byway at 217-525-9308or visit www.selfieson66.com &www.illinoisroute66.org.



Albers, IllinoisQuasquicentennial Celebration 1891 - 2016

The Village of Albers, Illinois, is celebratingits one-hundred and twenty-fifth anniversary,quasquicentennial, the weekend of June 4-5,2016! Albers was founded in 1891, and is athriving community of approximately 1,100residents, in south-western Clinton County. In 1891, the Air Line Railroad establisheda stop for travelers that became known as AlbersStation. In 1908, the Town of Tonnies was plat-ted and filed at Carlyle consisting of 12 blocks. By 1912, 175 persons were living in thejoint settlement of the Town of Tonnies and Al-bers Station. Business included three generalstores, a hardware store, a butcher shop, cream-ery, three saloons, a barber shop, blacksmithshop, livery stable, lumberyard, sawmill and anelevator. A private bank was opened in 1916and became a State Bank in 1921. After the

Legendary Acts Performing AtGreenville Bicentennial

Downtown Greenville will bebuzzing with activity Labor Day week-end! The Greenville Bicentennial cele-bration on September 5 and 6 featuresmusic, food, historic re-enactors, a pa-rade and a variety of vendors. Free con-certs are performed by the BellamyBrothers on September 5 and the LittleRiver Band September 6. Both beginat 8 p.m. The University of Illinois bandwill play in the parade, September 6 at3 p.m. Greenville was founded in 1815by George Davidson, who purchased160 acres of wilderness on a bluff over-looking Little Shoal Creek. For moreinformation on the celebration, visitwww.greenville200.com

“national bank holiday” the People’sBank of Albers was one of only fourClinton County banks which wereallowed to reopen. Albers was incorporatedJanuary 1, 1942. The village hasbeen governed by a Village Pres-ident and six-member Board ofTrustees. The current VillagePresident, Steve Schomaker, is alife-long Albers resident andconstantly strives to improveand promote Albers. Albers is home to numer-ous businesses, St. BernardCatholic Church, and manyactive organizations that promotethe community and strive to help oth-ers. Many of the residents are very in-volved with these various organizationsand that involvement ensures a brightfuture for Albers. The Albers 125th Kick-Off Celebra-tion was Saturday, June 13, 2015. Manygreat, family-friendly activities are beingplanned through the year leading up to ourAlbers125 Celebration the weekend ofJune 4-5, 2016! Keep up on all the eventsat: albers125.com See you in Albers!

Get your Wings on….

Next time you’re in Chester, lookin the sky and you just may see whatlooks like a big bird…doing loops? Takea closer look….wow Dad, it’s a plane! The Breezy Hill Radio ControlledFlying Club meets most weekends to flytheir model airplanes at the Richard P.McClure Memorial R/C Flying Field,one of the premier flying fields inSouthern Illinois. The airfield is part ofthe 300+ acre, Cohen RecreationalComplex in Chester, IL. The flying club is a member of theAcademy of Model Aeronautics (AMA).The AMA’s purpose is to promote de-velopment of model aviation as a recog-nized sport and worthwhile recreation.The Breezy Hill Club is one of variousCharters throughout the area. The 350foot long, natural grass airstrip (NaturalGrass helps to slow the plane down dur-ing landing) and the Club itself, are set-up according to the rules and regulationsof the AMA. Adults, children and even “AdultChildren at Heart” can experience thethrill at the controls flying one of themodel planes! They can range anywherefrom 3oz. to 18+ pounds and have awingspan from 12 inches up to 18+feet… and fly upwards of 250miles/hour. The planes are lightweight,usually made from Balsa Wood, Foamand other lightweight components suchas Monokote and powered by battery,gasoline or another fuel source contain-ing Nitromethane, Glow Fuel. The Club usually meets mostWeekends and visitors are always wel-come! Call ahead if you’re planning onstopping by so they can plan accordingly.They have three organized events annu-ally, one is during the Popeye Picnic,September 12-13th, 2015. Stop by andexperience the thrill of flying….from adifferent perspective! Breezy Hill R/C Flyers:www.breezyhillrcflyers.com


AUGUST 2015

JULY 2015

July 28 - August 572nd Annual Novena to OurLady of the SnowsNational Shrine of Our Lady of theSnows, Belleville Each evening focuses on a differentaspect of healing: emotional, spiritual,physical, financial, etc. Each eveningfeatures music, a special reflection, ahealing ritual and special prayers; andconcludes with a candlelight rosaryprocession. The Oblate fathers andbrothers welcome you to this specialnovena. 618-397-6700

July 29 - August 1Ag DaysMt. CarmelA 4-day street carnival in uptownMt. Carmel includes food, rides, freeentertainment, free parking and more. 618-262-5116

July 31 - August 2Mascoutah Homecoming und August FestScheve Park, MascoutahJoin in the festival fun with carnivalrides, games, music, parades and more. 618-566-2964

July 31 - August 4East Richland Coon Hunter’s Association American Redbone DaysOlney 618-392-2241

August 1 & 29Confluence Crush Roller DerbyBelle-Clair Expo Center, Belleville 618-233-0052

August 1Great Kaskaskia Duck RaceCarlyle Lake/West Spillway Recreation Area, CarlyleWatch truckloads of rubber ducks arebeing dumped from the Carlyle LakeDam to race down the KaskaskiaRiver. The fastest ducks win greatprizes! View from the West SpillwayRecreation Area. 618-594-2484

Archaeology DayCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleSee demonstrations of ancient crafts,artifact processing, hands-on activi-ties, dig tours and storytelling. 618-346-5160


continued on page 9

EVENTSCALENDAR

August 11The Edwardsville/Glen Carbon AreaYouth Concert SeriesMiner Park, Glen Carbon Enjoy music played by talented youngmusicians. 618-593-2384

August 12 - 1656th Annual Steam, Gas & Threshing ShowPerry County Fairgrounds, PinckneyvilleThe show begins on the night of August12 with activities beginning on August13. Featured this year is International J.I.Case, Case Heritage Foundation andHosting the Heritage Eagle Club. 618-654-9474

August 14Crusin’ the Dam Car Show & Cruz-In at Carlyle LakeMariner’s Village Resort, CarlyleGet your shine and show on with yourclassic, unique, rat or hot rod! This eventallows car enthusiasts to cruise over thedam, vendors, games, auctions, food andso much more. FREE family friendlyevent! 618-594-2484

Night at the MuseumsWaterlooAll three of Waterloo’s Museums will beopen with special events focusing on discovering historic Waterloo. 618-939-5300

August 14 - 15Columbia DazeMetter Park, ColumbiaA summer festival with music, food,drinks, amusement rides, games and a parade. 618-281-7144

Party at the BeachVeterans Park, Pontoon BeachEnjoy the Village of Pontoon Beach’s Annual Party at the Beach! There will be vendor booths, fire/police displays,carnival rides, children activities,bands/entertainment, food and drinksand a 5K run/walk. 618-931-6100

August 14 - 16Germantown SpassfestSchoendienst Field, GermantownGerman food, concessions, beverages,amusement rides, bag & washer tournaments, brew off, parade, bands all day long, craft fair, bike show, drawings and Willis Wooden Creations. 618-523-4202

Lupus Wolfride GranFondoBolm-Schahkraft Park, Columbia 314-644-2222

Trash & Treasures Village Yard SaleMaeystownCome out in the morning and tourthe village and shop. 618-458-6660

White Squirrel TriathlonMusgrove Park, OlneyThe triathlon is open to all from be-ginners to the most experienced. Thecourse consists of a 200 meter out-door pool swim, 11.8 mile bike rideand 5K run/walk. 618-395-7302

RCHS Corn FestCharter Oak 8-Sided SchoolSchulineThere will be guided tours of theHistoric One Room Schoolhouse,country store, music, dinner with kettle cooked corn on the cob, friedchicken, Indian Pudding and more. 618-826-2667

Rummage SaleImmanuel Lutheran ChurchWaterloo 618-939-6480

August 1, September 5 & October 10Brick Street Classic Car ShowHistoric Downtown Lebanon Lebanon’s historic brick street is covered with a vast collection of over100 classic cars and trucks fromSouthern Illinois and Missouri. Great50s and 60s music plays throughoutthe event. Prizes are awarded for different categories. 618-537-8420

August 1 - 4AIM GrandWorld Shooting and RecreationalComplex, Sparta 618-295-2700

August 2Berger-Kiel Log House Open HouseBerger-Kiel Log House, MascoutahNamed to the National Register in1999, the Berger Kiel Log House wasbuilt in 1863-64. Visit this historichome during Mascoutah’s Home-coming weekend. 618-566-9774

August 3 - 9September 25 - 26Bluegrass Reunion & Jam SessionCharley Brown Park, Flora 618-662-8313

August 5 - 15ATA Grand AmericanWorld Shooting and Recreational Complex, Sparta 618-295-2700

August 6 - 9Jesus Christ, SuperstarBreeseClinton County Showcase presents JesusChrist, Superstar. 618-526-2866

August 1, 7 - 8, 14 - 15, 21 - 22& 28 - 29September 4 - 5Summer Concert FestEckert’s Country Store & FarmBellevilleEnjoy live music in the plaza area outsidethe Country Store. This FREE event isperfect for all ages! We will have kids’ activities and custard as well as appetizers.Wine/beer available for purchase. Bring alawn chair or blanket and enjoy a beauti-ful evening with family and friends. If itrains, the concert will be canceled. 618-233-0513

Lucas Oil Regional Drag Racing Series All-American Hot RodShowdownGateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888

St. George Church PicnicSt. George Church, New BadenThis annual event will have games, food,bingo and basket raffles. 618-588-3813

August 7 - 9Gateway Dulcimer Music FestivalNational Shrine of Our Lady of theSnows, BellevilleInstructional classes for Mt. Dulcimer andHammered Dulcimer players, autoharp,guitar and more, as well as music vendors.The evening concerts will feature profes-sional instructors. 618-651-8271

August 8 - 9“Shrek, Jr.” Summer Youth MusicalSt. Paul’s UCC, Belleville 618-233-3303

August 9RMP Short & LongSprint Triathlon

Carlyle Lake, Carlyle 618-594-2484

Gateway Bridal ShowGateway Center, CollinsvilleBrides have the opportunity to meetwith approximately 100 different wedding professionals, win great prizes,view beautiful decor and sample fine cuisine by Ovations Food Service. Brides will also have the opportunity to enter for Cake Dive to win a freehoneymoon. 618-345-8998

To submit an event, a Calendar of Event Form must be completedand submitted for each event. The form can be found on the Calendar ofEvents page at www.thetourismbureau.org. Please keep in mind your events should be “visitor-friendly” and bring in peoplefrom outside your area. Priority is given to events that produce overnight stays.

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

Deadline for Event submissions are: Spring/Summer Issue: January 1st, Fall Issue:May 1st, Holiday Issue: August 1st. Event information received after this date issubject to exclusion in the Calendar of Event section listed in the seasonalTourism Times.

of


Food August 8Village of Noble ChowderVillage of Noble ParkHead over to the Village Park andpurchase a bowl of tasty Chowder. 618-723-2212

August 14 - 15Sips & TastesShilohEnjoy delicious food and great music. 618-377-2504

August 15WinestockHidden Lake Winery, Aviston 618-228-9111

August 16Maeystown Fire Dept. BBQ & Show Us Your RideMaeystownEnjoy great barbecue while seeingcars, trucks, motorcycles and tractors. 618-580-5875

August 22Little Pig Cook-OffBCDC Park, BeckemeyerIn addition to blind judging awards,attendees will determine by popularvote, the “Best Pork Steak” and the“Best Site.” Music will play all day,and other activities include a bagstournament, raffles, kid’s area andmore. 618-227-8331

Annual Fun in the Sun BBQ &Cruise-In Car ShowNew Baden Village ParkHeld annually on the 4th Saturday ofAugust, there will be all licensedmakes and models, trophies and dashplaques, awards presentations, food,drinks, 50/50 raffle, music and atten-dance prizes. 618-588-3813

August 28 - 3025th Annual Bluegrass & BBQBryan Memorial Park, SalemBarbeque festival featuring live bluegrass music. 618-315-3877

August 29National Crawfish & Gumbo FestivalThe Kaskaskia RiverhouseNew AthensThe National Crawfish and GumboFestival will feature chefs fromLouisiana, Florida and points fromacross the country! Entertainment includes legendary Zydeco Crawdad-dies, “The Sauce Boss” Bill Wharton,The Funky Butt Brass Band andmore. 618-475-2223

September 5Berryville ChowderBerryville Community Bldg.BerryvilleLine up and fill a bowl with this localfavorite! 618-839-5081

September 19Lincoln Place Heritage FestivalLincoln Place Community CenterGranite City Armenian, Mexican, Macedonianand Bulgarian ethnic foods andpastries for sale. Free, continuousethnic entertainment. Enjoy Lincoln Place historical displays,quilts, Eastern European costumedisplays and children activities.

618-876-6400

September 25Autumn Art WalkGreenvilleFine art, savory food and wineand delightful music are featured at this event sponsored by OurCommon Ground. Artists from the St. Louis metro region are spotlighted at this outdoor event. 618-664-9272

October 2 - 3Chili Cook-Off Downtown Belleville Belleville’s Chili Cook-off featuresthe culinary creations of individuals,local organizations & area businesses,as well as a children’s area, 5K runand entertainment throughout theweekend! 618-233-2015

October 9 - 10OctoberfestSteelevilleThe fun begins Friday evening witha parade and continues with food,beer, music, craft fair, washer tournament, kids’ activities and avariety show. 618-559-7635

October 10Freeburg Chamber of Commerce Chili Cook-OffFreeburg Village ParkMake a day of tasting deliciouschili! 618-410-4077

Chili Cook-OffOkawvilleIt’s chili tasting for all, and prizes forthe best chili, people’s choice andbest decorated booth. Kids activities,wine tasting, additional food items,beer, soda and other beverages arealso available. 618-243-5694

Fun

October 11OktoberfestMaeystownBrowse more than 50 artisans, crafters, dealers, and numerousfood stands. The villagespecialty shops, bed andbreakfast, restaurants andmuseum are open.

618-458-6660

October 17Chili Cook Off & Arts and CraftsDupo Community Park, DupoIn addition to the great chilibooths, there will be arts andcrafts, prizes, food, music, gamesand walk of honor. 618-282-3280

Fall Fest & Chili Cook-OffMascoutahThis annual event has something forthe entire family. There’s a ChiliCook-off, Car Show, craft & productvendors, children’s area, food andentertainment. In the Chili Cook-offyou can sample over 20 kinds of chili. 618-566-7355

October 24Chili & Soup Cook-OffNew Baden Village Park There’s a Tasters’ Choice competitionfor both chili and soup with prizesawarded in both categories. Familieswill find a craft fair, touch-a-truckequipment display, bounce houses,etc. 618-588-3813

October 25OktoberfestHidden Lake Winery, AvistonEnjoy German food, beer, wine andlive music. 618-228-9111

8 • Vol. VIII, Issue II, Fall 2015


August 15Noble City-Wide Garage SaleNobleOn the third Saturday in August youcan find bargains galore during the City-Wide Garage Sale. 618-723-2212

White Squirrel Cruiser Car ShowOlney City ParkCome enjoy the variety of classic carson display. Meet the owners and heartheir stories about restoring thesebeauties. Antique lawn tractors willbe available to view as display only. 618-838-8664

August 15 - 16September 19 - 20October 17 - 18Belleville Antique & CollectiblesFlea MarketBelle Clair Expo Center, BellevilleThere are over 600 tables and 300-400 vendors selling antiques and collectibles, merchandise bothold and new, indoor and outdoor year round. 618-233-0052

August 21 - 22Parish FestivalHoly Family Church, CahokiaThere will be carnival rides, raffle,food and entertainment with basketand cake booths. It’s fun for everyone. 618-337-4548

Freeburg HomecomingFreeburg Recreation Park, FreeburgA fun filled picnic with games, greatfood, raffles, music, truck pulls, tractorpulls, washer tournament, art andcraft show, rides, beverages and somuch more! 618-304-8673

St. Peter Prairie DaysSt. PeterEnjoy live entertainment nightly with a parade on Saturday. 618-322-0708

August 21 - 23Balloon FestFoundation Park, CentraliaThe Annual Hot Air Balloon Festivalfeaturing 40 hot air balloons, races,glows, tethered balloon rides, mainstage entertainment, craft fair, freechildren’s activity area and games,cardboard boat races, car show and fireworks. 618-532-6789

August 22Optimist 5K Run/Fun WalkRogers Elementary, Waterloo 618-939-3970

August 22 - 23October 3 - 4Gun & Knife ShowBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleThis hunting and trade show is Illinois’ largest! Firearms and knifedealers buy-sell-trade guns, knives,ammo, scopes, accessories and FOIDcards will be processed. 618-233-0052

August 22 - 23St. Paul’s KirchenfestSt. Paul Church and SchoolHighlandThe largest of its kind throughout theregion, this two-day “Kirchenfest”(German for church festival) offerssomething for everyone - food (including the Bavarian skillet dishprepared in a 500 pound skillet), live music, games, live auction, fleamarket, a competitive run, bike rideand much more. 618-654-2339

August 27 - 29Anarchy at the Arch IIGateway Motorsports Park, MadisonStreet Car Super Nationals at St. Louis & Nostalgia Drag RacingLeague. 618-215-8888

SASS US OpenWorld Shooting and RecreationalComplex, Sparta 618-295-2700

August 28 - 29Ceramic & Fired ArtsBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleShop for beautiful ceramics andmore. 618-233-0052

Waterloo HomecomingCourthouse Square, WaterlooThis fun festival on the CourthouseSquare features rides, games, musicand a variety of food and drink witha parade held on Saturday afternoon. 618-939-8600

August 28 - 30Midwest Salute to the ArtsMoody Park at LongacreFairview HeightsA juried art show with more than100 artists displaying and selling their work in eleven mediums with children’s activities, music, food and a fun, festival atmosphere.

August 29Fireman’s Tractor PullBCDC Park, Beckemeyer 618-227-8331

August 29 - 30Annual Hydroplane Boat RacesRaccoon Lake (Boat Docks)CentraliaTwo days of exciting high-speedpowerboat racing! 618-532-1160


from page 7

continued on page 12



from page 9

SEPTEMBER 2015September 4 - 5Girlie Girlz GatheringBelle Clair Expo Center, BellevilleThere are three main areas: Tasting isFun with truffles, olive oil blends,cookies, cake and tea. At Your Servicehas Pampered Chef, Scentsy, Chiro-practors, AVON and tanning. PaperYour Body features clothing, jewelry,hand bags, hats, scarves and bodyproducts. 618-233-0940

September 6Historic Kaskaskia Church Tours& PicnicKaskaskiaGuided tours of Historic 1675 Immaculate Conception Church,Liberty Bell of the West and the firstbuilt Randolph County Court-house/School. Also, tractor/truckpull, horseshoe tournament, bingo,country store, games, traditional food,drinks and tee-shirts. 618-826-2667

Travis Tritt - The Wounded Warrior ConcertThe Kaskaskia RiverhouseNew AthensEnjoy a great night of music listeningto Travis Tritt with special guest Natalie Stovall and more. 618-475-2223

Gateway Grizzlies - GreatestNight in BaseballGCS Ballpark, Sauget The game begins at 6:05 p.m. withfireworks following the game and somuch more! 618-337-3000

September 7Labor Day ParadeBellevilleCome out and see the LaborDay Parade! 618-233-6769

September 10 - 12City Wide Garage SaleSt. Jacob 618-667-8769

September 10 - 13Clinton County Showcase Presents:The Legend of Sleepy HollowBreese 618-526-2866

September 4 - 6Centralia Carillon Summer Concert SeriesCentralia Carillon, CentraliaHear classics played on one of the tenlargest carillons in the world! 618-533-4381Grayville DaysDowntownGrayvilleGrayville Days willhave free live band enter-tainment, food vendors, craftvendors, big parade, activities for allages and spectacular fireworks show.Don’t miss the challenging 5K onSaturday! 618-375-3671

September 5 - 6St. Louis Antique FestivalBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleThe St. Louis Antique Festival features over 100 quality dealers from32 states. 618-233-0052

Greenville BicentennialGreenvilleGreenville’s biggest celebration in 200 years! Downtown Greenvillehosts free concerts, Wild West Show,food, inflatables, historical re-enactors plus the largest parade inGreenville’s History. Don’t miss TheBellamy Bros. Saturday and LittleRiver Band on Sunday. 888-862-8201

September 5 - 7St. Elmo Labor Day CelebrationMain St., St. ElmoWeekend activities include flea markets, carnival games, pony rides,parade, bingo, cake walk, nightly entertainment, and concession stands.There is a car show on Saturday and aGospel Sing on Sunday at 6:00 pm. 618-829-3319

Antique Power DaysMarion County Fairgrounds, SalemThere will be a consignment auction,flea market, toy show & auction, tractor pulls, parade of power, lawn &garden tractor pull, pedal pulls, equipment demonstrations, church & memorial service. 618-548-1251

September 11Moment of Remembrance CeremonyFire Administration Office, BellevilleCeremony to honor those who diedon September 11, 2001. 618-233-6810


Family Hike NightSilver Lake Park, HighlandFollow the trail at Highland’s SilverLake Park and look for a variety ofanimals and insects. Look to the starsthrough a telescope and see whathides in the sky. The evening finisheswith refreshments by the fire. 618-3651-1386

Discover Historic Waterloo: Block PartyWaterloo 618-939-8600

September 11 - 12Girlie Girlz GatheringBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleA show for girls of all ages with itemsto taste, clothes, jewelry, shoes andbody products, Norwax, PamperedChef plus many others. 618-233-0940

St. Joseph’s Parish PicnicFreeburgSample our famous fish fry andchicken dinners. There’s also livemusic, kids’ activities, quilt raffle, quiltbingo, Country Store and more. 618-539-3209

Ramsey Community Wide Rummage SaleRamsey 618-423-2411

Village of Shiloh PicnicShiloh Community Park, ShilohThe 63rd Shiloh Picnic begins on Friday evening with a spectacular fire-works show at 9 p.m. Both evenings,enjoy carnival rides, various vendorbooths, great food and music with freeparking. 618-632-1022 x119

September 11 - 13Children’s Consignment SaleBelle Clair Expo Center, BellevilleThere’ll be children’s clothing, toys,furniture and baby equipment. 618-233-0052

36th Annual Popeye PicnicChesterJoin Popeye and his friends for theparade, carnival, flea market, car cruis-ing, petting zoo, wrestling, bands, car-toons, 5K run/walk, pet show, foodand more! 618-826-4567

UBDRA - Black SundayGateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888

September 12Village Wide Yard SalesAlbers 618-248-5154

Airstravaganza & Open HouseGreenville Airport, GreenvilleSpend the day at the airport andspeak with pilots, see demonstrationsand more. 618-664-0926

Touch the TrucksNational Shrine of Our Lady of theSnows, BellevilleBring the family for a fun day wherekids can see and touch cool vehicles.The day also includes a Classic CarExpo & Truck display. Free wagonrides and free pony rides (with paidadmission). 618-397-6700

Missouri Atlatl AssociationCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleAnnual competition and demonstra-tion of this ancient spear throwingdevice. 618-346-5160

Songs 4 SoldiersMetter Park, Columbia Fabulous music is dedicated to all ofthose who have served our country.Music line-up includes PettyCashJunction, Super Majik Robots,Where’s Charlie and Super Jam. Make sure to bring your lawn chairor blanket. 618-281-7144

Community Yard SaleFreeburgYard sales are set up all over town. It’s a true treasure hunt! 618-539-5528

Street Art FestivalDowntown Square, HighlandArtists transform the streets aroundthe historic downtown square intoan outdoor art museum as they cre-ate fabulous street paintings in chalk. Visitors amble through the streetswatching the artists at work as theyenjoy a variety of food and bever-ages, shop at the local artist’s expoand listen to live music. 618-654-3721

Bicycle ClassicOlney City ParkEnjoy a day out with the whole fam-ily! Participate in the 25 mile chal-lenge ride, family ride and/orchildren’s races. Free t-shirts for par-ticipants. 618-392-2241

Troy City Wide Garage SaleTri-Township Park and ThroughoutTroyGreat bargains and treasures alike canbe found at the over 100 participat-ing addresses. 618-667-8769

Optimist Blue Army Bull BashMonroe County Fairgrounds, WaterlooThirty-five of the Champion BullRiders’ greatest Cowboys do battleagainst the toughest 2000 lb., four-legged bovine athletes in the coun-try. Activities for the kids, coldbeverages and other refreshments willbe available. 618-477-7240

September 12 - 13Carlyle Wine & Art FestivalBretz Wildlife Lodge & Winery CarlyleTaste a variety of wines and enjoy theart on display for sale by local artists. 618-594-8830

Whale of a Sail RegattaCSA Harbor, Hazlet Park Carlyle Lake, CarlyleThis racing and social event is opento all sailboats and attended by sailorsthroughout the Midwest. A packageof social events may be purchased forthose not participating in the racing.Limited crew positions on cruisingrace boats will be available with ad-vance reservation. 314-325-WAVE (9283)

American Indian Education DaysCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleLearn about Indian customs, beliefs,dress, arts and crafts. 618-346-5160

Geff Frontier DaysDowntown, GeffExperience re-enactment of FrontierDays. 618-897-2592





September 5 - 7, 12 - 13, 19 - 20 & 26 - 27Apple FestEckert’s Farm, BellevilleWagon rides, live entertainment, great festival foods, children’s activities andmore make this an apple pickin’ goodtime for everyone! Whether riding apony or feeding a goat, your young ‘unswill enjoy getting acquainted with common farm animals. 618-233-0513

September 10 - 12Sumner Fall FestivalSumnerThis 3 day family fun event includes vendors, nightly entertainment, children’sgames, corn-hole tournament with a parade on Saturday. 618-936-2415

September 11 - 12Annual Fall FestivalNewtonThis 2 day festival celebrates fall and thesmall town atmosphere of Jasper County.There will be a 5K run, great food, talented crafters and a parade on Saturdaymorning. It’s great family fun! 618-783-3399

September 11 - 13Homestead Harvest DaysLouis Latzer Homestead, Highland40 acres of fun celebrating history andrecognition of farming to America’sgrowth. Threshing, single mill, stonecrushing corn shelling, potato picking,tractors and gas engines along with craftand flea market, silent auction. 618-654-6781

September 12Fall Fest/Car ShowTri-Township Park, Troy Fun for the whole family can be foundin Troy. 618-667-8769

September 16 - 19Fairfield Fall Fun FestDowntown FairfieldCelebrate Fall in Fairfield with fun activities for the whole family. 618-842-6116

Lawrence County Fall FestivalDowntown Lawrenceville This is the 53rd year for the LawrenceCounty Chamber of Commerce AnnualFall Festival! Amusement rides for all ageswith dozens of food vendors serving uptasty carnival treats. Don’t miss LawrenceCounty’s biggest, most popular 4 dayevent! 618-943-3516

September 27Columbia FestiFallMetter Park, ColumbiaMusic by the Well Hungarians,unique food and merchandise vendors, wine tasting and lots of great fall activities for the kids. 618-281-7144

October 1 - 3Fall FestivalGreenupShop the crafts and flea market andenjoy the entertainment and festivalfood. Don’t miss the large car showon Sunday! The queen pageant willtakes place on 9/27. 217-923-3401

October 3Du Quoin Fall FestivalDu QuoinEnjoy a day full of food, craft andmerchandise vendors, kids’ corner,chili cook-off and more. 618-542-8338

Apple DayGreenville 618-664-9272

Lebanon’s Fall FestivalLebanonCome see more than 100 crafters’handmade items, and enjoy the food,music and children activities at thisfamily oriented event. 618-537-2764

October 4Du Bois Center Fall FestivalDu Bois Center, Du BoisCome out for the food, music, crafts,pontoon boat and hay wagon withhorse rides at this family-friendlyevent. 618-787-2202

Ripson Bridge Fall FestivalSorentoThis is sure to be fun a day withcrafters, music and food! 618-664-9272

October 10Fall FestivalNorth Park, BreeseHead to North Park in Breese for funand entertainment! 618-526-7731

Apple FestSchwartz Farm, CentraliaApple Fest will have a straw maze,jump toys, face painting, music andgames. It will be fun for the entirefamily! 618-532-8058

Fall FestivalMoody Park at LongacreFairview HeightsEnjoy games, rides, crafts, food and amonster egg hunt! 618-489-2040

Fall Family Festival & Hill’s FortLiving History EventAmerican Farm Heritage MuseumGreenvilleIt’s time for fall fun including thechildren’s costume contest, pumpkinpainting, games, face painting, trainrides, prizes, food and the Lil’ RedBarn! Re-enactors of 1812, anArmed Forces display, crafts and vendors will also be here. 618-664-9733

Fall Fest on the FarmMarcoot Jersey Creamery, GreenvilleVisitors of all ages have lots to do andsee at this free, family friendly event.Kids can participate in several activitiesand can go through our hay maze. Artisan cheeses are available to sample,as well as other delicious treats availablefor purchase. Our pumpkin patch isopen for pumpkin and gourd picking. During your visit, dont forget a stopin our calf barn to visit and pet thenew calves or to milk one of our simulated cows. 618-664-1110

October 16 - 18American Thresherman Fall FestivalPerry County FairgroundsPinckneyvilleThis event has daily demonstrationsand displays of steam and gas engines,draft horses and pony activities. Featured: rope making, saw mill, cornshredding and shelling, cider andapple butter making, blacksmithingand steam train rides. This is a familyfun weekend! 618-318-0745

October 24Fall FestivalDowntown CollinsvilleThe day is packed with fun familyfestivities that include trick or treat-ing, chili cook-off, children’s costumecontest and pet parade. 618-558-1372

October 25Fall Farm DanceWilloughby Farm, Collinsville 618-346-7529

Youth in Action Fall FestivalMt. CarmelA fall festival with food, crafts, carnival games, inflatables, hay rides,live performances, cotton candy,popcorn and the Fall Harvest PrinceContest. 618-263-4230

October 30 - 31Louisville Fall FestivalDowntown Louisville Celebrate Fall in Louisville! 618-665-3348

September 19Wamac Fall FestivalWamac City Park, CentraliaJoin the fun with a carnival, entertainment,food, games, sport competitions, livebands, kids games and beer garden. 618-532-1138

Salem Apple FestBryan Memorial Park, SalemTaste the fruit from the apple orchards,enjoy craft vendors, exhibits, food, concessions, live musical entertainment,apple dessert contest, kids’ games andpony rides. 618-548-3010

September 25 - 26Apple Butter MakingThe Rock Mill, MaeystownInstruction in the art of making applebutter takes place at the restored 1859rock mill. See demonstrations of variousapple peeling and stirring methods.Friends of Maeystown willing to helppeel apples or donate two hours of stirring time, please call David Braswell. 618-458-6660

Nashville Fall FestCourthouse Lawn & Square, NashvilleCelebrate fall in Nashville with aPrincess/Superhero Parade, petting zoo,children’s activities, live entertainment,nearly 100 vendors, crafters and foodbooths. 618-327-3700

September 26Fall Farm DayWilloughby Farm, Collinsville Hayrides, live bluegrass music, vintagefarm tools, kids’ activities and more makethis a fun day. 618-346-7529

Fall FestivalCoultervilleCelebrate Fall with food and fun includ-ing children’s games, precious pumpkincontest and a parade. 618-758-2500

Appleknocker FestivalFlora High School, FloraThe festival celebrates all things apple -the best fall fruit. This year, the KahokDancers perform along with other enter-tainment and activities for the wholefamily. 618-662-5646

Olney Arts Council Fall FestivalOlney City ParkEnjoy a day of handmade arts, crafts and food. Relax while viewing enter-tainment that spans the full day. Fun forall ages! 618-395-2868

Harvest FestivalDowntown VandaliaEnjoy vendors, merchants sidewalk sales,bingo, kids activities and inflatables. 618-283-2728



Salem Regional Aerobatic ContestSalem-Leckrone Airport, SalemInternational Aerobatic Club Chapter61, regional aerobatic competitionfeatures planes and pilots from acrossthe Midwest competing over theskies of Salem. 618-452-6049

September 17October 15Diva NightMain Street, BellevilleIt’s a girls night out with shops open,prizes and a party. 618-233-2015

September 17 - 20Southeastern Vintage Trailer RallyRed Hills State Park, SumnerCome and see the vintage camperson display. 618-263-2811

September 18 - 19ItalianFestDowntown Collinsville Since 1983, Collinsville, IL has beencelebrating the Italian culture andheritage that built the city. The twoday event includes a bocce ball tournament, 5K, kids fun run, diaperdash, grape stomp, pageant, threestages of entertainment and AuthenticItalian food from over 40 vendors.The Fest is a family friendly event! 618-344-2884

UKC World Championship Coon HuntFloraSome of the best Hounds fromaround the country will be converg-ing on Flora to show their masterskills. 618-662-8313

Shadows of ElmwoodThe Flora Depot, FloraThe historic tour of Flora’s ElmwoodCemetery begins and ends at theFlora Depot. Patrons will boardhayride wagons and be transportedinto Elmwood Cemetery. Stay aboardthe wagon and find several interesting characters waiting to telltheir stories. 618-713-1764

September 18 - 20Fall Classic Trap EventWorld Shooting and RecreationalComplex, Sparta 618-295-2700

Wheat Fair & FestivalOkawvilleThis three day event has a QueenPageant on Friday evening, carnivalrides, food and drinks, games, antiquetractor pull and a washers tourna-ment Saturday. Exhibits include farmand home making, 4-H and schoolprojects. Don’t miss the large deco-rated float parade Sunday; it’s thefinest in the area. 618-243-5694

September 19“Pain Historic Belleville” Plein Air Art AuctionBellevilleArtists paint historic Belleville sites inthe morning and the an art auctiontakes place in the afternoon. 618-531-7753

Fall Classic MOWA Spring Car RacingRoute 45 Raceway, Flora 618-553-1074

Nature Culture HikeCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleA three-mile hike takes you througharchaeological and natural areas. 618-346-5160

Art on the Bluffs Art WalkMain Street, ColumbiaCome out and enjoy talented artists,musicians, theater, food and activitiesfor the kids. 618-281-7144

Highland Speedway JamHighland Speedway, HighlandCome join us at the Highland Speed-way Jam 2015 featuring Blue OysterCult, April Wine and special guestStrikeforce! 618-654-6656

from page 13



thetourismbureau.org16 • Vol. VIII, Issue II, Fall 2015

September 19 - 20Frontier DaysCaseyville Park, CaseyvilleRe-enactor encampment showing life asit was during the frontier days. Talk to there-enactors, watch the demonstrationsand head to the kids area. Food and frontier wares are available for purchase. 618-344-1234

Lucas Oil Dragboat RacesThe Kaskaskia Riverhouse, New Athens 618-475-2223

September 20Artificat Identification DayCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleBring in artifacts for archaeologists toidentify. 618-346-5160

RCHS Creole House ToursCreole House, Prairie du RocherEnjoy guided tours of Historic French/American Transitional Creole House. 618-826-2667

Fall Equinox Sunrise ObservanceCahokia Mounds State Historic SiteCollinsvilleMeet at Woodhenge Reconstruction at6:45 a.m. to observe the Fall EquinoxSunrise. 618-346-5160

September 25 - 26Norris City Dairy DaysNorris CityThe festival celebrates agriculture in theNorris City area with music, food and aQueen contest Friday night with a parade Saturday. 618-378-3453

September 25 - 27Gem & Jewelry ShowGateway Center, CollinsvilleEnjoy a marketplace of gems, beads andjewelry. Intergem brings the largest selections at the lowest prices. There issomething for everyone! 301-294-1640

AAA Insurance NHRA Midwest NationalsGateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888

September 26Carlyle Lake’s B3Carlyle Lake, CarlyleChoose to run a 2K, 5K, 10K or halfmarathon in this event. 618-865-7165

The 97.5 Rock FestivalThe Kaskaskia RiverhouseNew Athens 618-475-2223

Zion UCC Donut Dash 5K/1 MileFun RunNew Baden Village ParkA 5K where you are actually rewardedfor eating donuts! 618-588-3813

Quilt Guild ShowChristian Church of Olney The theme is “Quilted Treasure Old and New.” There are over 17 categories: modern, antique and woolas well as theme rooms, make andtake it projects, vendors and demon-strations. 618-395-7302

October 2 - 4Archon 39 ConventionGateway Center, CollinsvilleArchon is an annual science fictionconvention. 800-289-2388

World War II Salute to Our VeteransFort de Chartres State Historic SitePrairie du RocherThis is a large scale event featuringWWII static displays, demonstrationsand re-enactments. This event is opento the public all three days, with mainactivities on Saturday the 3rd. 618-284-7230

October 2 - 11Smokey Mountain HomecomingSalem Theatre, SalemThe local theatre performs Bluegrassfavorites with touching stories andtwenty-five toe-tapping Bluegrass favorites. 618-548-9797

October 3Fall City-Wide Yard SaleGrayvillePick up a map to all the area yard sales. 618-375-3671

Tour de Bluffs Bike RidePrairie du Rocher Village Park There is a choice of scenic “riderfriendly” routes of 12, 25 or 42 miles. 618-859-3742

Little Egypt FestivalSalemThis day-long festival features a carshow, children’s activities, parade, 5Krun, horse show, parade, arts, crafts, fleamarket, food and concessions andother entertainment. 618-548-3010

Wayne City Town Wide Rummage SalesWayne City 618-895-2241

October 3 - 17Annual Squirrel CountOlneyCome help with the Annual White(and gray) Squirrel count of Olney.Each counter will be given a specificarea of the town to count. Volunteersare always welcomed. Please call todayto reserve your counting area! 618-395-7302

October 4Christian Music FestivalMetter Park, ColumbiaA Christian community collaborationrock concert features vendors andkids activities. 618-281-7144

Car, Truck and Motorcycle ShowDowntown Grayville50 trophies will be awarded for theshow. Dash plaques and grab bags willbe given to the first 100 entries, plusprizes and giveaways through the day. 618-375-7158

Clinton County Amazing RaceNew Baden Village Park Family friendly challenges at 10 locations throughout ClintonCounty. Teams of 2-6 people followclues to the next location. There willalso be food, raffles, games and anauction. 618-588-3813

OCTOBER 2015

from page 15


ABATE Family Fun FestVandaliaEnjoy motorcycle show, kids activities, vendors and more! 618-292-8443

September 26 - 27Wayne City Bean DaysDowntown Wayne City Celebrating over 45 years of WayneCity with ham & beans, parade, pageant, live music and more. 618-895-2241

September 27Motorcycle Swap MeetBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleThis gathering of motorcycle enthu-siasts features over 300 booths of newand used parts for Harley-DavidsonCycles, plus accessories and relateditems. 618-233-0052

September 29Chalk It Up!FreeburgChildren from kindergarten through8th grade will show off their creativ-ity with sidewalk chalk. Children’sactivities and awards are included. 618-539-5429

September 30 - October 3Enfield Mule DaysEnfieldFestival celebrating mule breeding inEnfield was established in 1921. Thefestival includes a gospel sing, kids’games, baby and tot contests, queencontests, street dance, bingo, music,prize drawings and annual fun eventssuch as beard growing and lookalikes.Don’t miss the pet parade and craftshow followed by a parade and mulejudging on Saturday. 618-963-2222

October 1 - 31Mourning Col. Stephenson1820 Col. Benjamin StephensonHouse, Edwardsville Experience the customs grievingfamilies practiced and say goodbye toColonel Benjamin Stephenson as helies in state in the parlor of his home.Watch as lawyers begin cataloging theStephenson’s personal items for theprobate records, and as Lucy preparesto auction off her belongings. 618-692-1818

October 2 - 3City-Wide Garage Sale & Merchants SaleBreese 618-526-7731

Chestnut FestivalDowntown, St. Francisville40th Annual Chestnut Festival with aparade on Saturday. This two dayevent will feature entertainment, foodvendors and many craft vendors. 618-240-3017


County FairsJuly 22 - August 1

Edwards County FairAlbion 618-445-3246

July 30 - August 4

Bond County FairBond County Fairgrounds, GreenvilleEnjoy music, food, farm exhibits, parade, animaljudging and auctions, tractor pulls, truck pulls,demolition derby, queen contest, various ex-hibits and activities. 618-622-1412

August 1 - August 8

White County FairCarmi 618-382-7606

August 1 - August 9

Marion County Fair Salem75th Marion County Fair features music, food and concessions, carnival rides, exhibits, children’s activities, livestock shows, motocross,queen and little miss pageant, ITPA tractor pull,rodeo, demolition derby and NTPA Grand National tractor pull. 618-548-1251

August 14 - 22

Greenup-Cumberland County Fair Greenup 217-923-1507

August 28 - September 7

Du Quoin State Fair Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, Du Quoin The impressive Midway brings families together,livestock competitions for beef and dairy cattlealong with 4-H and FFA entries, a full-fledgedBig Top with circus animals and acts, andgrandstand entertainment are just a few of theofferings at the Fair. 618-542-1515



September 18 - 19 & 25 - 26October 2 - 3, 9 - 10, 16 - 17,23 - 24 & 30Haunted HayridesEckert’s Farm, MillstadtThere’s lots of ghoulish fun for youngand old during this hayride throughEckert’s haunted orchard. 618-233-0513

October 1 - 31Pumpkin Pickin’ at Rainbow RanchRainbow Ranch Petting Zoo & Exotic Farm, NashvilleCome to the farm to meet the animals, walk through the corn fieldsand find a special pumpkin for yourjack-o-lantern. 618-424-7979

October 3 - 4, 10 - 11, 17 - 18& 24 - 25Jumpin’ Pumpkin JamboreeEckert’s Farm, BellevilleRide the wagons out to the pumpkinpatch to search for your great pump-kin! Our pumpkins range from acouple of pounds to more than 150pounds so we are sure to have theperfect jack-o-lantern for you! Wagon rides, country music, live entertainment, pony rides, funnelcakes and festival foods, children’s activities and petting farm make this a fun-filled weekend for everyone! 618-233-0513

October 8Witches Ghoulish Night OutColumbiaA fabulous night of shopping andprizes. Dress the part - witches cos-tume, hat and broom for the contest. 618-281-7144

October 10PumpkinFestCourthouse Square, WaterlooCourthouse Square will have retailbooths, children’s games, food andpumpkin related events and contests! 618-939-8600

October 17 - 18Highland Civic Woman’s Pumpkin PatchLindendale Park, HighlandThis annual event will include carnivalrides, bounce house, crafters, artisans,vendors of all kinds, food, live music,pumpkin pie eating contests, kettlecorn and a basket raffle! 618-882-4888

October 23Highland News Leader Trick or Treat TrailLindendale Park, HighlandThe Trick-or-Treat trail is an afternoon scavenger hunt for children10 and under. Children wear theircostumes and receive treats as well asclues for the scavenger hunt. 618-654-2366

October 23 - 24Haunted TrailMcDonald’s, CarlyleClimb aboard a hay wagon at McDonald’s and take a hay ride downto a trail where ghosts and ghouls hide. 618-594-2484

October 24Halloween Hi-JinksColumbiaMain Street merchants have stocked upon treats for the little princesses, ghostsand all. 618-281-7144

Greenup Halloween CelebrationGreenupCelebrate Halloween in Greenup! 217-923-3401

Spooktacular 5K/Costume ContestMt. CarmelA costume 5K, kids fun run and costume contest. 618-262-5116

Pumpkin Patch & Rotary ClubChildren’s ParadeDowntown O’FallonThree O’Fallon Rotary Clubs join together and sponsor a children’s bikeparade in downtown O’Fallon. This is in conjunction with the Downtown O’Fallon Merchants trick-or-treating at the various businesses. FREE Polaroid picturesare taken of the children in their Halloween costumes in front of a colorful hay bale background. 618-624-4503

October 25Witches Night OutLebanonSharpen the point on your hat, oil thebroom and fluff up the cat, leave thelittle goblins where they’re at andcome to Lebanon’s scariest shoppingevent. Restaurants and shops will beopen. A fortune teller strolls thestreet. The spooky music and historic buildings provide a hauntedbackdrop for some wicked good fun.It’s a “ghoul’s night out.” Costumes areencouraged; it’s quite a sight to see. 618-537-8420

Halloween ParadeLeu Civic Center, MascoutahIt’s a party with food, costume contestsand children’s games, plus a parade! 618-566-2175

October 26Toledo Kiwanis Halloween CelebrationToledo 217-923-3401

Lion’s Club Halloween Parade VandaliaFloats, marching bands, costumed entries and more. 618-283-1141

October 30Downtown Trick-or-TreatBellevilleTrick-or-Treat through downtownBelleville. 618-233-6810

Annual Halloween PartyCaseyville Community BuildingCaseyvilleLots of games, costume contest, Halloween pictures, food, and more. 618-345-6256

Trust Bank Halloween ParadeDowntown OlneyGhouls of all ages are welcome in cos-tume to enjoy the annual HalloweenParade. The parade will begin at TrustBank and end at Bower Park. 618-395-4311

October 31Annual Halloween Parade & FallFestival & Craft FairCentralia Recreation Complex Downtown Centralia This parade is older than the Macy’sparade and features floats, marchingunits, horses, old fire trucks, costumedcharacters, school bands and more. TheFall Festival is held during the day witha childrens parade, chili cook-off, minitrain rides, haunted house, craft fair,games for the kids, food and car show. 618-532-3214

Scare Square & Pumpkin GlowCity Hall Fountain Park, ColumbiaLoads of Halloween fun, trunk-or-treating for the kids and pumpkincarving contest for all ages. 618-281-7144

EdGlen Chamber of Commerce Halloween ParadeEdwardsvilleOver 100 floats, marching bands,school groups and entertainers take tothe streets of Edwardsville to experi-ence this 90+ year tradition called thebiggest Halloween celebration in theMetro-East. 618-656-7600

The Flora Halloween ParadeFlora 618-662-5646

Mardi GrasPinckneyvilleAll the events are family friendly fromthe flea market and craft fair to the entertainment and kids’ games. There’salso a 5K run/walk and field show featuring marching bands from all overthe area. Don’t miss the evening lightedparade or the area’s largest end of sea-son car show. Buy into the HUGE50/50 drawing. 618-357-3243

Trunk or TreatToledo 217-923-3401

Trunk or TreatCourthouse Square, WaterlooOrganizations provide a safe trick ortreating environment for the kids.Event features a Candy Check Pointsponsored by the Waterloo Fire De-partment and Monroe County EMS. 618-939-8600

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Vol. VII, Issue III, Holiday 2014 • 15 Vol. VIII, Issue II, Fall 2015 • 19800-442-1488

from page 16 French & Indian War EncampmentFort de Chartres State Historic SitePrairie du RocherIt’s the 250th Anniversary of theFrench surrender to the British.1750s historically dressed NativeAmerican, soldier, militia and campfollower re-enactors participate in everydaycamp activities. 618-284-7230

Armed Forces TributeVandaliaThis fun-filled weekend event is freeand something the entire family willenjoy. You will see military vehicledisplays, living history encampments,WWII & Vietnam battle re-enact-ments, weapons & equipmentdemonstrations, swap meet, militarycollectibles, food vendors and muchmore! 217-690-9239

October 17Maeystown Paint OutMaeystownHistoric Maeystown invites all artistswho love to paint in the open air, ‘plein air’ for a paint out. 618-580-5872

October 18Leclaire ParkfestLeclaire Park, EdwardsvilleThe sounds of Dixieland Jazz andBluegrass fill Leclaire Park. A wineand beer garden with delicious festivalfood, local artisans and crafters displaytheir wares. Games for children, petadoptions and other family activitiesprovide something for every age. TheDAR hosts their annual book salewith thousands of books available atbargain prices. Exhibits of historicphotos and narrated trolley tours tellthe unique story of the former cooperative village of Leclaire. 618-656-1294

October 23 - 25Country Treasures Craft ShowBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleGet a jump on the holidays’ shoppingfor handcrafted furniture, florals, jewelry, wearable art, candles andmore. 618-233-0052

October 2 - 25Midwest Jr.’s Super SeriesGateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888

October 24Miles for Meals 5K/WalkNew Baden Village Park 618-588-3813

October 30 - November 1SCTP Collegiate ShootWorld Shooting and RecreationalComplex, Sparta 618-295-2700

October 7 - 11Fairfield Plein Air Paint OutFairfieldFairfield artists come to town for several days to paint local subjects and have their artwork judged in theshow as well as to sell their art. 618-842-7318

October 9 - 10Largest Yard SaleBelle-Clair Expo Center, BellevilleCome find great bargains, treasuresand other “finds,” new, used andslightly used. Everything you canimagine or want for you or yourhome! 618-233-0052

Carmi Corn DaysCarmiHeld the second weekend of Octobereach year, Carmi Corn Day features avariety of events concluding with alarge parade and concert. 618-382-7606

Super Chevy ShowGateway Motorsports Park, Madison 618-215-8888

October 10Celebrate CentraliaCarillon Park, Downtown Centralia A festival of Art, Wine and Music!Local artisans, musicians, crafters,wineries, craft brewers and food vendors can be found around theCarillon in downtown Centralia. 618-533-7622

10th Annual Red Hill Dulcimer FestivalUnited Methodist Church, SumnerThe 10th Annual event featuresmountain and hammered dulcimer,Irish whistle, ukulele and guitarworkshops with a concert in theevening. 618-928-1507

Pegasus Productions Psychic FairGateway Center, CollinsvilleCome to the psychic fair for an edu-cational, interesting and spirituallyuplifting experience to nurture andencourage all who are on the path of growth and enlightenment. 812-925-3039

October 10 - 11Art in the ParkLindendale Park, HighlandThe vibrant colors of autumn providethe perfect canvas to paint a relaxingweekend filled with fine art, mouth-watering food and superb entertain-ment. Lindendale Park offers a tranquilsetting where 70 professional artistsdisplay and sell their fine art. Festivalattendees can shop for works of art intwelve categories. Children, too, canshop for just $5.00 at a special artgallery of work donated by the artists. 618-654-4727


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