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Pere Marquette 2025 Events Brochure
June 13th | August 15th 2025 | 9:00 PM | Movie Night At Pere Marquette
Join us for a series of unforgettable evenings under the stars at Pere Marquette State Park as IDNR celebrates 100 years! Bring your family and friends for a relaxing night of fun and entertainment. Movie Nights will take place on June 13th, and August 15th, 2025. The location is the campground shelter. Be sure to bring lawn chairs or blankets for comfortable seating and your favorite snacks and beverages. This free event includes delicious s'mores for everyone to enjoy during the movie. The featured films for each night are to be determined, so stay tuned for updates! Don’t miss this great opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, connect with your community, and experience the magic of movie nights in a beautiful natural setting. For more information or updates, please contact the Visitor Center or check our website. We can’t wait to see you there!
August 23rd | 1:00 PM | Wild Edibles: Forage, Learn, and Taste at Pere Marquette
Join us for a Wild Edibles Program at Pere Marquette State Park! This fun and educational event includes both a short classroom session and a guided hike. Learn how to identify common edible plants, understand their uses, and enjoy a taste test of a few wild-foraged treats. The indoor portion will cover basic plant ID and preparation tips, followed by a hike to find examples in the wild. All ages are welcome—no experience needed. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. No RSVP required—just come ready to learn and explore!
September 6th | 10:00 AM | The Great Voyager Canoe
Join us for an unforgettable Voyager Canoe adventure. Climb aboard a 20-foot canoe that seats up to thirty people and explore the scenic backwaters of the Illinois River. This two-hour paddling experience is perfect for all skill levels—no experience necessary! Life jackets will be provided, and trained staff will guide the journey. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a great way to connect with nature and enjoy a unique group experience on the water. RSVP is required—call 618-786-3323 or email menachem.smolianski@illinois.gov to reserve your spot!
September 13th | 9:00 AM |The Grand Tour
Join us for the Grand Guided Hike at Pere Marquette State Park! This challenging but rewarding trek covers all 9 miles of the park’s scenic hiking trails in one continuous journey. Discover diverse landscapes, spot wildlife, and enjoy sweeping views along the way. Hikers should be prepared for varied terrain and bring water. RSVP is required—call 618-786-3323 or email menachem.smolianski@illinois.gov.
Septmber 20th | 11:00 AM | Art In The Park
Join us for Art in the Park with Pere Marquette’s own Janelle Smith! This hands-on program explores the traditional basket-making techniques of the Native peoples who once lived in this area. Learn, create, and connect with the region’s cultural history through art.
October 4th | 10:00 AM | Intro to Bouldering with Expert Shawn — Climb, Learn, and Win!
Join us for an Intro to Bouldering program led by climbing expert Shawn! This hands-on session is perfect for beginners and open to all ages 7 and up. Learn basic climbing techniques, safety tips, and have fun challenging yourself on the park’s bouldering routes. RSVP is required —call 618-786-3323 or email menachem.smolianski@illinois.gov. Thanks to Upper Limits Rock Climbing Gym – Maryland Heights for donating two free top rope classes and day passes, which will be raffled to one lucky participant. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to climb and explore!
October 5th | 7:00 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!
October 25th | November 29th | 7:00 PM | Fall Night Hike
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 be available. It is recommended to bring your own flashlight. Reservations are recommended. (call 618-786-3323
to reserve your spot.)
November 1st | 11:00 AM | Voices of the Past: Native American History and Culture with Dr. Julie Zimmermann
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!
