Top 20 Festivals & Events in Mt. Vernon, IL

Mt. Vernon, IL is alive with vibrant festivals, seasonal markets, cultural showcases, and family-friendly fun year-round. Here’s a look at 20 of the city’s most anticipated events that draw locals and visitors alike to celebrate community, creativity, and heritage.

Home & Outdoor Expo

Held each February, this Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce presented expo brings together local contractors, artisans, and vendors to showcase the latest in home improvement, landscaping, and outdoor living.

Savage - Upcycled Fashion Show

A bold and creative event at Cedarhurst Center for the Arts where fashion meets sustainability. Designers craft stunning runway pieces entirely from repurposed materials.

Herb & Garden Show

Hosted at Times Square Mall, this pre-springtime favorite offers plants, gardening tools, décor, and expert presentations to kick off the planting season in style.

3rd Saturday Flea Market

The 3rd Saturday Market at Times Square Mall in Mt. Vernon, IL features local vendors, collectibles, specialty items, crafts, and more in a lively, family-friendly setting. Held monthly from March - November, it's a great place to shop local and enjoy community spirit.

Cord Fitch Steel Guitar Show

A niche but cherished musical event that draws fans and players of pedal steel guitar from across the Midwest. A must-see for country and Americana music lovers.

Market Days & Hop the Shops

Downtown Mt. Vernon comes alive on the second Saturday of each month from April through October with shopping specials, local vendors, pop-up artisans, and trolley rides connecting you to participating shops.

WSIU/PBS Kids Day

A family-friendly festival at Cedarhurst Center for the Arts focused on education and fun, with character appearances, hands-on activities, and entertainment geared toward young children and their caregivers.

Mt. Vernon BIG Spring Carnival

This multi-day carnival brings all the classic fun: rides, games, food vendors, and a festive atmosphere ideal for welcoming warmer weather.

Friday's Food & Art

Held monthly at The Commons downtown on the first Friday during warmer months, this evening event blends food trucks, live music, and artist showcases. This revitalized downtown favorite shares the downtown spotlight with the Kingsman Car Club Cruise-In around the block at the Elks Lodge.

Thursday Night Live

Live music and entertainment, with great food and beverages, at Cedarhurst every Thursday during summer.

Strawberry Festival

A sweet early-summer celebration of strawberries with shortcake, treats, crafts, games, and music at the Jefferson County Historical Village.

Brewers Festival

Featuring craft brews from across Illinois and beyond, this lively adult-focused event includes tastings, food trucks, and live entertainment.

PawFest

A pet-centric celebration for furry friends and their humans, with demonstrations, pet contests, pet adoptions, and more.

Salute to Freedom

Mt. Vernon’s premier Independence Day celebration with live music performances, kids’ activities, food trucks, and a grand fireworks finale.

Ash Bash

A backyard BBQ-style event with live music, food, and community fun held in memory of a local legend.

Midwest Aviation Expo

Held at Mt. Vernon Outland Airport, this event features static displays, flight demos, vendors, and educational sessions.

Fall Fest

Downtown’s biggest fall event includes a parade, craft and food vendors, kid’s zone, and live music.

Ironclad Art

A celebration of metal art, sculpture, and industrial creativity. This creative art event is unique and inspiring.

Heritage Festival

Held at the Jefferson County Historical Village, this festival honors local history with period demonstrations, vintage crafts, and educational activities.

The Lights at Cedarhurst

A dazzling winter tradition where the grounds of Cedarhurst Center for the Arts are transformed into a glowing wonderland of lights and festive installations.