Fairs are common events to happen during the summer which are loaded with fun activities. From rides to food fairs have got the fun category covered for you! (photo by stlucicecountyfair.org)
As everyone knows, summer is the best time to not have classes or a textbook to worry about. With long days and warm nights Illinois has some of the best weather for some awesome summer festivities, here are just a few that will be happening close by this summer!
Attend Local Festivals and Events: Check out any summer festivals or events happening in Mattoon. From community fairs to music festivals, there’s always something happening in this vibrant town during the summer months. Keep an eye out for events like the Bagelfest, held annually in nearby Mattoon. For example, two popular ones are the arts festival which happens in late may, and the friday night downtown town Mattoon live music. Both of these options can be free or good for low budget individuals.
Another very good option for low budget or free experiences for individuals include attending local sports events. Cheer on the Mattoon High School Green Wave at a summer sports event. Whether it’s baseball, softball, or track and field, catching a game is a fun way to experience the local sports culture. The softball and baseball fields are known to be active and full of people from roughly 4:30pm to 9:30pm each night.
One of the best events to happen in Mattoon over the summer is Bagelfest, which is essentially a parade and fair type event in July. For 3-4 days live music, amusement park rides, fair food and games will be present in the northeast most park, Peterson. This doubles as a cultural experience, looking into the culture of those who grow and work in Mattoon and the reason they celebrate a seemingly funny food item.
Lastly, there is not a tier list complete about summer finished without the mention of a pool. Lytle Pool for years now has been opening their doors to the public and offering a cooling but fun experience to those during their summer days. This public pool is a cheap option of cooling off and having fun with friends in the heat. The public pool offers stamp reentry and has vending machines in designated areas for quick snacks and drinks if one didn’t bring lunch.
Beat the heat this summer, stay cool, have fun and stay hydrated. Sit back, relax and maybe think more about taking a trip with some friends to the baseball field to watch a game one boring night.
