Southern Illinois Events Calendar - May 2-4, 2008

Although there are plenty of special events this weekend, new movies opening, musical performances of various types, these activities are deserving of special attention:

KID'S DAY at Fort de Chartres State Historic Site Saturday, May 3.  Kid's games and activities of 200 years ago, back in the days of the French colonists and the Native Americans who lived in the area, are highlighted in this annual event.  For the kids, it's got to be a special treat because it's all set in and around the reconstructed fort that was the seat of the French civil government.  If interested in reading more about this, check my article at my Illinois Road Trip group at illinoisroadtrip.gather.com/

TOUR DE STOOGES at Lebanon's McKendree College.  The 11th annual bicycle ride is this Saturday, May 3.  Hours are 8:30 to 10 am.  Last year, 700 people from 14 states took part in the Joe Besser "Not So Hard" 15-mile trek, the 22-mile Curly Shuffle, the Larry "Just" Fine 31-miler, the 42-mile Shemp Shortcut, or the 64-mile Moe Metric.  There are rest stops along the way and ruders get a free lunch afterward while watching Stoogs shorts under the park pavilion.  On-line registration is closed but you can register on-site.  The website for more information is http://stooges.rogerkramer-cycling.org

CINCO DE MAYO in Alton.  Mariachi bands, Mexican cuisine, and ethnic dancers will kick of the sixth year of monthly block parties in downtown Alton.  Kid's activities between 4 and 6:30 pm include a bounce house, pinata, and balloon designs on Third Street between Piasa and State.  Adult-oriented activities start with bands beginning to play at 6 pm. 

WOOD RIVER RENDEZVOUS in Wood River.  Alton's neighboring city has its own salute to the Lewis and Clark expedition at the reconstructed fort of Camp DuBois where the expedition wintered over before heading west.  Hours are 9am to 5pm both days.  Activities include fif and drum corps, black powder shoot, tomahawk throw, a 2 pm battle each day, and more.  The fort is located just off Illinois Route 143 and Illinois Route 3.  Not to be confused with the Lewis and Clark State Historic Site just down Route 3 in nearby Hartford.  618-940-2424.

 NATIVE AMERICAN STORYTELLER Robert Greygrass will be at Caokia Mounds State Historic Site Saturday at 2pm.  The Lakota and Cherokee storyteller will discuss his Lakota heritage through traditional stories.  The event is free.  For information, call 618-346-5160.