Cahokia Mounds

Illinois' only United Nations World Heritage Site. This 2,200 acre site preserves the central section of the largest prehistoric Indian city north of Mexico. An Interpretive Center presents a coherent account of this sophisticated prehistoric culture.

30 Ramey Street
Collinsville, Illinois 62234
(618) 346-5160

http://www.cahokiamounds.com/cahokia.html

World's Largest Catsup Bottle

This 170-foot-tall bottle that resembles a Brook's Catsup Bottle served as a water tower for the catsup manufacturer after being constructed in 1949. This example of roadside architecture, at its best, was restored in 1995.

http://www.catsupbottle.com/

Mineral Springs Haunted Museum Tour

Experience a night at the museum tour featuring a number of historic torture devices and their history. These devices are on loan from the Museum of Historic Torture Devices in the Wisconsin Dells. They will be in Alton for the winter tours and one spring tour.

301 E. Broadway
Alton, Illinois 62002
(618) 465-3200

Start Date: 2/16/2008 End Date: 2/16/2008

http://www.mineralspringshauntedtours.com/

Alton Segway Tours

Choose from a variety of tours that will take you gliding along the Mississippi River, under the Clark Bridge, through the streets of Downtown Alton, into tasty restaurants and to some of the most scenic spots in Alton. During the tour, participants will learn how to ride a Segway and obtain their official Segway license before venturing out on a guided tour. For more information, call 618-465-6676.

2 Lock & Dam Way
Alton, Illinois 62002
(618) 465-6676

http://www.visitalton.com/index.cfm

The Heron & Great Rivers Tour Boat Company

Daily sightseeing and sunset cruises on the Mississippi River. Departing from the Grafton Harbor, enjoy a fun and exciting lazy day on the river aboard the Heron. No two voyages are ever the same!

http://www.greatriverstourboat.com/

Pere Marquette State Park

Pere Marquette is the largest state park in Illinois offering visitors 8,000 acres of beautiful forested bluffs and some of the most expansive views of the region. Countless species of rare trees and unique plants can be found along the eight hiking trails in the park. A drive up the windy roads of the park affords visitors with spectacular views of the scenic byway and Illinois River Valley. Visitors love the recreational opportunities at the park, including: biking, hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, boating and horseback riding.

Rte. 100, PO Box 158
Grafton, Illinois 62037
(618) 786-2331

http://www.dnr.state.il.us/

Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail

Extending 20 miles from Alton to Pere Marquette State Park, the Sam Vadalabene Bike Trail runs parallel to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway along IL Route 100, as well as the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. The route is completely paved and takes cyclists through the towns of Elsah and Grafton. Comfort stations are available at Piasa Park, Clifton Terrace Park, Elsah, Grafton Visitors Center, Grafton Harbor public restroom and Pere Marquette State Park.

IL Route 100
Alton, Illinois 62002
(618) 465-6676

http://www.visitalton.com/index.cfm

National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows

The beautifully landscaped acreage boasts gardens, an outdoor amphitheater, the Shrine Church, the Lourdes Grotto, Stations of the Cross, the Millennium Spire, the Shrine Restaurant, and the Shrine Hotel. Children will enjoy the Children's Memorial Park.

http://www.snows.org/

National Great Rivers Museum

Each year millions of people travel to the Mississippi River to learn about its history and its impact on our nation. The National Great Rivers Museum at the Melvin Price Locks and Dam is dedicated to telling the story of the Mississippi River from its grand history and cultural significance to its ecological importance and role as a transportation corridor. The museum features an exhibit gallery packed with more than 20 interactive and computer animated exhibits focusing on the cycles of the river, nature, barge traffic, water consumption and more.

http://www.mvs.usace.army.mil/Rivers

Lewis and Clark State Historic Site

The Lewis and Clark State Historic Site commemorates Camp Dubois, the 1803-1804 winter camp of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. It was at Camp Dubois that members of the Corps of Discovery prepared for their expedition to the Pacific Ocean. The 14,000 square-foot exhibit space contains six galleries that outline the background and history of the Lewis and Clark expedition from its conception to its meaning for today’s America. A “reconstruction” of the winter camp, Camp River Dubois, is located on the grounds near the visitor center. Its design reflects 1803 U.S. Army regulations for the construction of military posts. Interpreters are on site daily in the camp to explain how the men prepared for the journey.

http://www.campdubois.com/

Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail

Walk in the footsteps of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln, and Civil War soldiers from both North and South. Experience the life of young Lincoln as a lawyer, duelist and orator. It was here that the final Lincoln-Douglas Debate took place, with the issue of slavery on the minds of spectators. It was here that Confederate soldiers were held captive, died and were buried. It was here that Alton resident and U.S. Senator Lyman Trumbull authored the 13th Amendment, putting an end to slavery in the United States. Walk with us and experience the 11 historic sites interpreted along the Lincoln & Civil War Legacy Trail.

http://www.visitalton.com/index.cfm

Alton Museum of History and Art

Through the exhibits, we share with you our past and present so that you too may discover the people, places and events that influenced our ancestors and continue to shape our destiny.

http://www.altonmuseum.com/

History & Hauntings Tours

The History & Hauntings Tour is an entertaining and spine-tingling trip into the unknown. Travel to the darkest corners of the region in search of ghosts and discover why the city has been called One of the Most Haunted Small Towns in America! Tours are based on the book Haunted Alton written by Troy Taylor.

http://www.altonhauntings.com/

Great Godfrey Maze

Get lost in Corn and Godfrey at the Great Godfrey Maze! Take an a-mazing adventure through two separate mazes cut into a 7-acre cornfield. This year, the "Wild Things" will be wandering about as you begin your jungle safari through the more than 2.4 miles of trails. The maze captivates thousands of visitors annually. Navigating by day is hard, but navigating through the maze after dark is an even greater adventure. Plus, the maze becomes haunted in October with extended evening and weekday hours. Admission fees. For more information, call (618) 466-1483 or visit www.GreatGodfreyMaze.com.

http://www.greatgodfreymaze.com/

Eckert's Farm and Country Store

Visitors to Eckert's in Grafton have been picking their own apples at the farm since 1964. Eckert's rustic barn and farm looks just like it did years ago. Specializing in peaches, apples and pumpkins, take a free wagon ride out to the farm to pick your own produce from July through October. Enjoy the charming country store and bakery with fresh produce and products made at the farm. Be sure to check their calendar for upcoming festivals and fairs down on the farm.

http://www.eckerts.com/

Heartland Rivers Wine Trail

Traveling the Heartland Rivers Wine Trail is an endless adventure through Southwest Illinois. The trail's 12 wineries follow a tradition of fine winemaking established by early settlers of Illinois who brought their winemaking expertise from Europe. Each winery is different. Member wineries are: Black Diamond Vineyards Ltd, Nashville; Crooked Creek Winery, Centralia; Forsee Vineyards, Coffeen; GenKota Winery, Mt. Vernon; Log Cabin Vineyards, Ellis Grove; Mary Michelle Winery at Pere Marquette State Park; Orchard View Winery, Alma; Piasa Vineyards, Grafton; Schorr Lake Vineyards, Waterloo; Springers Creek Winery, Edwardsville; Vahling Vineyards, Stewardson; and Villa Marie Winery, Maryville.

http://www.heartlandriverswinetrail.org/

If you know of other fall activities in your area, please send them to me at earthstorm@comcast.net so i can share with our members.

Thanks!

Nikki

Illinois Homeschool Nations Blog Coordinator

(Division of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine)

www.homeschoolblogger.com/Illinois

The Old Schoolhouse, America's largest homeschool

magazine

http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com

Homeschool Nations State Listings

http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/Homeschool_Nations/State_Listings.php

Homeschool Illinois Support Group

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/homeschool-Illinois/

SEPTEMBER

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

OCTOBER

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

NOVEMBER

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 

Home school families can visit Indiana Beach on August 27-31 to get special discounts and exclusive events! To begin, we give all
participants an unlimited Ride Pass valid from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Parents not wishing to ride may simply pay the $2.50 entrance fee when they arrive). Home school students may use the day to complete any number of our 50+ worksheets based on our rides & attractions. Enjoy all this and one of the following Special Events for only $9.00 per person.
 

SPECIAL EVENTS
Choose one of the following events for FREE, and add another for just $2.00 more per person:

 
NEW for Homeschool Week 2008 - Roller Coaster Model Contest
Students team up and build a roller coaster model to bring and compete in three categories: Safety, Thrill, and Visuals. With a golf
ball as a coaster car, no one gets hurt but everyone learns when things may go wrong! Download the official rules. Must have at least 4 Coasters to hold the contest.

Culinary Brainery
Our skilled Skyroom chef presents a cooking demonstration in a sure fire way to delight the audience while teaching some valuable how-to kitchen techniques. Including an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of our huge kitchen, the informative Culinary Brainery has been growing in popularity each year. Must have 15 to 20 people registered so call your friends and sign up early.
 

Whatever Floats Your Boat Recycling Regatta
In the afternoons of Homeschool Week, teams of 1 or 2 students will paddle, kick, or drift around the Action River in a race to the
finish (or maybe just a race to finish) aboard watercraft they have constructed out of recycled materials. Prizes will be awarded to
winners and to all teams that successfully finish one lap. A complete set of rules will be sent to all registered teams. Minimum of 8 boats for a race.

 
Photography Class
Learn some helpful tips for taking better pictures, then practice around the park. This 45 minute class will help you catch all you can
on a day of fun! Minimum of 15 registered students. Cameras not included.

 
The above special events all have minimum attendance requirements, so in the case that the minimum is not met, the event will be cancelled for that day. Indiana Beach does not offer refunds or rain checks. To qualify for this special rate, registration and payment must be in by August 11, 2008. For more information or to book today, call Lynn or Matt at (800) 583-4306, option 3.

 

http://www.indianabeach.com:80/homeschool/index.php

 

You are invited to:

The September 5-7, 2008 ICHE Family Camp at Timber-Lee in East Troy, Wisconsin.

Tenting and RV spots are still available.  Register now and attend a fun filled weekend with your entire family, teens and twenties too.  Enjoy the beautiful surroundings  of southern Wisconsin while building relationships with other home school families heading in the same direction.

Don't miss the ICHE Saturday Picnic Dinner included in your registration fees followed by – History Night; Remembering Heroes of the Faith.  You may come as you are or dress up like your favorite historical hero/heroine. 

Activities are multi-generational and families attend events together.  Activities include:  Camp fires – Games – Hands-on Science Workshops – Chalk Talk Presentation – Canoeing – Swimming – Volleyball – Music – Hayrides and more.   

We hope you'll join us and the many other kindred hearts at this delightful and relaxing family retreat.

For more information go to www.iche.org and click on events.  The registration form and workshop choices are available there.  If you have a question you can email the office at info@iche.org

What: 3^rd annual A-Maze-ing Corn Maze and Festival with this year’s theme of “Down on the Farm” cut out of a 4 acre cornfield.

Who: Auburn United Methodist Church – A-Maze-ing Corn Maze and Festival

When: Corn Maze only on weekends of Sept. 13-14, 20-21, 27-28, Oct. 4-5, 11-12 with the hours of Saturdays: 10-6, Sundays: 12-6 and Monday, Oct. 13^th, Columbus Day: 10-2. Cost of admission is only required for the corn maze, $5 per person (5 and under free) which includes free onsite parking. $1 Coupon for Maze only to be found on web-site. Other activities may have a fee.

Where: Located on the property of the Auburn United Methodist Church, 14100 State Route 4, Auburn, IL

Festival Dates: Sept. 20-21 and 27-28

Special Events added for one day or more of the festival includes: Garage Sale, Trivia Night, After Dark Maze hours, Free Children’s Area, Straw Maze, Food, Pumpkin Painting, Hayrides, Jacob’s ladder, Double Dunk Tank, Silent Auction, Ice Cream Social, Health Fair, Pedal Tractor Pull plus other events still in the planning stages!

Please visit our church’s website at www.auburn-umc.org for updated information, printable flyers, and the corn maze e-mail address for all questions.

2008 Auburn United Methodist Church’s  3^rd

A-MAZE-ing  Corn Maze

School Days “Down on the Farm”

Sept. 16-17-18

Teachers:

Explore the corn field maze, and learn about the many uses of corn in our lives! (A small hay maze is also available for the children’s entertainment.)

Speaker: Carrie Winkelmann, “Ag in the Classroom” Coordinator from the Sangamon/Menard County Farm Bureau

Tues: Sept. 16     Weds: Sept. 17     Thurs: Sept. 18

Choose your day, choose your start time.

Programs begin every 20 minutes from 9:00 am – 2:30 pm each day. Program and corn maze time is about 1½ hours per class. Each class will take home classroom “corn” lesson plans (information taken from the National Corn Growers Association web-site) to extend the learning and the fun!

Cost is $2 per child (which includes a small snack and drink) and teachers, bus drivers, and your chaperones will also be admitted for the same $2 admission.

Teachers: Please collect the fees

and present a total amount upon arrival at the maze.

Bus parking available on site.

For more information or to reserve your time, please call Donna Goodroe at 1-217-438-6767

14100 State Route 4, Auburn, IL

Thanks Michelle for sharing this with us!!!

Nikki

Illinois HS Nations Blog Coordinator

KidsCom at Chicago Field Museum

Kids: Tell your Parents about this FREE FAMILY FUN event in Chicago!
Come celebrate the launch of a new game on KidsCom.com - Animal Adventure - where you help save animals in trouble!!

• Be the first kids to do the Animal Adventures scavenger hunt at the Field Museum!
  
  
• Attend the free event and get COOL stuff!
  
  
• PLUS: First 100 families to pre-register & turn in their confirmation coupon at the event get a Free Hope Plant Baby Key Chain

August, 11th, 2008 at 10:30 a.m.

FREE ADMISSION!!!

Event Registration Link

Directions to the Field Museum

From May 19 - June 30, 2008 parents from all over the US logged on to PC Local to vote for the best family friendly resources in their city. We got thousands of votes (thanks!) and the results were pretty close right up until the last minute. It was a tough... wait a minute, enough of our blabbing... click on a city to find out who WON the 2008 Nickelodeon's Parents' Picks Awards!

CHICAGO:

Hi all~

I know this is not directly related to HS'ing, but this is an invaluable website that I wanted to share. This site lists all of the recent recalls with pictures of the products. You can also join their mailing list and they notify you via email when a new recall is out there. The sad thing, is I receive several emails from them a week. There are too many unsafe products out there!

http://www.cpsc.gov/

Nikki

Illinois Homeschool Nations Blog Coordinator

(Division of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine)

www.homeschoolblogger.com/Illinois

The Old Schoolhouse, America's largest homeschool

magazine

http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com

Homeschool Nations State Listings

http://www.thehomeschoolmagazine.com/Homeschool_Nations/State_Listings.php

Homeschool Illinois Support Group

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/homeschool-Illinois/

Experience this 10-day celebration in Springfield of all things Illinois, including agriculture and livestock showcases, Illinois wine tastings, carnival rides and concerts.
August 8 – 17, 2008