Looking for some summer fun? Look no further! We have compiled a list of some must-visit summer events! If you are looking for more, visit our “events” page on our website for a full list of Summer activities.

Summer Fest

Experience Summerfest at Vandalia Lake Beach on July 5^th & 6^th. This exciting event features live music, food trucks, sand volleyball tournaments, and culminates with a spectacular fireworks display at dusk. Join friends and family for a day of summer celebrations you won’t want to miss.

Uncorked Festival

The Uncorked Festival, nestled in the serene setting of Red Hills State Park in Sumner, IL, is a celebration of wine and its health benefits, promoting antioxidant boost, stress reduction, and heart health benefits. Join us on July 27th from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for an enriching experience featuring wine vendors, live music performances, gourmet food trucks, and an array of unique shops offering handcrafted goods by talented artists. Admission is restricted to ages 21 and over, which includes a festival wine glass, five tasting tickets, or one beer token. Additional tasting tickets are available for $1 each, with beer tokens priced at $5 each. Children ages 0-15 enjoy free admission, while ages 16-20 can join for $15, ensuring a delightful day for all attendees.

Mascoutah Homecoming und August Fest

Experience the cherished annual tradition of Mascoutah Homecoming and August Fest, featuring live music, local artists, and festive floats adorned by community bands and schools. Enjoy spirited class reunions and vibrant parades that traverse the main street, culminating at Scheve Park. Indulge in a delectable array of treats including lemon shakeups, hot dogs, hamburgers, funnel cakes, snow cones, and authentic German cuisine. The festivities span from August 2nd to August 4th, running daily from 9:00 a.m. until 11:30 p.m., promising fun-filled days and lively evenings for all to enjoy.

35^th Annual Centralia Balloon Fest

Prepare to be enchanted by the Centralia Balloon Fest, where hot air balloons grace the sky, painting it with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Witness thrilling balloon races and the mesmerizing balloon glow, accompanied by live entertainment, tantalizing food vendors, and a host of activities for all ages. This unforgettable event promises to create lasting memories. Festival admission is $5, with wristbands required for entry. Join us from August 16th to August 18th, enjoying the festivities from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

The Casey Popcorn Festival

 Calling all popcorn lovers, Casey has a popcorn festival with free popcorn all weekend long to enjoy, starting August 30th – September 2nd, 2024. Entertainment at the festival includes national touring acts, up-and-coming local acts, country, and classical rock. Bring the kids, because there are plenty of activities for them such as magicians and animal shows! The festival will have a carnival with more than 60 craft booths, a car show, kids’ tractor pulls, and Bessie bingo. 

Bommarito Automotive Group 500 INDYCAR Series

Just outside of St. Louis Missouri sits Worldwide Technology Raceway in Madison. This is where the Bommarito Automotive Group 500 INDYCAR series will be taking place on August 17^th.  You can see drivers on the track in open-wheel cars as they are just inches away from their competitors. If you’ve never been, it is an exhilarating race and promises a full day of excitement!

Du Quoin State Fair

The Du Quoin State Fair will be held from August 23rd to September 3rd, 2024, at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds. Enjoy free admission to a bustling event featuring thrilling rides, delicious food, and a wide array of entertainment including motorsports, horse and livestock shows, cooking competitions, and even a karaoke contest. It's the perfect opportunity for the whole family to come together and create lasting memories at this exciting fair.