Signature Events

History Comes Alive transports you back to 19th Century Springfield. Immerse yourself in Lincoln’s hometown while meeting our largest cast of historical reenactors yet. Live performances, a variety of demonstrations, as well as special presentations of some of Lincoln’s most famous speeches. Springfi eld is truly a city where History Comes Alive! Free downtown trolley service to historic sites Wed-Sat!

The Grande Levee is a celebration of the grand receptions that took place during the 1800s to honor government dignitaries and important visitors when Vandalia was the seat of Illinois state government. Visitors can enjoy period demonstrations, the selling of wares, an Abraham Lincoln presenter, period folk music, children’s area with fun period games, and tours of the Vandalia Statehouse. Event is free and open to the public.

Step back in time to the 1800s at the Log Cabin Village. Learn how felt hats and rugs were made, what church was like, and visit with the ladies who will be having tea. Other activities include wool spinning, chair caning, music and games. Food will be available for purchase, and stop by the Clat Adams cabin/store to see what’s new. Frontier Day is held on Quinsippi Island, just past All America Park.

On the 165th Anniversary of the famous Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Jonesboro celebrates at Lincoln Memorial Park. The program will include a 21-gun and cannon salute, and a minute of bell-ringing to mark the occasion. Soloists, speakers, and essayist will present the program. Children’s games, music, and food begin at 4:30 pm, with the program at 5:30 pm. This eventis a great opportunity to explore this beautiful, but often overlooked part of Illinois.

Come celebrate the arrival of autumn at the Harvest Frolic. The event is free and open to the public. Don’t miss experiencing 19th-century life on the farm. Activities will take place at both the Lincoln and Sargent farms and will include children’s games, crafts, hearth cooking, and activities. A number of artisans will be on site demonstrating their crafts including, spinning, pottery, broom making, blacksmithing, embroidery, and many other 19th-century crafts.