“Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.” ― Jim Bishop
Whether you live in Oregon and are interested in activities around your stomping grounds or you are looking for a local stay-cation destination, we have got you covered! Enjoy the fleeting warm weather by bringing your four-legged friend to enter in The Oregon Park District’s Annual Canine Costume contest. Or, plan a girls’ night out by enjoying craft beer and specialty wine. The fun only begins there. Continue your search for more activities below!
To view all of Oregon’s visitor information, activities, shops, etc., click here.
Autumn On Parade
First Full Weekend in October: Courthouse lawn, downtown Oregon
Click HERE to view this amazing video from last year’s event.
We hope you’ll join us to the 48th anniversary of the Autumn On Parade festival, in scenic Oregon, Illinois. This year’s theme is “Music Then and Now”. The heart of Autumn On Parade is its Farmer’s Market and Craft Fair, located on the historic Ogle County Courthouse Square in downtown Oregon where more than 175+ craft booths surround the 125-year-old Ogle County Courthouse. The booths offer handmade, homemade and homegrown items as well as many other kinds of goodies. Not a crafter? Don’t despair . . . there is something for everyone!
Antique tractors, classic car show, historic Chana School, Donut eating contest, street entertainers, Fun Zone, food court, 5K race, Harvest Time Parade (largest in northern Illinois!)
For more information, a schedule of events, and to view a video of last year’s Autumn on Parade, please click here http://www.autumnonparade.org/
Ye Olde English Faire
Stronghold Castle
1922 Illinois Rt 2 N, Oregon, IL
During the first weekend in October, Stronghold transforms itself from a modern retreat and meeting facility to the site of the Olde English Faire. Wandering players perform both onstage and off as crafters and merchants display their wares. Minstrels fill the pathways and stages with melodies while children gather in the Gremlin’s Garden for stories and other children’s activities. These and many more delights await you at the Olde English Faire!
Foundation for Focus House Annual Car Show
Whether you are looking to enter your ride, view the classic cars, or just support a great cause, you are sure to have a great day at the Annual Focus House Car Show! There will be an archery demonstration and a Kishwaukee College auto and collision department display. Plus, don’t forget about the 50/50 raffle and shuttle to the Autumn on Parade Craft Show.
All proceeds from the Car Show are contributed to the Foundation for Focus House, a residential facility that serves adjudicated youth in our area. Breakfast and lunch will be served on site and food sales will benefit Chana School.
Hike The Trails at Castle Rock State Park!
1365 W Castle Rd, Oregon Any day you choose….
Don’t miss out on the chance to catch a glimpse of the leaves changing colors! Pack a lunch for everyone and adventure out to Castle Rock State Park to explore the six miles of marked hiking trails. Hills, wetlands, prairie. Soak in the fleeting time before winter by seizing the opportunity to burn energy and experience nature! The best part of the deal is that it’s free!
John Deere Historic Site hosts Second Annual Fall Festival
Grand Detour, IL (8 miles south of Oregon on Rte 2)
The John Deere Historic Site is celebrating the harvest season with its second annual Fall Festival. Guests are invited to decorate pumpkins, bob for apples, play a variety of old fashioned kids games and tour the grounds and exhibits. This year’s event will also feature covered wagon rides throughout the day and a chance to interact with alpacas. The Historic Site offers free admission, making this an exceptional family outing.
In addition to these special activities, the Historic Site will feature a colorful fall photo opportunity area. Guests are encouraged to bring cameras to capture seasonal photos of the kids and family. Staff at the site will also be dressed in Pioneer-era costumes, adding to the historic ambiance experienced while strolling through more than six acres of John Deere’s original Illinois homestead. Click here for more information.