May

Grandview Drive and Springdale Cemetery Tour (May 28-Oct. 29)

Peoria Heights, IL

Visit Peoria's premier scenic drive that winds its way above the beautiful Illinois River Valley. At Springdale Cemetery, the oldest in the state, visitors can appreciate the serene and park-like setting and hear about the founding fathers. Tours are held on Saturdays only. For more information please call 309-688-5668.

June

Harvest Days at Lavender Creek Farms (June 1 - Aug. 31)

Mackinaw, IL

Enjoy a walk through the purple haze in the lavender fields. During these months, visitors can pick their own lavender flowers during the harvest and try plenty of lavender goods. For more information please call 309-359-5555.

Spirit of Peoria 2005 Sightseeing Cruises (June 4 - Sept. 4)

Peoria, IL

Cruise along the picturesque Illinois River and relive the adventures of Mark Twain as the sounds of the callipe drift through the valley. For more information about tickets and reservations please call 800-676-8988 or visit www.spiritofpeoria.com.

July 

The Illinois Waterway Through History (July 16 & 17)

Hennepin Canal

Story teller Andy Talley returns to bring us his historic interpretation of the tall tales, music and song of Andre St. Pierre, an 18th century French-Indain fur trader. The Center will display photos and drawing of the Illinois Waterway. For more information please call 815-875-2616.

September

Pekin Marigold Festival (September 9-11)

Pekin, IL

This family festival honors the late Senator Dirksen's love of the Marigold. Over 350   art and craft booths are arranged around the lagoon, in addition to food, events and a carnival. For more information please call 309-346-2106.

Morton Pumpkin Festival (September 14-17)

Morton, IL

The theme of this year's festival is "Great Pumpkins in History." Enoy family style entertainment, carnival rides, great food, a merchant tent, craft show, parade and of course, pumpkins! For more information please call 888-765-6588 or visit www.pumpkincapital.com.

October

2005 Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive (October 1-9)

Fulton County

Follow highways and byways in Fulton County to explore the colors of the fall season. While the drive is open to visitors year round, the unusual beauty of the fall colors throughout the Spoon River Valley inspired Scenic Drive founders to hold the fall festival. During the first two full weekends in October, nature enthusiasts are invited to follow the 140-mile self-guided tour of the Spoon River Valley and take advantage of the numerous vendors and related activities. For more information call 309-647-8980 or visit www.spoonriverdrive.org.