"Catfish Days" Annual Festival
After Forked Creek spilled over its banks and flooded the cellars of a section of Wilmington, it was then dubbed, "Catfish Town". This section was located in a hollow behind the Chicago and Alton railroad depot before the turn of the Century.
The first Catfish Days Festival was held in 1976 as a part of the bicentennial celebration of our country. Because of its acceptance and the enthusiasm it engendered, it has become an annual event, taking place at the end of July each year.
The festival runs for five days and reaches from one side of town to the other. It includes unique events such as: the infamous Mud Volleyball Tournament, Medallion Hunt, Woody's Bike & Pet Parade, Carnival, Blues Music Jam, Catfish Days Parade, Fireworks, Lazer Light Show, and of course as much catfish as you can eat !!
The first Catfish Days Festival was held in 1976 as a part of the bicentennial celebration of our country. Because of its acceptance and the enthusiasm it engendered, it has become an annual event, taking place at the end of July each year.
The festival runs for five days and reaches from one side of town to the other. It includes unique events such as: the infamous Mud Volleyball Tournament, Medallion Hunt, Woody's Bike & Pet Parade, Carnival, Blues Music Jam, Catfish Days Parade, Fireworks, Lazer Light Show, and of course as much catfish as you can eat !!
Route 66 "Red Carpet Corridor" Annual Event
It is all about family fun on the most famous road in America - Route 66. The Red Carpet Corridor is an annual event that stretches from Joliet, IL to Towanda, IL. Usually held on the first weekend in May, downtown Wilmington hosts fun, family-friendly events to remind us of the nostalgia of good ole Route 66.
Flea markets, live music, Elvis impersonator contests, BBQ rib cook-off contest, outdoor Sunday worship service on the island.
The annual Red Carpet Ride attracts cyclists from all over. It stretches 20 miles and follows the current Illinois Route 66 Bike Trail, exploring the sights, towns, and rural areas at a slower pace.
Wilmington Rotary Cruise - Charity Car, Motorcycle, and Truck Show
June 16 - Rain Date June 17 11am to 3pm
August 18 - Rain Date August 19 11am to 3pm
LOCATED ON WILMINGTON'S NORTH ISLAND (Map Here)
ALONG THE BANKS OF THE KANKAKEE RIVER AND
HISTORIC ROUTE 66
$10 PER ENTRY
FREE PUBLIC VIEWING
SOUVENIER T-SHIRT FOR THE 1ST 50 ENTRIES
DASH PLAQUES AND GOODY BAGS FOR THE 1ST 100 ENTRIES
TROPHIES
SPLIT-THE-POT RAFFLE (always a biggie)
DOOR PRIZES
FAMILY FUN
WILMINGTON LIONS CLUB FOOD SERVICE
FREE PUBLIC PARKING
FREE KIDS FACE PAINTING
INTERACT will again be taking COMPLIMENTARY PHOTOS for each entry.
Questions? Contact
Bruce 5-9 P.M. AT 815-476-6526
EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA
Once again we welcome Tillman's Tiger's to our AUGUST show. The Midwest Model T Ford
Club with a team of five people will assemble and drive away a running Model T chassis in "2 minutes or less". This is always a challenge and the team beat their old record when they were at our show last. Make skure yoiu bring the family to witness this special fun attraction.
August 18 - Rain Date August 19 11am to 3pm
LOCATED ON WILMINGTON'S NORTH ISLAND (Map Here)
ALONG THE BANKS OF THE KANKAKEE RIVER AND
HISTORIC ROUTE 66
$10 PER ENTRY
FREE PUBLIC VIEWING
SOUVENIER T-SHIRT FOR THE 1ST 50 ENTRIES
DASH PLAQUES AND GOODY BAGS FOR THE 1ST 100 ENTRIES
TROPHIES
SPLIT-THE-POT RAFFLE (always a biggie)
DOOR PRIZES
FAMILY FUN
WILMINGTON LIONS CLUB FOOD SERVICE
FREE PUBLIC PARKING
FREE KIDS FACE PAINTING
INTERACT will again be taking COMPLIMENTARY PHOTOS for each entry.
Questions? Contact
Bruce 5-9 P.M. AT 815-476-6526
EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA
Once again we welcome Tillman's Tiger's to our AUGUST show. The Midwest Model T Ford
Club with a team of five people will assemble and drive away a running Model T chassis in "2 minutes or less". This is always a challenge and the team beat their old record when they were at our show last. Make skure yoiu bring the family to witness this special fun attraction.
Island City Classic Outdoor Hockey Tournament
The Island City Classic is an up-and-coming event that has been growing in popularity. Located on the North Island Park. Outdoor ice hockey played in the elements, and even under the lights! Two full sized hockey rinks, outdoor beer garden, 24 teams, food, and fun!!
Annual Independence Day Fireworks
Held on or around the 4th of July on the North Island. Fireworks are shot off over the Kankakee River, while spectators enjoy the views from the riverbank. Quite a unique experience!
Annual Winter Wonderland Lighted Parade
Sponsored by the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, the annual Winter Wonderland Parade draws THOUSANDS of spectators each year!! Now in it's 14th year, it is held the Saturday after Thanksgiving and travels right down Water Street through downtown Wilmington. It is an amazing sight to see!
Dozens of lighted floats, live music from Christmas Carolers, live reindeer, Clydesdale horses, free hot chocolate, popcorn & hot dogs. Performances by the Finale Studio dancers, tree lighting by Wilmington's Business Person of the Year, a matinee at The Mar Theatre, hot cider, raffles, and our downtown merchants stay open late for shoppers!!