Events in Alton, IL

Set out on a relaxed walk at Heartland Prairie near Gordon Moore Park with Ramona as your guide. Asters are expected to be showing their colors, and there may be an opportunity to help collect native seed for The Nature Institute if conditions allow. This Roaming Naturalists outing is part of a monthly series geared toward adults, with all ages welcome, and it explores birds, plants, insects, and whatever the group discovers along the way. Expect an easy to moderate route of roughly 1 to 2 miles, occasionally reaching 3 miles, and meet at the trailhead parking lot. The hike takes place in most weather, with cancellations only for icy conditions or excessive snow, and weather-related closures follow Alton Public Schools. Bring a reusable water bottle, a wide brim hat, bug spray, and sturdy footwear, and consider dressing in layers for changing conditions. There is no fee to participate, donations are appreciated, and registration is optional but preferred so you can receive a reminder by email.

Preschoolers ages 3 to 5 can take part in a weekly drop-off program that turns the outdoors into a classroom, with hands-on exploration across nearly 500 acres of preserve. Registration is offered by the month only, single-class signups are not available, and space is limited. Children must be able to use the restroom on their own. More information and registration details can be found on the Tiny Trekkers page.

Created for students in grades 6 through 9, this new weekly Dungeons and Dragons group invites players into nature-themed adventures with characters and dice supplied. No prior experience is needed, and activities take place mostly indoors. The session spans 14 weeks and enrollment is limited to eight participants.

Experience a longstanding, volunteer-guided group walk at Heartland Prairie in Gordon Moore Park in Alton. The outing moves at an easy pace and brings together people who appreciate prairie landscapes. No advance registration is required.

Let your four-legged friends splash in the pool on its final day of the season at Dog Day at White Birch Bay. To participate, dogs need to be recently bathed and have a shot record that includes DHLLP and rabies, and they must wear an ID tag. Keep dogs on a leash when they are not in the water. Admission is $10 per resident dog and $15 per non-resident dog, and accompanying humans get in free.

A young man, one year removed from high school and unsure of his direction, is urged by his single mother and a prosperous businessman to choose a better path. As his mother prays and a new mentor guides him through biblical discipleship, he begins to grow in character and clarity. Over time, he discovers that God’s plan for his life stretches far beyond anything he expected or imagined.

Start the day with coffee and conversation at a casual drop-in networking meet-up in North County. Attendees can grab a cup, introduce themselves, and leave with fresh contacts and potential business leads. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it easy to connect whether staying for a quick chat or hanging around a bit longer.

Designed for homeschool families, this Migration Nation session explores the fall journey of monarch butterflies, how scientists track these tiny pollinators, and what makes a monarch unique. Sessions in this series may include hikes, nature exploration, games, experiments, art projects, or scientific surveys, and topics rotate each month. Elementary participants attend with a parent or guardian, while Middle and High School sessions are drop off only. Held on select Wednesdays, sessions tend to fill quickly.

A nature-focused session for homeschool students in grades 6 to 12 centers on Meadow Magic. Participants explore late-season pollinators and the plants that attract them, and assist with catching and tagging Monarch butterflies. Activities may include hiking, hands-on science, games, art, and field surveys. Middle and high school sessions are drop off only. This recurring program takes place on select Wednesdays with rotating topics from August through May.

The Porch Cafe Band performs at the Civic Park Concert in Granite City, Illinois, bringing live music to the community.

Life Skills Training Academy presents Celebrate Recovery at Hope Fellowship Church in Florissant. This Christ-focused twelve step program supports people working through hurts, habits, hang-ups, addiction, grief, anxiety, relationship struggles, or the pressures of everyday life. Participants can expect practical tools, a welcoming community, and encouragement grounded in faith, all within a confidential and supportive setting. It offers space for personal growth and deeper healing alongside others on a similar path.

Downtown Granite City sets the scene for a new Car Meet and Market Night that blends automotive culture with a neighborhood marketplace. Air Cooled Corner is focusing activities outdoors while its indoor space is developed, keeping the same vision with a broader community purpose. This is an outdoor-only gathering with food and local vendors, and vehicles of any make and model are welcome. Sissy’s Space will be open. Guests may bring a cooler, and everyone is encouraged to be considerate, look out for one another, and avoid drinking and driving so the effort can continue to grow week by week. The goal is to bring fresh energy back to the streets all summer and spark something lasting for the town.

Now in its fifteenth year, this golf tournament supports the Florissant Firefighters Community Outreach Program, through which Florissant Valley Fire Protection District firefighters and paramedics assist those in need within the district. Efforts include providing Thanksgiving meals, Christmas gifts, school supplies, and barbecues at the senior center, along with other initiatives. Spots typically fill quickly each year. Individuals or shops interested in entering a team or in sponsorships, including hole sponsorships, can contact Tony Rask or AJ Freihoff.

Spend an evening at Talahi Lodge the night after a full moon exploring the night sky through telescopes. Equipment will be set up for shared viewing, and guidance is offered on how telescopes function so both beginners and experienced users can observe the Moon and other celestial sights. Attendees are welcome to bring a personal telescope for assistance with setup and use, and binoculars are also welcome. A water bottle is recommended. Admission is free for members and $5 for non-members, and advance registration is required.

Herbal Phoenix STL, in collaboration with the Ferguson Farmers Market, presents a Native American celebration in Ferguson at Plaza At 501. The gathering centers Indigenous perspectives, offering the community meaningful ways to learn about many cultures, celebrate achievements, and recognize both past and present challenges. Traditional foods and beverages will be available, and live performances will take place throughout the event. Artisans from a variety of nations will host booths and display the flags of their homelands. An Indigenous Craft Area invites hands-on exploration of creation techniques passed down through generations, with opportunities to win prizes. Offerings include spices and herbs, sweet treats and traditional dishes, artwork and beadwork, dream catchers, knives and protection bells, jewelry and sun catchers, as well as geodes, carved crystals, and medicinal teas. A dedicated educational booth spotlights current and historical Indigenous causes, encouraging learning, reflection, and engagement. Volunteer support is welcome, with roles for all ages. Indigenous vendors can inquire by direct message to Herbal Phoenix STL, and only messages sent to that account are legitimate.

Experience a nature-focused outing at the Nature Institute that starts with a 60-minute hike, then moves into a 60-minute yoga session overlooking the Mississippi River. After practice, participants can relax with a cup of coffee from a local café. Bring hiking boots and a yoga mat for comfortable movement from trail to mat.

At the James J. Eagan Center Ice Rink, the 3rd annual Kids Day Health, Safety and Environmental Awareness Event teams up with KidFest 2026 to create a family-focused gathering centered on wellness, safety, environmental stewardship, and youth entrepreneurship. Young creators will showcase and sell their own products, adding a vibrant marketplace led by kids. The event is seeking participation from health and wellness businesses, safety and environmental organizations, community groups, family-focused companies, providers of children’s activities, and sponsors who want to support local families. Engaging setups, activities kids can try for themselves, giveaways, and learning experiences are encouraged, offering a welcoming space to share resources, promote services, and connect with a large number of families.

Knights of Columbus Council 2951 presents its annual bocce ball tournament, a day of friendly competition and community spirit. The bracket features up to 16 teams in a single-elimination format, with spots allocated in the order registrations are received. Each team consists of two players who are 18 or older, with no substitutions and a limit of one entry per team. The entry fee is $50 per team and is non-refundable. Prizes are planned for the top finishers, with $250 awarded to the champions and $150 to the runners-up, contingent on a full 16-team field.

This outreach at Community Care Center features clothing, haircuts, blankets, a warm meal, hygiene, and Bibles, offered with the unconditional love of Jesus.

A semi-annual All North reunion will be held at the Elks lodge, with music and dancing provided by Class Act Entertainment, returning from the previous gathering. Tickets are $25 per person and include beer, burgers, brats, hot dogs, and sides. This fundraiser supports two scholarships awarded each year to descendants of North alumni.

Celebrate the city at Hazelwood Day, a community festival featuring free entertainment for families. Check out the Bommarito Auto Group Car Show and enjoy live performances from Diamond Empire Band and Superjam.

An IPRA rodeo is rolling into Godfrey, presented by the Alton–Wood River Sportsmen’s Club. Look for high-octane bull riding, a lively atmosphere, and a full day centered on community, music and adrenaline. Porch Cafe Band will provide live music to keep the energy high throughout the rodeo.

Chaser returns to the patio at Bakers & Hale for an outdoor appearance. This event brings them back to the patio setting.

Happy Trails Farm Horse Rescue opens to the public for a friendly farm experience with rescued and resident animals like cats, pigs, cows, chickens, horses, peafowl, donkeys, and llamas. Admission is free, and donations of any kind are appreciated. Activities and refreshments are available for purchase and are cash only, with pony rides $15, cold water $2, and feed bags $3. Parking is in the gravel area at the front by the sign.

Readers will delve into Good Dirt, a multigenerational story about family, legacy, and the enduring truths carried through time. The discussion will consider how the characters' pasts shape their present lives, highlight themes of identity and belonging, and examine how secrets are revealed and what effects they have. Participants will also reflect on which relationships feel most layered or meaningful and what the idea of home represents in the narrative. Expect a conversation centered on thoughtful insight and reflection.

Show #1 at Bakers & Hale kicks off a two-show run this year. A second performance, billed as Show #2, is also scheduled.

Clay Cafe is a complimentary community brunch in the Parish Hall, open to everyone. It is held alongside the weekly Food Pantry, providing a friendly space to enjoy a meal while visiting the pantry.

Curious about fostering or private adoption? This in-person, one-hour information session at the Bringing Families Together office introduces the essentials of both paths. Attendees get an overview of foster care and private adoption, learn what the licensing and adoption steps involve, and have time to meet the BFT team and ask questions. The conversation also highlights ways adults can make a lasting difference in a child’s life, offering a welcoming starting point for anyone exploring their options.

Children can engage in a forest-based play session inspired by the Reggio approach, with hands-on prompts that build curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving. Geared to ages 18 months to 6 years, this is a relaxed drop-in program with activities set up around the playground and the flexibility to arrive and leave as it suits your schedule. Admission is free for everyone, whether a member or not, and optional donations help cover the cost of supplies.

An open mic night invites anyone to say, sing, or share on stage. Admission and performing are free, and all experience levels are welcome. A PA system with microphones and inputs is provided for performers. The focus is on good vibes, creativity, and community, whether taking the mic or enjoying the show from the crowd. Bring friends, grab a seat, and enjoy the night with food and drinks available from Bindy's.

This annual golf scramble at Arlington Greens raises funds for New Opportunities and its Community Day Service program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The round uses a shotgun start. Entry includes greens fees and a cart, along with on-course games and lunch. A booze barrel, silent auctions, and opportunities to donate will also be available.

Registration is now open for this golf tournament. Teams and games are available at a discounted rate until the last day of school. All registration will take place online only this year.

Children ages 6 to 10 can take part in a three hour, drop-off Kids Night Out that includes dinner and engaging activities. Scheduled on select Fridays during the school year, this session features the Cosmic Connections theme, focusing on nighttime wildlife and the stories written in the sky. Participants explore which animals roam the preserve after dark, discover which constellations are inspired by wildlife, and learn about constellations, stars, and planets. Space is limited.

Porch Cafe Band performs at Bakers & Hale for an evening of music. Bring family and friends and enjoy time together.

Big Gun brings its powerhouse AC/DC tribute to The Mill with a full-throttle show that celebrates the band’s biggest songs. Expect cannons, the iconic schoolboy outfit, and a high-energy set featuring favorites like Back in Black, Highway to Hell, and Dirty Deeds. Fans often note how closely the group captures the sound and spirit of Brian Johnson and Angus Young, and their shows regularly fill the venue. This is an all-ages event, and the volume will be intense.

Support the 11th annual Granite City Band Mattress Fundraiser at Granite City High School, featuring brand names such as Purple, Therapedic, Helix, and Infinity massage chairs offered below typical retail pricing. This is a one day sale, and every purchase benefits the band. Mention the Facebook event to receive $50 off any mattress purchase over $499.

The 13th annual Team Jakey Fest takes place at Knights of Columbus, created in memory of Jake Zeller to bring people together around mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The festival blends community fun with access to mental health resources, pairing meaningful purpose with a full day of activities. Live performances feature Trilogy, the Steve Ewing Band, and Samba Bom. The Mike Otten Memorial Cornhole Classic is a highlight alongside magicians, bounce houses, and surprise appearances. Admission includes unlimited food and drinks, with opportunities to take part in raffles and a silent auction. Team Jakey’s mission is to save lives by reducing stigma, encouraging open conversation, building resilience, and ensuring access to care. Since its founding, the organization has raised more than $500,000 to support mental health awareness, education, and treatment in the St. Louis region. Proceeds from this event benefit the Team Jakey Foundation, AFSP Missouri, and Provident Behavioral Health, supporting education, outreach, training, and direct services across the metro area.

Tri City Jr. Speedway hosts a points race featuring young drivers. The day includes sign-in, a driver meeting, and on-track competition. Spectator admission is free for families and friends who want to watch as the season gets underway.

Celebrate the 25th anniversary of Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy with a special screening at TNI, part of a free monthly series highlighting films set in J. R. R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth. This installment features The War of the Rohirrim on a giant inflatable screen. Bring your own seating, such as lawn chairs or blankets, and pack your own snacks. Alcohol is not permitted. No pre-registration is required, and donations are welcome. Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure your spot.

Experience a vendor event at Happy Trails Farm. Entry is free, and donations are needed. Some vendors may be cash only, so bringing cash is recommended, while most can accept electronic payments. Purchases made directly from Happy Trails Farm are cash only. Farm fresh eggs will be available for $5 per dozen, and cold water will be available for $2. Parking is in the gravel area out front near the Happy Trails Farm sign, the donation bin, and the pony pen. A list of participating vendors is available in the event discussion tab. Vendor inquiries are directed to Maryann Ponder through direct message.

Jason “Gordo” Gordon returns to Bakers & Hale for the second show in his two-part run at the venue. This follow-up performance builds on the first installment and closes out his series there for the year.

Clay Cafe offers a complimentary community dinner that welcomes everyone. In addition to the dinner, there is a free community brunch and a food pantry.

Set in downtown Granite City, this kickoff car meet and market night aims to bring cars, food, local vendors, and community energy back to the streets. Air Cooled Corner is shifting to an outdoor format while its indoor space is being built, and Sissy’s Space will be open. This outdoor-only gathering welcomes all makes and models and permits coolers, with a focus on respect, looking out for one another, and not drinking and driving. Presented as the beginning of something bigger for the town, it is meant to keep growing.

Classic cars gather at Bakers & Hale for a cruise-in accompanied by live music from Fry Project. The band plays rock classics with a blues-rock and southern rock flavor, drawing from artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Allman Bros, Jimi Hendrix, Robin Trower, Albert King, Freddie King, Bad Company, ZZ Top, Black Sabbath, Black Crowes, Cream, Joe Walsh, CCR, The Doors, Steppenwolf, Jeff Healey, and REO Speedwagon. Their set can also feature blues standards and newer rock from Blackberry Smoke, Joe Bonamassa, Bush, and Stone Temple Pilots, plus heavier selections when the setting fits such as Seether, Black Sabbath, Metallica, Kiss, and Motorhead. Fry Project is known for adding creative touches by blending songs and reworking arrangements.

Mojo Universe brings a rock and blues show to Mimi's Subway Bar and Grill, featuring songs by the Moody Blues, the Temptations, B.B. King, the Commodores, Eric Clapton, and ZZ Top, along with originals including Exotic Dancer Girls, Silly Cat, Going Down the Road, and Here We Go Again.

The Mill hosts a two-in-one tribute featuring Dancing Queen and Night Fever. The music of ABBA and the Bee Gees takes center stage, with favorites from Mamma Mia to Stayin' Alive fueling a high-energy night. This massive double feature turns the venue into a lively disco celebration of two iconic groups.

Set out on a guided night hike through the woods on the trails of the Mississippi Sanctuary and Olin Nature Preserve. Expect a route of around 2 miles with planned stops, traveling over mild to moderate terrain with occasional elevation changes. It is family friendly, and guides tailor the path to the group, finalizing the route on the night of the outing. Arrive on time, as the group departs promptly. Gather outside Talahi Lodge and park in the lower lot, the rock lot at the base of the hill. Check email on the day of the hike in case bad weather leads to a cancellation. Members attend at no cost, and nonmembers pay a $5 fee. Registration is required. Helpful items include a reusable water bottle, bug spray, layered clothing, and sturdy footwear. You may bring a flashlight, though guides generally request it remain off for most of the walk.

Downtown Granite City comes alive with a combined car meet and market night from Sissy’s Space and Air Cooled Corner, mixing cars, food, and local vendors to spark community energy on the streets. The experience takes place entirely outdoors while Air Cooled Corner continues work on its indoor space, keeping the vision moving with a broader purpose. Expect an outdoor-only setup with food and local sellers, Sissy’s Space open to explore, and a welcome for all makes and models. Coolers are permitted, with an emphasis on respect, caring for one another, and no drinking and driving so this gathering can keep growing week to week. More than a typical meet, it aims to ignite a new chapter for the town.

Enjoy a lively night of music bingo at Alton Wood River Sportsman’s Club. Admission is $25 per player and includes four cards good for ten games, plus a dobber, a draft and a soda. Extra card sets will be available for $5. The kitchen will be open, and outside food, coffee and sealed water bottles are welcome. Outside alcoholic beverages are not allowed, and the club has a bar for those drinks. Look for added fun with a 50/50 raffle and more, with proceeds benefiting the dogs at Hope Animal Rescues. Online prepayment for cards is available, and strong interest suggests this may sell out. This event is open to the public.

Spooky Hollow ushers in Halloween 2026 with a festive season opener, aiming for its biggest kickoff yet.

Enjoy a visit to Happy Trails Farm Horse Rescue. Entry is free, and donations of any kind are appreciated. Meet the rescues and resident animals. A gravel parking area is available at the front by the farm sign. Some offerings have a fee and are cash only, including pony rides for $15, cold water for $2, and feed bags for $3.

HPSTL will be at Ferguson Farmers Market, offering a chance to stock up.

An inaugural vendor and resource fair takes place at the Granite City Head Start Niedringhaus Building to mark the return of the Niedringhaus School Building as a program for children through Riverbend Head Start and Family Services. Expect a mix of vendors and businesses, community resources, and activities designed for children and families. Vendor spaces include one table and two chairs, and participants may bring additional tables, chairs, or tents. The vendor fee is $25, with proceeds supporting restoration of the Granite City Head Start Niedringhaus Building. There is no charge for tables that provide informational resources. For participation details, contact The Great River Road Cookie Company at 618-225-9810 or send a direct message.

This barbecue offers ribs, brisket, chicken, and hot dogs.

An open mic night welcomes voices of all kinds to speak, sing, or share. It is free to attend and free to perform, and participants range from first-timers to seasoned acts. A PA system with microphones and inputs will be ready for use. Expect a warm, creative, community-focused setting while friends gather, find seats, and enjoy the show. Bindy’s offers food and drinks.

Enjoy a performance by The Broken Hearts, a nationally touring tribute to Tom Petty that originated in Gainesville, Florida. The band was formed in 2017 by bassist Charlie Souza, a former bandmate of Tom Petty and a member of Mudcrutch. Souza has also collaborated with Greg Allman, Vanilla Fudge, and The New Rascals. Teaming up with singer and songwriter Shawn Scheller of Save The Radio!, he leads a group of seasoned musicians dedicated to recreating the feel of a Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers live show.

Expect a night of pitch-black metal with a chilling, Halloween-adjacent atmosphere in Granite City, Illinois. The bill features Conjurers of the Moon, Funeraria, and Backstabber. Entry is $10 at the door, and the event welcomes all ages. This is a DIY space, so for location details, send a direct message to @the_doghousegc on Instagram.

Rollin' Dirty performs live at Alton Moose Lodge 951, delivering four sets of classic rock and roll.

This is a showcase dedicated to classic automobiles.

Fry Project appears at Bunkers Tavern. The guitar and music note emojis suggest a relaxed, feel-good vibe centered on peace and good times.

Celebrate the season with a family-friendly fall gathering featuring bonfires and classic treats like hot dogs, chili, popcorn, and hot chocolate. Enjoy candy bags, face painting, games, and a photo booth. Raffles include gift cards and a 58 inch flat screen television. Everything is free. For questions, call 618 929 2521.

Herbal Phoenix brings a wide-ranging selection to Ferguson Farmers Market, featuring teas and pureed tee products, hair and skin care, soaps, tinctures, tonics, syrups, inhalation and steam items, plus crystals and jewelry. Explore the selection to replenish staples or find a new favorite.

The Hope Animal Rescues Gala takes place at Alton Wood River Sportsmen's Club and includes a live musical performance. It brings people together to recognize and support the organization and its cause.

LoveBuzz appears at Bakers & Hale.

A return performance filled with the songs you love, featuring a set of familiar favorites.

A tribute double bill brings together Dream Police with the classics of Cheap Trick, followed by Ridin the Storm Out saluting REO Speedwagon. This all-ages show has been rescheduled, and previously purchased tickets remain valid for the new date. Tickets are expected to be in high demand, so advance purchase is recommended. If not sold out, a limited number may be available at the door.

Toxic Johnny hosts an open mic night at Bindy’s Bar & Grill, welcoming both first timers and seasoned performers to share music, spoken word, comedy, or any creative piece. There is no cost to attend or to perform. A PA system with microphones and inputs will be available to keep sets running smoothly. Expect a friendly atmosphere centered on creativity and community, whether you plan to step up to the mic or relax in the audience. Invite friends, find a seat, and enjoy a laid back night of performances. Food and drinks from Bindy’s are available.

This quarter auction combines the fun of bidding with raffle-style surprises and the casual feel of a home gathering. More than 20 vendors will offer items in rounds where bids cost just one to four quarters. Paddles are $5 each. Bring quarters to participate, and extra change will be available on site. Presented by Andrea Abbott at Granite City Moose 272.

Chaser will be at Bakers & Hale on the scenic patio.