Calendar of Events
for Grafton and Elsah
Jersey County, Illinois

The 7-mile stretch near river communities of Grafton and Elsah along the upper portion of the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway area is an area that bustles with activities for visitors throughout the year. Grafton and Elsah hold a variety of events in all seasons that range from historic tours and festivals on the riverbank to activities promoting fall foliage and the American Bald Eagle. Pere Marquette State Park, the largest in the state, hosts a variety of free programs focusing on the natural beauty and heritage of this region of Illinois. To find out about other activities in nearby areas check out our Main Calendar Page.

NATIVE AMERICAN POTTERY DEMONSTRATION Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Saturday, July 4, 2009 8:30 am Meet at the log cabin near the Visitor Center Learn how Native Americans created pots, dishes, and ceremonial items at this pottery demonstration. After a lecture on this ancient craft, participants will will get hands on experience in making a bowl or a piece of primitive art that they can take home with them. Free For more information call 618-786-3323
BOBCAT PROGRAM Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Saturday, July 4, 2009 2 pm Meet at the Visitors Center Come discover the mysteries of the bobcat . Placed on the Illinois' first list of threatened species in 1977, these animals are indigenous to Illinois and prefer large forested or wooded areas like Pere Marquette State Park. Free For more information call 618-786-3323
FIREWORKS ON THE WATERFRONT Grafton, IL		Saturday, July 4, 2009 Grafton Riverfront Fireworks at dusk Grafton business owners will be offering food and drink specials, live entertainment and games for children. Then watch the fireworks over the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers from the decks of one of the many businesses or from a spot on the riverbank. For more information call 618-786-7000
NATURAL HISTORY HIKE Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Saturday, July 11, 2009 8:30 am Meet at the Visitors Center Learn about the park's natural history and experience the beauty of nature by hiking along on one of the Park’s most interesting trails. Learn how the park originated and see rocks that were formed before the age of the dinosaurs. Wear good hiking shoes and bring a snack, a camera, and binoculars for this adventure that will last about 2 hours. Free For more information call 618-786-3323
BLESSING OF THE FLEET Portage des Sioux, MO Grafton, IL		Saturday July 18, 2009 Participating boats will launch at 1 pm from the Yacht Club of St. Louis proceeding downstream or at Harbor Point  proceeding upstream in the main channel of the Mississippi River. About 2:15 p.m. the parade will arrive at Our Lady of the Rivers Shrine in Portage des Sioux, and end in Grafton.  The parade will be visible from the Great River Road. Free For more information call 618-786-7678  or visit www.blessingofthefleetstl.com
		10TH ANNUAL ELSAH PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT Elsah July 25 - October 17, 2009 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 "Colors and Contrasts of Elsah." Free Click here for additional information
HUMMINGBIRD FESTIVAL Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Sunday, July 26, 2009 1 pm - 4 pm Hummingbirds prosper in the wonderful environment of The Lodge, seeking it out on their annual migration. Join The Lodge’s staff at this annual Hummingbird Festival and be able to see these "always on the go" magnificent little birds up close. The Illinois Audubon Society will on hand banding the birds. Visitors will be able to adopt one for a small fee and receive updates on how your bird is doing and where it is. Free For more information call 618-786-2331 ext. 338
PEACH FESTIVAL Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Sunday, August 9, 2009 10 am - 5 pm If you like peaches then this is the festival for you and if it is made with peaches then you will find it here.  Come enjoy crafts, food, children's games, balloon artist, face painting, pie eating contest, largest peach contest, book signings, peach drinks, and of course peaches. Free For more information call 618-786-2331 ext. 338
ANNUAL OLDEN DAYS FESTIVAL Jersey County, IL		August 22 - August 23, 2009 Saturday: 7 am - 7 pm Sunday: 7 am - 5 pm Tri-County Antique Club Grounds Illinois Route 3 between Grafton and Jerseyville Antique Tractors and Farm Equipment. Learn how people used to live from a variety of demonstrations. Arts & Crafts, Antique Car Show, Food and Live Entertainment! Adults $3, Children under 12 admitted free. For more information call 618-639-4192
9-11 BOAT PARADE Grafton, IL		Friday, September 11, 2009 Dedication: 5:30 pm & Parade: 6 pm Grafton Harbor, 215 W. Water Street Join in paying honor to our soldiers and remember our fellow Americans that died on this day. The parade begins at Grafton Harbor and proceeds down the Mississippi River. Free For more information call 618-786-7678  or visit www.graftonharbor.net
GIRLS ON GRAPES, BOYS ON BREW Grafton, IL		Saturday, September 12, 2009 2 pm - 6 pm The Loading Dock, 401 E. Front Street Enjoy a sampling of delicious wine, beer, and food from over 25 area restaurants and local wineries. The event will be held in the Historic Boatworks at the Loading Dock in Grafton. Proceeds benefit Alton Memorial Hospital's White Cross Auxiliary. Dress is casual. Tickets required; no one under 21, please. For more information call 618-463-7872
ANNUAL ELSAH FALL QUILT RETREAT Elsah, IL		September 23 - September 25, 2009 Learn the art of paper piecing at the annual Elsah Fall Quilt Retreat. Some quilts can look quite difficult, but they can be made easy through the technique of paper piecing. With Barb Marfell as your instructor, you will receive professional instruction, a supply list, two lunches, two suppers, snacks, a walking tour through the Village of Elsah, road trip to Crocker & Springer Pottery and a presentation by guest speaker, Hallye Bone. The cost of the retreat is $130 per person. Housing is additional, but we will make the reservation for you. The cost for a two night stay is $188 per person for a single room and $169 per person for a double room For more information call 618-462-5881
QUILT PROGRAM Elsah		Friday, September 25, 2009 10 am Elsah Civic Center, 51 Mill Street As part of the annual Fall Quilt Retreat, My Just Desserts presents Hallye Bone, author of "Caring for Your Quilts." Hallye will be presenting a delightful program on "Redwork Embroidery - 150 Years of Beauty - Reviving Yesterday's Tradition Today." Hallye has 35 years of experience cleaning, repairing and collecting quilts. The program includes lunch for $25 per person. Tickets must be purchased in advance through My Just Desserts, 31 E. Broadway, Alton or call 618-462-5881. For more information call 618-374-1607 or 618-642-5881
APPLES TO ART ART FESTIVAL Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA September, 2009 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
BECOMING AN OUTDOORS WOMAN Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA September, 2009 The Illinois Department of Natural Resources invites women to attend a weekend of adventurous outdoor activities.  You can try charting a course, calling a bird, shooting a bow, firing a shot, tying a fly, catching a fish, building a campfire and more.  Attendees enjoy the natural beauty of Illinois, companionship, exercise and skill building.  Program instructors provide a supportive, safe, nonthreatening and noncompetitive learning environment.  The program is open to all women age 18 or older. A fee of $135 per person includes instruction, program materials, use of demonstration equipment, seven meals and lodging. Applications and payment must be received no later than August 29, 2008. For more information contact Mitch Ingold at mingold@dnrmail.state.il.us
FOREST FORAGING Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Saturday, October 3, 2009 9:30 am Meet at the Visitors Center A lecture will be given on wild edible plants followed by a hike to identify plants like persimmons that can be found in the Park. Some of the plants will be available to sample after the hike. The program lasts approximately 3 hours. Bring comfortable shoes and an appetite. Free For more information call 618-786-3323
NATURAL HISTORY HIKE Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Saturday, October 3, 2008 2 pm Meet at the Visitors Center Learn about the park's natural history and experience the beauty of nature by hiking along one of the many hiking trails. Wear good hiking shoes and bring binoculars for this adventure that will last about 2 hours. Free For more information call 618-786-3323
GUIDED NATURE HIKE Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Saturday, October 17, 2009 8:30 am Meet at the Visitors Center Feeling adventurous? Try this extended hike with the staff and explore some of the Park’s most interesting trails. The focus will be on exercise and stamina as the hike takes participants past creeks, 100-year old trees, and stops at two scenic overlooks. Wear good hiking shoes and bring a snack, a camera, and binoculars for this six mile hiking adventure that will last about 3 hours. Free For more information call 618-786-3323
NATIVE AMERICAN POTTERY DEMONSTRATION Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Saturday, October 17, 2009 2 pm Meet at the log cabin near the Visitor Center Learn how Native Americans created pots, dishes, and ceremonial items at this pottery demonstration. After a lecture on this ancient craft, participants will will get hands on experience in making a bowl or a piece of primitive art that they can take home with them. Free For more information call 618-786-3323
AUTUMN COLORS DRIVE Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Thursday, October 22, 2009 Saturday, October 24, 2009 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
FALL COLORS WALK Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		Saturday, October 24, 2009 2 pm Meet at the Visitors Center Pere Marquette comes alive with color in the fall. Join the Park's staff for a walk to experience the brilliant colors and the many other wonders of nature first hand. The hikes are approximately 2 miles and last about 2 hours. Don't forget comfortable shoes and a camera. Free For more information call 618-786-3323
FALL FESTIVAL Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA October, 2009 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
OWL PROGRAMS Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA October, 2009 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 Click here for more on Owls
GRAFTON RENDEZVOUS Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA October, 2009 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 314-251-4916
TASTE OF CHOCOLATE Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA December, 2009 1 pm - 4 pm Grafton Methodist Church Annex, Main Street Taste the chocolates of Grafton! Enjoy a plate of homemade chocolate desserts donated by different businesses and restaurants in Grafton. There will be many different goodies from which to choose from. Recipe booklets are available for $2.50 each.  This is a great time to shop for all on your Christmas list! Tickets are a $5.00 donation For more information call 618-786-7000
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS Elsah, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA December, 2009 3 pm - 6:30 pm Activities throughout the afternoon Christmas carols, horse drawn carriage rides, a tree lighting at dusk, Santa Claus, bake sale, and museum open house. House Tour from 3 pm - 5:45 pm, tickets are $15 per person. For more information call 618-374-2821
ANNUAL WINTER RUG HOOKING CAMP Elsah, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA December, 2009 Join us in Elsah for a two-day traditional rug hooking retreat. Learn the art of traditional rug hooking through this retreat designed for beginners or students interested in improving their skills. This class will be taught by Kathy Meentemeyer, a McGown certified teacher. In addition, this quilt retreat includes an overnight at one of Elsah's bed and breakfast inns, catered meals by My Just Desserts, a house tour, and a walking tour of the village. Registration Fee Call My Just Desserts for more information or to register at 618-462-5881 or 618-374-1607. Space is limited!
BALD EAGLE VIEWING PROGRAMS Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA February, 2010 8:30 am Visitor Center A video presentation is followed by an observational drive. Dress warm and have a full tank of gas. Binoculars are recommended. Free, reservations required For more information call 618-786-3323
BIRDS OF PREY PROGRAM Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA February, 2010 4 pm Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center Join the Treehouse Wildlife Center for the Birds of Prey program. Learn about birds of prey, what they eat and their habitat in this live bird demonstration. Free For more information call 618-786-2331
WOODWORKING DEMONSTRATION Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA February, 2010 4 pm Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center Come out and see the amazing woodworkings of Marion Paul. He will have tables upon tables of items that he has created with his scroll saw. The detail of his work is truly amazing. Free For more information call 618-786-2331
UFO SPRING QUILTING RETREAT Elsah		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA March, 2010 Clean out the closet and get ready to tackle some of those UFOs - Un-finished Objects. With instruction from Barb Marfell, you will: learn to miter corners and tricks to binding your quilt. In addition, this quilt retreat includes two nights at one of Elsah's bed and breakfast inns, catered meals by My Just Desserts, a house tour and walking tour of the village. Registration Fee For more information call 618-462-5881
RUG RETREAT Elsah		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA April, 2010 Professional rug hooker Kathy Meentemeyer is a certified McGown rug hooking teacher from St. Louis, Missouri. She teaches at workshops throughout the country, as well as her studio at home. Kathy is an accomplished dye artist and specializes in color planning. Her desire is to help students express their own creativity. The class fee includes professional instruction, two lunches, one supper, and an evening house tour. $120 per person. Housing options are additional. For reservations or more information call My Just Desserts at 618-462-5881
ANNUAL SWAP MEET & FLEA MARKET Jersey County, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA May, 2010 7 am - dusk both days Tri-County Antique Club Grounds, IL-3 between Grafton and Jerseyville Come buy, swap and sell anything and everything, except illegal or obscene materials, and poultry and livestock. There is something for everyone at the annual gas up and swap meet. Free For more information call 618-786-3803
RUG RETREAT Elsah, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA May, 2010 Judy Borger, has been braiding since 1970 and will be the instructor for this Braided Borders for Hooked Rugs retreat. She attended the Nancy Young Braiding Camp in Maine for many years. You will learn braiding skills from an experienced teacher. Your class fee will include: professional instruction, two lunches, one supper and an evening house tour. $120 per person. Housing options are additional. For more information or to make reservations call 618-462-5881
WOODWORKING DEMONSTRATION Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA May, 2010 Friday: 1 pm Saturday: 9 am Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center Come out and see the amazing woodworkings of Marion Paul. He will have tables upon tables of items that he has created with his scroll saw. The detail of his work is truly amazing. Free For more information call 618-786-2331
GREAT RIVER RENDEZVOUS Grafton, IL & West Alton, MO		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA May, 2010 10 am - 3 pm Begins in Grafton and ends at the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary in West Alton, IL Be a part of the first-ever canoe and kayak race on the Mississippi River. Rendezvous in Grafton where the race will begin at 10a.m. Then, race your way 20 miles down river to the end of the race at Ellis Bay in West Alton, MO. Clubs, shops and spectators are invited to attend. In addition to the race, there will social paddles, skills clinics, family paddles, food and music. There is a small registration fee with all proceeds going to the Treehouse Wildlife Center of Madison County. To pre-register, go to www.greatriverwatertrail.org or call 314- 518-0950. For more information call 618-462-6979   or visit http://www.greatriverwatertrail.org
RIVERBEND BED & BREAKFAST TOUR Alton & Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA May, 2010 2 pm - 6 pm Come and see twelve of the award-winning bed & breakfast inns and guesthouses of Alton and  Grafton in this unique tour of the inside of some of the area's most unique and luxurious accommodations. There will be thirteen houses on the tour, five of which are new or remodeled since the last tour. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 the day of the tour. Tickets will be available for purchase at the Alton Visitor's Center at the end of April. For more information call 1-800-ALTON-IL or 618-465-6676
PRINCIPIA TRIATHLON Elsah, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA May, 2010 8 am The Principia Triathlon is a stunningly beautiful and fun challenge for all ages and skill levels in historic surroundings! Come on your own to accept the challenge or bring a team of family or friends. You must register in advance at Active.com. There will be no registration on race day. For more information For more information, go to www.EscapetotheBluffs.com
GREAT GRAFTON PUB CRAWL Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA May, 2010 Be a part of the Barstool Open featuring ten holes of miniature golf at participating bar and grill locations in Grafton. Scorecards are $10 each and include: T-shirt, shuttle transportation and cardholder drink and food specials. Scorecards may be purchased at all participating pubs and wineries. Prizes will be awarded to the golfer with the best score for all 10 holes. For more information call 618-786-7678
TOUR DE CURE BIKE RIDE Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA June, 2010 Raging Rivers Water Park Check-In Time: 6:30 am - 7:30 am Starting times begin at 7 am Join hundreds of cyclists in this fund raising event for the American Diabetes Association. Travel along the Great River Road, flat & moderately hilly country roads on routes of 16, 30, 50, and 100 miles crossing ferries and bridges. There will be support vehicles patrolling the routes and stocked rest stops every 9 to 12 miles. Following the ride all cyclists enjoy complimentary lunch, live music and free admission into Raging Rivers Water Park! Registration and minimum fund raising requirement For more information call 1-888-DIABETES
TWO RIVERS FAMILY FISHING FAIR Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA June, 2010 10 am to 4 pm A family event held in celebration of National Fishing week and Illinois Free Fishing days. Fair goers will learn knot tying, fish identification, fish cleaning, casting, and many other skills. Games, activities, and learning stations for kids of all ages, including a 5,000 gallon aquarium stocked with local fish. Refreshments will be available. Children will receive an assortment of educational materials and a free prize. No license or fishing gear is needed. Free For more information call 618-786-3323
OUTDOOR LIVING & BBQ EXPO Pere Marquette State Park Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA June, 2010 1 am - 7 pm Pere Marquette Lodge & Conference Center If you want to have fun and love BBQ, you'll enjoy this weekend destination of quality summer entertainment with the whole family. Enjoy outdoor product exhibits, live cooking demos, gourmet food, wine tasting, educational "how to" seminars from area chefs, various spices, rubs, cookware, live music and so much more. Free For more information call 618-786-2331 ext. 338
GREAT RIVERS TOWBOAT FESTIVAL Grafton, IL		PROBABLE EVENT - DETAILS TBA June, 2010 Grafton Riverfront Saturday 10 am - 5 pm Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm Catch a rare glimpse inside the giant towboats that travel America's Great Rivers. Conditions permitting, there will be a boat docked on the riverfront at the corner of Water & Market Streets (Route 3) for tours from noon to 4 pm on both days. Live music performed throughout the weekend. Company flags on display and special river-towboat exhibits throughout the festival. Free For more information call 618-786-7000

This Calendar of Events provides listings free of charge for events that are of interest to visitors to the area. To have your event listed here contact the webmaster. We reserve the right to limit content. We also will provide a web page free of charge for the event to cover more details for Non-Profit Community Organizations.