Illinois America 250 Events
Browse upcoming events from individuals and organizations throughout Illinois.
Interested in hosting your own event? View available resources and submit your event to the 250th calendar.
Starved Rock Pow Wow
This Pow Wow was first held in 1962, started by the Sam Sine Family. We will share our cultural ways and describe the progression of this Pow Wow.
THE PUBLIC IS WELCOME!
Grand Entry at 1 pm and 6pm
MC: Leonard Malatare
Head Man: Winfield Wounded Eye
Head Lady: Natalie Arguijo
Dancers, Native Vendors, Food, and Various Presentations!
NO DRUGS/ ALCOHOL PERMITTED
SR POW WOW COMMITTEE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST OR STOLEN ITEMS.
For more information, contact Gerald Savage:
815.228.6032 - gerald.savage@sbcglobal.net
WWW.STARVEDROCKPOWWOW.ORG
ILLINOIS VALLEY INTERTRIBAL ON FACEBOOK
Hamilton Auditions - Youth Civic Light Opera of Chicago
Open auditions for Hamilton: Hip-Hop, History, Revolution: The Re-Education of America
Open Auditions
Sat. 11/1: 10:30am – 2pm Amundsen (Roald) Park
Sun. 11/2/25: 2:30pm - 5pm Olive Harvey College
Mon. 11/3/25: 4pm - 7pm Malcolm X College
Call-back auditions November 8th, cast announcement November 15th.
Open to ages 10-17, all roles are open.
Actors*Singers*Dancers*Rappers*
What To Prepare/Bring:
*Headshot/Resume (if available)
*Sheet music - Give us your best 16 bars of a song/rap (piano accompanist provided)
*Clothes/shoes you can dance in
July 2026 performances, Winter, Spring and Summer 2026 rehearsals.
PLEASE CONTACT (312) 720-4997 FOR INFORMATION
Hosmer-Williams Lecture: The Lincoln-Douglas Debates in Alton
Learn about the Lincoln Douglas Debate in Alton in 1858 during the Hosmer-Williams Lecture Series Thursday, Nov. 13 at Farley's Music Hall.
"The 1858 Lincoln Douglas Debates in Alton" will be presented by Dr. Erik Alexander, History Professor at SIUE. This lecture is free. Refreshments will be served.
General's Ball
Join The Galena Generals for a night of dinner, dancing, music and fun with Galena’s nine Civil War Generals at the historic DeSoto House Hotel in Downtown Galena. Request to be seated with your favorite General! Period Dress encouraged but not required.
Voices of a Nation - Peoria Symphony Orchestra
This energetic concert's theme is based on America's 250th birthday! With pieces like Olympic Fanfare and Lincoln Portrait, it's a grand celebration of music and America.
Declarations of Independence: Symposium Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
Hosted by the University of Illinois Chicago College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Join us for “Declarations of Independence,” a faculty research symposium sponsored by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University of Illinois Chicago. This interdisciplinary, day-long symposium will feature keynotes, panels, and interactive stations to consider what the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence means in and to Illinois.
International Jazz Day
UNESCO has announced that the 15th annual International Jazz Day will take place in a city known for its incredible contributions to the history and future of Jazz: Chicago, Illinois.
From the DCASE press announcement: “The City of Chicago is proud to announce it has been selected as the official host city for UNESCO’s International Jazz Day 2026, the world’s largest celebration of jazz and its power to unite communities across the globe. The announcement, made by UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz, sets the stage for a historic celebration on April 30, 2026, spotlighting Chicago’s legendary contributions to jazz, blues, and global music culture.
Since its inception in 2012, International Jazz Day has traveled the world—from Paris to Havana, Sydney to St. Petersburg—connecting people through the language of music. Chicago’s selection comes at a powerful moment in time, aligning with the 250th anniversary of the United States, the 100th birthday of Miles Davis, and the anticipated opening of the Obama Presidential Center on Chicago’s South Side.”
Rockford Symphony America 250 Concert
The season concludes with a jubilant celebration honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States, showcasing American music and its rich and diverse heritage. The evening begins with Jessie Montgomery’s A Hymn for Everyone, a vibrant work that reflects the spirit of unity and shared history. Leonard Bernstein’s powerful Symphony No. 1 (“Jeremiah”) follows, blending bold orchestration with a heartfelt exploration of faith and resilience. Jeff Midkiff’s From the Blue Ridge brings the soul of bluegrass to the concert hall in a thrilling mandolin concerto inspired by Appalachian traditions. The concert concludes with the innovator of the “American Sound,” Aaron Copland, with two movements of his tribute to the American West, Rodeo.
AMERICA TURNS 250: A Celebration of the 250th Anniversary of America in Music
Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra lowers the curtain on our 48th season by celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This Semiquincentennial celebration features music by Joan Tower, Jessie Montgomery, John Philip Sousa and concludes with Aaron Copland’s Lincoln Portrait. This paid/ticketed event is being performed by the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra in Palos Heights, IL on May 16th, 2026.
Tickets: https://ipomusic.org/2025-26-season/
America Grows: Celebrating Growth, Resilience, and Community
America Grows: Celebrating Resilience, Culture, and Community commemorates 250 years of United States independence. The exhibition illustrates the ways in which gardens have always held a special place in American culture and community—but this experience is so much more than a history lesson.
Immersive multimedia displays illustrate American resilience—through the self-sufficiency of colonial kitchen gardens, strength of post-emancipation gardens, ingenuity of wartime victory gardens, and more. Installations tie key moments in history to gardening movements.
Indoor-outdoor experiences enable visitors to connect history to present-day through the Garden’s vibrant living collections in display gardens and rich archives in the Lenhardt Library.
Interactive programs designed in collaboration with local community organizations bring people of all ages together to celebrate the important role gardens have played in American history.
Learn more at https://www.chicagobotanic.org/
America 250: A Musical Journey
In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to appearances by guest artists and jazz ensembles, these curated programs reflect the country’s resilience, creativity and musical traditions.
Highlights include Wynton Marsalis’ Liberty Symphony with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra — blending jazz, blues and classical influences — and Conrad Tao’s recital with music by American composers. Works by Copland, Gershwin and Ives explore the nation’s enduring spirit, culminating in epic performances of John Williams’ iconic Star Wars: A New Hope score live to film.
Be part of this dynamic, monthlong journey through the landscape of American music.
Celebrating America's Birthday & the Addison Historical Museum
More details to come.
https://www.addisonadvantage.org/visitors/history_2/index.php
Sharing the Spirit of America: Statewide & National Reading of the Declaration of Independence
On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress approved the Declaration of Independence inside the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall) in Philadelphia.
Four days later, on July 8, 1776, after the Declaration was printed and distributed, the citizens of Philadelphia were summoned to the State House Yard by the bells of the city. Then, Colonel John Nixon publicly read the Declaration of Independence.
While much of the Declaration deals with grievances against King George III (although his name does not appear in it), the American spirit, principles, and values memorialized in the Declaration of Independence 250-years ago continue to hold true today. The “self evident” “truths”, then, “that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” are valid today, as are the personal and collective responsibilities we share in protecting and perpetuating these values.
Reading the Declaration of Independence Across America, ‘Together’
Just as the Declaration of Independence was read to the people on July 8, 1776, now, 250-years later, Americans in all 50 States and 16 Territories of the United States will read the Declaration of Independence ‘together’. These readings will occur at State Capitols, City Halls, County and Municipal Buildings, Schools, Libraries, Community Centers, Parks, etc (including individual families sharing the words and vision of the Declaration of Independence in their own homes).
With a start time based on 6 pm (EDT), July 8, 2026 (commemorating the first public reading), people in communities across America will begin reading the Declaration of Independence.
Unlike the extent of the Colonies in 1776, today, America spans about 9,500-miles from one extreme to the other (the Caribbean across North America to the western edge of the Pacific).
Even though the United States is spread across thousands of miles and ten different time zones, all of us in America may read the Declaration of Independence ‘together’, at the ‘same’ time.
For Information: Peter T. Young, Chair
Hawai‘i America250 Commission
Contact@HawaiiAmerica250.org
Galena Bicentennial Corn Boil
Join the Galena community for the highly anticipated Bicentennial Corn Boil at Recreation Park on August 29, 2026!
This exciting event celebrates Galena's rich history with a variety of activities and entertainment perfect for all ages. Enjoy delicious sweet corn, a mouthwatering staple of the celebration, while taking part in games and soaking in the lively atmosphere. With live music, a range of food and beverages, and plenty of camaraderie, the Bicentennial Corn Boil promises to be an unforgettable experience as we come together to honor Galena's past, present, and future.
American Dream Reconsidered Conference
The American Dream Reconsidered Conference: Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s American Dream
Celebrating its 80th anniversary, Roosevelt University will focus this year’s conference on the University’s namesakes—Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. The Roosevelts had an enormous influence during a tumultuous time as President Roosevelt navigated the country through the Great Depression and WWII and as First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt fought for social justice. Both created lasting legacies that continue to shape America today. The year 1945, marking the end of World War II and the founding of Roosevelt University, served as an inflection point. The University’s founding represented an idealism and determination to test boundaries in pursuit of the president’s Four Freedoms. The end of the war ushered in a period of terrific prosperity and optimism that led to an ascendant liberal order. Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt’s New Deal and wartime programs, aimed at providing all Americans a measure of economic security, continued to expand in the ensuing decades, and the Civil Rights Movement led to profound gains in racial equality.
Now, in 2025, we are at another inflection point. Increasingly, these achievements have become sources of political conflict, and key elements of those legacies are being undermined. Everything from America’s place in the larger world order to federal support for racial and gender justice—once considered settled elements of the modern American state—is under attack. This conference will offer an opportunity to consider what was achieved during the Roosevelt era—and what may be lost. We hope these panels will help recapture the spirit of the Roosevelts and their optimism about what America could become and help push today’s students to consider how we can continue to move the nation in a more democratic and socially just direction.
Other Side of the Anvil
Two-day blacksmithing event that features forging and historic demonstrations, located on the lawn adjacent to the Stillman House. Multiple forging stations, complete with forge, anvil, vise and tools, will be fired up and skilled regional blacksmiths will provide hands-on instruction for visitors of all ages.
This is a unique opportunity to work hands-on with a coal forge and gain insight into what it is like to work at a 3,000-year-old craft. Persons of any age can participate, but those under 18 must have the signed permission of an adult and may, in some cases, need to be accompanied by an adult parent while they work. Safety glasses and gloves will be provided. Participants will be accepted on a first-come first-served basis.
Create a unique, hand-forged keepsake in this engaging workshop, open to participants aged 11 and older for just $10 per item. Children aged 10 and under are welcome to join the fun and create their own special memento at no cost.
10a-4p daily.
America 250: Humanities and History
The Guild of the Chicago History Museum cordially invites you to America 250: Humanities and History.
RSVP HERE: https://7615a.blackbaudhosting.com/7615a/Guild-Program-on-America-250
*Note: Illinois America 250 Chair Gabrielle Lyon will be speaking.
As we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, history organizations are building understanding by presenting learning and engagement opportunities encouraging people of all ages to explore our American journey toward a more perfect union, and the many hands that have shaped our democracy. Guild members, and their guests, are invited to a special program featuring a dialogue between Gabrielle Lyon, Executive Director of Illinois Humanities and Chair of the Illinois America 250 Commission; and Erica Griffin-Fabicon, Elizabeth F. Cheney Director of Education at CHM. Over coffee and pastries, learn about the vision and priorities of the Illinois America 250 Commission and how CHM will amplify them through our collaborative "Democracy 250: Chicago is a Civic City" project. Facing Freedom, CHM's permanent exhibit of which the Guild is underwriting the refurbishment, will be a central feature of the Museum's plans to commemorate America 250.
Questions? Please contact Nell McKeown at
mckeown@chicagohistory.org or 312-799-2112.
WTTW Presents: An Evening with Ken Burns
You’re invited to join Ken Burns and WTTW for an unforgettable evening at The Auditorium in Chicago on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 7:30 pm.
What: WTTW Presents: An Evening with Ken Burns
Where: The Auditorium, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, in Chicago
When: Thursday, September 25, 7:30 pm
This special preview event will feature selections from the epic new six-part, 12-hour film, The American Revolution, and a behind-the-scenes conversation with Ken Burns and filmmakers.
THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, a film by Ken Burns, Sarah Botstein, and David Schmidt, explores how thirteen British colonies won independence and created a new government that reshaped the continent and inspired centuries of democratic movements around the globe. The AMERICAN REVOLUTION premieres on WTTW in November 2025.
General public tickets available starting June 13th at 10 am Central. https://www.axs.com/events/974869/an-evening-with-ken-burns-tickets
The American Revolution with WQPB
WQPT PBS will be partnering with the Hauberg Museum to show a screening of The American Revolution at 10:00 am.
A discussion will follow after the screening with Christina Kastell, Curator of History and Anthropology from the Putnam Museum, Johnathan Buffalo, Historical Preservation Director of the Meskwaki Nations, Julie Nelson, Site Services Specialist from the Hauberg Museum and Neil Dahlstrom, local history author.
SAR Liberty Tree Dedication
Sponsor Kishwaukee Chapter, Illinois Society, Sons of the American Revolution
Galena Historical Society's Annual Cemetery Walk - Indoor
For those who would prefer not to trek outside, Galena-Jo Daviess Historical Society is offering indoor performance of their Annual Cemetery Walk. This performance explores the rugged lives of early settlers, sharing stories of prosperity and the challenges of intersecting cultures, politics, war and slavery.
The Cemetery Walk is one of the Galena-Jo Daviess County Historical Society’s major fundraising events. A team of researchers, actors and supporters put countless hours of preparation into each year’s walk to create a remarkable experience.
America @ 250: Celebrating Our Freedom
The Semiquincentennial marks our nation's 250th birthday celebration! Discover how previous milestones like the 50th Jubilee, Centennial, Sesquicentennial, and Bicentennial were commemorated in our country. Presented by nationally known actor, Terry Lynch. Co-sponsored by the Addison Historical Society.
https://addisonadvantage.org/visitors/history_2/events.php
The Declaration of Independence, Our Constitution, and Your Role
Declaration of Independence 250 anniversary celebrations will take place in Illinois throughout 2026. Aaron Tebrinke’s Illinois America 250 program, (The Founders Declaration of Independence, Our Constitution, and Your Role), directly ties his ancestor, founder James McHenry, to the very grievances listed in the Declaration. Aaron makes his life a living bridge between the text and the lived experience of people who chose revolution over submission.
The drafters of the Declaration of Independence, laid out that rule under an absolute monarch was unacceptable for the reasons that have a specific connection to McHenry: arbitrary trade practices, the military being used against its own citizens, sending prisoners to other countries without a trial by a jury of their peers, getting in the way of laws established by the colonists laws because the King did not want them to enforce or administer justice, keeping a standing army in times of peace, giving the military powers above the laws of the elected officials insomuch to force citizens to accommodate and find beds for armed troops in their homes, and “abolishing our most valuable laws” that were “wholesome and necessary for the public good.”
Top Five Things to Know About James McHenry
Founder of the U.S.A. born in Ballymena, Ireland who immigrated to America;
Physician in the Continental Army serving on the staffs of General George Washington and Major-General Marquis de Lafayette. As Secretary to the Commander-in Chief of the Continental Army his boss said he was “a man of Letters and Abilities, of great integrity,” was very obliging, and had an amiable temper;
Saw injustices of British rule firsthand;
Secretary of War under Washington & Adams (2/6/1796-5/31/1800) serving with Secretaries of State Thomas Jefferson and Timothy Pickering, and Secretaries of The Treasury Alexander Hamilton and Oliver Wolcot; created the U.S. Navy, and established a regimental framework for the standing U.S. Army. Died May 3, 1816 in Baltimore, Maryland where he served in the Legislature; and
Fort McHenry (Place that inspired the Star-Spangled Banner) is named after him.
Learn how guided questions about the grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence are directly to McHenry—and you.
Historical Society’s 31st Annual Galena Cemetery Walk
Performers of the Cemetery Walk will be exploring the rugged lives of early settlers, sharing stories of prosperity and the challenges of intersecting cultures, politics, war and slavery. The Cemetery Walk is one of the Galena-Jo Daviess County Historical Society’s major fundraising events. A team of researchers, actors and supporters put countless hours of preparation into each year’s walk to create a remarkable experience.
1pm-4pm daily.
Creative Netwerk Chicago Footwork Awards
Through the Footworkology Summer Camp, we serve young people from Chicago’s South and West Sides by offering free instruction (for all Chicagoans) in Footwork dance, music production, and cultural education led by pioneering artists who helped shape the form.
These same artists are being honored at our inaugural Chicago Footwork Awards Ceremony on August 15, 2025, held at the Newberry Library. This event highlights local excellence while recognizing service and mentorship within the community. In partnership with the Chicago Dance History Project and Newberry Library, Creative Netwerk has conducted multiple oral history interviews with these foundational artists to document and preserve their stories for future generations. These materials will be archived and made publicly accessible through the Newberry Library website, ensuring this vital history becomes part of Illinois’s collective record. In doing so, we are uplifting local stories, promoting place-based celebration, and building a platform that reflects both where we come from and where we are going together as a state.
IL250 at the State Fair
Illinois America 250 will have a table in the Governor’s Tent at the Illinois State Fair, taking place at the Springfield Fairgrounds from August 7-17.
Daily fair schedule: https://statefair.illinois.gov/info/schedules.html
MORE DETAIL TO COME.
Annual Tractor Ride
The Village of Ruma is celebrating the 250th by asking participants to wear RED WHITE and BLUE and to display American flags. The ride has many antique tractors and represents many of the years in farming.
Marine Corps 250th in Chicago
The Marine Corps is excited to announce it will visit Chicago in July 2025 to celebrate our 250th birthday!
Marine Week Chicago will feature an array of military equipment, aircraft, military bands, and opportunities to interact with your Marines.
Marines will set up static displays of military equipment that the community can interact with and will participate in community relations projects across Chicago.
Join us in July to celebrate 250 years of winning our nation’s battles.
Check back closer to the event to find more information. Semper Fi!
Batavia’s Fourth of July Fireworks and Sky Concert
This firework show and the accompanying concert is held each year on the Fourth of July at Engstrom Family Park in Batavia. The event includes food vendors and music by the Batavia Community Band. The fireworks show is organized by volunteers and funded through donations and fundraisers throughout the year, including the City-wide Garage Sale in May.
Galena Independence Day Celebration
Celebrate America's birthday in style in Downtown Galena! Join the festivities at the Green Street Plaza with live entertainment, food, and beverages as you await the grand fireworks display at dusk. Gather at Grant Park and be mesmerized by a spectacular show of fireworks illuminating the night sky in honor of the Fourth of July. In addition to the celebrations at the Green Street Plaza and Grant Park, the Kiwanis Club of Galena supports the revival of the Annual Fourth of July Parade. The parade kicks off at 5:30 PM on Green Street in front of the Post Office and proceeds down Main Street, adding to the patriotic festivities.
Sponsored by: Kiwanis Club of Galena
Stockton Independence Day Celebration
A strong community tradition that has grown into an event that hosts thousands each year!
Stockton has a population of 2,000, but on July 4th thousands more take part in festivities and witness an amazing fireworks display. This celebration is easily the largest and longest-running in the region, having grown into an event throughout more than 50 years in existence.
Enjoy the famous Lions Club Chicken Dinner, games and contests, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, a classic car show, more than 70 vendor booths, bounce houses, a kiddie tractor pull, BINGO, live entertainment and an astonishing fireworks display.
Fourth at the Fort
Looking for something to do before the fireworks begin? Why not celebrate the 4th the 1830's way?
Looking for something to do before the fireworks start? The Apple River Fort State Historic Site will be hosting a patriotic picnic on Friday, July 4th from noon until 2 pm. Visitors are encouraged to bring a lunch—or grab takeout from their favorite Elizabeth restaurant—and have a picnic on the lawn by the Fort.
Fort living history volunteers will present a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence, toasts, and other speeches. Visitors may muster into Captain Stone’s militia, with one lucky winner receiving a signing bonus. There will also be a wide variety of games and activities, including:
Captain Says, a fun challenge for all ages
Graces, the popular 19th century game that tests your agility and dexterity
Water races, to cool off in the hot July heat
Town ball, a precursor to America’s Favorite Pastime
and more!
The Apple River Fort was the site of a battle during the 1832 Black Hawk War. About 45 men, women, and children defended the Fort from Black Hawk and 200 of his warriors. Today, the Fort tells the history of both the settlers and the Sauk and Fox tribes through exhibits, a dramatic interpretive film, and living history special events.
Independence Day: Shaping Chicago's Next Chapter
Included with general admission. Free ticket day for IL residents.
What actions will you take to be a more engaged citizen? How will you stay informed about issues affecting your community? Find inspiration, connect with community-serving organizations, and explore your creativity with multiple civic art workshops. Together, we’re learning from the past to write a better future. What will your chapter add to Chicago’s story?
Fields of Gold Rodeo
Join the Fields of Gold Pro Rodeo coming July 3rd, 4th, and 5th 2025 to the Jo Daviess County Fairgrounds!
Three nights of patriotic celebration of American tradition, grit, and the golden fields that have long supported our way of life.
Gates open at 4 PM each night, with a Pre-Rodeo Party from 4 PM - 7:30 PM! Mechanical bull, beer tent and garden, kids barn, local food and drink vendors, activities, photo opportunities, live music, dancing, shopping vendors, and more!
Rodeo kicks off at 7:30 PM with fireworks to follow at about 10 PM. Fireworks are pending sponsorship and staffing.
Elizabeth Freedom Fest
Join the community for an action-packed day of family fun at Elizabeth Freedom Fest! Savor delicious food and drinks, and enjoy live music all evening, while your kids have their faces painted and bounce to their heart's content. The event's highlight takes place at 7 PM when the All Veteran’s Parachute Group make a thrilling parachute jump into Terrapin Park. Kids are welcome to help roll up the parachutes. As the sun sets, the night sky will light up with a spectacular fireworks display, marking the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.
Putnam Co. Library Movie Matinee: 1776
Experience a pivotal moment in American history through this compelling adaptation of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical. Set against the backdrop of a nation on the verge of revolution, you’ll follow John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson as they confront political discord, personal struggles, and the urgent need to unify the Continental Congress in the pursuit of independence. Drawing from the letters and memoirs of the Founding Fathers, this production offers a thoughtful and resonant portrayal of the challenges and convictions that shaped the founding of the United States. The musical has a runtime of 141 minutes, is rated G, and is presented through public performance rights by SWANK.
Civic Season | Civic Saturday
The Chicago History Museum collaborates with local community leaders, artists, and youth to set the stage every summer for Civic Season in partnership with Made By Us. Instead of a single commemorative event on Independence Day, our programming starts Juneteenth and continues with Civic Saturdays all leading toward our final program on Independence Day. Together, we’re learning from the past to write a better future. What will your chapter add to Chicago’s story?
Join us as we explore the city’s activist history to transform your ideas into action through workshops, tours, art projects, and documentaries about today’s issues.
Included with general admission. Free Ticket Day for Illinois residents.
Battle of the Apple River Fort
Commemorate the 193rd anniversary of the Battle of the Apple River Fort!
Living history interpreters will bring the Fort to life all weekend. Learn about the daily lives of the Fort inhabitants, including hearth cooking, musket firing demonstrations, militia drills, and more.
The Underground Railroad in Metamora
The involvement of Metamora and its surrounding community in the Underground Railroad is a significant, yet largely unknown, aspect of Central Illinois history. Prior to assuming the presidency, Abraham Lincoln defended local “conductors” from Metamora. This issue ultimately pitted neighbors versus neighbors, and the potential for financial gain from capturing freedom seekers made Metamora a dangerous place.
This documentary aims to preserve the stories of Metamora’s crucial role during this contentious period in American history for future generations.
The documentary is a production of Ten Thirty-One Pictures Foundation in association with
Metamora Association for Historic Preservation. This film was made possible from the support of Illinois Humanities.
THIS IS A FREE EVENT. TICKETS ARE NOT REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION. SEATING IS ONLY LIMITED TO VENUE CAPACITY AND FIRST COME, FIRST SERVE. FOR GROUPS OR ASSISTANCE, PLEASE EMAIL SCREENINGS@TENTHIRTYONE.ORG.
Wellington Book Club: Frederick Douglass
Join the Wellington Book Club Saturday, June 21st at 10:00am on Zoom to start discussing Frederick Douglass by David W. Blight. Dr. Clinton Stockwell will lead our discussion on the first half - through Secession (p. 334). Professor Dick Simpson will lead the discussion on the second half of the book on July 19 at 10 a.m. on Zoom.
For more information on the book and this meet! ing, check out Book Club (every third Saturday) – Wellington United Church of Christ
Founders - Mobile Monument for Civic Season at Chicago History Museum
This year, presented in collaboration with the Floating Museum, the Chicago History Museum (CHM) is hosting the Founders inflatable at CHM on June 21, 2025, in support of Civic Season and to further promote awareness of underrepresented parts of Chicago’s history. During the program, the inflatable will be further activated with performances and related hands-on arts-making activities for youth and families.
Founders is a mobile monument and collaboration between Floating Museum, Chris Pappan (Kanza/Osage, Lakota), and Monica Rickert Bolter (Potawatomi/African-American/German).
On Our 250th Wish Wall at Lincoln Presidential Foundation
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, Lincoln Presidential Foundation, in partnership with The New York Historical and Made By US, launches On Our 250th—a dynamic, nationwide initiative celebrating our collective heritage and inspiring a forward-looking dialogue. On Our 250th invites Americans of all ages to share brief messages that convey their hopes for our nation on this momentous anniversary online and in person at participating museums.
In collaboration with leading museums and historic sites from across the country … the campaign ensures that voices from every corner of the nation will be heard and celebrated.
Online, messages between five and 50 words can be posted to onour250th.org. Lincoln Presidential Foundation will host an onsite “Wish Wall” from Juneteenth to July 4, 2025, at Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, IL. At The New York Historical visitors can share their messages with sticky notes that will be displayed on-site later this year. The number of participating museums is expected to grow as 2026 approaches. Offering a megaphone to Americans of all ages and backgrounds, this campaign reflects a long American tradition of citizens using their voices, harkening back to Patrick Henry’s historic call for unity: “I am not a Virginian, but an American.”
From April 25, 2025 press release via Lincoln Presidential Foundation
Juneteenth: Annual Community BBQ
It’s that time of year again—we’re gearing up for our annual Juneteenth Community BBQ! This year, Juneteenth falls during the Black Power Era month of study in our yearlong Introduction to African American Studies course, and we are proud to celebrate the spirit and legacy of Black Power as part of the day’s festivities.
Join us for a full day of celebration, reflection, and community! Enjoy a vibrant mix of education, entertainment, food, and local vendors as we honor Black history, culture, and freedom. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors—there’s something for everyone. Stay tuned for more details and get ready to celebrate Juneteenth with purpose and pride!
Free; RSVP required.
Flag Day Commemorations at Flag Day Monument
Celebrate Flag Day and honor America's rich history and the spirit of community with us on **Saturday, June 14, 2025**! This year, as we mark **250 years since Paul Revere’s Ride, the Battles of Lexington and Concord, and the birth of the United States Army**, let's come together to celebrate unity, pride, and the joy of shared traditions.
**📍 Event Schedule:**
1️⃣ **Presentation on the Father of Flag Day**
🕐 **1:00 PM - 2:00 PM**
📌 **City Council Chambers, City Hall** (100 N Island Ave, Batavia, IL)
Dive into history with a captivating presentation about Bernard Cigrand, the Father of Flag Day, by Illinois author Tom Emery, featuring his new book *"Stories of Historic Illinois Women."* Sponsored by the **Batavia Historical Society**.
2️⃣ **Annual Flag Day Celebration at the Flag Day Monument**
🕑 **2:00 PM - 4:00 PM**
📌 **Flag Day Monument** (across from Batavia City Hall)
- Musical performances by the Batavia Community Band 🎶
- Inspirational speakers
- Unveiling of new personalized bricks
- Sealing of time capsules 🕰️
- Guided tours of the monument
Featuring special guests like the **Fox Valley Patriotic Organization**, **Sons, Daughters, and Children of the American Revolution**, **Knights of Columbus Honor Guard**, SAR **Color Guard**, Veterans, City of Batavia First Responders, and Scouts.
🌐 Visit [flagdaymonument.com](http://flagdaymonument.com) for details.
3️⃣ **Festivities at Batavia Overseas VFW Post 1197**
🕓 **4:00 PM - 6:00 PM**
📌 **VFW Post 1197** (645 S River Rd, Batavia, IL)
Wrap up the day with:
- Fun-filled games 🎯
- Mouthwatering food trucks 🍔
- Drinks at the remodeled VFW bar 🍹
- Presentations on American history
- Revolutionary War marches 🥁
🎉 This celebration isn’t just about history—it’s about **community pride**, **unity**, and **fun** for everyone! Bring your family and friends, and let’s honor the past while building connections for the future. Together, we’ll make this Flag Day unforgettable!
#BataviaFlagDay #FlagDayCelebration #America250 #CommunityUnity #FunForAll #BataviaIllinois #HistoricalEvents
Submit Your Event
Illinois America 250 is gathering event submissions from communities and organizations across the state. Opt-in to have your event be added to the national America 250 interactive map.