Mary Jo and John Smith
Owners/Innkeepers
433 Cook Avenue
Jonesboro, IL 62952
(618) 833-5252
www.hiddenlakebb.com
info@hiddenlakebb.com
Mary Jo and John Smith
Owners/Innkeepers
433 Cook Avenue
Jonesboro, IL 62952
(618) 833-5252
www.hiddenlakebb.com
info@hiddenlakebb.com
2008 Wine Festivals | 2008 Murder Mystery Theater & More at the Vineyards
<January | February | March | April | May | June | July
August | September | October | November | December
The perfect cure for cabin fever? A relaxing weekday or weekend stay at Hidden Lake B&B! Enjoy one of our beautiful Jacuzzi suites featuring a large two-person Jacuzzi and, best of all, a wonderfully warm fireplace!
January - March ... Shawnee Hills Wine Trail Passport to Winter Program - Pick up your wine trail passport, have it validated at all eight wineries and you'll immediately win a 10% off a two night stay at Hidden Lake B&B (and other participating B&Bs) as well as other area discounts. You will also be entered into a monthly drawing and you'll be eligible for one of three Grand Prize packages. Check with any Shawneee Wine Trail winery for more details!
5 & 11 Wonders of Winter Walk - Giant City State Park Visitor Center. 1-2:30 pm You'll discover the many ways that plants and animals adjust to the winter cold, on this leisurely walk. 618-457-4836. Stay at Hidden Lake B&B for the weekend and we'll send you off with a thermos of hot chocolate to keep you warm!
18 Hedman Orchard & Vineyard - 7pm, Four Course Meal paired with wine: Harvest From the Sea. Reservations Required. Limited Seating
19 Von Jakob Vineyard – Music Series at the Vineyard -Ivas John Blues Band
20 Blue Sky Vineyard - Sundays in the Park: live music with Josh Brown, 2-5 p.m.
20 Von Jakob Vineyard - Music Series at the Orchard - Doug and Sharon
20 Houses! That’s for the Birds! 10 am, Meet at the Cache River Wetlands Center (618-657-2064), Jct. Hwy. 37 & Perks Rd. Get an early start on spring by learning how to build bird houses and bird feeders. Within the Cache River Basin over 200 species of birds migrate through the area providing opportunities for viewing and feeding. This program will highlight how to decide which home is suitable for different species of birds and which food will attract a variety of species. We will also make bird feeders out of recycled and natural material, and information will be provided on bird house construction. Reservations required, contact Cypress Creek NWR at 618-634-2231.
19-20, 26-27 Guided Bald Eagle Tours Join the staff of Crab Orchard Wild Life Refuge in search of bald eagles. Stay at Hidden Lake B&B for the weekend and we'll send you off with a thermos of hot chocolate to keep you warm! 618-997-3344. Reservations required.
20 & 27 Wildlife Imaging On the Cache Cache River Wetlands Center, Sunday, Jan. 20 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. & Sunday, January 27 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. A workshop on wildlife digital imaging. Participants will have the chance to photograph winter wildlife found throughout the Cache River Wetlands. Peak waterfowl numbers in the area; a variety of winter resident birds and animal tracks are left behind on the frosty ground. This workshop is designed for participants to capture this life in the Cache while gaining a better understanding of photo composition, exposure, and post processing through hands-on exercises. Visitors will also learn the overall capabilities of their own digital imaging equipment. 618-657-2064
25 Hedman Orchard & Vineyard - 7pm, Four Course Meal paired with wine: Winter Menu Dinner with Vegetarian Alternative. Reservations Required. Limited Seating. 618-893-4623
26 Von Jakobville Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. Featuring "The Boat Drunks" If you love Jimmy Buffet, you won't want to miss this festival. Get out of the house and cure the cabin fever. 618-893-4500.
27 Von Jakob Vineyard – Music Series at the Orchard. Dave Caputo Duo
Plan a truly special Valentine’s Celebration with the Ultimate Romance Package at Hidden Lake B&B!
1 Murder Mystery Dinner Theater "Who Wantsity to Murder a Millionaire" at Von Jakob Vineyard. Includes dinner and show. 618-893-4500
9 Winter Tree Identification Workshop Giant City State Park Visitor Center. Learn techniques for identifying trees by their shape, bark, buds, and seeds. Noon to 3pm, reservations required, 618-457-4836
10 Sweetheart Dance PAWS fund raiser at the VFW hall. 7-11 p.m. 50s/60s theme 618-833-3647
10 Winter Tree Identification Workshop - Giant City State Park Visitor Center. Learn techniques for identifying trees by their shape, bark, buds, and seeds. 9 am to noon, reservations required, 618-457-4836. Stay at Hidden Lake B&B for the weekend and we'll send you off with a thermos of hot chocolate to keep you warm!
15 Valentine Dinner at Hedman Orchard & Vineyard Four Course Meal, with Paired Wine, 7 PM, $42.50
16 "Dinner Sealed With A Kiss" Put your heart to rest! Von Jakob Vineyard, Ltd. presents an unforgettable chance for you to romance and impress your other half $35/person includes a glass of wine from a selection of our wine list, an amazing dining experience and live romantic music to entice the mood. Hors d'oeuvres are served between 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Dinner is shortly after. 618-893-4500
23 Landscaping for Wildlife 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Cache River Wetlands Center. This program will highlight native plants that are best suited for the southern Illinois environment. Whether you want to re-landscape your yard with drought-resistant plants or create habitat for neighborhood birds, bees and butterflies, this program will give you the necessary knowledge to go native! 618-657-2064
23 Mardi Gras Festival at Von Jakob featuring The Dave Caputo Duo. What kind of music do you like? Well, they play it all! Classic Rock, Blues, Oldies, Jimmy Buffet and more! Join us for this unbelievable Duo! 618-893-4500
28 – March 2 2nd Annual Sci-Fi Convention and Toy Show in Metropolis. 618-524-5025
Spring has arrived in Southernmost Illinois! Come enjoy our warmer temperatures!
All of March ... Enjoy Vintage Arts on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. Different artists will be on display at each winery throughout the month of March. See specific weekend events to not only view the beautiful artwork but to also meet the artist.
8 & 9 Meet the Artist at Blue Sky vineyard. Vintage Arts on the Wine Trail ... View beautiful artwork and meet the artist from 2:00pm – 5:00pm.
15 Woodland Wildflower Preview –A slide show 10am to 11am, Giant City State Park Visitor Center. An indoor slide show to preview spring wildflowers. 618-457-4836
15 St. Patrick's Day Celebration at the Shawnee Winery, Vienna, featuring local Irish musicians "The Dorian's". No cover charge. Food & free wine tastings. 888-659-WINE.
15 Murder Mystery Dinner Theater "Mayberry RIP" at the Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, 315 Forman Ln, Belknap, 7 pm 618-658-2274.
22 Giant City's Stonefort - Giant City Visitor Center. 10:00AM - 11:00AM Let's investigate why the Late Woodland period Native Americans would build a nearly 300 foot long wall on a cliff in the forest 1,000 years ago. This is a rugged 1/3-mile hike.
22 March Madness Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. Take a break from basketball and join us for OUR kind of MADNESS. 618-893-4500
22 French Marine Basic Training - Fort Massac State Park, Metropolis. A training program for French soldiers and militia during the 1760's. 524-9321
22 Tree Planting - Cache River Wetlands. 9 am to noon. Meet at the wetlands center. Plant a tree and learn how to identify species and what it takes to restore a forest. 618-634-2231
22 Food & Wine 101 - Blue Sky Vineyard. 1-3:30 pm. Come in and improve your palate, vocabulary, and overall wine knowledge. Learn the basics of wine tasting and how to properly pair wine and food. Enjoy some of Blue Sky Vineyard's finest wines with great food catered by Great Boars of Fire. Price: $30.00 per person until 03/14/2007; $35.00 per person after 03/14/2007. Contact the winery at 618-995-9463
23 Easter Sunrise Service Bald Knob Mountain, Alto Pass. Annual Easter Service held at the 111 foot Bald Knob Cross, music & refreshments. 893-6344
23 Easter Sunrise Service 6am. Step back in time and celebrate the true meaning of Easter in the 1850’s Kornthal church built by Austrian immigrants. Now on National Register of Historic Places. Casual dress. Two miles south of Jonesboro on Hwy. 127.
23 Easter Brunch Von Jakob Winery & Vineyard. 12 to 3pm. Included is a buffet, a memosa, orange juice, milk and coffee. Wine is separate. Closer to the event date, you may call for some details on the menus. 618-893-4500
25 Chef for a Day - Von Jakob Vineyard. A culinary experience you won't want to miss! Come cook and enjoy a three course meal with Guest Chef Mark Miller from St. Louis accompanied by Von Jakob's own Dr. Paul Jacobs. Includes wine with each course. $50/guest per cooking class. By Reservation Only
31 Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre - Blue Sky Vineyard. 6 pm. When Irish Spies Are Dying". Performance by upstage Productions (Keving O'Brien). Some members of the audience will take an active role in the performance. Price: $40 per person. Admission includes the performance, dinner catered by Great Boars of Fire, and one drink (glass of wine, beer or cocktail). Contact the winery at 618-995-9463 for reservations.
31 Woodland Wildflower Walks - 10am to noon, Giant City State Park Visitor Center. Wildflower walks are one of Giant City's most popular draws. Join the site interpreter for a rugged two-hour discovery tour on a woodland trail. Most hikes are held on Trillium Trail, best known for its wildflower diversity. Some weekends we'll discover up to 30 bloomers. A park wildflower checklist arranged by month of bloom will be provided. Plenty of time is allowed for photography. Repeat visitors are welcome as new flowers bloom each week! These are rugged 2-mile hikes. 618-457-4836
It’s Morel Mushroom Month in Southernmost Illinois! Join the hunt for the elusive morel mushroom! Find any and we’ll cook up a delectable Hidden Lake omelet for any of our Hidden Lake guests!
Saturday Mornings in April - Woodland Wildflower Walks - 10am to noon, Giant City State Park Visitor Center. Wildflower walks are one of Giant City's most popular draws. Join the site interpreter for a rugged two-hour discovery tour on a woodland trail. Most hikes are held on Trillium Trail, best known for its wildflower diversity. Some weekends we'll discover up to 30 bloomers. A park wildflower checklist arranged by month of bloom will be provided. Plenty of time is allowed for photography. Repeat visitors are welcome as new flowers bloom each week! These are rugged 2-mile hikes. 618-457-4836
3 Van Tour of the Tunnel Hill State TRail - The trail, which stretches 47.5 miles along the retired Norfolk Southern Railroad line between Harrisburg and Karnak, provides bicycling and hiking opportunities through the Cache River watershed. Tours will highlight natural and historic features along the way and provides a great opportunity for senior citizens and those with physical limitations to experience the trail. For more information on times and to make reservations, call (618) 657-2064.
5 Spring Bloom 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Join botanists John and Martha Schwegmen for a guided wildflower hike to Glass Hill, a sandstone knob covered by a relatively undisturbed upland forest of oak and hickory. Wear hiking apparel. Glass Hill Trail Head, Cache River State Natural Area (618) 657-2064
5 Murder Mystery Dinner Theater at Von Jakob Vineyard. "American Idol Murder" Please make reservations in advance and join us for an evening of never ending laughs. You never know, you could be our next star.
19 Murder Mystery Dinner Theater at the Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, 315 Forman Ln, Belknap, 7 pm 618-658-2274
19 River to River Relay (From Mississippi River to Ohio River) Daylight to dusk. A road race for teams of 8 runners, each runs 3 legs of approx. 3 miles for a total distance of 80 miles. www.river2river.net
19 Supermarket of the Swamp at the Cache River Wetlands Center on Hwy. 37, 9:00am – 10:30am Wetlands provide a wealth of food and water to many animals including people! Join staff to discover wetland plants and their edible parts. The program will include identification and preparation of some of these “tasty” plants. Bring an appetite! *Call the Wetlands Center for reservations. (618) 657-2064 (30 max)
20 Chef for a Day - Von Jakob Vineyard. A culinary experience you won't want to miss! Come cook and enjoy a three course meal with Guest Chef Mark Miller from St. Louis accompanied by Von Jakob's own Dr. Paul Jacobs. Includes wine with each course. $50/guest per cooking class. By Reservation Only
18-20 Mid-American Morel Mushroom Festival - Trail of Tears Lodge & Sports Resort, Jonesboro. 618-833-8697
25-27 Southernmost Illinois Birding Fest - The event will showcase the areas’ rich bird life and wetland habitat. Scheduled activities include guided field trips, canoe tours, photo exhibits, music, live bird demonstrations, and much more. The Cache River Wetland Center will be open throughout the weekend and features a 12 minute video as well as many interactive exhibits. In addition, birders of all skills are welcome to participate in the Birding Blitz; a fun and competitive race to see the most species of birds in twenty-four hours. 800-248-4373
26 Bird & Wine Fest Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, 315 Forman Ln, Belknap, 6pm 618-658-2274.
26 Art Expo at the Shawnee Winery, Vienna. Original artwork, live entertainment and delicious food will be available. 10am to 6pm 618-658-8400
27 Blessing of the Bikes - Bald Knob Cross off Hwy. 127, Alto Pass. 618-893-2344.
Strawberries Are Ripe for the Picken'!
Every Weekend in May Hidden Lake B&B will feature Southern Illinois strawberries in its breakfast menus! Enjoy strawberry parfaits, strawberry crepes, and strawberry-nut muffins to name just few of our signature strawberry recipes!
And don't forget to order a plate of luscious chocolate-dipped strawberries from Hidden Lake B&B for your arrival!
3 Tay-Sachs Benefit – at Blue Sky Vineyard. Come support this worthy cause!
3 Cinco de Mayo – Starview Vineyards. Celebrate with live music, beginning at 1 p.m.
3-4 Spring Wine Fest at Alto Vineyards, Alto Pass, 12:30-5:30. Live music, food, wine by the glass. 618-893-4894. Saturday: Robbie Stokes; Sunday: Lew Jetton & Hwy 61 South
3-4 MaiFest at Von Jakob Vineyard. Live music by The Bottom Line and 4 on the Floor, food, wine by the glass. 618-893-4500.
10-11 Red, White & Blues Festival – Enjoy red & white wine with great blues music at Blue Sky Vineyard.
10 Mother's Weekend Discovery Hike Giant City Visitor Center. 10:00AM - 11:30AM. Mothers and others will enjoy this moderate, one-mile trek through forest and bluffs. We'll look for evidence of wildlife mothers as we immerse ourselves in the newness of spring. 618-457-4836
10 Mother’s Day Bike Ride Tunnel Hill State Trail, Vienna. 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. The ride will feature a narrow 543 foot tunnel, wooden trestles overlooking numerous bluffs and creeks, spring woodland wildflowers and songbirds. Staff will also share interesting history of locations that could be described as ghost towns along the route. (618) 658-2168.
10-11 MayFest at Owl Creek Vineyards, Cobden, 12:30-5:30. Live music, food, wine by the glass. 618-893-2557
11 Mother's Day Luncheon & Flower Show Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, Belknap, 11am to 2pm 618-658-2274.
11 Mother's Day Brunch Von Jakob Winery & Vineyard. Included is the buffet, a memosa, orange juice, milk and coffee. Wine is separate. Closer to the event date, you may call for some details on the menus. 618-893-4500
17 Firehouse Fundraiser Festival at Alto Vineyards, Hwy. 127, Alto Pass. Music, food, wine by the glass. Noon to 6 pm. 618-893-4898 or 893-2557. Food provided by the men and women of the Alto Pass Fire Department.
24 Memorial Day Service at Mounds City National Cemetery. This elaborate service consists of the National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance, lowering of the Flag, Invocation, Civil War Re-enactors, Guest Speakers, Laying of the Wreath, Benediction, rifle and canon salute, and Taps.
24 Easy Tree I.D. Workshop Cache River Wetland Center. 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. White oak, pignut hickory, red oak, tulip poplar; the Cache River wetlands is rich with a diversity of bottomland and upland tree species. Join Kevin Rhodes, a Shawnee Community College Natural Resources Instructor, for a hike to learn common native tree species found in the Cache River wetlands. The program will provide tips to more easily identify trees in their habitats. 618-657-2064
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Blueberries Are In Season! Come pick your own or buy them already picked! Either way you’ll enjoy the wonderful taste of Southernmost blueberries!
Every Weekend in June Hidden Lake B&B will feature Southern Illinois blueberries in its breakfast menus! Enjoy blueberry kuechen, blueberry pancakes, and lemon blueberry muffins to name just few of our signature blueberry recipes!
7 BBQ Festival Alto Vineyards, Hwy. 127, Alto Pass. 3 to 8 pm. Music and Food. 618-893-4898. Food: 17th Street BB-Q
7 Blues Fest I at Von Jakob Vineyard. Live music, wine by the glass, food. 618-893-4800. Featuring the music of "Big Larry and The Down Home Blues Band" 618-893-4500
8 Super Car Show - Fort Massac State Park, Metropolis. Participants bring antique and classic cars from all over the midwest. Free admission 618-524-9321
12-15 Superman Celebration - Uptown Metropolis. Arts, crafts, fun run road race, Superman Drama, super bike trek, Garden tours, super car show, entertainment, contests and carnival. Free admission. 800-949-5740
14-15 The Great Grape Stomp at Owl Creek Vineyard. Help make wine the old fashioned way! A benefit grape stomp with music by Ol’ Fishskins. 618-893-2557
21 Solstice Fest – Starview Vineyards. Come celebrate the longest day of the year. Live Music!
21 Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Von Jakob Winery & Vineyard. "Tony & Tina's Wedding!". Please make reservations in advance and join us for an evening of never ending laughs. 618-893-4500
21 Bottomland Forest Habitat Hike Cache River Wetland Center.9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Put on your hiking boots and join us for an exploration through a mature growth bottomland hardwood forest. We’ll look for wildlife and early summer plants that are found in this resource rich area. 618-657-2064
28 Wine Festival at Blue Sky Vineyard
28 Von Jakobville Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. Featuring "The Boat Drunks" If you love Jimmy Buffet, you won't want to miss this festival. 618-893-4500.
28 Winged Wonders - Dragonfiles at the Cache River Wetland Center 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Did you know there are over 50 species of dragonflies in southern Illinois, which is over half of all the dragonflies in the state. Join naturalists, to learn about these winged-wonders. This program will include a slide show of the many different species of dragonflies and fascinating information on their life cycles, flight abilities, and behaviors. Participants will then go on a hike to discover and identify species in the wetlands. Wear clothing for outdoor activities. 618-657-2064
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Early Peaches are In! Don’t believe what they say about Georgia peaches! Southernmost Illinois peaches are the absolute best! Come and taste for yourself!
Every Weekend in July Hidden Lake B&B will feature Southern Illinois peaches in its breakfast menus! Enjoy peach parfaits, baked peach pancakes, and peach cobblers to name just few of our signature peach recipes!
1 Rendleman Orchards Farm Market - Alto Pass. Peaches are here! Stop in to see the summer bounty. Enjoy a peach smoothie or a bottle of peach cider while picking up other seasonal produce as well as your favorites from last year. 618-893-2771
6 Anniversary Festival at Blue Sky Vineyard. Great wine, music and food.
4 Fireworks Display at the Anna City Park.
12 Cold-Blooded Creatures of the Cache - 11 a.m. to 12:30. Learn from local herpetology lovers about the unique characteristics of some of the many diverse reptile species native to the Cache River region. Participants will also have the opportunity to see several species up close and personal! 618-657-2064
12 Vonjakobville Von Jakob Winery & Vineyard. Live music back by popular demand ... "The Boat Drunks", wine by the glass, food. 618-893-4800. Featuring "Big Larry and The Down Home Blues Band"
12-13 Arts & Wine Fest Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, 315 Forman Ln, Belknap, 11am to 7pm with food and music 618-658-2274.
12 Stars Fest – Starview Vineyards.
20 Hot Summer Wine Festival at the Shawnee Winery, Vienna. Live music featuring the Woodbox Gang from 3 to 7pm. BBQ available. $5 admission includes a free wine glass. 618-658-8400
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Southern Illinois Peaches Are In!
A "peachy fact" The refrigerated rail car was invented in Southern Illinois, Cobden specifically, so that it's peach crop could be transported to farther destinations. The railroad used it, instead, to transport less expensive Georgia peaches!
Every Weekend in August ... Hidden Lake B&B will feature Southern Illinois peaches in its breakfast menus! Enjoy peach parfaits, baked peach pancakes, and peach cobblers to name just few of our signature peach recipes!
2-3 Hummingbird Festival - Trail of Tears State Forest. 618-833-4910
2 Last Days of Summer Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. And that's, "The Bottom Line". Come enjoy the music. This band will get you on your feet and a swingin' and a movin' no matter how hot it is!
2 Peach Fest – Starview Vineyards.
8-9 Cobden Peach Festival - Sponsored by the Cobden Lions Club, features carnival rides and games, Peach Queen Contest, homemade food and peach cobbler. Free admission. 618-893-2777
17-23 Union County Fair - Anna Fairgrounds. Experience a "small town" county fair at its finest! Carnival games, rides, exhibits, Queen contest on Mon. night, Demolition Derby on Fri. night. Rodeos, horse racing and tractor pulls. 618-833-6311
30 Wine Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. "The Dave Caputo Duo" is at it again. We love sharing this amazing Duo with all of you. Come dancing like you've never danced before.
30-31 Wine Festival at Blue Sky Vineyard. 618-995-wine
30-31 Shawnee Hills Wine Festival Enjoy all of the Shawnee Wine Trail Wineries at Alto Vineyards this weekend! Alto Vineyards, Hwy. 127 Alto Pass. Noon to 6 p.m. Live music, food, wine by the glass. 618-893-4898.
Join Us for the Apple Harvest!
Every Weekend in September Hidden Lake B&B will feature Southern Illinois apples in its breakfast menus! Enjoy cinnamon apple coffeecake, deep dish baked apple pancakes, and poached apples topped with vanilla cream sauce to name just few of our signature apple recipes!
1 Labor Day Celebration - Fort Massac State Park, Metropolis parade at 10am and live music. 618-524-9202
6 Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre "Law & Murder" at Von Jakob Vineyard
7 Wonderful World of Cattails 10 AM and 2 PM. Cache River Wetlands Center. Learn about the many hostoric and modern values of cattails and make a basket to take home. 800-248-4373
6 Giant City's Stonefort - Giant City Park. 10:00AM - 11:00AM Let's investigate why the Late Woodland period Native Americans would build a nearly 300 foot long wall on a cliff in the forest 1,000 years ago. This is a rugged 1/3-mile hike.
8 Living History Weekend - Fort Massac State Park, Metropolis. Massiac Marines re-enact the 18th century life at the fort. Free, 618-524-9321
14 Harvest Festival at Blue Sky Vineyards, Makanda. Celebrate the birth of a new vintage, with great food & music.
19-22 Everything Apple Celebration at Rendleman Orchards, Alto Pass. Celebrate fall by baking up your favorite apple recipes, or better yet try our simple ready-to-bake apple crisp mix or our own family recipe apple cobbler mix. Stop by our Farm Market this weekend only to receive 20% OFF a half bushel of apples (Limit 2). We will also be celebrating the fall season with fresh apple cider, cider slush, mums, and other fall favorites. 618-893-2771
20 Blues & BBQ Fest – Starview Vineyards.
20 Srimp Festival Alto Vineyard, Alto Pass. 2 to 7 pm. Food and music, 618-893-4898. Dennis Stroughmatt & Creole Stomp
20 Shrimp Festival - Celebrate the harvest of southern Illinois fresh water shrimp, Shawnee Queen River Taxi and Horse & Buggy rides, Shrimp cook-off, entertainment and songwriters showcase. 11am to 10pm Golconda. 618-683-6246
20 Murder Mystery Dinner at the Cache River Basin Winery. "Murder Unlimited". 314 Foreman Ln, Belknap. 7 pm 618-658-2274
27 For the Love of Monarchs Cache River Wetlands Center 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Learn about the beautiful monarch butterfly and what you can do to help this species in its survival. The program will highlight their life cycle, migration routes, identification of male and females and other “look a likes”. Participants will also have the opportunity to net, tag and release monarchs outdoors in efforts to understand the fall migration and populations of this jewel of the air. 618-657-2064
28 Fall Wine Festival at Shawnee Winery, (Johnson Co) Vienna. 2 pm - 6 pm Live musical entertainment. Food and wine also available. $5 admission fee, includes a free wine glass. Free non-alcoholic beverages will be available for all designated drivers. (888) 659-WINE
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Enjoy the Fall Colors of Southernmost Illinois’ Hilly Terrain!
We’ll be celebrating the colors of fall with our Union County Colorfest and fall festivals at the wineries & orchards. And be certain not to miss our Annual Pumpkin Town Display!
4-5 Oktoberfest at Von Jakob Vineyard. Featuring music from The Bottom Line on Saturday and 4 on the Floor on Sunday. Fall has set in and the colors of the leaves are changing. Come celebrate the amazing colors of the rolling hills.
4, 18 & 25 Leaf, Bark and Seed Hikes - Giant City State Park Visitor Center, 10am to noon. Come meet the trees of the forest. Discover why leaves change color in the fall. Learn the ways we identify trees as their leaves disappear. You will never look at a tree the same way again after this enlightening look at some of our favorites at Giant City. These hikes alternate between moderate 1-milers and rugged 2-milers. 618-457-4836
6 Guided Hikes in the Cache Wetlands Join us at 9 am for a morning hike at Heron Pond, and at 1pm an afternoon hike at Wildcat Bluff. 618-634-2231
10-16 Pumpkin Town USA Drive through the grounds of Choate Health Center in Anna to view the truly creative pumpkin people displays. 800-248-4373
10-12 Union County Colorfest Celebration Celebrate the fall season throughout Union Co, with Home Tours by P.A.S.T from noon to 4pm, and an Arts & Craft Fair in Cobden. Participate in the fun run or biathlon race, a wine festival at Alto Vineyards, Von Jakob or Owl Creek winery or a health fair at Union county hospital. A Bayou Boogie Boil at Northwest Passage Root beer Saloon. Rendleman Orchards Farm Market Celebrates all weekend long with samples of specialty food items. Flamm Orchards Fall Festival. Music, BBQ, Applebutter making demonstrations, working cider press, petting zoo and childrens activities 10am - 5pm Kid Fest at Anna city park 9 to 5 on Sat. will host the First Annual Wiener Dog Derby. The doggie fashion will begin at 1:00pm with the race beginning at 2:00pm. 800-248-4373
11-12 Fall Colorfest Alto Vineyards. Live music, wine by the glass, food. 618-893-4898. Saturday: Robbie Stokes; Sunday: Lew Jetton & Hwy 61 South. Food: 17th Street BB-Q
11-12 Colorfest at the Vineyard at Von Jakob Vineyard. 618-893-4500
11-12 Colorfest at the Vineyard at Blue Sky Vineyard 618-995-WINE
11-12 Colorfest at the Vineyard at Skyview Vineyard 618-893-WINE
18 Murder Mystery Dinner Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, Belknap, 6pm 618-658-2274. "The Hitchcock Homicide"
17-19 Annual Fort Massac Encampment - Ft. Massac State Park, Metropolis. 10am to 5pm daily. Military and civilian craft activities and demonstrations. Both days begin with a post of colors. Highlights include mock battles and tactical demonstrations, voyagers, traders, craftsman, children's games, music and period food and dress. Free admission. 618-524-9321
25-26 Halloween Festival at the Vineyard at Blue Sky Vineyard. Join us for a howling good time at the vineyard. Wear your favorite costume for a chance to win great prizes and enjoy live music.
The weather in Southernmost Illinois is still very fine indeed! Escape the cold …
Join us for a weekend of hiking and wine tasting! Then relax in a Hidden Lake B&B Jacuzzi and fireplace suite!
8-9 Applepalooza! At Rendleman Orchards Hwy. 127 Alto Pass. Stop by our Farm Market this weekend only to receive 20% OFF a half bushel of apples (Limit 2). Itπs that time of year for making apple pies, apple butter, apple sauce and other fall favorites! Fresh apple cider and hot mulling spices now available to make the perfect Thanksgiving treat. (Limit 2). 618-893-2771
11 Veterans Day Parade Anna, begins at 2 p.m. from the city park entrance on Davie St and follows Main St to Jefferson St. and back to the park. 618-833-5182.
15 Wonders of Winter Walk - Giant City State Park Visitor Center, 1 to 2:30 p.m. A leisurely walking tour to discover the many ways that plants and animals adjust to the winter cold. 618-457-4836.
22 Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Cache Rive Basin Vineyard & Winery. "It’s A Wonderful Death!". 6pm. Belknap. 618-658-2274
28-30 Passport to the Holidays! Open house at the wineries along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail! This is the kick off for our passport to the holidays promotion during which we are offering to 100 participants the opportunity to purchase a holiday wreath and then visit each of the member wineries to collect free collectable ornaments. There is a different ornament for each winery with the logo and an eighth ornament with the wine trail logo for those who collect all seven from the wineries. For those who choose to participate in the passport without purchasing a wreath, don't feel discouraged. All passports will be collected in mid December for a drawing for bottles of wine. There is no purchase required for participation in the passport program but purchase of the wreath is necessary to obtain the free collectable ornaments. For more information, contact any member winery.
28-30 Holiday Open House in Alto Pass Alto Vineyards, Austins Antiques, and Northwest Passage offer visitors Holiday cheer, as well as samples of wine, and snacks while browsing there unique selections for Christmas gifts. Fri & Sat 10 to 5, and noon to 5 on Sun. 618-893-4898 or 2206.
28-30 Holiday Open House Von Jakob Vineyard. 618-893-4800. Complementary Hors d'oeuvres. Start your Christmas shopping here. Remember that wine is never the wrong size.
28-30 Holiday Open House at Shawnee Winery. Refreshments and live entertainment throughout the weekend. Fri. & Sat 10 am - 6 pm and Sunday from Noon - 6 pm. 618-658-8400
28-30 Holiday Open House at Skyview Vineyard 618-893-WINE
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Need a break from the craziness of the season? Plan a weekday or weekend stay in one of Hidden Lake B&B’s Jacuzzi and fireplace suites. It’s a great way to relax and unwind!
6 Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Von Jakob Vineyard & Winery. TBA $31.50/person. 618-893-4800.
6-7 Winery Open House Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery. 10am to 6pm, 1 to 5pm on Sun. Belknap. 618-658-2274
7 Carols at Candlelight 4 pm Historic St. Anne's on South Main, Anna. An informal Christmas celebration in a quaint 1886 church listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
8 Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Von Jakob Vineayrd. TBA $31.50/person. 618-893-4800.
12 A Romantic Christmas Dinner at Von Jakob Vineyard. Leave the worries of the holiday hustle and bustle behind for the night. Treat your other half to an unforgettable, five course, romantic dinner at Von Jakob. Romantic Dinners are seated between 5:30 and 6:30pm. Christmas Dinners are meant for couples or groups of couples celebrating their love on these special holidays. $39.99/guest (plus tax), includes a five-course meal and one glass of wine. 618-893-4500
13 Wonders of Winter Walk at Giant City State Park Visitor Center, 1 to 2:30 p.m. A leisurely walking tour to discover the many ways that plants and animals adjust to the winter cold. 618-457-4836.
13-14 Anniversary Festival at Shawnee Winery. Refreshments and live entertainment throughout the weekend. Join us Saturday from 10 am - 6 pm and Sunday from Noon - 6 pm. 618-658-8400,
13 Murder Mystery Dinner Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery. 6pm. Belknap. 618-658-2274 "I’ll Be Homicidal"
Please Note: Most wine festivals charge a small admission
charge of $4-5 that includes a free wine glass.
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| Von Jakob Vineyard | Blue Sky Vineyard | Alto Vineyards |
Just Three of the Many Wineries & Vineyards in Southernmost Illinois!
And Remember to Book Your Stay at Hidden Lake B&B!
We’re Just a Short Drive from All of the Area Wineries!
January 19 Von Jakob Vineyard – Music Series at the Vineyard -Ivas John Blues Band 618-893-4500
January 20 Blue Sky Vineyard - Sundays in the Park: live music with Josh Brown, 2-5 p.m. 618-995-WINE
January 20 Von Jakob Vineyard - Music Series at the Orchard - Doug and Sharon 618-893-4500
January 26 Von Jakobville Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. Featuring "The Boat Drunks" If you love Jimmy Buffet, you won't want to miss this festival. Get out of the house and cure the cabin fever. 618-893-4800
January 27 Von Jakob Vineyard – Music Series at the Orchard. Dave Caputo Duo. 618-893-4500
February 23 Mardi Gras Festival at Von Jakob featuring The Dave Caputo Duo. What kind of music do you like? Well, they play it all! Classic Rock, Blues, Oldies, Jimmy Buffet and more! Join us for this unbelievable Duo! 618-893-4500
February 23 Mardi Gras Celebration at the Shawnee Winery, Vienna 10 am – 6 pm Join us for a Mardi Gras celebration, Southern Illinoisan style. We will have the best of Cajun cuisine and music, along with wine by the glass to make you feel like you’re in the heart of New Orleans. 888-659-WINE
March 15 St. Patrick's Day Celebration at the Shawnee Winery, Vienna, featuring local Irish musicians "The Dorian's". No cover charge. Food & free wine tastings. 888-659-WINE.
March 24 March Madness Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. Take a break from basketball and join us for OUR kind of MADNESS. 618-893-4500
April 26 Bird & Wine Fest Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, 315 Forman Ln, Belknap, 6pm 618-658-2274.
April 26 Art Expo Wine Fest at the Shawnee Winery, Vienna. Original artwork, live entertainment and delicious food will be available. 10am to 6pm 618-658-8400
May 3 Cinco de Mayo – Starview Vineyards. Celebrate with live music, beginning at 1 p.m.
May 3-4 Spring Festival at Alto Vineyards, Alto Pass, 12:30-5:30. Live music, food, wine by the glass. 618-893-4894. Saturday: Robbie Stokes; Sunday: Lew Jetton & Hwy 61 South
May 3-4 MayFest at Von Jakob Vineyard. Live music, food, wine by the glass. 618-893-4500.
May 10-11 Red, White & Blues Festival at Blue Sky Vineyard. 618-995-WINE
Mayfest 10-11 MayFest at Owl Creek Vineyards, Cobden, 12:30-5:30. Live music, food, wine by the glass. 618-893-2557
May 17 Firehouse Fundraiser Festival at Alto Vineyards, Hwy. 127, Alto Pass. Music, food, wine by the glass. Noon to 6 pm. 618-893-4898 or 893-2557. Food provided by the men and women of the Alto Pass Fire Department.
June 7 BBQ Festival Alto Vineyards, Hwy. 127, Alto Pass. 3 to 8 pm. Music and Food. 618-893-4898. Food: 17th Street BB-Q
June 7 Blues Fest I At Von Jakob Vineyard. Live music, wine by the glass, food. 618-893-4500. Featuring the music of "Big Larry and The Down Home Blues Band"
June 14-15 The Great Grape Stomp Make wine the old fashioned way! A benefit at Owl Creek Vineyards 893-2557
June 21 Solstice Fest – Starview Vineyards. Come celebrate the longest day of the year. Live Music! 618-893-WINE
June 28 Wine Festival at Blue Sky Vineyard. 618-995-WINE
June 28 Von Jakobville Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. Featuring "The Boat Drunks" If you love Jimmy Buffet, you won't want to miss this festival. 618-893-4500.
July 1 Anniversary Festival at Blue Sky Vineyard 618-995-WINE
July 12 Stars Fest – Starview Vineyard. 618-893-WINE
July 12-13 Arts & Wine Fest Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, 315 Forman Ln, Belknap, 11am to 7pm with food and music 618-658-2274.
July 12 Vonjakobville Von Jakob Winery & Vineyard. Live music, wine by the glass, food. 618-893-4500 Featuring "Big Larry and The Down Home Blues Band"
July 20 Hot Summer Wine Festival at the Shawnee Winery, Vienna. Live music featuring the Woodbox Gang from 3 to 7pm. BBQ available. $5 admission includes a free wine glass. 618-658-8400
August 2 Peach Fest – Starview Vineyards. 618-893-WINE
August 2 Last Days of Summer Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. And that's, "The Bottom Line". Come enjoy the music. This band will get you on your feet and a swingin' and a movin' no matter how hot it is! 618-893-4500
August 30 Wine Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. "The Dave Caputo Duo" is at it again. We love sharing this amazing Duo with all of you. Come dancing like you've never danced before. 618-893-4500
August 30 Wine Festival at Von Jakob Vineyard. "The Dave Caputo Duo" is at it again.
August 30-September 1 Wine Festival at Blue Sky Vineyard. 618-995-WINE
August 30-September Shawnee Hills Wine Festival Enjoy all of the Shawnee Wine Trail Wineries at Alto Vineyards this weekend! Alto Vineyards, Hwy. 127 Alto Pass. Noon to 6 p.m. Live music, food, wine by the glass. 618-893-4898.
September 14 Blues & BBQ Fest – Starview Vineyards. 618-893-WINE
September 14 Harvest Wine Festival at Blue Sky Vineyard. 618-995-WINE
September 20 Srimp Festival Alto Vineyard, Alto Pass. 2 to 7 pm. Food and music, 618-893-4898. Dennis Stroughmatt & Creole Stomp
September 28 Fall Wine Festival at Shawnee Winery, (Johnson Co) Vienna. 2 pm - 6 pm Live musical entertainment. Food and wine also available. $5 admission fee, includes a free wine glass. Free non-alcoholic beverages will be available for all designated drivers. (888) 659-WINE
October 4-5 Oktoberfest at Von Jakob Vineyard. Featuring music from The Bottom Line on Saturday and 4 on the Floor on Sunday. Fall has set in and the colors of the leaves are changing. Come celebrate the amazing colors of the rolling hills. 618-893-4500
October 11-12 Fall Colorfest Alto Vineyards. Live music, wine by the glass, food. 618-893-4898. Saturday: Robbie Stokes; Sunday: Lew Jetton & Hwy 61 South. Food: 17th Street BB-Q
October 11-12 Colorfest at the Vineyard at Blue Sky Vineyard 618-995-WINE
October 11-12 Colorfest at the Vineyard at Skyview Vineyard 618-893-WINE
October 25-26 Halloween Festival at the Vineyard at Blue Sky Vineyard. 618-995-WINE
October 28-30 Holiday Open House at Alto Vineyards. 893-4898
October 28-30 Holiday Open House Von Jakob Vineyard. 618-893-4500. Complementary Hors d'oeuvres. Start your Christmas shopping here. Remember that wine is never the wrong size.
October 28-30 Holiday Open House at Shawnee Winery. Refreshments and live entertainment throughout the weekend. Fri. & Sat 10 am - 6 pm and Sunday from Noon - 6 pm. 618-658-8400
Ocotober 28-30 Holiday Open House at Skyview Vineyard 618-893-WINE
December 13-14 Anniversary Festival at Shawnee Winery. Refreshments and live entertainment throughout the weekend. Join us Saturday from 10 am - 6 pm and Sunday from Noon - 6 pm. 618-658-8400.
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2008 Murder Mystery Theater, Dinners
& More at the Vineyards ....
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| Owl Creek Winery |
And Remember to Book Your Stay at Hidden Lake B&B!
We’re Just a Short Drive from Both Wineries Offering Murder Mystery Dinners!
January 18 Hedman Orchard & Vineyard - 7pm, Four Course Meal paired with wine: Harvest From the Sea. Reservations Required. Limited Seating. 893-4923
January 25 Hedman Orchard & Vineyard - 7pm, Four Course Meal paired with wine: Winter Menu Dinner with Vegetarian Alternative. Reservations Required. Limited Seating. 893-4923
February 1 "Who Wants to Murder a Millionaire" at Von Jakob Vineyard. Wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres and parts are passed out between 5:30 and 6:30pm. The show promptly begins at 6:30pm. After the 1st act, dinner is served between 7 and 7:30pm. The second act trails dinner, followed by the "who dun it" discussion with the audience. Who ever guesses who the murderer is, wins a bottle of wine from Von Jakob. Please make reservations in advance and join us for an evening of never ending laughs. You never know, you could be our next star. 618-893-4500
February 15 Valentine Dinner at Hedman Orchard & Vineyard Four Course Meal, with Paired Wine, 7 PM, $42.50. 893-4923
February 16 "A Dinner Sealed With A Kiss" Show your other half just how much you love them by treating them to a romantic 5 course Valentine's Dinner at Von Jakob Vineyard. Romantic Dinners are seated between 5:30 and 6:30pm. Christmas Dinners are meant for couples or groups of couples celebrating their love on these special holidays. Includes a five-course meal and one glass of wine. 618-893-4500
March 15 "Mayberry RIP" at the Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, 315 Forman Ln, Belknap, 7 pm 618-658-2274.
March 22 Food & Wine 101 - Blue Sky Vineyard. 1-3:30 pm. Come in and improve your palate, vocabulary, and overall wine knowledge. Learn the basics of wine tasting and how to properly pair wine and food. Enjoy some of Blue Sky Vineyard's finest wines with great food catered by Great Boars of Fire. Price: $30.00 per person until 03/14/2007; $35.00 per person after 03/14/2007. Contact the winery at 618-995-9463
March 23 Easter Brunch at Von Jakob Winery & Vi neyard. 12 to 3pm. Included is the buffet, a memosa, orange juice, milk and coffee. Wine is separate. Closer to the event date, you may call for some details on the menus. 618-893-4500
March 25 Chef for a Day at Von Jakob Vineyard. A culinary experience you won't want to miss! Come cook and enjoy a three course meal with Guest Chef Mark Miller from St. Louis accompanied by Von Jakob's own Dr. Paul Jacobs. Includes wine with each course. $50/guest per cooking class. By Reservation Only 618-893-4500
March 31 Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre - Blue Sky Vineyard. 6 pm. When Irish Spies Are Dying". Performance by upstage Productions (Keving O'Brien). Some members of the audience will take an active role in the performance. Price: $40 per person. Admission includes the performance, dinner catered by Great Boars of Fire, and one drink (glass of wine, beer or cocktail). Contact the winery at 618-995-9463 for reservations.
April 5 "American Idol Murder" at Von Jakob Vineyard. Please make reservations in advance and join us for an evening of never ending laughs. You never know, you could be our next star. Includes dinner and entertainment. 618-893-4500
April 19 Murder Mystery Dinner Theater at the Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, 315 Forman Ln, Belknap, 7 pm 618-658-2274
April 25 Chef for a Day at Von Jakob Vineyard. A culinary experience you won't want to miss! Come cook and enjoy a three course meal with Guest Chef Mark Miller from St. Louis accompanied by Von Jakob's own Dr. Paul Jacobs. Includes wine with each course. $50/guest per cooking class. By Reservation Only 618-893-4500
May 11 Mother's Day Luncheon & Flower Show Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, Belknap, 11am to 2pm 618-658-2274.
May 11 Mother's Day Brunch Von Jakob Winery & Vineyard. This includes the buffet, a memosa, orange juice, milk and coffee. Wine is separate. Closer to the event date, you may call for some details on the menus. 618-893-4500
June 21 "Tony & Tina's Wedding!" at the Von Jakob Winery & Vineyard. 618-893-4500. Please make reservations in advance and join us for an evening of never ending laughs. You never know, you could be our next star. Includes dinner and entertainment.
September 6 "Law & Murder"! at the Von Jakob Winery & Vineyard. 618-893-4500. Wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres and parts are passed out between 5:30 and 6:30pm. The show promptly begins at 6:30pm. After the 1st act, dinner is served between 7 and 7:30pm. The second act trails dinner, followed by the "who dun it" discussion with the audience. Who ever guesses who the murderer is, wins a bottle of wine from Von Jakob. Please make reservations in advance and join us for an evening of never ending laughs. You never know, you could be our next star. Includes dinner and entertainment.
September 20 "Murder Unlimited" at the Cache River Basin Winery. 314 Foreman Ln, Belknap. 7 pm 618-658-2274
October 18 "The Hitchcock Homicide" Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery, Belknap, 6pm 618-658-2274.
November 22 "It’s A Wonderful Death" at the Cache Rive Basin Vineyard & Winery. 6pm. Belknap. 618-658-2274
December 8 Murder Mystery Dinner Theater at Von Jakob Vineyard. 618-893-4500
December 12 A Romantic Christmas Dinner at Von Jakob Vineyard. Leave the worries of the holiday hustle and bustle behind for the night. Treat your other half to an unforgettable, five course, romantic dinner at Von Jakob. Romantic Dinners are seated between 5:30 and 6:30pm. Christmas Dinners are meant for couples or groups of couples celebrating their love on these special holidays. Includes a five-course meal and one glass of wine.
December 12 "I'll Be Homicidal" at the Cache River Basin Vineyard & Winery. 6pm. Belknap. 618-658-2274
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