The charming town of Galena is set to host the annual Great Galena Balloon Race from June 21-23, 2024.

The Great Galena Balloon Race has become a beloved tradition, drawing crowds that are eager to experience the thrill and beauty of ballooning. Held over three days, this year’s event promises excitement with a range of activities suitable for all ages.

During the event, there will be live music, hot air balloon races, a classic car show and more. The event is raising money for Camp Hertko Hollow and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

Did you know there’s a zoo in Illinois that’s always free? Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is a free attraction that’s open 365 days a year. Not only is it the oldest zoo in the country, dating back to 1868, it’s also one of only a handful of zoos in the U.S. that offers free admission.

The zoo has animals from every climate and is dedicated to conservation and science, with one of the largest kids’ educational programs in the country – Zoo Explorers.

While visiting Lincoln Park Zoo, you can see all different kinds of animals as well as a whole house reserved for birds of prey. For children, there is a petting zoo with fun interactive exhibits dedicated to education.

Nestled in the rolling hills of central Illinois lies a remarkable destination that brings history to life: the Lincoln New Salem State Historic Site. Located two miles south of Petersburg and 20 miles northwest of Springfield, this reconstructed pioneer village offers visitors an immersive experience into the formative years of Abraham Lincoln, one of America’s most revered presidents.

Lincoln New Salem is not just a museum – it is a vivid recreation of the village where a young Lincoln lived from 1831 to 1837. During these six years, Lincoln worked as a store clerk, a postmaster, a surveyor, and eventually launched his legal and political career.

Located in Christian and Sangamon counties near Rochester, Sangchris Lake State Park was highlighted by The Dyrt for its 120 miles of shoreline along Sangchris Lake, featuring two lakeshore campgrounds. In addition to easy access to both water and nature trails, it has been praised for its friendliness to bird watchers and clean grounds with picnic tables and playgrounds.

The park includes 195 campsites where pets and fires are both allowed, with firewood, showers, drinking water and more available to campers. If you don’t want to camp out in a tent, RV sites and campgrounds are also present.

This summer, you won’t want to miss out on taking a trip to see the views and enjoy this highly rated state park.

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The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events has announced their spring and summer festival and special event dates for this year!

• Chicago Farmers Markets (citywide including Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St.)
  • Open May – October
• Maxwell Street Market (800 S. Desplaines St.)