September 5th - 8th
Cache River Days in Ullin
The 29th annual Cache River Days are planned for Sept. 5-8 at the ballpark in Ullin. This year’s festival theme is “Moonlight Over the Cache.”
New events this year include 618 Mini Tractor Pullers Garden Tractor/Outlaw Pull and Clay Goines, an upcoming new young country artist from Kentucky.
Cache River Days will feature a pageant, baby photo contest, 5K, flea market, food vendors, parade, tractor pull, a guided canoe trip, hiking, bounce houses, face painting, balloon creations, softball tournament, cornhole tournament, exhibits and musical entertainment. Visit the Cache River Days Welcome Tent for more information on any of the activities and to pick up a brochure.
September 6th, 7th and 8th
Mt Vernon Illinois
Cedarhurst Art and Craft Fair
Shop more than 80 booths – including many new vendors!
The spacious Sculpture Park is the perfect setting!
$5 General Admission
• Friday evening – 4 to 9 pm
• Saturday – 10 am to 5 pm
Pay-to-park on/near the campus
FREE General Admission
• Sunday – 10 am to 5 pm
Pay-to-park on/near the campus
The entertainment area will feature regional musicians on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
The Kids’ Area is gearing up to feature make-and-take crafts and family-friendly performances
Cedarhurst Affinity Groups will present artist demonstrations throughout the weekend.
Pay-to-Park lots are available on the museum grounds as well as properties adjacent to Cedarhurst.
Watch for signs!
September 6th- 15th
Gallatin County Fair and Popcorn Day Ridgway
Including Popcorn Days
Live entertainment, vendors, amusement rides, games, and lots of free popcorn! Popcorn Day celebration is the second weekend in September every year. During this weekend we have live entertainment, vendors, amusement rides, games, free popcorn, and the big parade on Saturday at 1:00 pm. Ridgway is also home to the unique family-owned business, Dinger Bats.
Kiddie Parade in Ridgway on Saturday September 14th at 9:30
Popcorn Day Parade in Ridgway on Saturday September 14th at 1:00 pm
September 6th, 7th and 8th
Mt Vernon Illinois
Cedarhurst Art and Craft Fair
Shop more than 80 booths – including many new vendors!
The spacious Sculpture Park is the perfect setting!
$5 General Admission
• Friday evening – 4 to 9 pm
• Saturday – 10 am to 5 pm
Pay-to-park on/near the campus
FREE General Admission
• Sunday – 10 am to 5 pm
Pay-to-park on/near the campus
The entertainment area will feature regional musicians on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
The Kids’ Area is gearing up to feature make-and-take crafts and family-friendly performances
Cedarhurst Affinity Groups will present artist demonstrations throughout the weekend.
Pay-to-Park lots are available on the museum grounds as well as properties adjacent to Cedarhurst.
Watch for signs!
September 8th
Family Fun Day- Marion
Petting zoo, pony rides, food truck, bounce house, kids zone with face painin
Cub Scout information- FREE fun for the entire family
September 7th- 16th
Murphysboro Apple Festival
Always held the second weekend after Labor Day, this four-day event packs downtown Murphysboro with family-friendly activities, including free entertainment, carnival rides, pageants, concessions, a car show, and a menu of apple-themed treats.
Highlights for Children and Families include
September 7th- 5K Walk and Run, Appletime Show and Shine in partnership with Murphysvoro Cruise Nights
September 9th- Captain Applesauce story hour 11:30 - 12:30 at Sallee Logan Public LIbrary
September 11th- Faith and Family night- 6pm-9pm
September 11th- 14th- FREE Entertainment at the Apple time Stage
September 11th-14th Festival Fun Land beginning September 11th - The Apple Festival Funland offers children and adults alike the opportunity to enjoy a traditional hometown carnival, including all the rides, food, and games you have come to know and love. Open every day during the festivities, Sawyer Amusements provide enough lights and smells to transform Downtown Murphysboro into the perfect carnival atmosphere. Located in the middle of it all, the Festival Funland truly is the center of the Murphysboro Apple Festival.
Advance Ride Tickets are 10 for $30 and 1 ticket = 1 ride
They are good for ANY DAY OF THE FESTIVAL!
Tickets are CASH ONLY! No Debit/Credit Cards
Tickets are only available at the Apple Festival Office during regular business hours.
We have very limited quantities and they tend to sell out quickly. Get yours early!
September 15th-Children's Pet and Hobby Parade 3:30 - 5:30 pm
Affectionately known as the "Kiddie Parade", children and families may participate in this very popular event in a variety of ways. Decorated bicycles, tricycles, or wagons; pets and owners dressed in costume; and family-built floats to match the Apple Festival's theme are examples of what can be done by participants.
September 16th- Grand Parade 11am - 1pm
For full schedule go to website at
murphysboroapplefestival.org/schedule/
eptember 13th-16th
Eldorado Town and Country Days
Septemner 16th=Jun1ue Jamoree, Vienns
Golconda Shrimp Festival, Golconda Illinois 10am- 10 pm
Golconda Shrimp Fest is back! Head on down for what National Geographic Traveler magazine recognized as the #1 food festival in Illinois! Come join the celebration for one fun-filled day of delicious food, music, crafts, live entertainment and much, much more!
Kunst” means “art” in German, and you can expect to see a lot of it. Artists from across the region will sell and showcase their creations. With so many unique pieces, you’re sure to find something you’ll love! Add “fest” – short for festival. Kunstfest is a fun, German festival with art, entertainment, food, and learning opportunities, too!
Arts, Crafts, Antiques and More
At Kunstfest, vendors line the streets, showcasing art, gifts, antiques, crafts, and more on Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 9am-4pm.
Food
Be sure to come hungry! We plan to have all of your German favorites — bratwurst, kraut balls, kuchen, apple cider, chicken and dumplings, German potato salad, brain sandwiches, fried bologna, ice cream, kettle corn and more! New Harmony also has delightful restaurants, bars, and a coffee shop that will be open during the weekend.
Plus, there will be a beer garden at Black Lodge Coffee Roasters!
Entertainment
Events include musical performances of many types. You will hear dulcimer players, blue grass tunes, a few polka selections and some German Folk Music genres. Plus, there will be music Friday evening on the Patio at the Red Geranium.
On Saturday evening, don’t miss the Biggest Liar’s Contest at the Murphy Auditorium, a tradition for more than 25 years. Perhaps you want to sign up in advance to compete yourself as a master prevaricator! There are also children’s activities at the family stage at Maclure Square, and more!
One of the most popular attractions at Kunstfest is the group of historical craft demonstrations. Each year, children stand in awe as they watch experts demonstrate blacksmithing, rope making, pottery, weaving, spinning and more. Some of these creations will be available for sale, and demonstrators will be present to explain the art of each craft to audiences.
Parking
Don’t worry about having to park far away from the festival! Parking will be available at the Atheneum visitor’s center, as well as the former location of the New Harmony School and with shuttles taking visitors to and from the festival.
September 22nd- 24th
Ina Fall Festival, Ina Illinois
September 21st-23rd
PRAISE THE LARD: MURPHYSBORO BARBECUE COOK-OFF MURPHYSBORO ILLINOIS
17th Street Barbecue
The Warehouse, 214 N. 17th Street, Murphysboro.
This ‘must-attend’ barbecue circuit event draws teams from across the United States to compete for over $25,000 in prize money. Nationally recognized as one of the best places to experience and celebrate the competitive barbecue circuit lifestyle, the Memphis Barbecue Network (MBN) and the Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) sanctioned weekend evaluates competitors for fish, wings, chicken, shoulder, ribs, brisket, and the whole hog. Competitors will vie for the coveted titles of Grand Champion, entry into Memphis in May, the Kansas City Royal, and the Jack Daniel’s draw. September 21st-23rd
PRAISE THE LARD: MURPHYSBORO BARBECUE COOK-OFF MURPHYSBORO ILLINOIS
17th Street Barbecue
The Warehouse, 214 N. 17th Street, Murphysboro.
This ‘must-attend’ barbecue circuit event draws teams from across the United States to compete for over $25,000 in prize money. Nationally recognized as one of the best places to experience and celebrate the competitive barbecue circuit lifestyle, the Memphis Barbecue Network (MBN) and the Kansas City Barbecue Society
(KCBS) sanctioned weekend evaluates competitors for fish, wings, chicken, shoulder, ribs, brisket, and the whole hog. Competitors will vie for the coveted titles of Grand Champion, entry into Memphis in May, the Kansas City Royal, and the Jack Daniel’s draw.
September 30th- October 1
looking for something to do this weekend? Join us at the Wine & Art Festival at Rend Lake. Wine tasting, live music, food trucks, and shopping. $10.00 admission per person (Cash Only) Come see the new Rend Lake Event Center at 14967 Gun Creek Trail, Whittington, IL at Exit 77 off Interstate 57.
More information on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/wineandartfestivalatrendlake/
obden -Buffalo Day at Bison Bluff Farms-Cobden
1565 Bethel Church Rd, Cobden
Not a festival but so special we wanted to list it here.
Buffalo Day, an event that happens twice a year, is an extremely important day for both us and the animals. It is a day in which we assess the animals, get their weights, tag this year's calves, and give the animals any help they may require before releasing them back out on pasture to roam.
Cache River Days in Ullin
The 29th annual Cache River Days are planned for Sept. 5-8 at the ballpark in Ullin. This year’s festival theme is “Moonlight Over the Cache.”
New events this year include 618 Mini Tractor Pullers Garden Tractor/Outlaw Pull and Clay Goines, an upcoming new young country artist from Kentucky.
Cache River Days will feature a pageant, baby photo contest, 5K, flea market, food vendors, parade, tractor pull, a guided canoe trip, hiking, bounce houses, face painting, balloon creations, softball tournament, cornhole tournament, exhibits and musical entertainment. Visit the Cache River Days Welcome Tent for more information on any of the activities and to pick up a brochure.
September 6th, 7th and 8th
Mt Vernon Illinois
Cedarhurst Art and Craft Fair
Shop more than 80 booths – including many new vendors!
The spacious Sculpture Park is the perfect setting!
$5 General Admission
• Friday evening – 4 to 9 pm
• Saturday – 10 am to 5 pm
Pay-to-park on/near the campus
FREE General Admission
• Sunday – 10 am to 5 pm
Pay-to-park on/near the campus
The entertainment area will feature regional musicians on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
The Kids’ Area is gearing up to feature make-and-take crafts and family-friendly performances
Cedarhurst Affinity Groups will present artist demonstrations throughout the weekend.
Pay-to-Park lots are available on the museum grounds as well as properties adjacent to Cedarhurst.
Watch for signs!
September 6th- 15th
Gallatin County Fair and Popcorn Day Ridgway
Including Popcorn Days
Live entertainment, vendors, amusement rides, games, and lots of free popcorn! Popcorn Day celebration is the second weekend in September every year. During this weekend we have live entertainment, vendors, amusement rides, games, free popcorn, and the big parade on Saturday at 1:00 pm. Ridgway is also home to the unique family-owned business, Dinger Bats.
Kiddie Parade in Ridgway on Saturday September 14th at 9:30
Popcorn Day Parade in Ridgway on Saturday September 14th at 1:00 pm
September 6th, 7th and 8th
Mt Vernon Illinois
Cedarhurst Art and Craft Fair
Shop more than 80 booths – including many new vendors!
The spacious Sculpture Park is the perfect setting!
$5 General Admission
• Friday evening – 4 to 9 pm
• Saturday – 10 am to 5 pm
Pay-to-park on/near the campus
FREE General Admission
• Sunday – 10 am to 5 pm
Pay-to-park on/near the campus
The entertainment area will feature regional musicians on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
The Kids’ Area is gearing up to feature make-and-take crafts and family-friendly performances
Cedarhurst Affinity Groups will present artist demonstrations throughout the weekend.
Pay-to-Park lots are available on the museum grounds as well as properties adjacent to Cedarhurst.
Watch for signs!
September 8th
Family Fun Day- Marion
Petting zoo, pony rides, food truck, bounce house, kids zone with face painin
Cub Scout information- FREE fun for the entire family
September 7th- 16th
Murphysboro Apple Festival
Always held the second weekend after Labor Day, this four-day event packs downtown Murphysboro with family-friendly activities, including free entertainment, carnival rides, pageants, concessions, a car show, and a menu of apple-themed treats.
Highlights for Children and Families include
September 7th- 5K Walk and Run, Appletime Show and Shine in partnership with Murphysvoro Cruise Nights
September 9th- Captain Applesauce story hour 11:30 - 12:30 at Sallee Logan Public LIbrary
September 11th- Faith and Family night- 6pm-9pm
September 11th- 14th- FREE Entertainment at the Apple time Stage
September 11th-14th Festival Fun Land beginning September 11th - The Apple Festival Funland offers children and adults alike the opportunity to enjoy a traditional hometown carnival, including all the rides, food, and games you have come to know and love. Open every day during the festivities, Sawyer Amusements provide enough lights and smells to transform Downtown Murphysboro into the perfect carnival atmosphere. Located in the middle of it all, the Festival Funland truly is the center of the Murphysboro Apple Festival.
Advance Ride Tickets are 10 for $30 and 1 ticket = 1 ride
They are good for ANY DAY OF THE FESTIVAL!
Tickets are CASH ONLY! No Debit/Credit Cards
Tickets are only available at the Apple Festival Office during regular business hours.
We have very limited quantities and they tend to sell out quickly. Get yours early!
September 15th-Children's Pet and Hobby Parade 3:30 - 5:30 pm
Affectionately known as the "Kiddie Parade", children and families may participate in this very popular event in a variety of ways. Decorated bicycles, tricycles, or wagons; pets and owners dressed in costume; and family-built floats to match the Apple Festival's theme are examples of what can be done by participants.
September 16th- Grand Parade 11am - 1pm
For full schedule go to website at
murphysboroapplefestival.org/schedule/
eptember 13th-16th
Eldorado Town and Country Days
Septemner 16th=Jun1ue Jamoree, Vienns
Golconda Shrimp Festival, Golconda Illinois 10am- 10 pm
Golconda Shrimp Fest is back! Head on down for what National Geographic Traveler magazine recognized as the #1 food festival in Illinois! Come join the celebration for one fun-filled day of delicious food, music, crafts, live entertainment and much, much more!
Kunst” means “art” in German, and you can expect to see a lot of it. Artists from across the region will sell and showcase their creations. With so many unique pieces, you’re sure to find something you’ll love! Add “fest” – short for festival. Kunstfest is a fun, German festival with art, entertainment, food, and learning opportunities, too!
Arts, Crafts, Antiques and More
At Kunstfest, vendors line the streets, showcasing art, gifts, antiques, crafts, and more on Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 9am-4pm.
Food
Be sure to come hungry! We plan to have all of your German favorites — bratwurst, kraut balls, kuchen, apple cider, chicken and dumplings, German potato salad, brain sandwiches, fried bologna, ice cream, kettle corn and more! New Harmony also has delightful restaurants, bars, and a coffee shop that will be open during the weekend.
Plus, there will be a beer garden at Black Lodge Coffee Roasters!
Entertainment
Events include musical performances of many types. You will hear dulcimer players, blue grass tunes, a few polka selections and some German Folk Music genres. Plus, there will be music Friday evening on the Patio at the Red Geranium.
On Saturday evening, don’t miss the Biggest Liar’s Contest at the Murphy Auditorium, a tradition for more than 25 years. Perhaps you want to sign up in advance to compete yourself as a master prevaricator! There are also children’s activities at the family stage at Maclure Square, and more!
One of the most popular attractions at Kunstfest is the group of historical craft demonstrations. Each year, children stand in awe as they watch experts demonstrate blacksmithing, rope making, pottery, weaving, spinning and more. Some of these creations will be available for sale, and demonstrators will be present to explain the art of each craft to audiences.
Parking
Don’t worry about having to park far away from the festival! Parking will be available at the Atheneum visitor’s center, as well as the former location of the New Harmony School and with shuttles taking visitors to and from the festival.
September 22nd- 24th
Ina Fall Festival, Ina Illinois
September 21st-23rd
PRAISE THE LARD: MURPHYSBORO BARBECUE COOK-OFF MURPHYSBORO ILLINOIS
17th Street Barbecue
The Warehouse, 214 N. 17th Street, Murphysboro.
This ‘must-attend’ barbecue circuit event draws teams from across the United States to compete for over $25,000 in prize money. Nationally recognized as one of the best places to experience and celebrate the competitive barbecue circuit lifestyle, the Memphis Barbecue Network (MBN) and the Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) sanctioned weekend evaluates competitors for fish, wings, chicken, shoulder, ribs, brisket, and the whole hog. Competitors will vie for the coveted titles of Grand Champion, entry into Memphis in May, the Kansas City Royal, and the Jack Daniel’s draw. September 21st-23rd
PRAISE THE LARD: MURPHYSBORO BARBECUE COOK-OFF MURPHYSBORO ILLINOIS
17th Street Barbecue
The Warehouse, 214 N. 17th Street, Murphysboro.
This ‘must-attend’ barbecue circuit event draws teams from across the United States to compete for over $25,000 in prize money. Nationally recognized as one of the best places to experience and celebrate the competitive barbecue circuit lifestyle, the Memphis Barbecue Network (MBN) and the Kansas City Barbecue Society
(KCBS) sanctioned weekend evaluates competitors for fish, wings, chicken, shoulder, ribs, brisket, and the whole hog. Competitors will vie for the coveted titles of Grand Champion, entry into Memphis in May, the Kansas City Royal, and the Jack Daniel’s draw.
September 30th- October 1
- Whittington, Illinois
looking for something to do this weekend? Join us at the Wine & Art Festival at Rend Lake. Wine tasting, live music, food trucks, and shopping. $10.00 admission per person (Cash Only) Come see the new Rend Lake Event Center at 14967 Gun Creek Trail, Whittington, IL at Exit 77 off Interstate 57.
More information on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/wineandartfestivalatrendlake/
obden -Buffalo Day at Bison Bluff Farms-Cobden
1565 Bethel Church Rd, Cobden
Not a festival but so special we wanted to list it here.
Buffalo Day, an event that happens twice a year, is an extremely important day for both us and the animals. It is a day in which we assess the animals, get their weights, tag this year's calves, and give the animals any help they may require before releasing them back out on pasture to roam.
