Event Calendar
Take a look at our list of local upcoming events.
Click or hover above the date you are interested in for more information.
Do you notice something missing?
Viola Community Yard Sale Day
Ready…set…Yard Sales!
Come out to Viola, Illinois for their Community Yard Sale Day. Don’t forget to stop by the fire station for some breakfast!
You’ll need fuel for the day as you search for gems and treasures.
Viola Community Yard Sale Day
Come to Viola, Illinois for their Community Yard Sale Day!
The fire department will have their pancake breakfast that day 6am - 11.
Shop Local @ The REC Center
“Shop local handmade items!
This is also Viola’s Yard Sale Day, and we will have some yard sale booths as well.
Interested in having booth space? Send an email to Robyn at violareccenter@gmail.com”
Located at The REC Center in Viola, Illinois
"My War. My Mask" Mercer County Historic Society
“Gary Metivier will speak about his new book, My Mask My War: A WWII Memoir. A story of Norma Thoeming and the masks she had to wear to survive during World War II.
Please join us on May 4th at 6:30 p.m.
Light refreshments will be served afterwards.”
Shelton Biddle and the 1851 Band
“Shelton Biddle and the 1851 Band (Scott Biddle, Clint Bigham and Travis Parker) will be playing @ Nora’s Off the Hook Bar in Keithsburg!”
Spring Vendor and Craft Sale
Come out and browse the Spring and Vendor Craft Sale in New Boston.
There will be pork chops and chips starting at 11 am.
If you’d like to be a vendor contact newbostonfishfrycommittee@gmail.com
Spring 2024 City Wide Yard Sales in New Boston
“The Spring 2024 City Wide Yard Sales in New Boston will take place on Saturday 11 May 2024, beginning at 8:00 AM.
If you would like to be on the map for the day of the yard sales, contact City Hall by Wednesday, 8 May 2024.
Any questions, please contact City Hall @ 309-587-8181”
Spring Vendor & Craft Sale
The New Boston Fish Fry Committee presents:
During the New Boston City Garage Sales, there will be the Spring Vendor and Craft Sale.
Come out and see what you find!
Food
Pork chops and chips starting at 11am
Located at Fish Fry Park; on the corner of Washington St. & 4th St.
If you’re interested in being a vendor, please email newbostonfishfrycommittee@gmail.com
Rock'n for Relay @ Cheers on Main
Come out and support the Mercer County Relay for Life at Cheers on Main!
Dani Lynn Howe Band
Silent Auction
Raffles
The Rumble 2024 (Amateur)
The Rumble - PDGA A-Tier 2024
Amateur Weekend: May 17-19'
Professional Weekend: May 24-26
8-7pm
Disc golf tournaments
Shop Local @ The REC Center
“Shop local handmade items!
This is also Viola’s Yard Sale Day, and we will have some yard sale booths as well.
Interested in having booth space? Send an email to Robyn at violareccenter@gmail.com”
Located at The REC Center in Viola, Illinois
The Rumble 2024 (Professional)
The Rumble - PDGA A-Tier 2024
Amateur Weekend: May 17-19'
Professional Weekend: May 24-26
8-7pm
Disc golf tournaments
Pancake Breakfast - Keithsburg Fire Department
Stay updated on the Keithsburg Public Campground Facebook page!
Come out for some yummy breakfast and support the Keithsburg Fire Department.
Summer to the Max: Summer Kick-Off
“All ages are invited to join us on Friday, May 31st for the very first of four Summer-to-the-Max events by First Baptist Family Ministry in Aledo, IL.
This Summer Kick-off is co-hosted by FCA and will be a blast for all ages as we hop into summer break!
Join us for a BIG prize give-away at 5pm & Max Moment, walking tacos, ice-cream, family kick-ball, open pool, & play time at the Aledo Pool & Fenton Park. Mark your calendar & see you there.”
Summer to the Max: Summer Kick Off
“All ages are invited to join us on Friday, May 31st for the very first of four Summer-to-the-Max events by First Baptist Family Ministry in Aledo, IL.
This Summer Kick-off is co-hosted by FCA and will be a blast for all ages as we hop into summer break!
Join us for a BIG prize give-away at 5pm & Max Moment, walking tacos, ice-cream, family kick-ball, open pool, & post time at the Aledo Pool & Fenton Park. Mark your calendar & see you there.”
2nd Annual New Boston Fish Derby
“Children 15 years and younger may fish
Cost $5.00
however, no child will be turned away.
Adult supervision is required and life jackets are strongly Recommended.
Bait will be provided.
Sign-up and awards will be at Benji's Bayside Back Shed
(Look for Signs)
203 Railroad Street,
New Boston, IL”
Aledo Rhubarb Festival 2024
Aledo Rhubarb Fest will be celebrating 32 years in 2024! You won’t want to miss out on the fun Aledo, Illinois!
“Rhubarb Festival is a celebration of all things rhubarb – from pie to ice cream to soda pop. If it’s rhubarb, it’s here! Aledo’s affinity for rhubarb became official when the town of 3,600 was named the “Rhubarb Capital of Illinois” in 2007 by the State of Illinois’ 95th General Assembly House of Representatives. The unique festival draws thousands of visitors to the Mercer County seat. The festival is easy to find – at the crossroads of Illinois Highways 17 and 94 – at Aledo’s Central Park and the Mercer County Courthouse lawn, and it spills into the streets of historic downtown Aledo.”
“Rhubarb Regret” is something you won’t want to get this year!
You can find:
“Antique, craft and flea market vendors will share their offerings at the Central Park Market both days from 9am-4pm. On Saturday, another 100 art and craft vendors will set up shop at Crafts In the Courtyard featuring their unique wares on the lawn of the beautiful Mercer County Courthouse from 9am-4pm.”
You can also look forward to free children’s activities in the Kid Zone.
Stay updated on the event page and follow the festival on Facebook!
Aledo Rhubarb Festival 2024
Aledo Rhubarb Fest will be celebrating 32 years in 2024! You won’t want to miss out on the fun Aledo, Illinois!
“Rhubarb Festival is a celebration of all things rhubarb – from pie to ice cream to soda pop. If it’s rhubarb, it’s here! Aledo’s affinity for rhubarb became official when the town of 3,600 was named the “Rhubarb Capital of Illinois” in 2007 by the State of Illinois’ 95th General Assembly House of Representatives. The unique festival draws thousands of visitors to the Mercer County seat. The festival is easy to find – at the crossroads of Illinois Highways 17 and 94 – at Aledo’s Central Park and the Mercer County Courthouse lawn, and it spills into the streets of historic downtown Aledo.”
“Rhubarb Regret” is something you won’t want to get this year!
You can find:
“Antique, craft and flea market vendors will share their offerings at the Central Park Market both days from 9am-4pm. On Saturday, another 100 art and craft vendors will set up shop at Crafts In the Courtyard featuring their unique wares on the lawn of the beautiful Mercer County Courthouse from 9am-4pm.”
You can also look forward to free children’s activities in the Kid Zone.
Stay updated on the event page and follow the festival on Facebook!
Main Street Farmers Market -Downtown Aledo
Don’t miss out on Aledo Main Street’s “Main Street Farmers Market Downtown Aledo”!
“Buy fresh, buy local, live healthy!
Find homegrown produce, fresh baked goods, flowers and more at the Main Street Farmers Market in Downtown Aledo. Support your local growers/producers/artisans and make it your one-stop-shop on Thursday evening! Stay up to date by visiting our Aledo Main Street Facebook page too.”
You can find more information on Aledo Main Street’s website.
Main Street Farmers Market -Downtown Aledo
Don’t miss out on Aledo Main Street’s “Main Street Farmers Market Downtown Aledo”!
“Buy fresh, buy local, live healthy!
Find homegrown produce, fresh baked goods, flowers and more at the Main Street Farmers Market in Downtown Aledo. Support your local growers/producers/artisans and make it your one-stop-shop on Thursday evening! Stay up to date by visiting our Aledo Main Street Facebook page too.”
You can find more information on Aledo Main Street’s website.
Monica Austin - Central Park Grooves
Monica Austin is an award-winning local favorite! You won’t want to miss out on her Central Park Grooves performance.
You can find future Central Park performances on Aledo Main Street’s website.
Main Street Farmers Market -Downtown Aledo
Don’t miss out on Aledo Main Street’s “Main Street Farmers Market Downtown Aledo”!
“Buy fresh, buy local, live healthy!
Find homegrown produce, fresh baked goods, flowers and more at the Main Street Farmers Market in Downtown Aledo. Support your local growers/producers/artisans and make it your one-stop-shop on Thursday evening! Stay up to date by visiting our Aledo Main Street Facebook page too.”
You can find more information on Aledo Main Street’s website.
Ride 17 Music Festival 2024
This all day, county-wide, event will return again for 2024!
Calling all music lovers! Mercer County, Illinois will again welcome the Ride 17 Music Festival. This county-wide event celebrates our vibrant local talent and showcases beloved artists from neighboring areas. Ride 17 Music Fest is not just a music festival; it is a chance to immerse yourself in our local culture and experience what we have to offer. Music flows throughout the county for a whole day and brings in local artists, as well as talent from the surround counties.
During the festival a free bus will being going the the events within the county! Watch out for the schedule closer to the event’s date.
The incredible lineup of musicians and bands that will take the stage at Ride 17 Music Festival will be announced on our Visit MerCo website and the Ride 17 Music Festival Facebook page.
At its core, the Ride 17 Music Festival is a celebration of MerCo and the businesses that call this county home. The festival is an opportunity to experience the charming feel and creativity that defines our local culture. As you dance along to the beat; remember to explore the local eateries, shop local, and experience our outdoor recreation. Bring your friends, family, and loved ones to enjoy the day!
This event is free to attend for another year! We encourage you to RSVP at the event page to give us an idea of how many are coming to see us.
See you there!
#Ride17MusicFestival #VisitMerCo
CreatiVets: Jam Session - Art- Air Clay Experience
“Similar to an art, air clay session, but bring your instruments if you wanna jam.
Creative air-drying clay, sculpting - veteran style
Few ideas and prompts
Few stories
Maybe a few chords
Nothing too hard, nothing too deep, but come on over and sculpt it out.
Not sure about the air-dry clay part? Come anyway. Join us for some kind of good food as we gather at the CreatiVets New Boston Chapter Studio
No RSVP needed, but a heads up for a head count would be appreciated.”
Follow the event give a heads-up and stay updated, follow the event page!
Tanner Moffit @ Saucy's
“Tanner is going to follow Jordan Danielsen with Karaoke. Tanners taking the leap and going to start doing Karaoke.
You know we support our local talent as much as we can. It's great to see someone young start doing something they love, and we couldn't be happier to get him booked.
So we hope everyone will come out and show some love and support for one of our own locals getting his start-up”
Scrapbooking Event: "Let's get Wild!"
“National Scrapbook Day 2024 Event at The REC!
Create two 2 page layouts.
Saturday, April 27th 2-5pm $25.00
*RESERVE YOUR SPOT BY APRIL 15th*
(Supplies will be ordered in advance. Limited number available. Payment via cash or Venmo )
Bring your photos, adhesive, and paper trimmer.
Coffee, tea and water available. BYOB of choice”
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Community B-I-N-G-O (Aledo)
“Come join us for a fun night of Bingo and prizes.
This a free event!
Please R.S.V.P. to Lisa Wessels Sales and Marketing Director at 309-582-3902 or aled.mkt@meridiansenior.com.
We can't wait to see you!”
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Ladies on the Loose
“Aledo Main Street presents the return of "Ladies on the Loose"!
Event will take place on Saturday, April 20th 2024 from 10:00AM-1:00PM.
This is a ticketed FUNDRAISING event for Aledo Main Street. Tickets are $30/ticket and includes a light brunch & a coupon book for the first 50 people to sign-up! Let's have some fun & laughter while bringing back this promotional event in Downtown Aledo.
To purchase tickets contact Lindsey at Aledo Main Street via phone 309-582-2751 or via email at info@aledomainstreet.com”
Outdoor Flea Market @ The Krypt Warehouse
A new outdoor Spring Flea Market is coming to Mercer County!
In Viola, Illinois, Sales from the Krypt will be having their first Flea Market on April 20th from 8-4pm.
Though they have a great lineup of vendors, there is still room for more! Contact them by April 1st to sell at their event.
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Mercer County Motorsports Open Weekend!
Come on out for the opening weekend at Mercer County Motorsports!
Pancake Breakfast l Seaton Fire Department
“Come out and support your local fire department!
Drive Up Service Available
Delivery available with orders placed 24 hrs in advance
Free with donation
Menu:
Pancakes
Sausage
Biscuits & Gravy
Cinnamon Rolls
Coffee & Juice”
Levi Craft @ Saucy's
Come out and see the locally loved musician: Levi Craft at Saucy’s!
Livestock Fitting Clinic
“Are you a youth eager to step into the world of livestock showing? Look no further! Sherrard FFA & 4-H proudly presents the Livestock 101 Clinic, an unmissable opportunity for budding showmen and showwomen to hone their skills and passion for livestock.
Date: April 13, 2024,
Time: 9 a.m
Location: Mercer County Fairgrounds, Aledo, IL
Cost: $15 per participant early bird registration until April 5 and then $25 after
Dive into the fundamentals of showing cattle, sheep, market goats, and swine. Whether you're a newcomer or looking to refine your techniques, this clinic is tailored for all skill levels.
Here's what to expect:
Hands-on guidance in prepping your animal for show competition
Expert assistance with showing techniques and tack identification
Engaging mock showmanship sessions
Valuable insights into responsible animal care and research strategies.
This clinic is designed with beginners in mind, although we'll also cover some advanced material to cater to a diverse range of participants. Our goal is to foster confidence, instill a sense of responsibility in caring for show animals, and emphasize the importance of thorough research.
Don't miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed in the exciting world of livestock showing!
Register at go.illinois.edu/LivestockFittingClinic”
Mercer County Motorsports Open Weekend!
Come on out for the opening weekend at Mercer County Motorsports!
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Adult Easter Egg Hunt @ Cheers on Main
“Cheers on Main is having an Adult Easter Egg Hunt for Adults. The Eggs will hidden on the patio and time of the Hunt will start at 8:30pm. The eggs will be filled with Candy and Mystery Prizes! (If it Rains we will have some kinda eggs giveaway inside!)
We will be having a Glow Party with Tanner Moffitt Disc Jockey from 8:30pm to 12:30am!
CJ & Maddie will be behind the bar with Drink Specials.
Bring your friends and come have some fun & Dance the Night away with Tanner Moffitt!”
Pickled Beats @ Fergs
“Pickled Beats makes their debut at Ferg's! Don't miss this talented, entertaining duo performing your favorite classic country songs.”
Brookestone of Aledo Monthly Dinner Club
“Join us for our monthly dinner club.
Prepare yourself for a day of delicious cuisine selected and prepared by our amazing dining team that features popular foods from this month's theme.
Free and open to the public with limited seating.
RSVP by April 1st to Lisa Wessels Sales and Marketing Director at 309-582-3902 or aled.mkt@meridiansenior.com”
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Easter Egg Hunt - Seaton
There will be an Easter Egg Hunt at Seaton Park!
Starting at 3pm.
Brookestone of Aledo 5th Annual Easter Egg Hunt
“Join us for our annual Easter Egg Hunt!
We will have 4 age groups ages 1-4, 5-9, and 10-13, 13-15.
There will be door prizes and you will need to be present to win.
One lucky child will receive a prize for finding the GOLDEN EGG in each age group.
We hope to see you there!
There will be no rain date for this event.
Follow this event page for updates on the day of the event for cancellations due to weather.
For questions about our event or wanting to donate, call Lisa Wessels Sales and Marketing Director at 309-582-3902.”
Family Easter Event @ Central Park
“Join us on Good Friday, March 29th from 10am-Noon for family fun at Central Park in Aledo, IL as we watch a pretty cool juggler act all about the true meaning of Easter, get lots of candy, & eat lunch.
Bring your lawn chairs & blankets for the show & lunch.
It’s completely FREE. We’ll provide the bags. Infants-Teens can get candy. NO RSVP. Invite your friends & see you there!
*Sponsored by First Baptist Family Ministry.”
Community Bingo
“Come join us for a fun night of Bingo and prizes. This a free event! Please R.S.V.P. to Lisa Wessels Sales and Marketing Director at 309-582-3902 or aled.mkt@meridiansenior.com. We can't wait to see you!”
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Vets Get ToGather Coffee/Breakfast - Creativets
“Veterans of all branches of service and eras are invited to attend.
Stop by and enjoy your morning Coffee, Tea, Hot Chocolate, or Juice and chat with your fellow Veterans. Breakfast items will also be available.
During this time, we will fellowship, connect to our comrades, and learn more about the healing through the arts programs CreatiVets has to offer.
These programs include, but not limited to, songwriting, art, and photography, with the use of many mediums.
A place to gather, to write, to draw, to paint, to sculpt and mold and many other things. This space is set for all Veterans to find their best practice for best expression in confidence with other Veterans.”
Sherrard Community Easter Egg Hunt
“Girl scout service unit 877 will be hosting the 2nd annual Easter Egg hunt at the Sherrard Fire Department's pancake breakfast!”