Whether you’re looking for live music, a festival, marathon, or something family-friendly to bring the kids to, Downstate Illinois has something for everyone! Each week we highlight a few fun events within southwest, south central and southeast Illinois.  Our region hosts over 900 events each year, and we pride ourselves on providing the most accurate event information so that you don’t miss a thing. For even more events, be sure to visit the Downstate Illinois Calendar of Events page here!

Friday, February 25
 
Monsters of Destruction
7:30 p.m.
Du Quoin, IL
Get ready to meet the Raminator, War Wizard, Rammunition, Crazy Train, & Plain Crazy Monster Trucks because every ticket is a pit pass! Come early to meet the drivers and stay for a show like no other! Click here for more info!

Saturday, February 26 

2022 Downtown Belleville Mardi Gras
3 p.m.
Belleville, IL 
Stay local for Mardi Gras this year by heading to Downtown Belleville to enjoy all your favorite spots! There will be festive drink specials, food, and street performers! Click here for more info!

Polar Plunge & 5K Donut Dash
6:30 a.m.
Carlyle, IL 
Test your speed and your ability to eat donuts at the Carlyle 5K Donut Dash! Afterward, take a flying leap into the frigid waters of Carlyle Lake! This unique opportunity is to support the Special Olympics athletes. Click here for more info!

Mardi Gras in Sainte Marie
4 p.m.
Sainte Marie, IL 
Party in Sainte Marie like there’s no tomorrow this Mardi Gras with a parade, specialty drinks, and live music featuring DJ Jim Messina! Click here for more info!

300 Years French - Prairie Du Rocher Mardi Gras
9 a.m.
Prairie du Rocher, IL 
It’s the BIG 3-0-0 this year for Prairie du Rocher, and they’re kicking off the year with their second annual Mardi Gras Parade and Bar Crawl! Get ready to paint the town Purple, Green, & Gold! Click here for more info!

McLeansboro Hamco Food and Brew Fest
6-9 p.m.
McLeansboro, IL
The Hamco Food & Brew Fest is back for 2022! You won’t want to miss out on tasting the region’s best food and beer! Click here for more info!

*To submit an event to be published on the Downstate Illinois website, click here!