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 For 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 For 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 For 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 For 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 Kahoka, 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 For 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. For 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.