Can't Miss Summer Festivals in the Heritage Corridor Region

Summer is here, and that means festival season! The Heritage Corridor Region has festivals throughout the season to entertain everyone in the family. Below, we have provided information on just a few of the exciting upcoming events.  

Ottawa Uncorked 
Ottawa, Illinois 
June 5 - June 6, 2021 
After a year of “on hold”, the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Alliance is setting their sights on Ottawa, Illinois June 5 – 6th for “Ottawa Uncorked”.  This event will showcase wineries from across Illinois and provides many opportunities for attendees to sample and purchase wines made right here in Illinois, many of which are the product of Illinois-grown grapes. Helpful hint: Buy your tickets ahead of time to ensure your space is saved. More information here! 

Old Canal Days 
Lockport, Illinois 
June 10 – June 13, 2021 
Celebrate the Illinois & Michigan Canal and its contributions to the success of Lockport all weekend long. Activities include a carnival, parade, beer garden, live music, arts & crafts show, food trucks, wine tents and more! This is a wonderful event to kick-off summer for the whole family! Helpful hint: This year's event will be held in a different location than in the past, visit the website for all the details. More information here! 

Oglesby Summer Fun Fest 
Oglesby, Illinois 
June 17 – June 20, 2021 
There is something for everyone at the Oglesby Summer Fun Festival. Free entertainment, town-wide garage sales, a craft and vendor show, the BEST carnival around, a variety of food vendors, sweet treats and an amazing fireworks finale. Don’t miss out! Helpful Hint: Buy a carnival wristband for unlimited rides! More information here! 

Streator’s 4th of July Celebration 
Streator, Illinois 
July 3 – July 11, 2021 
The 2021 Streator's 4th of July Celebration will, again, be held at Northpoint Plaza and downtown Streator. The series will span 8 days and features fireworks, a parade, carnival, national music acts, food and beer garden, Run for Glory 5K, Emergency Vehicle Show, and much more. Helpful Hint: Each day will bring a new round of activities, so check out the schedule to help plan ahead! More information here!

Wilmington Catfish Days 
Wilmington, Illinois 
July 22- July 25, 2021 
Catfish Days has been celebrated in Wilmington since 1976 as part of the United States' bicentennial celebration and grew every year until 1985. In 1999, the city brought back the celebration with activities for all ages. Helpful hint: No Catfish Days celebration is complete without a Catfish Dinner, so check out some of the local dining establishments to indulge. More information here!

The Bash at the Big House 
Joliet, Illinois 
August 7, 2021 
This family friendly event all takes place inside the walls of the Old Joliet Prison. Live music and art demonstrations, food trucks, farmers markets, and a kid's corner are all available from 12-11pm, so plan for a full day of fun! Helpful Hint: The event starts at 12pm, but doors open at 11:30am! More information here!

Mendota Sweet Corn Festival 
Mendota, Illinois 
August 12 – August 15, 2021 
Tons of free, hot, buttered, delicious sweet corn will be the highlight of the 74th annual Sweet Corn Festival. Don't miss the excitement for the festival offers a variety of entertainment events for the entire family. The events take place primarily in the downtown area. Helpful Hint: There are no admission or parking fees, with the exception of the beer garden. More information here!

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