Compiled by Jon Weaving – jweaving@illinoisouth.org

Fairview Heights is Turning 50!
The City of Fairview Heights is turning 50 this year and has some fun things planned to celebrate. The City will feature numerous events throughout the summer, but two key events are the Heritage Day on Saturday, June 29th at City Hall and Saturday, August 3rd the Anniversary Party in the Park featuring a parade, car show, live entertainment and much more.

In addition to Fairview Height’s birthday two exciting attractions are also opening this spring, Urban Air Adventure Park and the Rec Complex. Please log on to www.cofh.org for more information.

Art on the Square – Belleville
The #1 Art Show in the Nation, as named by Art Fair Source Book, is once again drawing artists from around the world to show and sell their work. 100+ artists in all media will be chosen for this juried show. A children’s area, high school art competition, music, food courts, a design stage and more are offered. The show is May 17-19 in downtown Belleville.

Vandalia Bicentennial – 2019 is a big year for Vandalia, as the state’s second capital turns 200! One of the many unique things about Vandalia, is that from its inception – it was already predetermined that it would be the state’s capital city. The land where Vandalia sits was donated by Congress to the new state of Illinois, and five commissioners were tasked to travel the land and choose the location for the new capital city.

This year, Vandalia will celebrate the 200th anniversary of its founding from June 13th-16th. City leaders have planned several events for the celebration including a window and storefront decorating contest, Good Old-Fashioned Bargain Days, Sidewalk Sales, and a Celebration Parade on Saturday, June 15th. For more information on Vandalia’s Bicentennial Celebration, you can find them on Facebook or visit vandaliaillinois.com/2019-bicentennial/

Clark County Bicentennial – Bicentennial birthday celebrations are also in motion for Clark County this year! At the time of its formation in 1819, Clark County included about a third of the state of Illinois and extended as far north as the present state of Wisconsin. Clark County was named for George Rogers Clark, the older brother of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and an officer of the army of Virginia that captured the Northwest Territory from the British during the Revolutionary War.

The folks in Clark County have several events planned throughout the year to celebrate the county turning the big 200. For more information on events, or to volunteer to help with the events – please contact any Chamber of Commerce in Clark County.

Wayne County Bicentennial – It’s also a special year for Wayne County, which is celebrating its 200th birthday as well! When Wayne County was established in 1819, it formed from Edwards County. The County is named after General “Mad Anthony” Wayne, an officer in the Revolutionary War and Northwest Indian War.

Celebrate Wayne County’s Bicentennial during Founder’s Festival in Fairfield on June 15th! Hit the downtown square on Main Street for music, art, history, food, local business deals, crafts and activities for all ages.