Holiday Lights Fair at Du Quoin State Fairgrounds through end of year

This year's Holiday Lights Fair is coming off what might have been a record-smashing weekend, but it still has one more shot this year to do even better.

Mayor Guy Alongi said at this week's city council meeting that the fair, which has been on display since Thanksgiving at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, brought in around 1,500 vehicles last weekend, with about 800 of them passing through on Saturday evening alone.

"We think it is the less expensive and most beautiful event anywhere," Alongi said. "Kids see Santa, ride the train, experience kids corner and have outstanding entertainment along with many vendors that sell crafts."

The fair, presented by the Du Quoin Tourism Commission, is in its 18th year. Hours are 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. each evening, and admission is $10 per vehicle.

Activities at the Exposition Hall, which include visits with Santa, crafts and other activities, take place during the same hours Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. This weekend will be the last one for activities at the Expo Hall. Musical performers for the final weekend include the Southern Illinois Concert Band, the Great Romance, the Little Egypt Barbershop Chorus and Chesney Allen.