Events Calendar
for the Middle Mississippi River Valley

The Middle Mississippi River Valley is home to hundreds of special events throughout the year. Unique festivals, country fairs, historical reenactments, nature activities, ands artists exhibitions are just some of the events that await visitors to the region. At any given time there is always something going on. The listings below are just a sampling of the events that are scheduled for this month and the next. Links are provided below the listings to the more comprehensive regional calendar pages.


GUIDED PRAIRIE WALKS
Alton, IL
  Tuesdays, April 13 - October 26, 2010
6 pm
Gordon Moore Park, 4550 College Avenue
Enjoy an evening walk as a guide from the Nature Institute leads you through the Heartland Prairie at Gordon Moore Park. The park hosts nine species of native prairie grasses and 150 prairie wildflowers that are native to Madison County and surrounding Illinois counties. If you want to see wildflowers this is a great place and time to visit
.
Free
For more information call 618-466-9930
  11TH ANNUAL ELSAH PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT
Elsah
July 18 - October 16, 2010

Friday - Sunday, 1 pm to 4 pm
Village of Elsah Museum
Amateur and professional photographers will be displaying photographs of the Village of Elsah and the immediate area in every season in an exhibit entitled "
Natural Elsah."
Free
Click here for additional information

PITTSFIELD
FALL FESTIVAL

Pittsfield, IL
  September 2 - September 4, 2010
Courthouse Square, downtown Pittsfield
This annual festival is held on the Courthouse Square and features food, entertainment, rides, and vendors. A parade is held on Saturday.
Free
For information call 217-370-9846

THE ART FAIR
AT QUEENY PARK
Ballwin, MO
  September 3 - September 5, 2010
Queeny Park, 550 Weidman Road and 1675 S. Mason Road
Friday: 6 pm - 9 pm
Saturday: 10 am - 7 pm
Sunday: 11 am - 4 pm

This annual fine art and craft show is held by the Greater St. Louis Art Association and features over 140 national artists that exhibit their art in the following disciplines: clay/ceramics, digital art, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, acrylic, oil, watercolor, photography, sculpture, and wood.

Admission is $5
F
or more information call 314-889-0433
  or visit the event website.

NAUVOO GRAPE FESTIVAL
Nauvoo, IL
  September 3 - September 5, 2010
Nauvoo State Park
A Labor Day tradition and one of the oldest festival in West Central Illinois, The Nauvoo Grape Festival has become a well-known attraction in the tri-state area. Festivities at this annual event include live entertainment, great food, Nauvoo Pageant, car show, wine tastings, carnival rides, parade, buck skinners rendezvous, mud volleyball, 5 k run, arts and crafts, flea market, archery, and so much more!
Free, some activities include a fee
For information call 217-217-453-6648
  or visit www.nauvoograpefestival.com

Godfrey, IL
  September 3 - October 31, 2010
Glazebrook Park, 1401 Stamper Lane
Fridays: 6 pm - 10 pm
Saturdays: 11 am - 10 pm
Sundays: 1 pm to dusk
Seven acre outdoor maze using tall corn as walls. Special events will be held during the open months (September and October)
Admission Fees. Group rates and rentals available
For more information, or for group reservations, call 618-466-1483
  or visit www.greatgodfreymaze.com

LOCKHAVEN'S FALL PREVIEW
Godfrey, IL
  September 3 – November 30, 2010
10872 Lawrence Keller Drive
You are cordially invited to reserve a tee time at the classic Robert Bruce Harris designed golf course and experience the best in fall golf at Lockhaven Country Club. From Labor Day weekend through the end of November you are welcome to may play the course, use practice facilities, and enjoy the dining at the grill for a daily fee.
Admission: Green Fees (Cart included) are: $39 Weekdays (Tuesday through Thursday), $49 Weekends (Friday through Sunday). $29 Twilight Special every day (except Monday) after 3 pm. Bundled rounds are available at $99 for 3 rounds and $199 for 7 rounds of golf this fall (weekends or weekdays.)
For reservations or more information call 618-466-2441

BIG MUDDY
BLUES FESTIVAL
St. Louis, MO
  September 4 - September 5, 2010
3 pm to 11 pm
Historic Laclede's Landing
Feel the rhythm and find your groove on Labor Day Weekend at the annual Big Muddy, one of the country's best blues music festivals. The free festival features nearly three dozen groups -- national, regional and local -- on five stages.
Free
F
or more information call 314-241-5875
  or visit the event website.

JERSEY COUNTY
VICTORIAN FESTIVAL

Jerseyville, IL
  September 4 - September 6, 2010
7 am - 5 pm daily
Located 1.5 miles north of Jerseyville on Route 67 at the 60 acre Hazel Dell farm
Large Civil War reenactment, sutlers, arts, crafts, antiques, large variety of festival food, steam engines, draft horses, tractors, threshing, saw milling, and plowing. The festival is centered around the 1866 Fulkerson Mansion, which is open for tours.
Adults-$8, Children-$2, under 6 free. Free parking.
For more information call 618-498-5590

JAPANESE FESTIVAL
St. Louis, MO
  September 4 - September 6, 2010
10 am - 8 pm (4th & 4th); 10 am - 5 pm (5th)
Missouri Botanical Garden
The Missouri Botanical Garden hosts this annual festival in honor of Japanese culture. Highlights include tours of the Japanese garden, special art exhibitions, traditional processions, tea ceremonies, kimono demonstrations, traditional music and dancing, Japanese marketplace, arts and crafts, Ikebana, Bonsai, martial arts, karaoke, Japanese theatrical performances, cooking demonstrations, food booths and many more fun family activities.
Admission, free for members
F
or more information call 314-577-5100
  or visit the Missouri Botanical Garden website.

TRI-STATE RODEO
Fort Madison, IA
  September 8 - September 11, 2010
C.E. "Eddie" Richards Arena
Since 1947, Fort Madison has hosted one of the nation’s top professional rodeos in a 10,000 seat outdoor arena that plays host to four performances. The PRCA Rodeo action begins every year the Wednesday after Labor Day and providea quality contestants in all the areas of rodeo, from the bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing to the crowning of the Miss Iowa Rodeo. If you are planning to attend the rodeo, get your reservations in quickly since the area fills up with other fans of quality rodeos.
Admission

For information call 319-372-2550 or 1-800-369-3211
  or visit the tri-state-rodeo.com website

SMOKE ON THE RIVER
BBQ CONTEST

Quincy, IL
  September 10 - September 11, 2010
Kesler Park on the Quincy Riverfront
12 pm - 11 pm
Smoke on the River is an annual Illinois State Championship BBQ Contest, hosted by the Quincy Exchange Club. Friday night’s feature is the steak grilling contest. Saturday, the best bar-b-q chefs in the Midwest get the grills hot in competition sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbecue Society - all for a cash purse of $5,000 - and a chance to advance to the American Royal in Kansas City. There are plenty of fun activities for the entire family and you'll hear from some of the best blues bands in the land playing until late in the night
.
Free
For information visit www.smokeontheriver.net
POPEYE'S PICNIC
Chester, IL
  September 10 - September 13, 2010
The annual Popeye's Picnic is always held the first weekend following Labor Day. As always the event starts on Friday afternoon and features plenty of food, music, dancing, sporting events and other contests. A parade is held on Saturday morning and a sizeable fireworks display is the finale on Sunday evening. The event is centered around the downtown area of Chester, but activities are held throughout the town.
Free, some activities charge a fee
For more information visit www.popeyepicnic.com
LEWIS AND CLARK
MUSIC FESTIVAL
Hartford, IL
  Saturday, September 11, 2010
10 am - 4 pm
Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
New Poag Road and IL-3
This annual music event features musicians playing fiddles, dulcimers, and flutes. This Music and Dance Festival features early American, French, Spanish and Native American music traditional music in venues both in and outdoors.
Free
For more information call 618-251-5811
CHAMP CLARK
HERITAGE FESTIVAL

Bowling Green, MO
  Saturday, September 11, 2010
Courthouse Square and Honey Shuck
Activities start at 9 am
This annual event features games, a car, truck and tractor show, a parade, musical entertainment, craft vendors, a 5K Fun Run/Walk, and tours of Champ Clark's Honey Shuck. There will be plenty of food and refreshments
.

Free

For more information call 573-324-2981
OLD FORT RENDEZVOUS
Fort Madison, IA
  September 11 - September 12, 2010
Old Fort Madison, Avenue H (US 61) at Riverview Park
Buckskinners, mountain men, Indians, traders and craftsmen will descend upon Riverview Park and camp around the walls of the Old Fort on Rodeo Weekend to hawk their wares and spin some yarns. Come down and get a taste of what a frontier rendezvous was all about. Competitions will highlight the event.
Admission

For information call 319-372-6318 or 1-800-210-8687

ANNUAL ART FESTIVAL
Grafton, IL
  September 11 - September 12, 2010
10 am - 5 pm
Grove Park, Downtown Grafton
This annual art festival features artists displaying and selling their work, an apple bake-off, live music, a pet parade, and children's activities.
Free
For more information call 618-786-7000

ATLATL COMPETITION
Cahokia Mounds
State Historic Site
Collinsville, IL
  September 11 - September 12, 2010
10 am - 4 pm
Collinsville Road
The atlatl is the weapon that transformed early humans from scavengers to big-game hunters such as the mammoth and the mastodon and predates the bow and arrow by thousands of years. The Missouri Atlatl Association, a group of primitive weapon enthusiasts will hold its annual competition and demonstration of this ancient spear throwing device.
Free
For more information call 618-346-5160

ITALIAN FEST
Collinsville, IL
  September 17 - September 18, 2010
Main Street, downtown Collinsville
11 am - 10 pm
This annual festival, which began in 1984, features the Paisan Pedal Push, 5K Run-Walk, continuous entertainment on three stages, Fest Olympics, Italian Cooking Contest, Bocce Ball, Grape Stomp, Wine Garden, Craft Fair, Wine Making Contest, a Children’s area and But, the real calling card for the Italian Fest continues to be the authentic Italian fare.
Free
For visit www.italianfest.net

GREAT FOREST PARK
BALLOON GLOW AND
BALLOON RACE
St. Louis, MO
  September 17 - September 18, 2010
Forest Park
Glow (17th) 7 pm - 8:30 pm; Race (18th) 12 - 6:30 pm
Festivities begin with a balloon glow on September 18th beneath the World's Fair Pavilion in Forest Park. Race day activities include a parachute team exhibition, children's entertainment area, an all British car show and a photo contest prior to the launch of the hare and hound balloons at 4:30 pm, September 20. Rain date is September 20

Free
F
or more information call 314-993-2901
  or visit the event website.

MOSAICS
MISSOURI FESTIVAL
FOR THE ARTS
St. Charles, MO
  September 17 - September 19, 2010
Friday: 4 pm - 9 pm
Saturday: 11 am - 9 pm
Sunday: 11 am - 5 pm
Historic St. Charles Downtown District
Approximately 125 artists from across the country are selected to come to St. Charles to exhibit and sell their works. Mediums represented include painting, sculpture, jewelry, and many other fine arts. Other activities include A Mentor Me program, an Art for Youth gallery, and a Kids Creation Station. Food and other refreshments are available throughout the festival grounds.
Free
For more information call 636-940-5178
 or visit www.stcharlesmosaics.org

GREENTREE FESTIVAL
Kirkwood, MO
  September 17 - September 19, 2010
(17th) 5 pm - 10 pm; (18th) 8:30 am - 7 pm; (19th) 10 am - 5 pm
This annual September festival began in 1961 in response to an epidemic of Dutch elm disease. Residents were encouraged to plant trees to replace those being lost with trees sold at the fair for $1. Today many of those trees are mature and grace the lawns and streets of Kirkwood. The festival features food, games, information booths, dog show, canine frisbee competition, parade, wine garden, book fair; folklife artisans, classic car show, sailboat regatta, and live entertainment.
Free
  or visit the event website.

GRIGGSVILLE
APPLE FESTIVAL

Griggsville, IL
  September 17 - September 19, 2010
Griggsville Main Street
Come and enjoy a fun filled weekend to renew old acquaintances and make new ones in Griggsville.  On Friday evening enjoy the pageants and contests then return on Saturday for the magnificent mile parade and musical entertainment.  A variety of food stands, crafts and flea market booths are available
.
Free
For information call 217-833-2637

CLARK COUNTY
MULE FESTIVAL
K
ahoka, MO
  September 17 – September 19, 2010
Clark County Fairgrounds
People from all over the United States came to see mules in a variety of contests and races, see the area’s best hand-made crafts, taste a variety of foods, and go on a trail ride. A Rodeo is held on Saturday night. Camping is available
.
Admission
For information call 660-866-2330 or 660-727-3295

MISSISSIPPI EARTHTONES FESTIVAL

Alton, IL
  Saturday, September 18, 2010
12 pm - 9 pm
Riverfront Park
Join the celebration of Illinois Watersheds through Education, Recreation, and Conservation. This sustainable festival offers live music, food and beverages, children’s activities, Arts and Crafts, an Eco-Village, and more!
Free
For more information call 618-462-6802
  or visit visit http://riverfrontamphitheater.com/earthtones/

OLD THRESHERS REUNION
Elsberry, MO
  September 18 - September 19, 2010
7 am - 11 pm 
Junction of Highway B and Highway NN
The focus of this event is threshing- the beating of the seeds from grain. Features include threshing and sawing demonstrations, antique tractors, tractors and horse pulls, crafts, a flea market, children's games, live entertainment, and refreshments. A favorite of the event is the 1908 steam powered all wooden Merry Go Round with original ticket booth!
$5 for all 3 days

For more information call 573-898-5588

FALL ENCAMPMENT
& SHOOT
St. Louis, MO
  September 18 - September 19, 2010
Columbia Bottom Conservation Area
Living History Reenactors, Inc. will be having their Fall Encampment on the South Bank of the Missouri River at its confluence to the Mississippi River. The 4,000 acres of the Columbia Bottom Conservation Area has been restored to conditions that Lewis and Clark  would have encountered. The area also has a Visitor Center and hiking trails. The Competition Shoot will be on Saturday September 19 only and shooters must bring a $15 value Blanket Prize or purchase one from a vendor. Music will be provided by Booneslick Strings and food by Turkey Legs. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the fall colors and smell the smoke from the campfires.
Free
F
or more information call
314-837-5656
 or visit www.livhis.org
PIONEER DAYS
Defiance, MO
  September 18 - September 19, 2010
9 am - 5 pm

Daniel Boone Home, 1868 Highway F
A pre-1840s Folkways Festival and Encampment. Daniel Boone Home and Boonesfield Village come to life for a fall festival. Artisans, music, historic encampment, a black powder shoot and good food make this a glorious day in the beautiful Femme Osage Valley. Step into the past to experience life on the early Missouri frontier and learn about the Boone legacy.
Admission
For more information call 636-798-2005
MISSOURI RIVER
IRISH FEST

St. Charles, MO
  September 18 - September 19, 2010
Saturday 10 am - 10 pm
Sunday: 10 am - 5 pm
Frontier Park
St. Charles celebrates it's Irish heritage with music, storytelling, athletics, food, traditional crafts and live Irish music in the evening.
Free
For more information call 1-800-366-2427
 or visit www.moriveririshfest.com
HAMILTON PRIMARY
SCHOOL FESTIVAL

Otterville, IL
  September 18 - September 19, 2010
Saturday: 11 am - 7 pm
Sunday: 12 pm - 5:30 pm
Annual fund raising event held on the third Saturday of September on the Hamilton Primary School grounds. Crafts, children's games, and entertainment. Lots of food and homemade pies. Memorial ceremony honoring Dr. Silas Hamilton & George Washington: master and slave at the first free, integrated school in the nation will be held on Sunday at 3 pm. Proceeds from the festival will be used to renovate the school.
Free - donations appreciated 
For more information call 618-786-7302

APPLE DAZE
Donnellson, IA
  September 18 - September 19, 2010
Depot Park, Main Street
A wonderful, family-oriented festival. Saturday morning features a pancake breakfast and a pork loin luncheon at noon. Activities at Depot Park include games, apple-peeling contest, apple pie baking contest, water fight competition, apple walk, basketball contest, and much, much more for the young and the young at heart. School reunions and open house for Donnellson alumni. Musical entertainment also featured during the day and into the evening. Also featured are a city-wide scarecrow contest and an apple exhibit from Faeth Orchards. Come out and enjoy a fall, September weekend!
Admission

For information call 319-835-5714
  or visit the donnellsoniowa.com website
FALL EQUINOX
SUNRISE OBSERVANCE

Cahokia Mounds
State Historic Site
Collinsville, IL
  Sunday, September 19, 2010
Arrive by 6:30 am
Collinsville Road
Observe the fall equinox sunrise and learn of the discovery, form and function of an ancient post circle called Woodhenge that was used as a solar calendar by the Cahokians. No ceremony or ritual is presented. Woodhenge is located 1/2 mile west of Monks Mound and the main entrance to the site.
Free
For more information call 618-346-5160
OLD TIME MUSIC FETE
Cahokia, IL
  Sunday, September 19, 2010
Cahokia Courthouse
, 107 Elm Street

An outdoor "musical rendezvous" where acoustic musicians get together to jam with each other and play for the public. Traditional bluegrass, old-time country, folk, blues, old time river, and "ho-down" music. Jam sessions under every tree, kids arts and crafts, and a professional sound system for the main stage (the porch of the 1740 Cahokia Courthouse) for the enjoyment of all.  Food and drink are available for purchase, and there's plenty of shade.
Free
For more information call 618-332-1782
ARTS QUINCY RIVERFEST
Quincy, IL
  Sunday, September 19, 2010
Clat Adams and Kesler Parks
11 am – 6 pm
The festival on Quincy’s riverfront features the Family Fun Zone, with hands-on art activities for children and three stages of entertainment. The event also includes over 100 booths of artists, crafters, arts organizations and local groups. Tasty treats from a variety of food vendors will be on hand
.
Free
For information call 217-222-3432

FOURTH FRIDAY
ART WALK
Ste. Genevieve, MO
  Friday, September 24, 2010
6 pm - 9 pm
Historic downtown Ste. Genevieve
Several galleries in Ste. Genevieve are offering the opportunity to view the art works of Ste. Genevieve area and regional artists with a variety of art forms that will offer something for everyone. Other retail businesses will also participate in the event by being open during the same hours. Refreshments will be served at various locations and maps are available at each location designating which galleries and studios are open.
Free

For more information visit http://stegenartwalk.blogspot.com
OKTOBERFEST
Belleville, IL
  September 24 - September 25, 2010
11 am - 11 pm
Downtown Belleville
Belleville celebrates it German heritage by hosting its annual Oktoberfest which includes tapping of the "Golden Keg" on Friday, carnival rides, a Kid’s Korner, a Poker Run on Saturday, a raffle, live music in the evenings, and plenty of food, beer, and other refreshments.
Free
For more information call 618-398-8560
  or visit www.bellevilleoktoberfest.com
OKTOBERFEST
St. Charles, MO
  September 24 - September 26, 2010
Frontier Park
St. Charles celebrates it's German heritage with German bands, food, beer gardens, a children's area, arts and crafts booths. A parade is held on Saturday and an antique car show is held on Sunday.
Free
For more information call 314-581-6871
  or visit visit www.saintcharlesoktoberfest.com

ANNUAL HERITAGE DAYS
Godfrey, IL
  September 25 - September 26, 2010
9 am - 5 pm each day, rain or shine
Lewis & Clark Community College
5800 Godfrey Road (Route 67)
This annual event is a re-creation of period history, food, clothing, black powder shoot, primitive encampments, demonstrations, music, crafts and food.
Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children (5-12 years).
For more information call 618-530-7632
QUINCY MUSEUM
FOLK LIFE FESTIVAL

Quincy, IL
  Saturday, September 25, 2010
Quincy Museum, 16th & Maine Streets
12 pm – 5 pm
The annual Folk Life Festival gives the whole family a chance to experience how life was lived during the 1800's. Features include exhibits, homemade foods, old time markets, and fun games. The wide variety of demonstrations include crafters, artisans, Celtic bands, folk stories, and life during the civil war
.
Admission $1
For information call 217-224-7669

ANNUAL FLY-IN
Bethalto, IL
  September 25 - September 26, 2010
Saturday: 9 am - 3 pm
Sunday: 9 am - 2 pm
St. Louis Regional Airport, 8 Terminal Drive
The public is invited to this “wings and wheels" event to view display aircraft, watch flybys and formation flying, and vintage automobiles. Children ages 8-17 can experience the thrill of flight in a single engine airplane provided by The Experimental Aircraft Association and the Young Eagles for FREE! So come sign up your kids so they can enjoy the ride. The event will take place weather permitting
.
Free
For more information call 618-259-2531 or visit www.stlouisregional.com

ANNUAL TRADITIONAL
MUSIC FESTIVAL

Ellis Grove, IL
  September 25 - September 26, 2010
11 am - 6 pm
Fort Kaskaskia State Historic Site
4372 Park Road
A weekend featuring the sounds of Bluegrass, Cajun, Country, and Irish music.  There will also be craft shows and food vendors. Sponsored by the Illinois Historic Preservation Society.
Parking is $10 per vehicle
For more information call 618-632-1384
For more information on camping 618-859-3741

GREAT RIVER
GRAPE ESCAPE

Quincy, IL
  September 25 - September 26, 2010
Clat Adams Park, Quincy Riverfront
Saturday: 12 pm – 9 pm
Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm
This annual wine festival overlooking the magnificent Mississippi River in downtown Quincy showcases twelve Illinois wineries and their products. Festivities include live entertainment, fine wines, local foods and art
.
Free
For information call 217-214-3700

CHILI COOK-OFF
Belleville, IL
  October 1 - October 2, 2010
11 am - 10:30 pm
Downtown Belleville
Sponsored by the Greater Belleville Chamber of Commerce, this annual event features the culinary creations of individuals, local organizations, and area businesses.  Chili connoisseurs of all ages will be able to purchase samples or bowls of each variety of chili and can vote for their favorite to win the People's Choice Award. Saturday features the 3rd Annual City of Belleville Car Show and a Junior Idol competition.
Free
For more information call 618-233-2015

JERSEY COUNTY
APPLE FESTIVAL

Jerseyville, IL
  Saturday, October 2, 2010
9 am - 4 pm
Cheney Mansion, 601 N. State Street
The event features tours of the Cheney Mansion, Lone Star School, the Log Cabin, Museum, and the Flautt Addition.  There will be Entertainment by "Elvis Presley", impersonator Steve Davis and other musical groups.  There will be children's games--craft booths, demonstrations, quilt raffle, basket raffle and more.  The Society will be serving Pioneer Stew, Ham and Beans with cornbread, chicken strips, fish, fries, hot dogs, and deserts. Apples and other apple products will be available on the grounds.
Historic tours are $5 for adults, children 10 and under are free
Other activities are free

For more information call 618-498-2876
HISTORIC SHAW
ART FAIR

St. Louis, MO
  October 2 - October 3, 2010
Saturday: 9 pm - 5 pm
Sunday: 10 am - 5 pm
Shaw neighborhood, between Kingshighway Boulevard and Grand Avenue
This annual event features quality artists from around the country who work in a large variety of media and styles. their work will be displayed on the grassy parkway of the 4100 and 4200 blocks of Flora Place.
$5, children under 14 free with an adult
For more information visit the event website.
FALL FESTIVAL
Grafton, IL
  October 2 - October 3, 2010
Saturday 11 am - 11 pm
Sunday 11 - 6 pm
St. Patrick’s Church on Route 100
Enjoy fall festival fun all weekend long near the riverfront in Grafton. They’ll be serving up fish, brats, delicious homemade pies, and other goodies. In addition, there will be crafts, theme baskets, thousands of pumpkins & colorful gourds, & Indian corn, a country store, basket raffle, kids' games, bingo, charitable games, washers and much more. The "Night Owls" will be performing on Saturday with Dan Sproat entertaining throughout the day Sunday. Pancakes and sausage will be served Sunday morning from 8 am to 11 am.
Free
For more information call 618-786-3512

VINTAGE VOICES
Alton, IL
  Every Saturday in October
October 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, 2010
1 pm - 3 pm
Alton Cemetery, 5th & Vine
The public is invited to this beautiful cemetery as ten actors, standing by the graves of the residents they will portray, will greet passers-by in a living history tour being staged by the Alton YWCA in cooperation with the Alton Cemetery Board and the Alton Little Theater. The grounds are accessible to those with disabilities.
Tickets: $12 for adults, $6 for children 6 through 12, Prices subject to change. Group rates available.
For more information or to purchase tickets call 618-465-6676
  or visit www.altonywca.com

OWL PROGRAM
Pere Marquette State Park
Grafton, IL
  Friday, October 8, 2010
8 pm
Meet at the Visitors Center

A variety of owls inhabit Pere Marquette State Park and the surrounding area. A lecture by the Park staff will tell you what these bird sound like and the individual habits of each species. After the lecture there will be a short 1 1/2 mile hike (part of the hike is uphill) to listen for these fascinating birds. After the hike there will be a marshmallow roast. Please bring one flashlight per family. Marshmallows and drinks will be provided.
Free
For more information call 618-786-3323 ext 1

TIGERS' BIRTHDAY BASH
Ste. Genevieve County, MO
  Saturday, October 9, 2010
9 am - 3 pm
Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary, 19620 State Route B
It’s time to celebrate the sanctuary’s tigers’ birthdays! Activities at this fall festival include a silent auction, tons of kid games and prizes, enrichment activities and tosses to the tigers, free hamburgers & hotdogs, wine & beer tastings, birthday cake, tiger cake, face painting, and much more. The Wild Bird Sanctuary of St. Louis will be presenting a bird show and Hudson and the Hoo Doo Cats will be providing live entertainment. Proceeds are used to care for the tigers who were all rescued from unfortunate circumstances.
Admission, children 5 and under are free
For more information call 573-330-7334
  or visit the Crown Ridge Tiger Sanctuary website
PROMENADE DES ART
Ste. Genevieve, MO
  October 9 - October 10, 2010
Various locations throughout Ste. Genevieve
The theme for the 10th Anniversary Celebration Promenade des Arts is Thomas Hart Benton and the Ste. Genevieve Artist Colony. There will be related exhibits at various locations throughout historic downtown Ste. Genevieve as well as other exhibits at the local art galleries and the showing of this year’s Plein Air art event
.
Admission charged for some venues
For more information call 1-800-373-7007
  or visit http://benton.typetching.com/

OLD SETTLERS DAYS
Kampsville, IL
  October 9 - October 10, 2010
10 am - 5 pm daily
Riverside Park
This event on the banks of the Illinois River depicts the life and times of the early Calhoun settlers. Civil War re-enactment, carriage rides, fiddle contest, mountain-man activities, apple-butter making and other period demonstrations, food, crafts, and live entertainment.
Free
For more information call 618-465-2114
"FLAGS OVER THE MISSISSIPPI"
Hartford, IL
  October 9 - October 10, 2010
10 am - 4 pm each day
Lewis and Clark State Historic Site
New Poag Road and IL-3
The “Flags Over the Mississippi: Struggle for the Empire” program covers the 18 th century struggle for control for the Mississippi River Valley. This region, rich in natural resources, was fought for as European nations struggled to build their New World empires. Come and enjoy an interpretation of Spanish, French, British and American military life.
Free
For more information call 618-251-5811

APPLEFEST
Clarksville, MO
  October 9 - October 10, 2010
10 am - 5 pm both days
Bring your family and friends and enjoy a beautiful autumn drive along scenic Highway 79 and spend the day in Clarksville while enjoying the annual Applefest activities. Start the day on Saturday at 10 am with the Applefest parade. Afterwards browse the many crafters and vendors throughout town. Enter the Apple Bake-off contest with your favorite baked apple dish. You are invited to visit Clarksville’s shops and watch some of Missouri’s best working artists. Delight in a stroll along the Mississippi River while enjoying a tasty treat from the Riverfront Food Court. Schwan’s will be hosting a Chamber Fundraiser at River Front Park. The annual art show is located in the historic Appleshed and the historic Elgin/Cottrell House will be open for guided tours during the festival.
Free
For more information call 573-242-3207
  or visit www.clarksvillemo.us
OKTOBERFEST
Maeystown, IL
  Sunday, October 10, 2010
9 am - 5 pm
Maeystown Historic District
Enjoy all the sounds and smells of autumn while browsing through arts and crafts displays and demonstrations, and plenty of traditional German food.
Free

For more information call 618-458-6660
AALA HISTORIC
HOUSE TOUR

Alton, IL
  Sunday, October 10, 2010
12 pm - 5 pm
This annual self-guided tour features some of Alton’s most the beautiful homes, interesting buildings, and churches of Alton, some of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Sponsored by the Alton Area Landmarks Association.
Tickets are $12 and will be sold the day of the tour
For more information call 618-463-5761

OWL PROGRAM
Pere Marquette State Park
Grafton, IL
  Friday, October 15, 2010
7:30 pm
Meet at the Visitors Center

A variety of owls inhabit Pere Marquette State Park and the surrounding area. A lecture by the Park staff will tell you what these bird sound like and the individual habits of each species. After the lecture there will be a short 1 1/2 mile hike (part of the hike is uphill) to listen for these fascinating birds. After the hike there will be a marshmallow roast. Please bring one flashlight per family. Marshmallows and drinks will be provided.
Free
For more information call 618-786-3323 ext 1
RURAL HERITAGE DAY
Ste. Genevieve, MO
  Saturday, October 16, 2010
At locations in and around Ste. Genevieve
All Day
This event is a day of history, reverie and reminiscence dedicated to the hard working forefathers and foremothers of Ste. Genevieve. Come see how it used to be done, whether its farming, cooking, spinning, lace making, leather working, soap making, wood carving, gardening, or good old-fashioned games. Watch demonstrations of handicrafts of yesteryear. Try the Lions Club’s vittles or bring a picnic. Stay the day and have a blast from the past!

Free
For more information call 573-883-5687 or 1-800-373-7007
QUINCY PRESERVES
HOUSE TOUR

Quincy, IL
  Saturday, October 16, 2010
4 pm - 8 pm
Quincy Preserves, Inc. conducts this annual neighborhood walking tour that features homes and buildings of architectural and historical significance beautifully decorated for the holidays.
$8 in advance / $10 at the door
For information call 217-222-3432
AUTUMN HISTORIC
FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL

Hannibal, MO
  October 16 - October 17, 2010
Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm
Sunday: 10 am - 4 pm

Historic District - Downtown Hannibal

Stroll the streets of this regional favorite 1800s-themed festival as artists, artisans, and craftsmen demonstrate and sell historic crafts, traditional arts, fine arts and crafts. In addition there will be street musicians playing traditional tunes, food cooked on wood stoves, cider fresh from the apple press, and a children’s area
.
Free
For more information call 573-221-6545 or visit www.hannibalarts.com

GRAFTON RENDEZVOUS
Grafton, IL
  October 16 - October 17, 2010
10 am - 4:30 pm daily
Grafton Riverfront
This event celebrates the pre-1840's fur trade era with reenactors camping along the the Illinois River in teepees and period tents. Activities includes tomahawk and knife throwing competitions, black powder and archery contests, and other period demonstrations, food, crafts, and live entertainment.
Free
For more information call 618-372-8672

ARTEAST
Madison County, IL
  October 16 - October 17, 2010
11 am - 5 pm each day
Various locations throughout Alton, Edwardsville, and other Madison County communities.
ArtEast, the Edwardsville-Alton Studio Tour is an annual event showcasing more than 100 artists living and working in Madison County and includes studio tours, multiple exhibitions, and the chance to meet the artists themselves.
Free
For more information call 618-462-5222

LOUISIANA COUNTRY COLORFEST
Louisiana, MO
  October 16 - October 17, 2010
Louisiana Riverfront
Louisiana's annual autumn celebration features activities such as a parade, talent show, car show, lip-sync contest, motorcycle show, baby show, arts & crafts, and a Kid's Corner. Activities may vary. There will be plenty of food, beverages, entertainment, and vendors on the grounds.
Free

For more information call 1-888-642-3800

PIKE COUNTY
COLOR DRIVE

Pike County, IL
  October 16 - October 17, 2010
Every fall the Pike County Color Drive provides visitors with the opportunity to see the beauty of the rural areas of the county bathed in the splendor of autumn. Nearly every community in the county participates in Illinois’ premier countywide event. Each community provides a unique roster of events, activities, vendors, crafts, food, and exhibits for the general public to take part in. The county’s historic towns transport its visitors to a time when one-room schoolhouses and country churches dotted the landscape. Watch horse-drawn plows in the fields, take a break and carve a pumpkin, or see cider and apple butter being made. Maps and brochures with detailed information can be accessed at the website below.
Free
For information call 217-285-2971
  or visit www.pikecolordrive.com
MISSOURI DAY CELEBRATION
St. Charles, MO
  Wednesday, October 20, 2010
9 am - 4 pm
First State Capitol Complex, 201-216 S. Main
Come celebrate everything Missouri from bluebirds and dogwoods to the state dinosaur and square dancing.
Free
For more information call 636-940-3322

FOURTH FRIDAY
ART WALK

Ste. Genevieve, MO
  Friday, October 22, 2010
6 pm - 9 pm
Historic downtown Ste. Genevieve
Several galleries in Ste. Genevieve are offering the opportunity to view the art works of Ste. Genevieve area and regional artists with a variety of art forms that will offer something for everyone. Other retail businesses will also participate in the event by being open during the same hours. Refreshments will be served at various locations and maps are available at each location designating which galleries and studios are open.
Free

For more information visit http://stegenartwalk.blogspot.com

QUILT & CHURCH TOUR
Calhoun County, IL
  October 22 - October 23, 2010
10 am - 4 pm
Take a relaxing drive through Calhoun County to see displays of beautiful quilts, exhibits and activities. Visitors can also take part in quilt demonstrations, quilt appraisals, supplies and sales. As a bonus, attendees will be able to take a driving tour of the county to see 20 barn quilts.

Admission
For more information call 618-576-2293
CAMPFIRE STORYTELLING
FESTIVAL

Defiance, MO
  Saturday, October 23, 2010
5:30 pm - 10 pm

Daniel Boone Home, 1868 Highway F
Come to Boonesfield Village for "Halloween: Ghosts of the Past," an evening of good old-fashioned fun. The flicker of candles and campfires highlight tours, music and tales designed to enchant. Marshmallows and cider will sweeten up the evening.
Admission
For more information call 636-798-2005

AUTUMN COLORS
DRIVE

Pere Marquette State Park
Grafton, IL
  Thursday, October 28, 2010
9:30 am
Meet at the Visitors Center
Come join the staff on a scenic drive to view the natural beauty that is unique to Pere Marquette State Park. A lottery will be held to decide who will be able to ride with the Park Interpreter with the rest following in their own vehicles.
The drive will stop at a local restaurant and will return to the Park at approximately 2 pm.
Free
For more information call 618-786-3323 ext. 1

APPLE BUTTER FESTIVAL
Kimmswick, MO
  October 30 - October 31, 2010
10 am - 5 pm
Downtown Kimmswick
The Apple Butter Festival is the largest event in Jefferson County. Hundreds of vendor booths will fill the city park and line the streets of Kimmswick selling a variety of crafts and food items. The city of Kimmswick and the Kimmswick Merchants will also be providing live entertainment. The Kimmswick Historical Society will again be making and selling their famous Apple Butter at the Apple Butter Pavilion on Market Street.
Free. Park at the Windsor School and catch a shuttle bus into town.
F
or more information call 636-464-6464

"BOOTIFUL" NAUVOO
HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL

Nauvoo, IL
  Sunday, October 31, 2010
Downtown Nauvoo, along Mulholland Street
5 pm
Celebrate Halloween in Beautiful Nauvoo. Hundreds of intricately carved jack-o-lanterns, parade, haunted house, entertainment, food, fortune teller, free movies, and fun for all ages!

Free
For information call 217-453-6648
     
   

 
FEATURED ATTRACTIONS ALONG THE GREAT RIVER ROAD
   
Fort de Chartres
State Historic Site
Mississippi
River Ferries
Lewis and Clark
State Historic Site
U.S. Grant
National Historic Site
     

The Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway - Regional calendar pages for the Illinois Counties of Madison, Jersey, and Calhoun.

French Colonial Country - Regional calendar pages for the Illinois Counties of Madison, Jersey, and Calhoun and the Missouri Counties of Ste. Genevieve and Jefferson.

Gateway to the West - Regional calendar pages for St. Louis and St. Louis County.

Meeting the Missouri River - Calendar pages for St. Charles County, Missouri.

Missouri's Lincoln Hills - Regional calendar pages for the Missouri Counties of Lincoln, Pike, Ralls and Marion.

 
 
  Regional Guides
to the Middle Mississippi River Valley
 
 
Meeting of the Great Rivers
National Scenic Byway

Ste. Genevieve &
French Colonial Country

Gateway to the West
St. Louis & St. Louis County
        
 
    Meeting the Missouri
Historic St. Charles County
 
The Lincoln Hills Region
Northeast Missouri
The Tri-States Area
Iowa, Illinois & Missouri



  
  greatriverroad.com Home Page
Your index to over 500 informative pages covering the Middle Mississippi River Valley.
 
At
greatriverroad.com we strive for accuracy.
If you have any corrections, suggestions or information
you would like to see contact the webmaster.
For advertising information contact marketing.
Copyright 2001-2009
greatriverroad.com - Elsah, Illinois