FALL FESTIVALS THROUGHOUT THE REGION- SEPTEMBER 2023
September 1st-10th
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. Here, the first wooden bat company in Illinois crafts wooden baseball bats for players at every stage of the game from little league to the Major League. Website is www.dingerbats.com. Tours can be arranged with Kyle Drone at (618)841-1259.
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. Here, the first wooden bat company in Illinois crafts wooden baseball bats for players at every stage of the game from little league to the Major League. Website is www.dingerbats.com. Tours can be arranged with Kyle Drone at (618)841-1259.
September 7th- 9th
Carterville FREE Fair-Carterville Illinois
This annual event, presented by the Carterville Lions/Lioness Club, is held on Labor Day weekend and includes a Twilight 5K run, pageant, parade, carnival, games, free entertainment, food, and much more. Come see the Ping-Pong Avalanche and the big wheel races!
Carterville FREE Fair-Carterville Illinois
This annual event, presented by the Carterville Lions/Lioness Club, is held on Labor Day weekend and includes a Twilight 5K run, pageant, parade, carnival, games, free entertainment, food, and much more. Come see the Ping-Pong Avalanche and the big wheel races!
September 7th- 9th
Annual Heritage Blues & Gospel Festival- Cairo
September 7 @ 6:00 pm - September 9 @ 11:30 pm
Join us for our 10th year of the Heritage Blues & Gospel Festival in historic downtown Cairo, Illinois. We will have food and resource vendors, giveaways, a parade, and plenty of live music.
Thursday, September 7th @ 6pm – Gospel night kicks off with Spiritual Travelers, followed by Henry Heron & other local artists
Friday, September 8th activities start @ 6pm
– Cat Daddy O @ 6pm
– Stacy Mitchhart @ 7:30pm
– Skeet Rodgers & Carolyn Mason @ 9:30pm
Saturday, September 9th activities start @ 12pm
– “A Toast to Ten Years” Parade starts @ 12pm (start 20th & Washington Ave, ends on 8th Street)
– Boscoe France @ 2pm
– Big Time Rhythm & Blues (Mike D) @ 3:30pm
– J Sound @ 5pm
– Billy Jones & the Delta Blues Outlaws @ 7pm
– Delivery Point Band @ 9pm
September 9th and 10th
Cache River Days in Ullin
Annual Heritage Blues & Gospel Festival- Cairo
September 7 @ 6:00 pm - September 9 @ 11:30 pm
Join us for our 10th year of the Heritage Blues & Gospel Festival in historic downtown Cairo, Illinois. We will have food and resource vendors, giveaways, a parade, and plenty of live music.
Thursday, September 7th @ 6pm – Gospel night kicks off with Spiritual Travelers, followed by Henry Heron & other local artists
Friday, September 8th activities start @ 6pm
– Cat Daddy O @ 6pm
– Stacy Mitchhart @ 7:30pm
– Skeet Rodgers & Carolyn Mason @ 9:30pm
Saturday, September 9th activities start @ 12pm
– “A Toast to Ten Years” Parade starts @ 12pm (start 20th & Washington Ave, ends on 8th Street)
– Boscoe France @ 2pm
– Big Time Rhythm & Blues (Mike D) @ 3:30pm
– J Sound @ 5pm
– Billy Jones & the Delta Blues Outlaws @ 7pm
– Delivery Point Band @ 9pm
September 9th and 10th
Cache River Days in Ullin
September 8th, 9th and 10th
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!
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 10th
Family Fun Day- Marion
Family Fun Day- Marion
September 13th-17th
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 11th and 12th- Captain Applesauce story hours on September 11th and 12th from 11:30- noon at Sallee Logan Public LIbrary
September 13-16th Festival Fun Land beginning September 13th - 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, Swyear 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/
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 11th and 12th- Captain Applesauce story hours on September 11th and 12th from 11:30- noon at Sallee Logan Public LIbrary
September 13-16th Festival Fun Land beginning September 13th - 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, Swyear 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/
September 13th-16th
Eldorado Town and Country Days
Eldorado Town and Country Days
September 16th 2023
Junque Jamboree, Vienna Illinois
Junque Jamboree, Vienna Illinois
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!
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!
September 16th and 17th,
Kunstfest- New Harmony Indiana
Kunstfest- New Harmony Indiana
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.
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
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 22nd - SEPTEMBER 24th
Magpie Market Days-Vintage Inspired Market
WHERE: Williamson County Fairgrounds
WHEN: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
ADDRESS: 101 North Fair Street, Marion, IL 62959
Magpie Market Days-Vintage Inspired Market
WHERE: Williamson County Fairgrounds
WHEN: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
ADDRESS: 101 North Fair Street, Marion, IL 62959
SEPTEMBER 23rd- 24th
Alpaca Farm Days
Rolling Hills Alpaca Farm Days
Our ranch will be open to the public for free this weekend!
Coloring 🖍 pages for kids, meet the alpacas🦙, feel their fleece🧶, see demonstrations, walk the ranch and experience our alley and beautiful, scenic views🌳 from our pastures.
You Pick Zinnia field this year! 🏵
$1 Feed for the alpacas will be available
on-site bathroom and field parking
Shop our store full of unique alpaca gifts!
Dairy Days -Norris City- we will post the schedule once it is available.
Alpaca Farm Days
Rolling Hills Alpaca Farm Days
Our ranch will be open to the public for free this weekend!
Coloring 🖍 pages for kids, meet the alpacas🦙, feel their fleece🧶, see demonstrations, walk the ranch and experience our alley and beautiful, scenic views🌳 from our pastures.
You Pick Zinnia field this year! 🏵
$1 Feed for the alpacas will be available
on-site bathroom and field parking
Shop our store full of unique alpaca gifts!
Dairy Days -Norris City- we will post the schedule once it is available.
SEPTEMBER 23rd and 24th
Southern Illinois Hunting and Fishing Days
John A Logan CollegeAttractions
- Annual Salute to Veterans
- Backwoods Axe Throwing
- BB Range – 4H Shooting Sports
- Boy Scouts
- Buck Skinners
- Camo the Conservation Clown
- Crab Orchard High School Bass Tournament
- Dick’s Sporting Goods – Prizes and Activities
- Dog Agility by Carol Ely
- First Annual “Fish Stories” with Steve Falcone
Fish Story Competition information - Hawg Trough
- Heartland Ropemakers
- J&S Scents – Fawns
- John A. Logan College Band
- John A. Logan College Choir
- John A. Logan College Disc Golf Tournament
- Kathleen Weise – Reptiles and wild animals
- Kid’s Free Fishing
- Logan Spotlight
- Luke Estelle – Presenter
- MC – Ed Smith
- Mike Roux – Outdoor Enterprises
- National Guard Display
- Oasis Outdoors – Campers, boats & RVs
- Quilt of Valor
- Scott Ballard – Reptiles
- Southern Illinois Fish Tank
- Southern Illinois Photographic Society – Display of wildlife and SI scenic photos
- Super Retriever Series
- Wildlife Program by Beverly Shofstall
The Schedule of Events is not yet posted.
For more information go to https://sihfd.org
September 30th
Carbondale
Fall Festival Sponsored by the Carbondale Park District
ark your calendars for a day of festive fun and family delights at the Carbondale Park District's FALL FESTIVAL! Join us for an unforgettable experience that captures the magic of the season.
Event Details:
Saturday, September 30th
11:00am - 2:00pm
Lakeland Center, 925 S. Giant City Road, Carbondale
Festival Highlights:
Hayrides through Scenic Beauty
Delicious Food Trucks to Satisfy Cravings
Bouncy House for Playful Adventures
Engaging Kids Activities for the Young Explorers
Event Highlights:
Free Admission - Perfect for the Whole Family
Sponsored by the Carbondale Park District
Alto Pass
Family Eco Festival
Alto Pass Vineyard
Rt 127, 1pm- 5pm
Carbondale
Fall Festival Sponsored by the Carbondale Park District
ark your calendars for a day of festive fun and family delights at the Carbondale Park District's FALL FESTIVAL! Join us for an unforgettable experience that captures the magic of the season.
Event Details:
Saturday, September 30th
11:00am - 2:00pm
Lakeland Center, 925 S. Giant City Road, Carbondale
Festival Highlights:
Hayrides through Scenic Beauty
Delicious Food Trucks to Satisfy Cravings
Bouncy House for Playful Adventures
Engaging Kids Activities for the Young Explorers
Event Highlights:
Free Admission - Perfect for the Whole Family
Sponsored by the Carbondale Park District
Alto Pass
Family Eco Festival
Alto Pass Vineyard
Rt 127, 1pm- 5pm
|
|
