SPRINGFIELD – It may not feel like fall this weekend weather wise, but there are plenty of things going on in the area to help make it feel like fall.
Here are five things to do this weekend.
Jacksonville Oktoberfest
What: The Jacksonville Oktoberfest is set for this weekend full of family-friendly fun and a taste of the Bavarian bold! Check out live music, German food specialties, games and contests, a dog parade and the official Willkommen ceremonial tapping of the kegs. Hosted by the Jacksonville Rotary Club, proceeds from the event will be used in charity. Last year, the Rotary Club donated over $36,000 to college scholarships and grants to local organizations.
When: Noon to 7 p.m. Saturday
Where:Morgan County Fairgrounds, 110 N. Westgate Ave., Jacksonville
More: Tickets are $5 at the door; the tapping of the kegs will take place at 12:30 p.m.
Autumn Market
What: Join the State Street businesses and friends for the State Street Autumn Market. Hosted by locally owned businesses Grace Boutique, District 23, Grit & Grace and Ergadoozy, the autumn market will be like walking through Halloweentown with food trucks, vendors, and a little bit of themed fun for the kids to kick off fall.
When: 10 a.m. Saturday
Where: Down State Street at 1340 S. State St., Springfield
More: Elodie Grace, one of the local vendors, is a popular women’s clothing boutique based in Springfield.
20th Annual Art Spectacular
What: Celebrate 20 years of art, music, and community under the chimes of Springfield’s own Carillon. Dip your toes into the Art Spectacular, central Illinois premier juried Fine Art & Fine Craft fair and explore original works from over 40 artists.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
Where: 1740 W. Fayette Ave., Springfield
More: Admission is free, but event organizers ask for pets not to be invited, only licensed service animals.
Tats for Tails
What: Newage Tattoos and Body Piercings are teaming up with the Friends of Sangamon County Animal Control to make a barking good time with ink and paws. For those looking for change this season, really dive into the bucket list and get a flash tatt for a good dog. Tattoos related to animals will be available for $125 cash only, with all proceeds helping local animals find a better home.
When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday
Where: 1305 Wabash Ave. Suite H, Jerome
More: Just looking for a friend, and not a tatt? Dogs with the animal control will be out and about lazing around the tattoo parlor.
Foodies Fest at the Railyard
What: The popular online group “217 Foodies” is meeting up for their first ever Foodies Fest, hosted at Springfield’s The Railyard. Drop by for live music, outdoor activities for the kids and more than anything else – a sample of Springfield’s food scene. Taste different cuisines from different cultures at small plate samples between $3 to $5 with brunch options.
When: 11 a.m. Saturday
Where: 2242 S. Sixth St., Springfield
More: Can’t make it that night but still want to check out The Railyard? Try Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. for an ’80s themed night at the venue with a live DJ and themed dress code.
Claire Grant writes about business, growth and development and other news topics for The State Journal-Register. She can be reached at CLGrant@gannett.com; and on X (Formerly known as Twitter): @Claire_Granted
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Oktoberfest, autumn market, art spectacular among 5 things to do this weekend
Reporting by Claire Grant, Springfield State Journal-Register / State Journal-Register
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