Central Illinois 2011 Events Calendar

DISCOVER
CENTRAL ILLINOIS 2011

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The premiere Tourism Guide for the Central Illinois Area This free annual magazine for tourists and visitors features articles and photos of attractions, festivals, events and sites in Central Illinois.

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2011 Calendar Of Events
Dates of events are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information.

See event information for the following communities:

• Arcola • Arthur • Atwood • Bement • Bethany • Bloomington-Normal • Casey • Champaign County • Charleston • Clinton • Crawford County • Decatur/Forsyth • Effingham • Galesburg • Jacksonville • Lincoln • Litchfield • Marshall • Mattoon •Monticello • Oakland • Oblong • Paris • Parke County, IN • Pittsfield/Pike County • Pontiac • Rockome Gardens • Shelby County • Sullivan • Tuscola • Vandalia

Arcola 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information on Arcola, contact the Arcola Chamber of Commerce
at (800) 336-5456 or visit www.arcolachamber.com.
March 3-5: Antique Show, Arcola Center..
March 18: Arcola Fire Department Annual Hog Roast.
March 20: Team Quiz Bowl Challenge, Arcola Center.
April 1-3: Mother-Daughter Memories/Weekend, The Flower Patch.
April 2: 23rd Miss Arcola Pageant.
April 23: Rockome Gardens Opens, Wkends Only, 9-5, Call 217-268-4106.
April: Date TBA, Jaycees Annual Easter Egg Hunt.
May 1 -October 31: Rockome Gardens Open 7 Days A Week
June 3-4: Raggedy Friendship Gathering. Raggedy enthusiasts & collectors gather. Contact Susie Patridge: patridge@consolidated.net or 217-268-3848.
June 25: “Pop the Top Festival” and Fireworks.
August 5-6: Citywide Garage Sales.
September 9-11: 41st Annual Arcola Broom Corn Festival. Arcola Chamber Of Commerce. 217-268-4530 or visit www.arcolachamber.com.
October Date TBA: Lion’s Club Annual Chili Supper.
November 4-13: Downtown Holiday Open Houses. Local businesses welcome shoppers, (Arcola Chamber Of Commerce).
November 10-12: Antique Show. Arcola Center.
November Date TBA: Senior Citizen Thanksgiving Dinner, Arcola JCs.
December Dates TBA: Santa Claus Comes To Town; Chamber of Commerce Winter Ball; Christmas House Walk and Candy Cane Cafe; Methodist Church Live Nativity, Caroling, Christmas Cantata.

Arthur 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, call the Arthur Visitors Center at (217) 543-2242 or the Arthur Area Association of Commerce at (217) 543-2999. Visit www.amishcountryillinois.com or www.arthurfestivals.com for a complete schedule of events.
April 2: 1st Saturday Market. Arthur Fairgrounds.
April 16: 3rd Saturday Downtown Market.
May 7: 1st Saturday Market. Arthur Fairgrounds.
May 11-14: 22nd Annual Amish Country Quilt Show at the Otto Center, 1/2 mile south of Arthur. Features 100-plus quilts, along with associated events and displays downtown. Quilt auction on Saturday, May 14.
May 21: 3rd Saturday Downtown Market.
June 4: Strawberry Jam. Craft show, flea market, commercial vendors and food booths, all with a strawberry theme, plus bluegrass music. Strawberry Social at Otto Center.
June 4: 1st Saturday Market. Arthur Fairgrounds.
June 10, 11: All Around Arthur Spring Garage Sales.
June 18: 3rd Saturday Downtown Market.
July 2: The Arthur Freedom Celebration Fireworks in Jurgens Park on the south edge of Arthur. Flyovers, parachutes, music, helicopter rides, inflatables, food and more. Parade at 1 p.m. in downtown Arthur.
July 11-16: 81st Annual Moultrie-Douglas County Fair at the fairgrounds on the south edge of Arthur.
July 16: 3rd Saturday Downtown Market.
August 6: 1st Saturday Market. Arthur Fairgrounds.
August 20: 3rd Saturday Downtown Market.
August 26, 27: Arthur Mennonite Relief Sale. Quilt and locally-made Amish furniture benefit auction on Friday evening from 4 to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 6 a.m. to mid-afternoon. Also, features a wide variety of food stands and children’s activities. Held at the Otto Center, 1/2 mile south of Arthur.
September 3: First Saturday Market. Arthur Fairgrounds.
September 3-5: Arthur Amish Country Cheese Festival. Three fun-filled days in downtown Arthur. Free cheese sliced from huge wheels, crafts, food, live entertainment, car show, games and a large area for kids. Visit www.ArthurCheeseFestival.com for a complete schedule of events.
September 15-October 31: The Great Pumpkin Patch. Celebrate the harvest at The Great Pumpkin Patch. Pick pumpkins and gourds. Fall displays fill the centennial farm south of Arthur. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
September 16, 17: Fall All Around Town Garage Sales.
September 17: 3rd Saturday Downtown Market.
September 17: Annual Bob Galloway Memorial Amish Country Bike Tour. A bicycle tour of the Amish Countryside. Loops from 15 to 100 miles in length.
October 1: First Saturday Market. Arthur Fairgrounds.
October 7, 8: CIBR-BBQ KCBS Thrill of the Grill Competition. These annual sanctioned and backyard competitions host more than 50 teams with over $9,000 in prize money.
October 9: The Chet Kingery Memorial Blue Grass Jam in downtown Arthur. Jammers pick and grin all over downtown Arthur. Acoustic bluegrass. Bring lawn chairs.
October 15: 3rd Saturday Downtown Market.
October 21, 22: 18th Annual Haiti Auction. Otto Center. Quilts, local furniture and food.
October 22-31: Lighted Pumpkin House Display. A creative display of 400 pumpkins carved by Arthur school children and local residents.
November 11-12: Homesteaders on the Prairie/Gathering on the Prairie Antiques/Primitive Shows.
November 19: Amish Country Christmas Kickoff/Lighted Christmas Parade. Merchants will offer refreshments, store specials and extended hours. Lighted Parade at 5:30 p.m. Kids can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
November 19: 3rd Saturday Downtown Market.
December 17: 3rd Saturday Downtown Market.

Atwood 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information about the charming village of Atwood, call the Atwood Chamber of Commerce at 217-578-2734 or e-mail at atwoodcoc@yahoo.com.
April 23: Easter Egg Hunt.
May 14: At-The-Woods Quilt Show.
June 3, 4: All-Around-Town Garage Sales.
August 19, 20: Apple Dumpling Festival.
October 14, 15: All-Around-Town Garage Sales
October 29: 83rd Annual Halloween Parade.
November 19: “Kick-Off Christmas Festivities” & Parade.

Bement 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, visit www.bement.com or call 217-678-8184.
March 19: Spring Extravaganza. Lions Club.
April 17-24: Easter Egg Lane. Community Council/Bryant Cottage.
April 23: Easter Egg Hunt. Lions Club/Bement Health Care.
June-July: Sunday Band Concerts in Veterans Park.
June 11: Old Glory Festival. Bement Area Chamber of Commerce.
July 4: Freedom Celebration. Community Council.
July 10: Heritage Sunday/Ice Cream Social. Bryant Cottage.
September 30, October 1: Bement High School Homecoming & Alumni Banquet.
November 11: Veterans Remembrance. Albert Parker Post of American Legion.
December 10: Christmas in Bement. Community Council/Bryant Cottage/Bement Area Chamber of Commerce.

Bethany 2011 Calendar of Events
For local events and information, visit http://myweb.cebridge.net/bethmayr/. Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead at 217-665-3351 for specific information, and additional activities.
May 6, 7: Annual Town-Wide Rummage Sale.
June 24, 25: Bethany Celebration at Crowder Park.
December 3: Santa Comes to Town, Area Events and Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Bloomington-Normal 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, call the Bloomington-Normal Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-433-8226.
March 19: Spring Bloom Arts Festival at the Sale Barn in Bloomington.
March 26, April 2, 3, 9 & 16: American Passion Play Performance at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts in Bloomington.
April 15, 16: Gamma Phi Circus Home Show at ISU in Normal.
May-October: Farmers Market on Saturdays in Downtown Bloomington.
May 19-22: Heyworth Hey Days in Heyworth.
June-September: Trailside Market on Tuesdays in Uptown Normal.
June 4, 5: 13th Annual Intertribal Pow Wow at the Grand Village of the Kickapoo Park in LeRoy.
June 17, 18: Glorious Garden Fest, David Davis Mansion, Bloomington.
June 23-August 7: Illinois Shakespeare Fest, Theatre at Ewing Manor.
July 9, 10: Sugar Creek Arts Festival in Uptown Normal.
July 16, 17: Lincoln’s Bloomington Celebration at the McLean County Museum of History in Downtown Bloomington.
August 3-7: McLean County Fair at the Fairgrounds in Bloomington.
August 19-21: Danvers Days in Danvers.
August 27, 28: Sweet Corn Blues Festival in Uptown Normal.
November 25-December 31: Christmas at Clover Lawn at the David Davis Mansion in Bloomington.
December 3: Once Upon a Holiday in Downtown Bloomington.
December 1-31: Christmas at Funks Prairie Home in Shirley.

Casey 2011 Calendar of Events
For information, call 217-232-2676, or visit www.popcornfestival.net.
May 28: Horseshoe Tournament. Fairview Park. For more information, call Wayne Davis at 217-932-2787.
June 3-5: Relay for Life. Fairview Park. For more information, call Traci Johnson at 217-218-3158.
July 2: Illinois Amateur Softball Association Hall of Fame Game & Induction Ceremony. Fairview Park. For more information, call Joe Snedeker at 217-932-5911 or 217-932-3911.
July 2-4: 4th of July Celebration. Fairview Park. For more information, call Debbie Hutton, Park & Recreation Director, at 217-932-2600.
July 3: Casey Corner Car Show. At U.S. 40 and Route 49. For more information, call Bobby Staley at 217-932-3007.
July 4: Horseshoe Tournament. Fairview Park. For more information, call Wayne Davis at 217-932-2787.
July 29-31: Casey Open Golf Tournament. Casey Country Club. For more information, call 217-932-2030.
September 3-5: 24th Annual Popcorn Festival. Fairview Park. For more information, call Bernie Morgan at 217-232-2676.
September 24: Casey Softball Classic Tournament & Local Induction Ceremony. Fairview Park. For more information, call Joe Snedeker at 217-932-5911 or 217-932-3911.
December 3: Christmas in the Park. Fairview Park. For more information, call Debbie Hutton, Park & Recreation Director, at 217-932-2600.
December 4: Casey Historical Society House Walk. For more information, call Patty Richards at 217-932-5463.
December TBA: Live Nativity in the Park. Fairview Park. For more information, call Debbie Hutton, Park & Recreation Director, at 217-932-2600.

Champaign County 2011 Calendar of Events
Visit www.visitchampaigncounty.org, or call (local) 217-351-4133, or (toll-free) 800-369-6151.
April 2, 3:WCIA Home & Garden Show.
April 7-10: Boneyard Arts Festival in Champaign County.
April 8, 9: Festival of Quilts.
April 27-May 1: Roger Ebert’s Film Festival at the Virginia Theatre, Champaign.
April 29, 30: Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon and 27th Mile Celebrate Victory Bash.
May 7: Market at the Square opens for the season.
June 17-19: Taste of Champaign-Urbana.
July 4: Countywide Fourth of July festivities.

Charleston 2011 Calendar of Events
Visit www.charlestontourism.org to explore Charleston and to download a copy of the visitor guide, or call 217-348-0430 for additional information.
April 15-17: Celebration: A Festival of the Arts. For more information, visit www.eiu.edu/festival, or call 217-581-2113.
May 7: Sheep to Clothing. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site. For more information, visit www.lincolnlogcabin.org, or call 217-345-1845.
May 28, 29: 23rd Annual Garden Ramble. For more information, visit www.coleshistory.net, or call 217-235-6744.
June 17: Corn Belt Shrine Club & Tractor Pull. For more information, visit www.itpapulling.com, or call 217-232-1477.
July 2: Old Fashioned 4th of July. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site. For more information visit www.lincolnlogcabin.org, or call 217-345-1845.
July 3, 4: Red, White & Blue Days. For more information, visit www.charlestontourism.org, or call 217-345-7691.
July 24-31: Coles County Fair. For more information, visit www.colescountyfair.com, or call 217-345-4526.
August 14: Annual Bluegrass Jam. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site. For more information, visit www.lincolnlogcabin.org, or call 217-345-1845.
September 10: Writing Workshop with author Steve Berry. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site. For more information, visit www.lincolnlogcabin.org, or call 217-345-1845.
September 24: Charleston Challenge Duathlon. For more information, call 217-345-6897 or visit www.charlestonchallengeduathlon.com.
October 1, 2: Fall Festival. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site. For more information, visit www.lincolnlogcabin.org, or call 217-345-1845.
November TBA: Embarras Valley Film Festival. For more information, visit www.evff.net.
November 12: Charleston Challenge 40-Mile Relay. For more information, visit www.charlestonchallengeduathlon.com or call 217-345-6897.
December 3: Christmas in the Heart of Charleston. Visit historic downtown Charleston filled with the Christmas spirit. For more information, visit www.charlestontourism.org, or call 217-348-0430.

Clinton 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information about Clinton, contact the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau at 217-935-3364 or toll-free at 866-4-DeWitt (866-433-9488), or visit www.clintonilchamber.com.
May-October: Clinton Area Farmers & Artisans Market. Saturday mornings on Mr. Lincoln’s Square. Visit www.cafamil.com.
May 19-22: Clinton MayDays Festival on Mr. Lincoln’s Square.
June 28: Annual Golf Outing at Clinton Country Club.
July 4: Fourth of July Fireworks.
September 24, 25: Apple and Pork Festival. For more information, visit www.chmoorehomestead.org/apple-pork.htm.
October 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29: Clinton’s Terror on Washington Street Haunted House. Visit www.clintonhauntedhouse.com.
November 30: Clinton’s “Light Up The Night” Christmas Parade
Nov. 30, Dec. 3, Dec. 10, Dec. 17: Santa’s House on Mr. Lincoln’s Square

Crawford County 2011 Calendar of Events
Contact the city of Robinson at 618-544-7616 or visit www.cityofrobinson.com/tourism. Visitors are always welcome in Crawford County.
April 3: 11th Annual Palestine Development Association Golf Outing. Leaverton Park. Contact: Susan Goodwine, 618-586-2035.
April 11-25: 22nd Annual Crawford County Arts Art Show & Sale. Fife Opera House in Palestine. Original artworks of various mediums - some for sale. Contact: Michael Cheesman, 618-592-6105, or www.crawfordcountyarts.org.
April 15-17: Fort LaMotte Rangers Battle of Africa Point Re-enactment & Festival. Relive the days of yesterday and witness history portrayed in period costume. See, taste and smell the trades and lifestyle of the early 1800s. Includes encampment, shooting, cookout, traders and musicians. Vendors welcome. Contact: Leonard Sisil, 618-544-2990; Jim Keller, 544-7734; Charlie Coombs, 544-7570; Greg Parrott, 544-4488; Rob Byrley, 586-2493; or J.D. Kimberlin, 586-2036.
April 23: Palestine Town-Wide Garage Sales. Garage and yard sales all over the Village of Palestine. Contact: Palestine Chamber of Commerce, 618-586-2222.
May TBA: Annual Robinson Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing. Fundraiser and golf outing at Quail Creek County Club in Robinson. For more information, contact the Robinson Chamber of Commerce at 618-546-1557.
May 30: Palestine Lions Club Fish Fry, Car Club Cruise-In & Flea Market. Leaverton Park. Fish/sides/hotdogs/desserts served to help the Lions with their many projects. Crawford County Collectibles Car Club will provide the opportunity to enjoy automobiles from the past and present. Browse the selection of treasures from various vendors. Contact: Lion Bill Kite, 618-584-3338 or Car Club Member Herb Hess, 618-586-5472.
July 2: Palestine High School All-School Reunion. Bicentennial Celebration — classes from all years will meet and have a great time reminiscing and visiting with friends old and new.
July 4-9: Robinson 4th of July Celebration. Features carnival rides, food booths, nightly entertainment, baseball and softball tournaments, and a spectacular fireworks show in the Robinson City Park. Call City Hall at 618-544-7616 or visit www.cityofrobinson.com for more information and the nightly entertainment lineup.
July 23-29: Crawford County Fair. Located at the Oblong Fair Grounds. 4-H exhibits, Crawford County Queen pageant, carnival rides, food booths, truck and tractor pulls, and a demolition derby highlight the week long event ending with a large 4-H auction. Contact: Linda Price, 618-557-3326, www.crawfordfair.com or secretary@crawfordfair.com.
August 5, 6: Hutsonville Community Days. Car Show, entertainment, parade and food in downtown Hutsonville.
August 6-14: Black Powder Rendezvous. National Rendezvous and Living History Foundation will be having their 30th Annual Midwest Primitive Rendezvous in Crawford County. This event will feature shooting, hawk and knife, cooking contests and much more. For more information, visit www.cityofrobinson.com.
August 12-14: Oblong Antique Tractor and Engine Show. This annual event draws visitors from all over to view actual working antique tractors and engines. Located at the fairgrounds in Oblong.
September 2-5: 58th Annual Pioneer City Labor Day Festival and Pro Bull Ride. Pioneer City Arena, Leaverton Park & Main Street, Palestine, play hosts to a street fair, carnival, “Bullbash on the Wabash” (bull riding only), “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” and crowning of Miss Rodeo Illinois. Also, FMX East Freestyle Motorcycle Stunt Show, chuckwagon breakfast, parade, camping, junior-sized tractor pull, remote control airplanes, lunch with clowns, flea market, mechanical bull rides, free entertainment at the band shell, townwide garage sales, Antique Gas Engine Exhibit & Swap Meet, and more. Contact: Palestine Chamber of Commerce, 618-586-2222, www.pioneercity.com or e-mail at PalestineCofC@verizon.net.
September 17: Crawford County Forest Preserve 1st Annual Festival. The Crawford County Forest Preserve will play host to its first annual festival paying tribute to the rich Indian history of the area. The festival will feature authentic Native American dancers, Indian huts, food and entertainment. For more information, visit www.crawfordcountycentral.com and click on the forest preserve link, or contact David Fulling, 618-544-9337.
September 30, October 1: Annual Heath Toffee Festival and Parade. Located on the square in Robinson. Celebrating the delicious Heath Candy Bar, created in 1928 by Heath Brothers Confectionary in Robinson. Features entertainment, street dance, car show, craft show, toffee bake-off, parade and free chili supper. For more information, call 618-546-1557.
October 1, 2: 9th Annual Wabash Valley Wine & Arts Festival. Several wineries provide various wines for tasting as you stroll Main Street in Palestine and enjoy artworks from numerous artists from the Wabash Valley area. Some may be purchased. Food booths and live entertainment. Contact: Susan Goodwine, 618-586-2035.
October 2-8: Bicentennial Finale. A week-long celebration that will be ending the birthday party for the village of Palestine. Various activities, including a pageant re-enacting Palestine’s history, will take place all week long. Contact: Palestine Chamber of Commerce, 618-586-2222.
October 29: Oblong Fall Follies and “Spooktacular” Bandfest and Parade. Features nighttime parade, band field competition, food, crafts, and entertainment on the square in Oblong. For more information, call 618-592-4355.
November 18: Bringing The Magic of Christmas. Open house for retailers, and the lighting of the Christmas lights. There will be food booths, games for kids, carolers and more. On the square in Robinson. For more information, call the Chamber of Commerce, 618-546-1557.
November 19: Palestine Preservation Projects Society Cookie Walk. Fife Opera House. Browse table after table of homemade cookies for purchase. Contact: Nita Jochim, 618-586-2427.
November 19: Crawford County Retailer’s Holiday Open Houses. Travel Route 33 through Robinson and Palestine to find that perfect Christmas gift or secure that elusive item you’ve always wanted. Find great bargains. Contact: Robinson Area Chamber of Commerce, 618-546-1557.
November 25: Leaverton Park Holiday Lighting Festival. Leaverton Park in Palestine comes alive with over 40,000 lights and displays. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies with Santa, listen to area church choirs and singing groups caroling. Watch the fireworks and enjoy cornbread and beans, hotdogs and desserts served by the Lions Club. Contact: Palestine Chamber of Commerce, 618-586-2222.

Decatur/Forsyth 2011 Calendar of Events
To view a video about the area, request a visitor’s guide, see an area map, or find out more about attractions, visit www.decaturcvb.com, or, during business hours, call 217-423-7000.

Effingham 2011 Calendar of Events
To learn more about Effingham, contact the Effingham CVB at 800-772-0750 or visit www.visiteffinghamil.com for a schedule of coming events.
April 2: Annual Lake Sara Dam Run. 217-347-5843 or 217-347-8799.
April 16: Nat. Fishing Lure Collect. Show. 217-644-2294 or 217-868-2427.
April 18-24: Fine Arts Show. 217-342-9632, www.effinghamartguild.com.
April 23: Easter Eggstravaganza. 217-347-5115.
April 30: Artisan Fair/Wine Tasting. www.EffinghamArtisanFair.com.
May 1: Swapfest & Cruise-In. 866-350-4541, www.mamotorworks.com.
June 4, 5: FunFest for Air-Cooled VW. 866-350-4541.
June 16, 17: IHSRA State Finals Rodeo. 618-483-6176.
July through mid-October: Farmers Mrkt. Fri. and Sat., 618-686-3518.
July 4: Fourth of July Celebration. 217-536-6169.
July 10: Farm Toy Show. 618-829-5783.
July 22-24: The Annual Millroad Steam Thresherman’s Association Steam,
Gas & Threshing Show. 618-483-5201 or 217-536-6400.
July 23, 24: Annual Model Train Show. 217-536-6400.
July 31-August 7: Effingham County Fair. 888-854-FAIR.
September 11: Ford Show and Ford Family Celebration. 217-273-2247.
September 17, 18: Crossroads Harvest of Quilts. 217-739-2250.
September 16-19: Corvette Funfest. www.corvettefunfest.com.
September 17, 18: Altamont 40th Schuetzenfest. 618-483-5532.
October 8: Fall Swapfest & Cruise-In. 217-540-4200 or 800-500-8388.
October 23: Halloween Parade. 217-342-4173.
November 21: Effingham Park District Turkey Trot. 217-342-4415.
November 26-December 25: Wonderland in Lights. 800-772-0750.
November 27: Santa Arrives & Old Fashioned Christmas. 217-342-4147.
December 1-31: Twinkling Lights Tour. 800-772-0750 or 800-500-6286.
December 4: Jingle Bells Run. 217-347-5329.

Galesburg 2011 Calendar of Events
To learn more about attractions and events, visit www.visitgalesburg.com, or call 800-916-3330.
April 14-16: Sandburg Days — Festival for the Mind. Annual festival celebrating the life of two-time Pulitzer Prize winning poet Carl Sandburg. For more information, visit www.sandburg.edu/festival.
June 17, 18: More on 34. 100 plus miles of yard sales through seven counties from Sandwich, IL, to Galesburg. For more information, visit www.moreon34.com.
June 25, 26: Galesburg Railroad Days. Annual event celebrating the city’s railroad heritage with a carnival, exhibits, a street fair, railyard tours, 5 and 10k runs and more. For more information, visit www.galesburgrailroaddays.org.
July 28: Taste of Galesburg. Sample food from numerous area restaurants, enjoy live entertainment and a beer garden.
July 29-31: Great Balloon Race. A color-filled weekend of 25-plus hot air balloons flying overhead. For more information, visit www.galesburgballoonrace.com.
August 2-6: Knox County Fair. Come celebrate the 161st Knox County Fair. For more information, visit www.knoxfair.com.
August 19: River 2 River Car Cruise. Food, entertainment and hundreds of vintage cars, street rods, trucks and antique cars.
August 20, 21: Heritage Days. Featuring a Civil War Battle Reenactments and Pre-1840s Rendezvous. For more information, visit www.heritagedays.com.
September 5-11: National Stearman Fly-in Days. Annual event that hosts the largest gathering of Stearman bi-planes in the world. For more information, visit www.stearmanflyin.com.
September 10: Art in the Park. View the creations of regional artists working in a variety of media. For more information, visit www.galesburgarts.com.
September 11: The Great Cardboard Boat Regatta. Annual competition held at Lake Storey Recreational Area. The Rubber Duck Race follows the regatta.
September 15-17: Black Earth Film Festival. The Black Earth Film Festival will feature films made by independent filmmakers. For more information, visit www.galesburgarts.com.
October 1, 2, 8, 9: Knox County Scenic Drive. Enjoy historic sites, displays, and country cooking while taking a self-conducted driving tour through Spoon River Valley. For more information, see www.visitgalesburg.com.
October 1, 2: Galesburg Scarecrow Festival. Tenth annual Scarecrow Festival held in Standish Park Arboretum.
November 25-27: Christmas at Walnut Grove Farm. Begin the winter holiday season with festive music, simmering foods and a visit with St. Nicholas. Take home natural Christmas trimming and exquisite one-of-a-kind gifts for family and friends. For more information, visit www.walnutgrovefarm.com.

Jacksonville 2011 Calendar of Events
Further information is available by calling The Jacksonville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at 800-593-5678 or visit www.jacksonvilleil.org.
June 17-19: General Grierson Days & Veterans Remembered Historic Celebration, Community Park. Largest mounted Civil War re-enactment in the Midwest, including ceremonies and displays honoring war veterans.
May 21, 22: Downtown Turnaround Celebration, a festive weekend of music, food, and fun in the heart of Jacksonville’s downtown.
July 6-10: 64th Annual Morgan County Fair, Morgan County Fairgrounds.
July 15-18: Crazy Horse Bluegrass Festival, Crazy Horse Campground.
August 4: Annual DAR Ice Cream Social on the lawn of the Gov. Duncan Mansion. Benefits the maintenance/refurbishing of the mansion.
September 2-5: 12th Annual Prairieland Chautauqua, Community Park.
September 9-11: South Jacksonville Centennial Celebration, South Jacksonville. Event includes a parade, live music, 2nd annual Concert In A Cornfield, Little Miss pageant, music, food, crafts and entertainment.
September 10: Gov. Duncan’s Neighborhood Walking Tour. Features historically and architecturally significant homes in Jacksonville’s Historic District.
September 23-25: 42nd Annual Prairieland Heritage Museum Steam Show & Fall Festival Days, Prairieland Heritage Grounds.
September 24, 25: 27th Annual Cruise Nite & Car Show, one of the areas largest cruise nights.
December 3, 4: Pilot Club 28th Annual Holiday Home Walk & Tea. Visit beautifully decorated homes. Event sponsored by the International Pilot Club of Jacksonville.

Lincoln 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information on Lincoln, you can reach the Abraham Lincoln Tourism Bureau at 217-732-8687 or at www.abe66.com or the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce at 217-735-2385.
May 13, 14: Route 66 Garage Sale. Lincoln/Logan County. Featuring vendors, flea markets, townwide garage sales and food. For more information, visit www.route66garagesale.com.
June 30-July 4: Mt. Pulaski Celebrates 175th Anniversary. Mt. Pulaski, IL. Carnival, parade, fireworks, food, music, entertainment, arts and crafts and more.
August 26-28: Lincoln Art & Balloon Festival. Fun for the whole family at the Logan County Airport and in downtown Lincoln. For more information, call 217-735-2385 or visit www.lincolnillinois.com.
September 16-18: Annual Abraham Lincoln National Railsplitting Festival. Logan County Fairgrounds. An educational event for all ages that includes rail splitting, corn shucking, tomahawk throwing, pioneer village, historical displays, Lincoln presentations and more. For more information, visit www.railsplitting.com.
December 3: Elkhart Chapel Candlelight Service. Elkhart, IL. Candlelight service to kick off the holiday season, followed by a meal at the Wild Hare Café. For more information, call 217-947-2238 or visit www.elkharthistoricalsociety.org.

Litchfield 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, visit www.visitlitchfield.com, or e-mail tourism@cityoflitchfieldil.com.
April 18: Kelly Miller Circus. Lake Lou Yaeger.
May 13-16: Niehaus Customer Appreciation Days.
June 22-26: Montgomery County Fair, just 11 miles west in Butler, IL.
July 4: Freedom Fun Run/Walk and Fireworks. Lake Lou Yaeger.
July 22, 23: Party in the Park. Downtown Litchfield.
September 8-11: Remote Control Jet Rally. Litchfield Airport.
September 9-11: White Buffalo Powwow. Lake Lou Yaeger.
September 16, 17: Do the Lou Festival. Lake Lou Yaeger.
September 18: 2nd Annual TriathLou (sprint and Olympic distance). Lake Lou Yaeger.
November 18-20: Festival of Trees. Lincoln Land Community College.

Marshall 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, visit www.marshall-il.com or call 217-826-8087.
April TBA: Main Street Ladies Mystery Tea.
May 14: Garden Fair at the Clark County Fairgrounds
June 10 - August 12: Marshall City Band Concerts on the Courthouse Square.
July 4: Fourth of July Celebration at the Clark County Fairgrounds.
June, July and August TBA: Main Street Downtown Markets.
August TBA: All-American Night/Lemonade Stand Contest.
September 16-18: Marshall Autumn Fest around the Courthouse Square.
September 17: Marshall Main Street Great Ball Race.
October TBA: Marshall’s Halloween Frolic.
December TBA: Hometown Holly Day.
December 2-31: Festival of Lights Drive-through at the Clark Co. Fairgrounds.

Mattoon 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, call 217-258-6286 or 800-500-6286, or visit www.mattoonillinois.org.
April 23: Herbfest.
July 4: Independence Day Celebration. Call 800-500-6286 or visit www.mattoon.illinois.gov.
July 21-23: 26th Annual Bagelfest Celebration. For more information, visit www.mattoonbagelfest.com.
July 21-24: Mattoon Bagelfest Softball Tournament.
August 27: Coles County Airport Airshow.
September 4: Mattoon Multisport: The Great Illini Challenge. For more information, visit www.mattoonmultisport.com.
November 18-December 25: Mattoon Lightworks. Enjoy the lights of the season in beautiful Peterson Park.
December 2: Celebrate Midtown Mattoon Christmas celebration.

Monticello 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, call 800-952-3396 or visit www.monticelloillinois.net or www.MonticelloTourism.org
April TBA: Chamber Business Expo. Monticello Chamber of Commerce. Call 217-762-7921.
May 7: May Market. Monticello Main Street. Call 217-762-9318.
May 14, 15: Throw Mama on the Train. Monticello Railway Museum. Call 877-762-9011.
May 14: The Kirby Derby. Kirby Hospital. Call 217-762-6282.
May 15: Annual Sangamon Valley Bike Ride. Lion’s Club. Call 217-762-9881.
June 2-5: JR Aerotow Model Airplane Event. Call 217-840-3400.
June 18-19: Father’s Day. Monticello Railway Museum. Call 877-762-9011.
Late June through September: Farmers Market Downtown Monticello. Monticello Main Street. Call 217-762-9318.
June 23-25: Piatt County Rodeo. Piatt County Trailblazers. Call 217-762-2663.
June 25: Rodeo Parade. Piatt County Trailblazers. Call 217-762-2663.
July 3: Independence Day Celebration. Monticello. Call 217-762-2583.
July 3: Fireworks. Lodge Park.
July 3: Fireworks Train. Monticello Railway Museum. Call 877-762-9011.
July 9: Garden Walk. Monticello Chamber of Commerce. Call 800-952-3396.
August 25-28: Illini SuperJets. Eli Field. Call 217-840-3400.
September 1-5: Music Barn Concert Series. Allerton Park. Call 217-762-2721.
September TBA: Monticello Celebration. Monticello Main Street. Call 217-762-9318.
September 16-18: NC IMAC Championships. Eli Field. Call 217-840-3400.
September 17, 18: Railroad Days. Monticello Railway Museum. Call 877-762-9011.
October 7-9: Barn Tour. Piatt County Museum.
October 22, 23, 28-30: Ghost Train and Haunted Boxcar. Monticello Railway Museum. Call 877-762-9011.
November 25, 26 & December 2, 3: Polar Express. Monticello Railway Museum. Call 877-762-9011.
December 3: Chamber Christmas Parade. Monticello Chamber of Commerce. Call 800-352-3396.
December 3, 4: Lunch with Santa on the Train. Monticello Chamber of Commerce. Call 800-352-3396.
December 10-23: Santa in the Depot. Monticello Chamber of Commerce. Call 800-352-3396.

Oakland 2011 Calendar of Events
April 23: Easter Egg Hunt and Chalk Art. Oakland Square.
May 7: City-Wide Yard Sale.
July 9: Jonah Fish Fry. Oakland Lake Park Pavilion.
August 27: City-Wide Yard Sale.
September 17: Trial and Tribulations Tour and Re-enactment. See http://matson1847.blogspot.com.
October 27-30: Father/Son Camp. Walnut Point State Park. For details: www.fathersoncamp.org
October 31: Community Halloween Party. Columbian Building on the Square.

Oblong 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information,contact the Oblong Chamber of Commerce at (618) 592-4355, or visit www.theonlyoblong.com.
April 23: Annual Easter Egg Hunt.
July 23-29: Crawford County Fair.
August 12-14: Antique Tractor & Engine Show.
September 24: Oldies in the Park.
October 29: Fall Follies.
December TBA: Hometown Christmas.

Paris 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, call the Paris Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism at 217-465-4179. Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information, and additional activities.
June 10-12: Edgar County Shrine BBQ & Parade.
June 25: Edgar County 4-H BBQ.
July 4: Independence Day Celebration with parade at noon.
July 12-27: Edgar County 4-H Fair.
July 23-30: Edgar County Fair.
August 6: American Cancer Society® Relay for Life.
September 9-October 31: Pumpkin Works opens.
September 23-25: Annual Kiwanis Honeybee Festival.
November 5: Community Prayer Breakfast.
November 24-January 1, 2012: Holiday in the Park.
December 2: Christmas in Paris.

Parke County, IN 2011 Calendar of Events
Explore Parke County, IN with its scenic back roads, 31 covered bridges, and expansive Amish country. Relive America’s past through the county’s many restored historic buildings and communities. Events available year-round.
October 14 - 23: Parke County Covered Bridge Festival. This countywide festival, Indiana's largest festival, always starts on the 2nd Friday in October, and is nationally known as one of the largest. Enjoy visiting communities throughout the county with a wide array of shopping and a variety of food that is sure to please everyone. Plan your visit to the "Covered Bridge Capital of the World". For more information, call 765-569-5226 or visit www.coveredbridges.com.

Pittsfield/Pike County 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information,the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, www.pikeil.org, operates a Visitor Center at 224 W. Washington in Pittsfield. .
October 15 and 16:23rd anniversary of the The Pike County Fall Color Drive, promoting local crafters, artisans and communities within Pike County by attracting visitors to the county during the peak fall foliage time. Visitors can plan their trip on the web at www.pikecolordrive.com. Look for the official Color Drive Flag located at each official welcome booth. Here visitors can pick up a map and find additional information. Tune the radio to 97.5 FM (WBBA radio) and listen to Color Drive broadcasts from the Pittsfield Rotary Club all weekend long.

Pontiac 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, visit www.visitpontiac.org, or call 800-835-2055.
May 7, 8: Red Carpet Corridor Festival. 90 Miles of family fun on Route 66.
June 18: Hang Loose Car Show: Chapter 26.
July 21-24: Grand Opening of Pontiac-Oakland Automobile Museum and Resource Center.
September 1-5: Central States Threshermen’s Reunion.
September 9-11: Pontiacs in Pontiac Car Show. Hosted by the Grand Prix Chapter of the POCI.
September 23-25: Threshermen’s Blue Grass Festival.

Rockome Gardens 2011 Calendar of Events
Dates are subject to change. Please call ahead for specific information and additional activities at 217-268-4106, visit www.rockome.com, or e-mail mbricker@rockome.com.
April 23: Opening Day. Weekends only. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
May 1: Open 7 days a week, May 1 through October 31, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
May 7: Spring Horse Plowing. Plowing demonstrations with mules, Haflingers, ponies, draft horses & more.
June 11: 1st Annual Spring Bluegrass-in-the-Gardens-Music-Festival. Special admission fee includes festival music and Rockome’s attractions (buggy rides extra).
July or August TBA: Illinois State Kiddie Peddle Tractor Pull Competition. Hosted by the Arcola Jaycees. Contest is free and open to all boys and girls ages 4-12 who live in Illinois.
July 16: 4th Annual Invitational Farm Horse Pull. Two-horse teams, multiple weight classes.
August 20, 21: 17th Annual Bluegrass-In-The-Gardens-Music-Festival. Bluegrass at its finest with some of the best names in the business! Special admission fee includes festival music and Rockome Gardens attractions (buggy rides extra).
September 15-October 31: Five Mile Experience. Rockome Gardens & The Great Pumpkin Patch have joined forces. Visit one and receive a $2-off coupon to visit the other. Visit www.200acres.com.
September 24: Fall Horse Plowing. Demonstrations with mules, Haflingers, ponies, draft horses & more.
October 8, 9: Rockome Gardens Harvest Festival — Music, Craft & Antique Show. Vendors welcome.

Shelby County 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information on Shelby County and the Lake Shelbyville area, contact the Lake Shelbyville Area Convention and Visitor’s Bureau/Shelby County Tourism Office at 800-8-SHELBY or visit www.lakeshelbyville.com.
April 22, 23: Spores ’N’ More Mushroom Festival. The multi-city event focuses on the world of the morel mushroom.
June 2-5: Moweaqua Pow Wow Days at Moweaqua City Park. The event features a parade, crafts, vendors, food, etc.
July 4: Fireworks at Forest Park in Shelbyville.
July 16: Aquafest Water Safety Carnival at Lake Shelbyville.
July 29, 30: Findlay Walleye Festival in downtown Findlay.
August 18-21: Windsor Harvest Picnic. Windsor City Park.
August 26-28: Cowden Pioneer Days at Cowden City Park.
September 16-18: Tower Hill Fall Festival. Tower Hill Park.
October 7-9: Balloonfest. Hot Air Balloons take flight over Lake Shelbyville. Balloon tasks, night glow & basket burn, food.
October 7, 8: Scarecrow Daze. Scavenger hunts, entertainment, games, etc., with 10 a.m. parade Saturday in Forest Park and downtown Shelbyville.
November 18-December 30: Shelbyville Festival of Lights in Forest Park. Sunday-Thursday 6 to 9 p.m.; Friday & Saturday: 6 to 10 p.m.
December 3, 10, 17: Hometown Holidays in downtown Shelbyville. Different events each Saturday include free movies, open houses.
December 3: Christmas House Walk in Shelbyville.
December 3: Holiday in Herrick in downtown Herrick.
December 3: Old-Fashioned Christmas on Main in downtown Moweaqua.

Sullivan 2011 Calendar of Events
For more information, please contact the Sullivan Chamber & Economic Development at 217-728-4223 or visit www.sullivanchamber.com.
April 22, 23: Spores ’n’ More Regional Mushroom Hunt & Auction.
April 23: Lake Shelbyville Earth Day Celebration. For more information, call 217-774-3951.
April 29-May 1: 35th Annual Prairieland Frontiersmen Spring Rendezvous.
April 30: Sullivan Chamber & Economic Development Business Expo.
May 1: Sullivan Civic Center Sprint Triathlon.
May 21: Lincoln Trails Council-IDNR Links to the Future at Wolf Creek State Park.
May 28: Sullivan Street Machine Association Memorial Day Car Show at Wyman Park.
May 28: Sullivan Beach Opens (closes September 11).
May 28: Wilborn Creek Beach Opens (closes September 11).
June TBA: Sullivan City-Wide Garage Sales.
June 1-12: The Little Theatre presents Cats.
June 17: Moultrie County Relay for Life.
June 25: Farmers Market. Every Friday during season.
June 15-26: The Little Theatre presents Footloose.
June 29-July 10: The Little Theatre presents Oklahoma.
July 4: American Legion Post 68 July 4th Celebration with parade, carnival and fireworks.
July 13-24: The Little Theatre presents The Producers.
July 27-August 7: The Little Theatre presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
July 31: Central Illinois Mountain Biking — Clash at the Camp Mountain Biking Race at Camp Camfield.
August TBA: Sullivan Area Arts Bicycle Tour “Cruisin’ The Cornfields.”
September TBA: Buxton’s Garden Farm Mum Fest.
September 3: Sullivan Street Machine Association Labor Day Cruise Night.
October: Shotgun Manor Haunted House on the Square every Friday and Saturday in October.
October TBA: Buxton’s Garden Farm Pumpkin Chuckin and Haunted Corn Maze.
October 8: Okaw Valley Orchard Old Fashion Apple Festival.
October 15: Sullivan Chamber & Economic Development Oktoberfest with 8th Annual Chili Cook-off.
October 31: Sullivan Chamber & Economic Development Safe Trick-or-Treating.
November TBA: Sullivan Holiday Celebration.

Tuscola 2011 Calendar of Events
For information about Tuscola, call the Tuscola Visitors' Center at 800-441-9111; visit www.tuscola.org, or e-mail tuscolatourism@mchsi.com.
April 1-15: Farm Exhibit at the Douglas County Museum.
April 8, 9: Spring Community-Wide Garage Sale.
April 8-10: University of Illinois Mom’s Weekend Sidewalk Sale at Tanger Outlet Center.
April 9: Dinner & Concert at the Douglas County Museum. Dinner at 5:30 p.m. Concert at 7 p.m. Reservations only.
April 29: Tuscola Kiwanis Club Fish Fry at Forty Martyrs Church Hall at 4:30 p.m.
April 30: Tea Dance at the Douglas County Museum featuring Gene Trimble’s Combo from 6 to 9 p.m.
May 27-30: Memorial Day Weekend Sale at Tanger Outlet Center.
June-September: Abundant Market. Downtown Tuscola farmer’s market from 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday.
June 4: Car Cruise in Downtown Tuscola at 4 p.m.
June 4: Tea Dance at the Douglas County Museum featuring Gene Trimble’s Combo from 6 to 9 p.m.
June 11: Douglas County Relay for Life. East Prairie Middle School at 6 p.m.
July 1, 2: “Sparks in the Park” 4th of July Celebration.
July 1-4: 4th of July Weekend Sale at Tanger Outlet Center.
July 17: Thrills for Mills Car Show at Tanger Outlet Center at 9 a.m.
July 24: Back to School Scavenger Hunt at Tanger Outlet Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
August 1-December 31: “Everything Animation” Exhibit at the Douglas County Museum.
August 6: Tea Dance at the Douglas County Museum featuring Gene Trimble’s Combo from 6 to 9 p.m.
September 2-5: Labor Day Weekend Sale at Tanger Outlet Center.
September 9-11: 41st Annual BroomCorn Festival Sidewalk Sale at Tanger Outlet Center.
October 7-10: Columbus Day Weekend Sidewalk Sale at Tanger Outlet Center.
October 22: Tea Dance at the Douglas County Museum featuring Gene Trimble’s Combo from 6 to 9 p.m.
October 31: Trick or Treat at Tanger Outlet Center from 5 to 7 p.m.
December 2-4: Annual Christmastown Celebration.
December 3: Breakfast with Santa at the Douglas County Museum from 8 to 11 a.m.
December 10: Tea Dance at the Douglas County Museum featuring Gene Trimble’s Combo from 6 to 9 p.m.

Vandalia 2011 Calendar of Events
To plan a getaway to the city of Vandalia and for a complete calendar of events, call 618-283-2728 or visit www.vandaliaillinois.com.
April 2: Ramsey Lions Club Community Auction. Call 618-423-2411.
April 20: Lion’s Club Circus. (www.kellymillercircus.com)
May 27: Chamber of Commerce Golf Scramble. Call 618-283-2728.
May 29: Avenue of Flags. Call 618-283-0832 or 618-283-2475.
June 16-18: Ramsey Daze. Fair, festival, carnival in Lion’s Park.
June 18-26: Prof./Amateur Town & Country Art Show. 618-283-4866.
July 2: Fireworks at Vandalia Lake. Call 618-283-1736.
July 4-10: Archway Skydiving Events. Call 618-283-4973.
July 10-16: Fayette County Fair. Call 618-245-6221.
July 16, 17: 1st All Ford Nationals-Ford, Lincoln, Mercury Car Show & Swap Meet. Call 618-283-2776.
August TBA: BuckStop Archery Cust. Apprec. Days. Call 618-427-5264.
August 26, 27: Prairie Days. Village of St. Peter. Call 618-349-6180.
September 3-5: City of St. Elmo Labor Day Cel. Call 618-483-6176.
September 23, 24: Grand Levee/Harvest Festival. Call 618-283-1161.
October 1: Vandalia Alumni Weekend Dinner. Call 618-283-4251.
October 13: Chamber New Business Breakfast. Call 618-283-2728.
October 27: Vandalia Halloween Parade. Call 618-283-2392.
November 11: Veteran’s Day Prog. & Ave. of Flags. Call 618-283-2475.
November 18, 19: Old Tyme Christmas. Call 618-283-2728.
November 19, 20: Open House Studio Sale. Rhonda Cearlock, Route 185 NW, Marilyn Truitt, 131 N. 5th St., Lynn Reznick 1130 N. 4th St.
December 3: Rotary Christmas Parade. Call 618-283-1141.
December 10: Vandalia Statehouse - Holiday Open House and candlelight tours of Illinois’ oldest Capitol building. Call 618-283-1161.

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