On Dec. 3, 1818, Illinois became the 21^st state to join the Union. This followed Illinois’ status as a territory since 1809, which represented a much larger border including Wisconsin and parts of Minnesota and Michigan.

The capital in 1818 was Kaskaskia, and in 1819 became Vandalia. At the time Illinois became a state the population was 34,620 residents. Most of the land in Illinois was largely unsettled. Many Native American tribes were pushed off their land and conflicted with colonists following Illinois’ statehood. The state’s first elected governor was Shadrach Bond, who ran without opposition. While Illinois joined as a free state, slavers were grandfathered in and were allowed to keep their slaves. Slavery was eliminated gradually, though anti-Black laws and other forms of segregation and institutionalized racism persisted.

Illinois is the fifth largest economy, sixth largest state by population and 25^th by land area. The state’s area is near that of England or Nepal. Illinois matches Turkey by economy, making it equivalent to the 16^th largest economy on Earth when measured by nominal GDP. The state topped national economic development rankings in 2024.

October is the perfect time to celebrate Illinois’ chilling connection to the silver screen. From haunted Chicago streets to quiet suburban settings that turned sinister, Illinois has long been a favorite backdrop for filmmakers.

Chicago has played a starring role in some of the genre’s most memorable moments. “Candyman” (1992), filmed primarily in and around the Cabrini-Green housing complex, transformed real Chicago locations into symbols of urban legend and fear. The movie has become a classic of psychological horror while preserving a snapshot of Chicago’s architectural history. The 2021 sequel, also filmed in Chicago, revisited those same streets to explore how mystery can linger in a city that continues to change.

Did you know tens of thousands of rubber ducks splash down into the Chicago River to race every year? Chicago celebrated its 20^th annual duck derby this year, featuring a rubber duck race along the Columbus Drive Bridge. Participants can adopt a duck starting at $10 with a chance to win prizes for every entry. Proceeds from the derby benefit the Special Olympics Illinois programming and supports a community of over 24,000 athletes. This year over 82,000 ducks were adopted, accounting for $434,204 raised.

Once the race is over the ducks are collected by volunteers and staff to be cleaned and readied for their next derby. The derby festival includes games, food trucks, souvenirs, photo opportunities and music.

Events like this raise awareness for Special Olympics while also providing an engaging fundraiser to benefit Special Olympic athletes.

Illinois is home to many incredible natural beauty landmarks, and one of its most captivating destinations is the Middle Fork River Forest Preserve, Illinois’ first and only International Dark Sky Park. Located in Champaign County, this preserve offers visitors a remarkable opportunity to experience stargazing in a truly dark environment, designated officially by the International Dark-Sky Association in 2018.

By day, Middle Fork River Forest Preserve delights visitors with its picturesque landscape featuring restored prairies, mature oak forests, river-bottom woodlands, and thriving wetlands. However, the genuine enchantment begins after sunset, when visitors are treated to spectacular views of star-filled skies. This park features exceptionally minimal light pollution, making it one of Illinois’ top destinations for astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike.

To enhance the nighttime experience, the preserve offers a dedicated Dark Sky Trail equipped with designated hammock stations and special stargazing areas, providing an ideal setting for observing constellations and the Milky Way. The preserve’s solar-powered observatory, complete with a retractable roof, allows visitors to set up their own telescopes or gaze at the stars with the naked eye.

Visitors planning an overnight stay can take advantage of Harry L. Swartz Campground in the park with dark-sky-friendly lighting, providing the perfect setting to sleep beneath a canopy of stars. To make the most of this incredible experience, visitors are encouraged to come during the new moon phase or twilight hours, bringing red-filtered flashlights and binoculars or telescopes. However, even without special equipment, the views are breathtaking. The preserve also offers a host of other activities outside of stargazing, including swimming and fishing. In the winter, they provide the option to participate in cross-country skiing.

The Middle Fork River Forest Preserve is more than just an astronomy hotspot — it also serves as an essential educational resource. Local staff and volunteers regularly engage with visitors, educating them on the significance of preserving dark skies for both wildlife and human well-being. For those looking to connect with nature in a uniquely immersive way, Middle Fork River Forest Preserve is undoubtedly an Illinois treasure.

Did you know that June is Black Music Month? Illinois has a rich musical heritage from artists of every genre and is home to legends such as Sam Cooke, The Emotions, Jennifer Hudson and Chance the Rapper. This month, we honor their impact and the generations of Black artists who have contributed to music history.