Family events in Mattoon, IL

Each Tuesday at Tuscola Public Library, story time brings everyone together to read a book and then create a related craft. It combines a group reading with a hands-on activity, offering a straightforward way to enjoy stories and creativity in one visit.

Celebrate the 41st tour through the largest Amish community in Arthur, Illinois. Pedal quiet county back roads, pause at a well stocked rest area, and share the route with horse drawn buggies. Five loop options range from 10 to 30 miles, and you can ride as many or as few as you prefer. The terrain is flat to rolling and suits riders of all experience levels and bicycles. Several routes pass the Great Pumpkin Patch, where riders who stop during the ride receive free entry. Sag services are available. After the ride, enjoy lunch downtown at a local restaurant or Pauly’s BBQ food truck. Advance registration offers the best price at $30, increasing to $40 afterward. Refunds are not available.

MUMFEST 2026 features a fall themed celebration with plenty of pumpkins, mums, and seasonal floral arrangements. Explore vendors offering shopping opportunities, enjoy live music, and find activities designed for children. Food trucks will be available.

The 2026 Special Olympics Family Festival will take place at Lake Land College with the theme "There's No Place Like SOFF", inspired by The Wizard of Oz and Wicked. The community celebration is supported by First Mid Bank & Trust and Sarah Bush Lincoln and their employees, whose expanded backing helps sustain the event. Organizers will share details on how to register as a general volunteer or Friend-For-A-Day.

Run for Nash returns for its fourth year with a color run that now offers both 5k and 10k options. Organizers have hinted at a possible $5 discount during a holiday weekend. Excitement is building to make this the best year yet.

A welcoming chess club for young players to practice strategy, learn new techniques, and enjoy friendly matches in a relaxed setting. Recommended for students in grades 2 through 12, and open to all experience levels from first-time players to seasoned competitors. Meetings occur every other week in the program room on the second floor.

This community fundraiser celebrates four years of outreach supporting the homeless population in Coles County. The day features live music, vendor booths, food trucks, a silent auction, Bingo, and activities for children. There will also be a chance to pet and adopt animals from the local animal shelter.