Events in Benton, IL

This event features a solo performance.

Enjoy a casual night of karaoke at VFW, Sesser Cox Post 4753, with songs ranging from classic country to 80s rock. Singing ability is optional and enthusiasm is encouraged. Drinks are available, and the focus is on music and friendly company. The mic is open for anyone ready to take the stage.

Explore a creative twist on painting at Market Street Music Conservatory with a hands-on workshop for adults led by art instructor Lindsey Nelson. Participants use coffee grounds in a watercolor-style approach to craft original artwork while enjoying coffee. The fee is $30 and includes all materials and coffee. Suitable for experienced artists as well as those curious to try something new.

The Garden Club at the Library brings together plant lovers for conversations, guest speakers, and projects to work on. Everyone is welcome.

The Little Egypt Comedy Festival presents Lukas McCrary, an Austin-based stand-up with roots in East Tennessee. His credits include being featured on Netflix’s 20 Somethings, sets at SXSW and Skankfest, and more than 7 million views across Instagram and TikTok. He has shared stages with Tim Dillon, Tom Green, Erik Griffin, Maria Bamford, and Brian Simpson. In Austin, he earned a place in the inaugural class of comedians at Joe Rogan’s Comedy Mothership following a successful audition.

This weekly gathering brings people together to cook and clean for a food pantry. There is plenty of food ready to be prepared, and the need is for regular volunteers to help with prep, cooking, dishing up portions, labeling, and cleanup in support of #FeedingOthersIsLove.

This monthly support group welcomes new and experienced parents to learn, share, and build connections. Participants can come and go as needed. The group meets at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital, Medical Plaza, in the Garden Level Classrooms. Sign up to stay informed about cancellations or any changes. Parenthood takes a village, and this space is here to help build it.

A women-focused rock climbing getaway at Camp Manitowa blends skill-building at the crag with relaxing camp life. The experience begins with an arrival evening that includes dinner, a friendly meet and mingle, an overview from Sally Drake, and a bonfire with music. Over the next two days, participants travel by bus to Giant City State Park’s Devil's Standtable Area to work with Jon Richards of Vertical Voyages and climber-yoga instructor Debby Siegel. Newer climbers start with essential knots and belay technique, movement fundamentals, warm up climbs, and a first rappel, then progress to focused climbing on varied routes with an optional rappel on the second day. Experienced outdoor climbers can choose advanced coaching or a self-sufficient option if using their own approved gear. Each climbing day features coffee and a light breakfast at camp, sack lunches at the crag, and time to unwind before restorative yoga and a sound bath with Debby, dinner, and an evening bonfire with music. A hiking-only registration is available for those who prefer the nearby trails, with room for downtime such as reading or relaxing and the chance to watch the climbers. After the second climbing day, participants on the climbing-only plan may depart, or stay to bundle the experience with the Women’s Adventure Retreat, which welcomes an additional group and adds live Indie Folk and Americana music around the fire with Jeremy Todd. Instructional sessions include use of a harness, helmet, climbing shoes, a chalk bag, and a belay device with a locking carabiner, and personal gear may be used if approved by an instructor. For time outdoors, plan to bring snacks and a water bottle, comfortable weather-ready clothing that allows easy movement, closed-toe hiking or trail shoes, a backpack, necessary medications, sun protection, and a camera or phone. A hammock can be a nice addition at some crags. For camp life, pack bedding and towels, a yoga mat, a flashlight or headlamp, ear plugs, layers for changing conditions, a small blanket for bonfires, and a heated blanket or small space heater if staying in a yurt. Overnight accommodations include yurts and cabins, with the option to share with friends or a group and an additional fee for heated cabins or private yurts. Registration options are available to match different experience levels and interests.

Cheer on STL City against the Vancouver Whitecaps at a local City Bar, where City games are celebrated in a big way. A giveaway will begin at the start of the second half, and guests must arrive before halftime to receive a ticket. Enjoy the match with fellow City fans.

Celebrate International Credit Union Day with a complimentary on-site document shredding event. Bring up to 50 pounds of personal paper documents to be shredded at no cost, and please remain in your vehicle to help keep traffic moving smoothly. Examples of acceptable items include bank or credit union statements and old checks, medical and insurance forms, documents that list Social Security numbers, tax paperwork more than three years old, and credit card statements. Non-perishable food donations will also be accepted for a local food pantry.

Ceci offers tech support at the library for a variety of needs. Get help setting up a new phone, logging in and navigating a computer, or using a laptop, whether new or old. She can also assist with specific software programs and other technology questions.

At Camp Manitowa at Rend Lake, this women’s retreat with Sally Drake centers on connection, discovery, joy, and peace. All fitness levels are welcome. Participants choose how much adventurous activity to include and how much time to devote to spiritual reflection. A tentative schedule and updates are available on the event website. There is also an option to bundle with the Women’s Rock Climbing Retreat.

A two day fall market in southern Illinois fills the Du Quoin State Fair EXPO Hall with local small businesses offering boutique and children’s clothing, shoes, hats, purses, accessories, soap, candles, and select craft vendors. It is a convenient chance to get a head start on Christmas shopping while supporting makers from the area. Admission is $5, and children 12 and under enter free.

A family-friendly evening focused on astronomy features a short presentation inside the museum, followed by telescope viewing. Admission is free and the event is open to everyone, creating a welcoming setting to learn together and then observe through telescopes.

This anniversary gathering marks one year of THD at Penny’s Perks in Dowell, featuring coffee and other beverages. A portion of sales supports Perry County Animal Control. Leashed dogs are welcome outdoors only. A drive-thru option is available, and there may also be a few vendors.

This bingo gathering at the C. E. Brehm Memorial Public Library District is hosted by library staff and features small non-monetary prizes.

Liberty Village of Centralia hosts a friendly get-together at the Rolland Lewis Building featuring coffee with card games, followed by community bingo. Biscuits and gravy are provided. No reservation is required, and the event is open to the public.

Enjoy coffee and card games in a relaxed setting designed for adults 50 and older. The gathering is held inside the Rolland Lewis Building at Veterans Park. For more information, contact the Mt. Vernon Parks and Rec Office at 618-242-6890.

Craft a ghost decoration using a mop and a vase in the YA Department. This hands-on activity is for teens ages 12 to 18.

Enjoy a free adult crafting class at West Frankfort Public Library, where the specific project will be revealed closer to the event. All materials are provided. Seating is limited, so call the library to reserve a spot.

Karaoke takes over The Ranch Bar Route 37 with a sing along lineup covering country, classic rock and more. Participants can grab the mic and perform favorites, whether showing skilled vocals or simply having fun. Expect an upbeat atmosphere with plenty of laughs, plus food and drinks available. It is a chance to share your voice and style with friends during a spirited night of music.

Brawl-O-Ween returns for its ninth year with two days of derby and an open gender scrimmageathon. The schedule features twelve scrimmages of 45 minutes each with 90 skaters total, and every participant is set to skate in at least four. Standout skaters from the first day will skate in a public mixer with Power SIRG, the Southern Illinois Roller Gremlins A team. A registration link will be posted before signups open. Refunds are available by emailing sirg.brawloween@gmail.com through the stated deadline, and if you add cancellation insurance you can request a refund up until the night before the event. For updates, mark yourself as Going on the event listing.

Howl-O-Ween Trivia Night offers a spooky, fall-themed evening that benefits Down the Leash Service Dogs. All proceeds support the program’s mission to help end veteran suicide. The organization provides struggling veterans with a new mission by teaching them to train their own service dogs at no cost.

Enjoy a Halloween-themed gathering at the Rend Lake Visitor Center filled with activities for all ages. A live snake presentation kicks things off, and families can trick-or-treat for candy alongside residents of Heritage Woods of Benton, with additional treats and resources provided by Crosswalk Community Action Agency. The Exhibit Hall features a scavenger hunt that glows in the dark, designed to delight kids of every age. Seeking Sensory offers hands-on, Halloween-inspired sensory activities. Costumes are welcome, and everyone is invited to take part.

A volunteer stewardship day focused on caring for the pollinator gardens at the Rend Lake Project Office/ Visitor Center. Organized through a partnership between University of Illinois Extension and the US Army Corps of Engineers, the session blends hands-on garden maintenance with an educational segment. Participants receive guidance on supporting pollinator habitats, contribute to stewardship tasks, and connect with fellow volunteers in a welcoming setting.

Repair well-loved garments and explore visible mending in a relaxed, community-focused setting. Basic supplies are provided, including thread, needles, and a small selection of patches, and all experience levels are welcome. Attendees are encouraged to bring clothing in need of repair and spend time mending alongside others who care about keeping textiles out of landfills. Whether patching a shirt or refreshing a favorite piece, this gathering offers a supportive space to give clothes a longer life.

The 4th annual Rick Heck Memorial Car, Truck and Bike Show gathers enthusiasts at Ricks Towing Inc for a wide-ranging display of rides and a trunk or treat following the show. There is a $20 entry fee per car. Awards will be presented across numerous categories, including Best in Show, Best Classic Car, Best Classic Truck, Best Modern Car, Best Modern Truck, Best Motorcycle, Best Lifted 4x4, Top 10 Lifted 4x4, Top 75 Classic, and Top 25 Modern. Make-specific honors include Best Modern Chevy, Best Modern Ford, Best Classic Ford, Best Classic Chevy, and Best Classic Mopar. Additional recognitions include Dallas’s Choice, Daniel’s Choice, Aaron’s Choice, Dakota Choice, Ricky’s Choice, Shane’s Choice, Mike’s Choice, Ricks Brothers Choice, Bev’s Choice, Family Choice, Best Classic Paint, Best Modern Paint, Best Interior, and Farthest Driven.

A community e-waste drive, presented by the City of Herrin in partnership with CJD E-Cycling, provides a drop-off opportunity for unwanted electronics. Accepted items include most products with a power cord as well as metal items such as servers, network switches, desktop towers, printers, landline phones, cable boxes, cell phones, wireless modems, audio and video equipment, holiday lights, home electronics, telecommunication devices, and lead acid batteries. Televisions and computer monitors are accepted in a range of formats including CRT, console, projection, plasma, and flat screen. Certain materials cannot be taken. These include radioactive materials, alkaline batteries, light bulbs, household smoke detectors, hazardous substances like oil, antifreeze, and paint, flammable items, explosives such as firearms, ammunition, and shells, non electronic waste such as tires, wood, asbestos, office waste, furniture, fiberglass, insulation, roofing, and dirt, as well as other hazardous items including pesticides, oil filters, air bags, lead, mercury switches, and fluorescent lights. Media such as DVDs, CDs, cassette tapes, and VHS tapes are also not accepted. Items should meet these guidelines before drop-off.

Library Game Day at C.E. Brehm Memorial Public Library District offers a welcoming space to enjoy board and card favorites along with role playing games. Spend time with friends, meet neighbors and connect with fellow library visitors while you play. Complimentary snacks and drinks are available. Families are welcome, and children should be accompanied by a responsible adult.

A lively party fills The Log Cabin, and costumes are entirely optional. Whether you arrive in full costume or everyday attire, the focus is simply on having fun in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Master Naturalist Lily Glaeser and Indigo Nathani guide a relaxed walk focused on watching birds and learning how to recognize them in nearby natural areas. Everyone is welcome, from beginners to experienced birders. Registration is required so attendees can be contacted if poor weather leads to a cancellation. Binoculars are available to borrow with a reservation. This program is offered by University of Illinois Extension with support from Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, Giant City State Park, Green Earth, Southern Illinois Audubon Society, the Shawnee Chapter of Illinois Audubon Society, and the Southern Illinois University Carbondale Zoology Department.

Bill Harper delivers a solo performance at Teddy's Sports Bar & Grill during a rib night event.

Experience a lively night of nonstop karaoke at Ranch Bar Route 37. Take the mic and belt out favorites across country, classic rock, and more, whether you are aiming for standout vocals or just singing for fun. Bring your voice, your style, and friends to share the spotlight. Enjoy drinks and food, along with lots of laughs and an upbeat atmosphere. Step into the lights and make it a memorable karaoke night.

At Al Becken Pavilion at McAllister Park, this fun run event features multiple distances so participants can pick what fits their pace. First is a short kids dash of about 100 yards, followed by a half mile, a one mile option, and a 5K. You can run or walk, and take part in as many distances as you like. Water is provided at the starting area. The event is free and open to the public, endorsed by the Mayor’s Fitness Council and the City of San Antonio. It welcomes new runners of all ages, experienced runners working on race pace, and students on track or cross-country teams.

Merry & Bright Holiday Market is an annual, family-friendly shopping event that supports students. Shoppers can explore a wide variety of vendors offering holiday decor, boutique clothing, handmade wood crafts, artwork, bath items, candles, baked goods, candy, charcuterie, and more, making it easy to find gifts for everyone. Several food trucks will be on site, and seating will be available for meals or a quick break. Children can visit with Santa and take photos, with photography provided by BAT photography. Admission is $3 per person, children 12 and under are free, and parking is free.

A local City Bar in Southern Illinois will welcome City fans to watch the game together. A giveaway is scheduled for the beginning of the second half, so plan to arrive before halftime to take part.

At The Pavilion Events, this Christmas market features more than one hundred vendors, a variety of food trucks, and live performances. Guests can meet Santa and see his reindeer. Only two vendor slots remain; prospective vendors may reach out by text at (213) 218-5017, which is preferred, or by email at vfapply@gmail.com. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received.

Everyone is welcome on stage at VFW Sesser Cox Post 4753 for a night of karaoke. Pick favorites from classic country to 80s rock and anything in between. Singing ability is optional, enthusiasm is encouraged. Drinks are available, and the focus is on music and good company.

Keb’ Mo’ appears at MCCC, bringing the artistry of a five-time Grammy winner with 14 Blues Foundation Awards and a career that spans nearly half a century. Raised in Compton, he first earned attention at 21 performing with Papa John Creach, then spent two decades honing his craft as a guitarist, songwriter, and arranger before stepping forward with a 1994 self-titled album that followed an early release under his birth name, Kevin Moore. He quickly earned a Grammy for Just Like You, later added four more, and led the Billboard Blues chart seven times. His path has included performances at Carnegie Hall and The White House, collaborations with Taj Mahal, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Raitt, The Chicks, and Lyle Lovett, songs recorded or sampled by artists from B.B. King to Zac Brown to BTS, signature guitar models with Gibson and Martin, and music composed for television series such as Mike and Molly, Memphis Beat, B Positive, and others. He has appeared on Letterman, Leno, Conan, Colbert, and Austin City Limits, as well as on nationally televised broadcasts from The Kennedy Center, The Ryman Auditorium, and Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Festival. On screen he has shown up as himself in Martin Scorsese’s The Blues, The West Wing, and Sesame Street, and he has portrayed Robert Johnson, Howlin’ Wolf, and the bluesman Possum in Honeydripper. He received the Americana Music Association’s 2021 Lifetime Achievement in Performance. His most recent album, The Breakdown, strips his songs to intimate solo acoustic performances that look squarely at time, change, loss, and gratitude following life-saving heart surgery and the end of a long marriage, while holding tight to hope, faith, and love. The music was recorded at his home studio outside Nashville and blends blues, folk, roots, jazz, and soul with the reflective clarity of an artist turning adversity into growth.

The Hoot N Holler Band returns to Ranch Bar Route 37 for a high-energy night that spans favorite music genres and keeps the dance floor buzzing. Look for a lively, eclectic set designed to lift spirits and shake off the winter blues. It is a party built for dancing and a night to remember.

Learn which owls are calling from the woods and what makes these nocturnal birds unique. This hands-on program is created with children 5 and younger in mind, yet all ages are welcome. Each session features a story, an activity, and a craft. It is free and family friendly. Capacity is limited with availability on a first come, first served basis. Large groups of more than 10 must pre-register by calling 618-724-2493.

This free crafting session for adults features a surprise project that will be announced closer to the event. All materials are provided. Phone reservations are required to secure a seat, and space is limited.

A live set at Geo's Bar & Grill dives into the shadowy core of 90s grunge. The band leans into brooding textures, a hard-edged metal bite, and raw emotional fatigue that defined the era. Unapologetic and gripping, the music refuses to court approval and is impossible to ignore.

At The Ranch Bar Route 37, karaoke takes center stage for an upbeat evening of sing-along favorites. The song list ranges from country to classic rock and more, welcoming confident vocalists and first-timers alike. Guests can bring their voice, their style, and a few friends, and enjoy available drinks and food throughout the night. Expect a lively atmosphere with plenty of laughs and a friendly spotlight for anyone ready to take the mic.

A high energy show blends classic and modern country with southern rock, blues, and favorites from the 50s and 60s for a lively night of music.

Celebrate the third annual 5K at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, where participants can run, jog, or walk beneath the holiday lights while supporting Operation 17:2 and This Able Veteran. The event features a competitive 5K with trophies for the top three finishers and medals for age group winners, along with a Fun Run option. Entry is $30 for the competitive run and walk as well as the Fun Run, $15 for the Fun Run for ages 5 to 12 with a free shirt included, and children under 4 participate at no cost. Presented by the Du Quoin Run Club and not affiliated with Holiday Lights or Du Quoin Tourism.

A festive, free hometown Christmas market brings holiday cheer to Marion. Visitors can browse booths from local makers, enjoy tasty treats, and take part in a playful polar bear hunt. Encounters with alpacas from Rolling Oak Alpaca Ranch, carriage rides, and live music with carolers add to the atmosphere. Children will find free activities with Jack and Josies and Aisin, and families can visit with Santa and his friends. Ice skating is offered, and the Marion Cultural and Civic Center features complimentary Christmas movies. Additional free activities will be announced, and Downtown Marion offers plenty more to explore throughout the celebration.

An evening of karaoke takes over The Ranch Bar Route 37 with songs spanning country, classic rock, and more. Attendees can pick favorite tracks, sing solo or with friends, and enjoy drinks and food throughout the night. The atmosphere leans playful and welcoming, with plenty of laughter and room for both confident vocalists and those just in it for fun.

This event features a solo performance by one artist.

At Camp Manitowa at Rend Lake, this women-centered winter hiking retreat offers a peaceful break from the busy season with nature, light adventure, and connection. Cozy lodging is available in heated cabins or yurts, and guided excursions on the camp bus explore nearby state parks and scenic winter trails. The weekend begins with time to get settled, a camp tour, an overview of the plan with facilitator introductions, and a brief intention-setting meditation, then dinner, a bonfire, and stargazing. The next day features coffee and breakfast followed by multiple short hikes in Shawnee National Forest, with grab-and-go lunches enjoyed at picnic tables or on the bus between trails. After returning to camp, participants can warm up before an all-levels yoga session with a calming sound bath, then dinner and live music by the fire. The final morning offers coffee with fruit and yogurt, another all-levels yoga option, time to pack or choose a meditative hike, and a closing brunch with reflection, with the option to enjoy a bit more nature through kayaking, hiking, or art. All activities are optional, so everyone can shape the experience to match their pace, take free time, or sleep in and ask a friend to pick up breakfast. Suggested items to bring include bedding and towels, layered clothing and hats for changing weather, hiking boots or shoes, wool socks, gloves, a neck warmer, a small backpack for food and drinks, hand warmers, a refillable water bottle, a small blanket, a flashlight or headlamp, and earplugs. If staying in a yurt, a space heater or heated blanket is recommended, and some yurts include heaters. Lodging is in yurts and heated cabins, and retreat prices start at $275, with earlier arrangements helping secure preferred lodging or placement with friends or a group.

Celebrate karaoke night at the VFW with a mix of classics from country favorites to 80s rock anthems. No professional pipes required, but high energy is encouraged. Settle in for sing-along fun, drinks, and friendly company.

A festive holiday market at the mall offers local shopping, sweet treats, and family fun. Browse handmade crafts, boutique finds, and creations from local artisans. Sample specialty foods and baked goodies while discovering one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list. Meet Santa and the Grinch, and celebrate small and local businesses. Admission is free.

A one day Christmas market brings together shopping and family friendly fun inside the ThrillHouse Event Center. Browse more than 100 vendors from near and far, then let the kids meet Santa, enjoy face painting, and spend time with live reindeer for petting and photos. It is a festive stop for holiday gifts and memorable moments all in one place.

Expect a festive evening at The Moonshine Run as The Hoot N Holler Band brings upbeat live music. Enjoy tasty bites and a fun atmosphere while the band keeps the party going.

Create festive ornaments for the tree and say hello to Santa along with other special friends. This program is tailored to children 5 and younger, yet all ages are welcome. Each session features a story, an activity, and a craft. It is free and family friendly. Groups of more than 10 must pre-register by calling the Rend Lake Project Office/Visitor Center at 618-724-2493. Space is available on a first come, first served basis.

This free crafting session for adults takes place at West Frankfort Public Library. The specific project will be announced closer to the day. All supplies are provided, and seating is limited. To participate, call the library to reserve a seat.

Karaoke takes center stage at The Ranch Bar Route 37 with an open mic covering country, classic rock, and more. Step up for a solo or duet, whether you are a confident singer or just in it for the laughs. Food and drinks are available from the bar, and the atmosphere is upbeat and friendly. Bring your voice, your style, and some friends for a lively night of singalong fun.