ILLINOIS TURNS 200 IN 2018 and we invite you to be part of the celebration!

Every day in Illinois amazing things are being BORN, BUILT, and GROWN. The same can be said for Springfield.

Along with all there is to see and do in the capital city, be sure to check out the special Bicentennial happenings in Springfield

WE ARE #IllinoisProud

*Be sure to check back as events are added throughout the year. (Event added on 4/27/18)

6/5 - 8/12: History Comes Alive at various Historic Sites in Downtown Springfield

6/7: Camp Butler: Training Grounds, Prison, Cemetery (IL & the Civil War Series) at Books on the Square

6/7-10: The Last of Mrs. Lincoln ... Read More

The Illinois Department of Transportation will host a month of special events celebrating African-American History Month in February.

This year’s theme, “Uncovering Our Rich History,” will be reflected in activities focused on art, mathematics, politics, engineering and education. 

“We are proud to recognize African-American History Month with a full schedule of fun, interesting and informative events,” said IL Transportation Secretary Randy Blankenhorn. “The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.” 

The following events are open to the public and will be held at IDOT’s Harry Hanley Building, 2300 S. Dirksen Parkway, ... Read More

Take advantage of the long President’s Day weekend in February to experience history first-hand in Abraham Lincoln’s hometown of Springfield, Illinois.

Springfield is a true original, the only place in the world to see such an extensive collection of historic sites and museums devoted to the life and legacy of our 16^th President. Get to know Lincoln the man, the father, the husband and the politician by walking the same streets he walked over 150 years ago.

Visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Old State Capitol, the Lincoln Tomb, and a host of other sites that will transport you... Read More

Springfield, IL is celebrating the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday January 15th with several events.

43rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast: January 15th at 7:30am. Breakfast will be held at the Wyndham Springfield City Centre.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity March and Annual Program: January 15th at Noon. March begins at the Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church located at 1800 Martin Luther King Dr.

Community Day: January 15th from 9 am - 5 pm. where the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum will celebrate his legacy with his famous "I Have a Dream" speech at 10:30am & 1:30pm.

MLK 50 Exhibit at the Springfield and Central IL African American... Read More

Enjoy the #merryandmischief while you shop, dine and drink local: Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Old State Capitol, rides in the horse-drawn carriage, musical performances, vote for your favorite window displays, pop a letter into the Santa mailbox -- all for free.

The Old Capitol Holiday Walks are every Saturday & Wednesday, November 25th - December 20th.

Santa in the Old State Capitol

• Saturdays: 2 pm - 5 pm
• Wednesdays: 5 pm - 8 pm
• Give your list to Santa while Mrs. Claus hands out candy caneschildren’s crafts and History Comes Alive presentations by General Grant and William Herndon, Lincoln’s law partner. Greeted by USCT Soldiers, part of History Comes Alive.

Santa... Read More