Determined to put an end to the rumor that
there’s nothing to do in central Illinois, we reached out across the
region to identify a bevy of fairs, festivals, concerts, art exhibits and
historic events sure to entertain, enlighten and educate. We hope you
enjoy our 2008 Fall Guide Calendar and the hundreds of listings that
follow. No matter how you have fun — counting cardinals, rockin’ out
at a concert, cruising through an art show or cruisin’ down Route 66
– we’ve done our best to lead you to your kind of fun over the
next dozen pages.
While our popular weekly calendar of events is
organized by event type, this comprehensive calendar spans the next several
months, so it is organized by date. Our goal was to make it easier to plan
for fun on those dates when there is free time. For those who prefer to
look across the entire season’s offerings of a particular type of
event (art exhibits, festivals etc) visit our interactive online calendar
at www.illinoistimes.com, to search and print information about any
category, date range or particular topic 24/7/365.
Now Through Jan. 11 Across
the Divide: Reconsidering the Other
The exhibition is a component of the community-wide
collaborative effort to raise awareness about the Springfield 1908 Race
Riot, featuring artwork from 16 contemporary artists. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
Now Through Jan. 11 All
of Us Are Related, Each of Us is Unique
The Illinois State Museum displays an 18-panel
exhibition about race. Illinois State Museum,
502 S. Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
Aug. 28, 29, 30 Pittsfield Fall Festival (www.pittsfieldil.org)
Aug. 30-31 Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Fall Festival
The event features live music and wine. Alto Vineyards, Highway 127, Alto Pass (www.altovineyards.net)
Aug. 30-31 Sangamon Valley Woodcarvers’ Annual
Show Skilled carvers from around the
area will exhibit carvings, and wood burnings, wood, tools, books, and
carvings will be for sale. Illinois Building,
Illinois State Fairgrounds (svwoodcarvers.org)
Aug. 30-31 Once Upon a Prairie
Storytelling
Festival
Gather around for a good story told by such
nationally known storytellers as Beth Horner, Dan Keding, and La’Ron
Williams. Old State Capitol Historic Site
Aug. 30-Sept. 1 Casey Popcorn Festival
Grab a handful of popcorn or try treats from the food
vendors, but don’t stuff yourself before the helicopter ride. Casey (www.popcornfestival.net)
Aug. 30-Sept. 1 Illinois Amish Country Cheese
Festival
All you cheese lovers out there, listen up. Arthur
rolls out the cheese wheels for a weekend of tasting along with crafts and
entertainment. Arthur (www.arthurcheesefestival.com)
Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Prairieland Chautauqua
A period presentation from “The Age of
Lincoln” featuring re-enactors, musicians, entertainment, and more Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org)
Sept. 1 Ninth Annual Dave Sinclair Labor Day
Celebration
Travel to Virginia’s town square to eat ice
cream and listen to Nathan Carls and Upstandard Citizen on the bandstand. Town Square, Virginia
Sept. 3 Pied Piper Architectural Tour
Take a tour through the historic downtown and observe
the architectural styles and materials of the buildings. Anthony Rubano
from Illinois Historic Preservation Agency leads. Lincoln-Herndon Law Office (ww.downtownspringfield.org)
Sept. 4 Jordin Sparks and Jesse McCartney
The pop singers perform. Springfield Prairie Capital Convention Center (www.springfieldpccc.com)
Sept. 5 Downtown Gallery Hop
Walk the square and visit the numerous art galleries
displaying artwork around the downtown area. Downtown
Jacksonville (217-473-2726)
Sept. 5-6 Arenzville Burgoo
A festival with entertainment, crafts, and food,
featuring the town’s own recipe for burgoo, a thick stew cooked for
hours in cast iron kettles over an open file. Village
Park, Arenzville (www.burgoo.org)
Sept. 5-6 Annual Havana Oktoberfest
Celebrate with a brat in one hand, and German music
in your ears. Riverfront Park, Havana (www.scenichavana.com)
Sept. 5-7 Pekin Marigold Festival
The family festival celebrates Everett
Dirksen’s love of the flower. Pekin (www.pekin.net)
Sept. 5-7 Arcola Broom Corn Festival
The site of the national broom-sweeping contest
features a festival parade, arts and crafts vendors, and live music. Arcola (www.arcolachamber.com)
Sept. 5-7 Greene County Days 2008
The towns of Carrollton, Eldred, Greenfield,
Haypress, Roodhouse, Patterson, and White Hall feature food, entertainment,
and arts and crafts. Greene County
Sept. 5-Oct. 24 Just
Imagine
Prairie Art Alliance opens an exhibit featuring art
from Mary Selinski and Linda Post-Lucas about imagination. The opening
reception is Sept. 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m. H.D.
Smith Gallery, Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.prairieart.org)
Sept. 5-Oct. 26 Great Godfrey Maze
Godfrey (www.visitalton.com)
Sept. 6 Springfield Classical Guitar Society
The society presents a concert from the San Francisco
Guitar Quartet. First Presbyterian Church, 321
S. Seventh St.
Sept. 6 Henson Robinson Company’s Capital City
Greenfest
Learn about keeping our planet healthy with
information about reducing energy usage and recycling. White Oaks Mall
Sept. 6-7 Rockballet
Springfield Ballet Company dances across the stage to
the tune of classic rock ‘n’ roll songs. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Sept. 5-7 Cedarhurst Craft Fair
More than 130 craftspeople display their wares
including glass, jewelry, fiber, wood, basketry, leather, and more. Cedarhurst Center for the Arts, Mt. Vernon (www.cedarhurst.org)
Sept. 6-7 Traditional Music Festival
The festival showcases nineteenth century music
performances and demonstrations. Lincoln’s
New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg (www.lincolnsnewsalem.com)
Sept. 6-7 & 13-14 Round the Town Golf Tournament
Springfield Park District presents the four-day adult
golf tournament. Bunn, Bergen and Pasfield,
Lincoln Greens (www.springfieldparks.org)
Sept. 7 St. Cabrini Fall Festival
The annual fundraiser includes a series of healthy
living booths with information about blood pressure, stroke, bone density,
diabetes screenings, and more. Music and kid’s games. 1020 N. Milton
Sept. 9 Book Discussion and Signing with Gary
Ecelbarger
Author Gary Ecelbarger discusses his book, The Great Comeback: How Abraham Lincoln Beat the Odds to
Win the 1860 Republican Nomination. Reservations
required. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum,
112 N. Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
Sept. 10-13 Morton Pumpkin Festival
The festival of all things pumpkins is in the right
place — Morton processes 80 percent of the world’s canned
pumpkin. Morton (www.pumpkincapital.com)
Sept. 11 Roberta Seneschal Book
Discussion and
Signing
Author Roberta
Seneschal talks about her book, In
Lincoln’s Shadow: The 1908 Race Riot in Springfield, Illinois. Reservations required. Abraham
Lincoln Presidential Museum, 112 N. Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
Sept. 11-13 Mt. Pulaski Fall Festival
Downtown Mt. Pulaski (www.mtpulaskiil.com)
Sept. 11-13 Atlanta Fall Festival
The celebration features a carnival, music, and more.
Atlanta (www.atlantaillinois.org)
Sept. 12 Andrea Drury and
Thomas Drury Concert
The organ player and soprano perform selections from
Handel, Reynaldo Hahn, and Flor Peeters. First
Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St. (www.lincolnschurch.org)
Sept. 13 Super Saturday: Ancient Art
Explore the ancient art of prehistoric people and
participate in activities including a gallery hunt. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
Sept. 13 Green View Fall Seminar
Green View presents “Diversify Your Garden with
Ornamental Grass.” Reservations requested. Green View, 3000 W. Jefferson (www.greenview.com)
Sept. 13 Daniel Bernard Roumain
World Premiere
The stories of two historical figures collide in the
composer and performer’s new musical composition,
“Darwin’s Meditation for the People of Lincoln.” Kirkland Fine Arts Center, Decatur (www.millikin.edu/kirkland)
Sept. 13 My Neighborhood,
My Family, Myself
Celebrate your community and create art including a
family tree and community mural. Illinois
State Museum, 502 S. Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
Sept. 13 Brinkerhoff Home’s Annual Fall Arts
and Crafts Fair
Walk the grounds of the historic home and pick up
arts, crafts, and food. Brinkerhoff Home, 1500
N. Fifth St.
Sept. 13-14 Art Spectacular at the Carillon
The juried fine art and craft fair features 45
artists selling original artwork along with music, silent auction, and kids
activities. Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington
Park (www.carillon-rees.org)
Sept. 13-14 & 19-21 Over the Moon
Productions’ Camelot
The classic production based on King Arthur and the
Knights of the Round Table features local actors Kevin Purcell, Aasne
Vigesaa, and Joey Cruse. Leigh Steiner directs. The gala opening is Sept.
12. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S.
Sixth St. (www.scfta.org)
Sept. 14 Music in the Park
Sit in your lawn chair and listen to the sounds of
local music. Exorna, The Elk Pipes &Drums, Emerald Underground.
Presented by Springfield Park District. Washington
Park 4-7. (www.springfieldparks.org)
Sept. 15-Oct. 31 The Great Pumpkin Patch
Pick out a pumpkin and enjoy fall activities
including mazes. Rural Route 1, Box 100,
Arthur (www.thegreatpumpkinpatch.biz)
Sept. 17 Health and Wellness Fair
Student Union, Menard Hall, Lincoln Land Community
College campus (www.llcc.edu
Sept. 18 An Evening with the Composer
—
David Kneupper
David Kneupper discusses the music he created for
Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. Abraham
Lincoln Presidential Museum, 112 N. Sixth St. (www.presidentlincoln.org)
Sept. 19 Through the
Eyes of Artists: Looking Back, Looking Forward
A progressive reception for three exhibitions
commemorating the Springfield 1908 Race Riot. Sponsored by Illinois State
Museum, University of Illinois at Springfield, and Abraham Lincoln
Presidential Library and Museum. Illinois
State Museum, 502 S. Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
Sept. 19-20 Petersburg Annual Fall Festival
The harvest features food, entertainment, a parade,
and crafts. On the Square, Petersburg (www.petersburgil.com)
Sept. 20 Fine Arts and Crafts Sale
Take your pick from a variety of art, hand-painted
ornaments, cards, autumn, and holiday crafts and decorations created by
local artisans. Springfield Ceramics and Craft
Club, 2626 S. Pasfield
Sept. 20 Green View Fall Seminar
Green View presents “Designing for a
Sustainable Landscape.” Green View, 3000
W. Jefferson (www.greenview.com)
Sept. 20 ScrapsArtsMusic
Fashioned from industrial scrap and offbeat materials
such as accordion parts and artillery shells, the group presents a musical
performance. Kirkland Fine Arts Center,
Decatur (www.millikin.edu/kirkland)
Sept. 20 Elkhart Fall Festival
Elkhart (www.elkhartfestivalassociation.com)
Sept. 20 Prairie Grapevine Folklore Society
River Ramblers, a traditional bluegrass group,
performs. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian
Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Rd. (www.prairiegrapevine.org)
Sept. 20 Fur, Feather and Fin, Frontier Style
Learn about Jack Kelso, a hunter, fisher, and trapper
during the 1830s. Lincoln’s New Salem
Historic Site, Petersburg.
(www.lincolnsnewsalem.com)
Sept. 20 Shrimp and Crawfish Festival
Chow down on Cajun grub from Broussard’s Cajun
Cuisine and listen to tunes form Dennis Stroughmatt and Creole Stomp. Alto Vineyards, Highway 127, Alto Pass (www.altovineyards.net)
Sept. 20 Saturday Afternoon Tea
with Nancy
Torgerson
Nancy Torgerson presents “How Children Lived in
Lincoln’s Time,” a series of pictures, reproduction toys, 19th century riddles
and antiques. Abraham Lincoln Presidential
Library, 112 N. Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
Sept. 20 Masterworks I — Russian Romance
Illinois Symphony Orchestra performs a series of
Russian music numbers including Symphony No. 4. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Sept. 20-21 and 27-28 Auburn Corn Maze
Auburn United Methodist Church offers up a corn maze
this year at their annual festival. 14100
State Route 4, Auburn (www.auburn-umc.org)
Sept. 20-21 Lincoln Douglas Debates’
150th Anniversary
The all-day festival at the site of the original
debate includes a pancake breakfast, tours of the Lincoln Douglas Museum,
an art fair, and more. Charleston (www.charlestontourism.org)
Sept. 20-21 Seventh Annual Route 66
Film Festival
See films from around the world and vote on your
favorite flick. Hoogland Center for the Arts,
420 S. Sixth St. (www.route66filmfestival.net)
Sept. 20-21 Gail’s Pumpkin Patch
Fall Farm
Weekend
Visit the pumpkin patch for a weekend of farm tours,
crafts, games, face painting, and of course, plenty of pumpkins. Gail’s Pumpkin Patch, 1709 2000th Ave., Beason (www.gailspumpkinpatch.com)
Sept. 20-21 Edwards Place Fine Arts Fair
Fine art and craft artists display and sell their
work. Hosted by Springfield Art Association. Edwards
Place, 700 N. Fourth St. (217-523-2631)
Sept. 20-Oct. 13 Prairie Festival
Springfield Park District transforms the botanical
garden into a prairie environment featuring animals found in the landscape
courtesy of Henson Robinson Zoo. Washington
Park Botanical Garden (www.springfieldparks.org)
Sept. 20-Oct. 31 Robinson Family
Farms Pumpkin
Patch
Open weekends. The farm opens its gates for an autumn
season featuring a corn maze, wagon rides, pick-your-own-pumpkin patch, and
bonfires among other activities. Robinson
Family Farms Pumpkin Patch, 2212 County Line Rd., Murrayville (www.robinsonfamilyfarms.com)
Sept. 20-Oct. 31 Didier Farms Pumpkinfest
Pick the perfect pumpkin and partake in seasonal
activities including hayrides, a pumpkin jump, and the corn maze. Didier Farms, Prairie View (www.didierfarms.com)
Sept. 21 K & T Llamas Annual
Fall Open
Pasture
Walk to llamas along trails and spend a day on the
farm. 533 Phillips Ferry Rd., Bluffs (www.llamafun.net)
Sept. 21 Fall Equinox Sunrise Observance
Meet at the reconstructed Woodhenge and listen to the
history and function of the ancient calendar. Cahokia Mounds, 30 Ramey St., Collinsville (www.cahokiamounds.com)
Sept. 24 Multicultural Fest
Trutter Center, Lincoln Land Community College (www.llcc.edu)
Sept. 25 Harvest of Miracles Benefit
The evening event features live music, balloon tether
rides, and children’s activities to benefit Children’s Miracle
Network. Reservations requested by Sept. 19. Green
View, 3000 W. Jefferson (www.greenview.com)
Sept. 26 Springfield Art Association
Brown Bag
Art Talk
Jonathan Perkins, associate professor of visual arts
at UIS, presents a noontime lecture on the artist Francis Bacon. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St. (217-523-2631)
Sept. 26 “Tudor to Beatles”
Chicago A
Cappella
Rammelkamp Chapel, Illinois College, Jacksonville (217-245-3069)
Sept. 26-28 Annual Prairieland Heritage Museum Steam
Show and Fall Festival Days
Stroll around the festival and take in the old-time
demonstrations, the large flea market, and plenty of fair food. Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org)
Sept. 26-28 International Route 66 Festival
The festival, a tribute to the rambling road Route
66, features a car show, a cruise, and plenty of activities including live
music. Downtown Springfield (www.route66fest.com)
Sept. 27 Annual Fall Craft and Food Festival
At the festival, Robert’s Seafood Market
presents a healthy seafood demonstration, and crafts and bake goods will be
up for grabs. U of I Extension Building #30,
Illinois State Fairgrounds
Sept. 27 10th Annual Coal Country
Fall Festival
The family-oriented event features craft vendors,
kids’ activities, informational booths, a business expo, the Tour de
Coal bike ride, and live music from Will Black Orchestra, Big Shake
Daddies, and more. Benld City Park (ww.coalcountrychamber.com)
Sept. 27 International Beer Tasting and Chili
Cook-Off
Taste beers from around the world and wash it down
with a spicy bowl of chili. Main and Broadway,
Downtown Urbana (www.jaytv.com)
Sept. 27 Walk on the Wild Side
Support conservation at this first — and soon
to be annual — walk, which benefits the Association of Zoos and
Aquariums Amphibian Fund. Advance registration required. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Dr. (www.hensonrobinsonzoo.com)
Sept. 27 Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra
The orchestra presents Aaron Copeland’s
“Lincoln Portrait.” Rammelkamp
Chapel, Illinois College, Jacksonville (217-245-1181)
Sept. 27 Beardstown Fall Fun Festival
The autumn celebration features crafts, food vendors,
carnival rides, a talent show, and more. Art
Zeeck Park, Beardstown
Sept. 27-28 Wine and Cheese Festival
Sip on Illinois wine accompanied by an array of
cheeses. Rockome Gardens, Arcola (www.rockome.com)
Sept. 27-28 Peoria Art Guild’s Fine Art Fair
Ranked in the top 100 art fairs nationally,
Peoria’s fest features artwork and music performances. Peoria Riverfront (www.peoriaartguild.org)
Sept. 27-28 Annual Cruise Nite and Car Show
The classic antique car event, one of Illinois’
largest cruises, features an array of vehicles for viewing. Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org)
Sept. 28 Garden Party at Ginger Creek Foundation
Wear your favorite hat and enter the garden party hat
contest, present your creation in a fashion show, or just look around at
the Jeff P. Garland sculpture exhibit. 3400
Ginger Creek Dr. (www.gingercreekfdn.org)
Oct. 1 Pied Piper Architectural Tour
Take a tour through the historic downtown and observe
the architectural styles and materials. Anthony Rubano from Illinois
Historic Preservation Agency leads. Lincoln-Herndon
Law Office (ww.downtownspringfield.org)
Oct. 1 99 Questions
Actor, playwright, and associate professor Mark Cryer
addresses stereotypes. Studio Theatre, UIS
campus (www.uis.edu)
Oct. 2 Comedian
Alexandra McHale
Presented by the UIS Comedy Series. Brookens Auditorium, UIS campus (www.uis.edu)
Oct. 2-4 & 9-11 Lincolnesque
John Strand’s comedy drama looks at the chaotic
world of election campaigns. Abraham Lincoln
Presidential Library and Museum, 112 N. Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
Oct. 3 Greens for Wishes Golf Outing
Tee off to benefit the Make-a-Wish Foundation of
Illinois. The Rail Golf Course, 1400 S. Club
House Dr. (217-415-7400)
Oct. 3 Downtown Gallery Hop
Imagine Foundation presents a monthly stroll along
the downtown square featuring numerous galleries displaying artwork. Downtown Jacksonville (217-473-2726)
Oct. 3-4 Candlelight Tour
Trek through the historic town by candlelight with
interpreters dressed in period clothing. Lincoln’s
New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg (www.lincolnsnewsalem.com)
Oct. 3-5 Barry Apple Festival
Crunch into a juicy apple and spend the afternoon
celebrating the healthy fruit. Barry (www.barryil.org)
Oct. 4 Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway
Listen to the tunes of musical theater that have made
Broadway a worldwide destination.
Sangamon Auditorium, UIS campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Oct. 4 Little Flower Parish Annual Auction
The annual auction features items up for grabs such
as vacation packages, sports tickets, and more. Little Flower Parish Center, 900 E. Stevenson
Oct. 4 University of Illinois at Springfield
Homecoming
Celebrate homecoming and bring the whole crew out for
the parade, barbecue, a soccer game, and later, fireworks. UIS campus (www.uis.edu)
Oct. 4 Fur, Feather, Fin Fall Fling
The festival features free admission, craft vendors,
and puppet plays. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E.
Lake Dr. (www.hensonrobinsonzoo.com)
Oct. 4-5 Harvest Festival and Fish Fry
Hill Prairie Winery presents a weekend of live music,
fried fish sandwiches, and the winery’s libations. Hill Prairie Winery, Oakford
Oct. 4-5 Historic Surveying
Join a 1830s surveying party and view the road
through period instruments. Lincoln’s
New Salem Historic Site, Petersburg (www.lincolnsnewsalem.com)
Oct. 4-5 Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Show
Lincoln Orbit Earth Science Society rocks this
weekend with an exhibit of fossils, gemstones, minerals, demonstrations,
and more. Illinois Building, Illinois State
Fairgrounds
Oct. 5 Saxton’s Cornet Band
The Saxton’s Cornet Band will transport you
back to the days of stove top hats and Abraham Lincoln in their performance
“Lincoln and Liberty, too! A Celebration of Lincoln.” Kirkland Fine Arts Center, Decatur (www.millikin.edu/kirkland)
Oct. 7 Kelly-Miller Circus
Featuring two performances. Prairie Land Heritage Museum, Michigan and Lincoln Avenues,
Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org)
Oct. 10 Morris Dees Lecture
Morris Dees, co-founder of the Southern Poverty Law
Center, discusses the future and a continued commitment to social justice. Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center (presidentlincoln.org)
Oct. 10 William Ness Organ Concert
First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St. (www.lincolnschurch.org)
Oct. 10 The Musical
Adventures of Flat Stanley
Stanley lives a pretty normal life, that is, until
him bulletin board falls from the wall and right on to Stanley making him
flat. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Oct. 10-11, 17-19, 24-26 and Oct. 30-Nov. 1
Terror on the Square
Downtown Petersburg’s entry into the spooky.
This is a very scary haunted house, not recomended for small children.
(www.terrorontheweb.com)
Oct. 10-11 Twelfth Annual Craft Show
Stock up with crafts for the holiday including
scarecrows, pumpkins, snowmen, and more. 5889
Grigsby Ln., Salisbury
Oct. 10-11 Boo Crew Haunted House
A high-tech haunted house featuring the tale of a
pilot lost in Mississippi swampland. 6500 Jett
Rd., Rochester (www.boocrew.com)
Oct. 10-11 Central Illinois Bragging Rights
Competition BBQ
Grill masters test their skills with tangy BBQ. Arthur (www.illinoisamishcountry.com)
Oct. 10-12 Youth Charity Horse Show
Proceeds benefit the Central Illinois Riding Therapy
program. Coliseum, Illinois State Fairgrounds (www.youthcharityhorseshow.com)
Oct. 10-11, 17-18, 24-25, 30-31
Terror on
Washington Street
One of Illinois’ top 10 haunted houses.
513 E. Washington St. Clinton
(www.terroronwashingtonstreet.com)
Oct. 11 Super Saturday
A themed event for children ages 4-8 years old to
participate in hands-on activities in the museum. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
Oct. 11 Girard Pumpkin Festival
Watch pumpkins fly through the air, launched by
air-powered, human-powered, and mechanical pumpkin shooters during the
pumpkin chunkin’ contest. The festival also features a costume
contest, chili contest, and hayrides. On the
Square, Girard (www.girardilusa.com)
Oct. 11-12 Carve for the Carillon
Bring your favorite carving tools and help create
2000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins along with the Tree of Lights and
food vendors. Rees Memorial Carillon,
Washington Park (www.carillon-rees.org)
Oct. 11-12 Broom’s Orchard’s Pumpkin
Festival 2008
Trek through the five-acre pumpkin patch and munch on
apples or play around in the corn and straw mazes. Broom’s Orchard, 12803 Broom Rd., Carlinville
Oct. 11-12 Indian Summer Festival
Enjoy the fall colors at this outdoor festival that
features music, guided walks, and children’s activities. Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center, 2301 E. Lake Dr.
(www.lmgnc.org)
Oct. 11-12 Log Cabin Days Fall Festival
Take a walk into history when you enter the historic
cabins and watch old-time demonstrations. Illinois
Route 78, Virginia (www.seecass.com)
Oct. 11 & 18 Green View’s Fall Fest
Learn about trees, shrubs, and other plants for the
fall season. Reservations requested. Green
View, 3000 W. Jefferson (www.greenview.com)
Oct. 11-12 Fall Color Festival
Watch the leaves change color for the fall season and
listen to music from Robbie Stokes and the Stokers (Sat.) and Lew Jetton
and Highway 61 South (Sun.). Alto Vineyards,
Highway 127, Alto Pass (www.altovineyards.net)
Oct. 12 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
Step off at a non-competitive walk to help fight
breast cancer. White Oaks Mall (www.cancer.org/stridesonline)
Oct. 16 Compania Flamenco Jose Porcel
Traveling from Spain, a company of dancers presents
traditional flamenco. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS
campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Oct. 17 Dave Rudolf Family Halloween Party
Trutter Center, Lincoln Land Community College (www.llcc.edu)
Oct. 17 African Children’s Choir Concert
The free concert benefit supports the African
Children’s Choir Ministry, which supports education programs for
orphaned and impoverished children. Donations accepted. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St. (www.lincolnschurch.org)
Oct. 17-18 Jack-o-Lantern Spectacular
View the 2000 hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins
created the weekend before at Carve for the Carillon. Rees Memorial Carillon, Washington Park (www.carillon-rees.org)
Oct. 17-19 Boo Crew Haunted House
A high-tech haunted house featuring the tale of a
pilot lost in Mississippi swampland. 6500 Jett
Rd., Rochester (www.boocrew.com)
Oct. 18 MacMurray College Homecoming Weekend
Parade begins at 10 a.m. Central Park Plaza, Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org)
Oct. 18 Sound Celebration Chorus
The chorus presents a musical revue dubbed “You
Can’t Stop the Beat.” Springfield
High School Auditorium (217-787-6110)
Oct. 18 Point of Grace
The Christian music group presents songs from the new
album How You Live. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS
campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Oct. 18 Heart of Jacksonville — Pork Days &
Applefest
Celebrate two very different foods at this annual
festival where you shouldn’t leave hungry. Jacksonville (www.jacksonvilleil.org)
Oct. 18-19 Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce
Chillifest
Sample the tasty chili and check out the baby
contest, track show, and more. Taylorville (www.chillifest.info)
Oct. 18-19 Pike County Fall Color Drive
Take the scenic route through the leafy roads of Pike
County and visit the towns along the way for crafts and demonstrations
among other activities. Pike County (www.pikeil.org)
Oct. 18-19 Autumn Historic Folklife Festival
Roam the streets of Hannibal and watch historic craft
demonstrations, street musicians, and food cooking in wood stoves. Historic Main Street, Hannibal, Mo. (www.hannibalarts.com)
Oct. 22 Comedian Jasper Redd
Presented by UIS Comedy Series. Brookens Auditorium, UIS campus (www.uis.edu)
Oct. 23 Paula Giddings Book
Discussion and
Signing
Paula Gidding, author of Ida: A Sword Among Lions: Ida B. Wells and the Campaign Against
Lynching, discusses her book. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
Oct. 23-26 Mid-America Mane
Event Horse Show
The show features horses from across the Midwest
region. Coliseum, Illinois State Fairgrounds.
Oct. 24 Movie in the Park
Unfold your lawn chairs and sit back for a showing of
the movie Monster House. Riverside Park (www.springfieldparks.org)
Oct. 24 Montgomery Gentry in concert.
Prairie Capital Convention Center.
(www.springfieldpccc.com)
Oct. 24 Springfield Art Association
Brown Bag Art
Talk
Rosina Neginsky, associate professor of
interdisciplinary studies at UIS, presents a noontime discussion about
European abstract art. Springfield Art
Association, 700 N. Fourth St. (217-523-2631)
Oct. 24-26 Boo Crew Haunted House
A high-tech haunted house featuring the tale of a
pilot lost in Mississippi swampland. 6500 Jett
Rd., Rochester (www.boocrew.com)
Oct. 24-26 & Nov. 1-2 Pump Boys and Dinettes
Gordon Productions presents the musical about the
world of country music. Hoogland Center for
the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.scfta.org)
Oct. 25 SpringfieldMoms.org
Kids Costume Contest
Dress your little ghouls and ghosts up and parade
them around the Old Capitol Farmer’s Market. Adams Street between Fourth and Fifth streets. (www.springfieldmoms.org)
Oct. 25 Halloween in Nauvoo
The Halloween event features a parade and costume
contest. Taylorvile Post Office, Taylorville.
Oct. 25 Taylorville Sertoma
Halloween
Spooktacular
The Halloween event features a parade and costume
contest. Taylorville Post Office, Taylorville.
Oct. 25 Springfield Classical Guitar Society
The society’s concert features Michael Hull, a
faculty member at Bradley University. First
Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St.
Oct. 25 Prairie Grapevine Society
Storyteller Dan Keding tells ghost stories for
Halloween. Edwards Place, 700 N. Fourth St. (www.prairiegrapevine.org)
Oct. 25-26 Zoolie Ghoulie
The zoo hosts its popular, safe trick or treating
event. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Dr. (www.hensonrobinsonzoo.com)
Oct. 26 An Evening with David Crosby
and Graham
Nash
Two of the four that made up Crosby, Stills, Nash and
Young, Crosby and Nash hit the boards for a performance featuring tunes
from their repertories as solo artists and as members of the 1960s rock
band. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Oct. 26 Prairie Mills Windmill Oktoberfest
Gather at Prairie Mills Windmill and eat traditional
German fare including brats, red cabbage, and potatoes and gravy. Prairie Mills Windmill, Golden (www.goldenwindmill.org)
Oct. 26 “Where Are the Wild Things?”
Halloween Event
Bring your tiny ghosts and goblins to explore bat
cave, learn about nighttime creatures, and have your picture taken with a
friendly witch among other activities. Illinois
State Museum, 502 S. Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
Oct. 30 War of the World
— Live Radio Show
A live recreation of the famous Mercury Theatre radio
show that panicked the country. Hoogland
Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.scfta.org)
Oct. 30 Monster Mash
The Halloween costume party for people with
developmental disabilities featuring a DJ, dancing, and a costume contest. Nelson Center, Lincoln Park (www.springfieldparks.org)
Oct. 30-31 Conference on Illinois History
History buffs and Abe experts get together for a
conference on politics, geography, community studies, Abraham Lincoln,
African-American history, and the Civil War. Prairie
Capital Convention Center (217-785-7933)
Oct. 31 Capitol Steps
The group of former Senate staffers returns to (our)
capital to poke fun at the headlines, and Republicans and Democrats alike. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Oct. 31 Mall-o-ween
Come to the mall dressed in your ghoulish best to
trick or treat. White Oaks Mall
Oct. 31-Nov. 2 Holiday Open House
Prairie Art Alliance
hosts an open house to view works from artist members. H.D. Smith Gallery, Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth
St. (www.prairieart.org)
Oct. 31-Nov. 1 Boo Crew Haunted House
A high-tech haunted house featuring the tale of a
pilot lost in Mississippi swampland. 6500 Jett
Rd., Rochester (www.boocrew.com)
Oct. 31-Nov. 2 175th Annual
Celebration Homecoming Weekend
The weekend’s scheduled events include a
Friend’s Fair and an organ concert.
Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, 520
W. College Ave., Jacksonville (217-245-8213)
Oct. 31-Dec. 20 Flights
of Fantasy
Prairie Art Alliance hosts their end of the year
exhibit featuring work from member artists Ed Fraase, Joan Burmeister,
Janet Seitz Carlson, and Nan Pervinich. H.D.
Smith Gallery, Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.prairieart.org)
Nov. 1 Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra
Rammelkamp Chapel, Illinois College, Jacksonville (217-245-1181)
Nov. 1 Halloween/All Saints’ Organ Concert and
Electronic Light Show
Dress in costume, or all black or white, and sit back
and enjoy the light show accompanied by music. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St. (www.lincolnschurch.org)
Nov. 1 Douglas Blue Feather Flute Concert
Songwriter Douglas Blue Feather of Cherokee heritage
performs Native American flute music. Unity of
Springfield (www.unityofspringfield.com)
Nov. 6 Jim Edgar Lecture Series and Book Signing
William Miller, professor at University of Virginia,
presents a lecture on Lincoln’s duties as a statesman. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
Nov. 7 Direct from West Africa: The Song and Dance
Ensemble of West Africa
From various countries throughout West Africa, the
ensemble performs the rich music from their shared histories. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Nov. 7 Flyleaf and Family Force 5 in concert
In conjunction with the Illinois Christian Teens
Convention. Prairie Capital Convention Center. (www.springfieldpccc.com)
Nov. 7 Downtown Gallery Hop
Stroll down the square and take in the art adorning
the walls of galleries in downtown Jacksonville. Imagine Foundation hosts. Downtown Jacksonville (217-473-2726)
Nov. 7-9 16th Annual Holiday in the Village Fine Crafts Sale
The annual event features artwork from more than 30
artists including jewelry, baskets, photography, paintings, paper cutting,
handmade soaps, and more. Knights of Columbus
Hall, 2200 Meadowbrook Rd. (www.pieintheskyinc.com)
Nov. 7-9 Greater Downstate Indoor Bluegrass Festival
This year, the festival lineup includes The Grascals,
Rhonda Vincent and Rage, Nothin’ Fancy, Bobby Osborne and Rocky Top
X-press, among others. Crowne Plaza Hotel,
3000 S. Dirksen Pkwy. (www.bluegrassmidwest.com)
Nov. 8 Super Saturday
A themed event for children ages 4-8 years to explore
the museum. Illinois State Museum, 502 S.
Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
Nov. 9 Chapter 6
The Illinois-based a cappella ensemble features
pop/jazz harmonies. Hoogland Center for the
Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.scfta.org)
Nov. 10 The Pajama Game
Sink down in theater seats for a quick-witted comedy
straight from Broadway. Sangamon Auditorium,
UIS campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Nov. 14-16 Shrine Circus
Popular family attraction brings the big top back to
town. Prairie Capital Convention Center.
(www.springfieldpccc.com)
Nov. 15 Masterworks II — The Butterfly Lovers
Concerto
Illinois Symphony Orchestra performs the music of
classic tales such as Tom Thumb, The Fairy Princess, and Mother Goose
tales. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS campus
(www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Nov. 15 Beautiful Hats Presented
by The Tea
Ladies Inc.
The presentation of the history of lady and
men’s hats through time. Wearing your hat is encouraged, but not
required. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library
(217-558-8934)
Nov. 15 Collector’s Day 2008
During this one-day event, private collectors display
their unique collections including antique doorknobs, fossils, and coins
among other items. Illinois State Museum, 502
S. Spring St. (www.museum.state.il.us)
Nov. 15-Dec. 3 Fourth Annual Holiday Hall
The annual holiday hall showcases artwork from
Illinois artists, and holiday shoppers can purchase gifts. Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St. (217-523-2631)
Nov. 17 Breakfast with Santa
Eat breakfast with Ole Saint Nick and watch the
holiday lights parade as Amish Country kicks off the holiday season. Arthur (www.illinoisamishcountry.com)
Nov. 19-Jan. Sam Fink’s Gettysburg Address
To celebrate the anniversary of the Gettysburg
Address, the library hosts an exhibit of the original art created for the
book The Gettysburg Address. Abraham Lincoln
Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St. (www.alplm.org)
Nov. 21 Springfield Art Association Brown Bag Art
Talk
Larry Shiner, emeritus professor of philosophy,
history, and visual arts at UIS, presents “Art and Architecture in
Freud’s Vienna” (1890-1914). Springfield
Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St. (217-523-2631)
Nov. 21-22 Annual Christmas in the Park Holiday Craft
Bazaar
Pick up holiday gifts at this weekend bazaar that
features hand-made fabrics, wood and floral items, and more. Country Place Condos Clubhouse, North Cotton Hill (217-585-1219)
Nov. 21-23 Annual Woodhaven Hospice Festival of Trees
More than 50 designer and children’s trees on
will be on display along with a selection of designer wreaths for
Woodhaven’s Hospice’s annual fundraiser. Jacksonville
Nov. 22 Cherryholmes Christmas
The Nashville-based
bluegrass band performs a holiday concert. Sangamon
Auditorium, UIS campus (www.sangamonauditorium.org)
Nov. 22 Dancing with the Starz
Trip the light fantastic with Springfield notables to
help raise funds from Prairie Art Alliance. Hoogland
Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St. (www.prairieart.org)
Nov. 22-30 Memorial Medical Center Foundation
Festival of Trees
The popular festival features holiday trees and
wreaths decorated by local designers and volunteers. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds (www.memorialmedicalfoundation.com)
Nov. 28-30 & Dec. 5-8 The Christmas Schooner
Jacksonville Theatre Guide presents the holiday
musical. Sophie Leschin Theatre, Jacksonville (217-245-1402)
Nov. 28-30 Sixth Annual Indian Market Days
Native American artists display and sell jewelry,
paintings, crafts, clothing, weavings, and more. Cahokia Mounds, Collinsville (www.cahokiamounds.com)
Nov. 29 77th Annual Beaux Arts Ball
The evening ball celebrates Springfield Art
Association’s supporters. Proceeds benefit the SAA. Crowne Plaza Hotel (217-523-2631)
This article appears in Aug 21-27, 2008.
