Events at Pere Marquette

Join us at Pere Marquette State Park for a special presentation by Dr. Julie Zimmermann, anthropologist from SIUE, as she explores the rich Native American history and culture of our region. Discover how Indigenous peoples lived, thrived, and shaped the landscape we know today. This engaging program is open to all ages and offers a unique opportunity to learn from a leading expert in the field. Space is limited, so RSVP is recommended. Call 618-786-3323 or email menachem.smolianski@illinois.gov to reserve your spot today!

November 29th 2025 | Feb. 21st 2026 | 7:00 PM | Fall / Winter Night Hikes

Join us for a guided 2.5-mile hike starting at 7 PM to explore fall ecology and park history. The hike will take approximately 1.5 hours. The Visitor Center will open at 7:00 PM, and a limited number of flashlights will bce available. It is recommended to bring your own flashlight. Reservations are recommended. (call 618-786-3323 to reserve your spot.)

December 13th 2025 | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM | Santa and Smokey

Join us for a festive afternoon with Smokey Bear and Santa Claus at Pere Marquette State Park! Enjoy holiday fun with s’mores by the fire, meet Smokey Bear, take photos with Santa, The event will take place at the Visitor Center from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Don’t forget your camera and holiday spirit! This is a free, family-friendly event.

January 1st 2026 | 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM | First Day Hike at Pere Marquette State Park

Start the new year off right by getting outdoors for a First Day Hike at Pere Marquette State Park! On January 1, 2026, join thousands of people across the country celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a healthy start to the new year. This year’s hike will be self-guided—stop by the Visitor Center check-in station to pick up hiking information, sign in, and receive your commemorative 2026 First Day Hike sticker (while supplies last). Then, enjoy exploring the park’s scenic trails at your own pace with friends, family, or solo. Share your adventure online and tag Pere Marquette State Park.

January 24th 2026 | 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM | Pere Marquette Star Party

Join us at Pere Marquette State Park for a Star Party hosted in partnership with the St. Louis Astronomical Society! Enjoy an evening under the stars as experts guide you through constellations, planets, and deep-sky wonders using high-powered telescopes. Perfect for all ages and experience levels—just bring your curiosity and a sense of wonder!

February 7th 2026 | 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM | Winter Watercolors

Celebrate the beauty of the season at Pere Marquette State Park with a Winter Watercolor Event! Join us at the Visitor Center for a cozy afternoon of painting our park’s natural winter landscapes. All materials will be provided, and participants of all skill levels are welcome to create their own watercolor interpretations of Pere Marquette’s scenic beauty. This is a free, family-friendly event. Reservations are recommended (call 618-786-3323 to reserve your spot). Come capture the colors of winter at Pere Marquette State Park!

March 6th 2026 | 10:00 AM | Off Trail Adventure

Join us for a strenuous off-trail hike at Pere Marquette State Park and explore areas of the park not typically seen on the main trails. Discover unique natural features, learn about local ecology, and enjoy a guided adventure through the park’s hidden landscapes. This hike is strenuous and not recommended for beginners. Reservations are required (call 618-786-3323 to reserve your spot).

March 14th 2026 | 11:00 AM | Maple Syrup Festival

Celebrate the sweetness of the season at Pere Marquette State Park’s Maple Syrup Festival! Discover the fascinating process of turning maple sap into syrup through live demonstrations and hands-on displays. Learn how trees are tapped, see sap boiling in action, and enjoy a maple syrup taste test to savor the flavors of this timeless tradition. A guided hike at 1:00 PM will take participants through the park’s maple trees, offering a closer look at how sap is collected and the ecology of these special trees.