Spring is in the Air!
As winter finally starts to let go and the days get longer, spring is making its grand entrance in Williamson County, Illinois! With flowers popping up everywhere, outdoor adventures waiting to be had, and a whole new vibe in the air, it’s the perfect time to get outside and soak in everything this hidden gem in Southern Illinois has to offer. Whether you live here or are just passing through, here’s how to make the most of spring in Williamson County!
Nature Awakens: Get Outside and Explore!
Spring is the perfect time to take advantage of the awesome natural spots in Williamson County. With scenic parks and wildlife refuges, there’s so much to explore once the weather starts to warm up!
One of the best places to check out is Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. It’s super peaceful and perfect for a chill hike, some birdwatching, or just soaking in the wildflowers that start popping up everywhere. With the mild spring weather, it’s the ideal spot for getting outdoors—whether you’re into fishing, spotting birds, or just strolling around and taking in the views. Also, Williamson County has some great public parks that are perfect for picnics, playing sports, or just laying back and catching some sun as the days get longer. Check out Ray Fosse and Marion Park District.
Outdoor Spring Events and Festivals:
Spring in Williamson County means tons of cool local events and festivals where you can get outside, hang with friends, and soak up the season.
If you’re up for some fun outdoor activities, don’t miss the Maple Syrup Festival on March 23rd and 24th. It’s two days packed with maple syrup demos, a pancake breakfast, nature hikes, lumberjack demos, kids’ activities, vendors, artisans, and so much more! It’s the perfect family-friendly event to kick off spring.
For nature lovers, check out the Crab Orchard Wildflower Walk with Sam on March 22nd (and again on April 5th). It’s a super chill way to see all the stunning spring flowers and learn more about them from someone who knows their stuff.
Also, if you’ve ever wanted to try archery, Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge is hosting “Becoming an Outdoor Family: Archery“ on March 29th from 9-11 a.m. It’s a fun way to get outdoors, try something new, and spend time with family.
For more outdoor fun, make sure to browse the Crab Orchard Wildlife Refuge spring events calendar for even more cool ways to explore the natural beauty of Southern Illinois.
Looking for a food lover’s dream? Don’t miss Taste of Southern Illinois Fest at The Pavilion in Marion on April 6th! It’s a huge event featuring the best food and drinks from the area, plus live music to vibe to all day long.
And if you’re a chocolate lover (who isn’t?), head over to Walker’s Bluff Casino and Resort for one of our favorite food fests! Taste of Chocolate will be at Walker’s Bluff on April 12th. Expect an evening of delicious dinners, live music, and, obviously, more chocolate than you can handle—all for a good cause.
Finally, if you’re into art, the Union Street Arts Fair on May 3rd is a must. It’s all about local artists, live music, interactive art activities, food vendors, and connecting with other art lovers and small businesses. It’s going to be a great day to enjoy the arts and the community!
Spring Into Shopping:
As the weather warms up, local businesses in Williamson County are ready to show off some exciting new products and experiences. Spring is the perfect time to hit up the cool shops and boutiques in downtown Marion and other towns around the county. Whether you’re looking for spring fashion, home decor, or just some fresh finds, it’s the ideal moment for a shopping spree.
One event you don’t want to miss is the MAGPIE MARKET DAYS – SPRING Vintage Market from March 28th-30th at The Pavilion. This indoor event is packed with over 80 high-end vendors, flippers, and talented makers from all over the US. You can shop vintage, handmade goods, gourmet treats, repurposed items, salvage pieces, and SO much more. Plus, there will be food trucks all three days!
Another cool spring event is Fern and Vendor Day at The Patch on April 19th. This annual event features some of the biggest ferns around, 40+ local vendors, a kids’ playground, a goat-feeding area (yes, you read that right), and more food trucks. It’s a fun, local event you won’t want to miss.
On May 10th at 9 a.m., head over to the Sweet Southern Market in Downtown Johnston City. This two-block street market is hosted by Down Home Comforts and will have tons of local vendors and food trucks to check out. It’s the perfect Saturday morning hangout.
And if you’re in the mood for a classic yard sale experience, the Annual Flea Market Yard Sale at the Fairgrounds on May 3rd at 8a.m. is where you want to be. With over 20 vendors, you’re bound to find some hidden gems.
A Fresh Start: Embrace the Spirit of Renewal
Spring is not only a time for outdoor fun and events but also for renewal and growth. Whether you’re sprucing up your garden, trying out a new hobby, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, spring offers an opportunity to refresh your perspective and embrace the season of growth.
Williamson County offers a variety of activities, from outdoor exploration to cultural events, making it a great destination for residents and visitors alike. So, as the temperatures rise and flowers bloom, take some time to enjoy all that this beautiful region of Southern Illinois has to offer!
Williamson County promises a Fourth of July weekend filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories with family and friends.
Williamson County promises a Fourth of July weekend filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories with family and friends.
