Southern Illinois Eclipse Festival at DuQuoin Fairgrounds expands, adding more attractions

 

The eagerly anticipated Southern Illinois Eclipse Festival, taking place at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, April 8, is announcing the addition of numerous attractions to its already jam-packed schedule of activities, entertainment, and educational opportunities.

This family-friendly event, with free entry courtesy of WLC Management Firm and other local, generous sponsors, is set to be an unforgettable day for the community.

What’s New at the Festival: 

• Expanded Food Truck Offerings: Indulge in a variety of culinary delights as we host an array of food trucks, offering everything from gourmet treats to classic festival fare. There’s something to satisfy every palate.
• Vendor Fairs Featuring Local Businesses: Discover unique finds, artisan crafts, and more at our vendor fairs, showcasing the best of local businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity for shopping and supporting the local economy.
• Kids Area with Bounce Houses and a Petting Zoo: The festival is a wonderland for children, featuring bounce houses for endless fun and a petting zoo that brings them closer to adorable animals. It’s a safe, engaging, and entertaining environment for kids of all ages.
• Time of Silence for Eclipse Reflection: From 1:55-2:10pm, music and events will pause for a moment of silence, allowing attendees to reflect on the magnitude of the Eclipse. This introspective break, underscores the wonder of the celestial event.

Don’t Miss These Highlights:

• Educational Solar Eclipse Presentation: Gain insights into the solar eclipse phenomenon with our video presentations at the Grandstand, showing at 11 a.m., 12 Noon, and 1 p.m.
• Live Music on the Main Stage: Enjoy performances by:
  • Corey Evitts (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
  • Johnny Holzum and Well Hungarians (1:30 to 3:30 p.m.)
  • Southern Grit (4 to 7 p.m.), with a special pause to observe

Competitions for Everyone:

• Tipsy Pig BBQ Cook-Off finals at 1:15 p.m.
• Bags Tournament beginning at 2:30 p.m.
• Car Show with winners announced at 3:30 p.m.
• Martel’s Pizza Eating Competition at 5:30 p.m.

Special Activities:

• The Kids Corner not only has bounce houses and a petting zoo but also hosts the Nubability Flame Thrower and Home Run Derby from 12 Noon to 4 p.m., with winners announced at 5:30 p.m. Supporting a Great Cause: Notably, the Nubability competition serves as a fundraiser, embodying the festival’s spirit of community support and engagement.

The Southern Illinois Eclipse Festival is not just an event; it’s a day where the community comes together to celebrate, learn, and enjoy. With free entry thanks to generous sponsors, including the lead sponsorship of WLC Management Firm, Eclipse Insurance, and many more, this festival is a gift to the community. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the best of Southern Illinois in one action-packed day.

The Southern Illinois Eclipse Festival at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds is the place to be for an action-packed day of fun, learning, and community spirit. With free entry for everyone, this event embodies the heart and soul of Southern Illinois, offering a diverse range of activities and attractions for attendees of all ages, proudly presented by WLC Management Firm.

Join in for a day to remember: See you at the Du Quoin Fairgrounds, for a celebration that’s sure to eclipse all others!

This event is made possible thanks to the organizers’ generous sponsors, including WLC Management Firm, and many more.

For more information, contact [email protected].