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Celebrate Granite City, Illinois
A Guide to 62040 Festivals, Parades, and Events
Get ready to have some fun in Granite City, Illinois! This city is bursting with energy and boasts a rich history and an active community. From lively celebrations to festive parades and everything in between, there’s always something happening in this vibrant town.
So whether you call Granite City home or are just passing through, You must get in on the fun at these awesome festivals, parades, and special events in Granite City!
In this guide, I’ll dive into the top Granite City, Illinois, Festivals, Parades, and Special Events that will surely get you in the party spirit. So get your party on and join the community for some serious fun!
Seniors Corner of Activities
Year-round | Most of these activities are free | Check with your township office to verify and sign-up.
Granite City Township – 2060 Delmar Ave – 618-877-0513
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GCtownshipIL
Coffee & Donuts | Monday – Friday at 8:30 am
Lunch | Residents 60+ | Served Monday – Friday at 11:00 am | Suggested donation of $4.00. Reservations are required a day prior.
Games | Tuesdays | 12:30 pm
Cinema Day – noon | Residents 55+ | Granite City Cinema – 3rd Tuesday of the month | Must sign up with Granite City Township Office.
Line Dancing | Wednesdays | 1:00 pm
Senior Bingo | Residents 60+ | Every Thursday – 11:00 am
Senior Monthly Trip Day | All trips will occur during Granite City Township business hours. | Usually begins in April.
Trip examples:
| Eckert’s in Belleville (apple or peach picking) | Casino Trip (Various locations) |
| St. Louis Zoo | Gateway Arch |
| St. Louis Art Museum | Missouri History Museum |
| St. Louis Aquarium | Gateway Grizzlies Baseball Game |
| Chesterfield Outlet Mall | National Great Rivers Museum/ Lewis and Clark Museum |
| Horseracing (Fairmont) | Missouri Botanical Gardens |
| Willoughby Farms (Collinsville) | Grafton Area |
| Pere Marquette | Anheuser Busch Brewery |
| Various sites in town (6 Mile Museum, restaurants, bakeries, tea room) | |
Chouteau Township – 906 Thorngate Rd
Website: Chouteau Township
Facebook: N/A
Senior Movie Days – noon | Residents 55+ | Granite City Cinema – 3rd Tuesday of the month | Pick up a ticket at Chouteau Township Office – each ticket includes popcorn & movie.
Nameoki Township – 4250 HWY 162 | 618-931-1230
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nameoki.township/
Coffee & Doughnuts | Given days (usually every other Monday) | Nameoki Township Hall | 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Senior Movie Days | Residents 55+ | Granite City Cinema – 3rd Tuesday of the month – noon | Pick up a ticket at Nameoki Township Office – each ticket includes popcorn & movie.
Frosty Ball Motorcycle Ride
January 1
Where: Starting Location: Smokey Joe’s, 3998 Lake St.
Route: To be determined
Admission: Free to ride
Facebook: Look for Facebook posts or word of mouth.
Do you know what’s colder than ice? Bringing on the first ride of the New Year in the Metro East! But these riders are hardcore, and they’ve been doing it for almost 30 years now. Talk about dedication! They’re bundling up and coming together from all over the area for this tradition, and it’s straight-up epic.
Approximately 350 bikes get in on the action, and let me tell you, these riders know how to ride hard and party harder. They brave the cold like it’s no big deal, revving up their engines and cursing down the streets.
And here’s the kicker – it’s all about community. These die-hard riders are coming together for a common cause, and that’s what makes it so special. They’re a family, and they’re doing something they love together. It’s something that deserves major respect.
So if you’re feeling tough enough to brave the cold and join in on the action, you know what to do. Grab your bike, bundle up, and get ready for the ride of your life. Because these riders aren’t just doing it for themselves – they’re doing it for the love of the game and the love of the community.
Eagle Day
February
Where: The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
Website: http://greatriversgreenway.org/eagledays
Admission: Free
Did you know the Mississippi River hosts one of North America’s largest concentrations of bald eagles? They are drawn to areas of open water in search of fish, their preferred food. The Chain of Rocks rapids to the south of the Bridge creates open waters, which are ideal fishing waters for eagles.
In addition, the colder the weather, the better the chances of seeing them fish, ride ice floes, soar overhead, and roost in nearby trees!
Granite City Mardi Gras
Mid-February
Where: Downtown Granite City – The District
Facebook: The City of Granite City – Mardi Gras
Admission: Free | Food and Beverages available for purchase.
You won’t want to miss the experience of the Mardi Gras festivities in downtown Granite City! This event will bring Bourbon Street to you! The celebration kicks off with a parade, then a community block party. Enjoy delicious food, shop local vendors, listen to live music, and kids can participate in FREE activities.
[Mardi Gras colors represent: Purple: Justice, Green: Faith, and Gold: Power]
Parade: 1:00 pm | Floats from local businesses, organizations, sports teams, and bands. Reach out for those beads and catch you some candy.
The Parade Route will run the traditional Granite City parade route! Lining up at 29th & State Street, heading westbound to 27th Street, turning left and right onto Madison Avenue, westbound to Niedringhaus Avenue, and ending at Civic Park in downtown Granite City!
Block Party: 2–5:00 pm at Civic Park
Local Bar Crawl: 5–10:00 pm | Wristband available for a nominal fee before the event or by 4:00 pm on the day of the event at the block party.
Alfresco Productions
March – (View their scheduled dates)
Where: 2041 Delmar Ave, Granite City, IL 62040
Website: alfrescoproduction.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alfrescoproductions
Tickets: General Admission and VIP Balcony Seating
Alfresco Productions is known for its outstanding productions featuring talented performers from the local community. At the Alfresco Performing Arts Center, you can expect diverse entertainment options catering to all interests.
So whether you’re in the mood for a captivating show, lively music from talented bands, side-splitting comedy, or engaging speeches from exceptional speakers, the center has got you covered.
East Egg Hunt
Spring March/April
Where: Wilson Park | Sykes Field (the lighted diamond)
https://www.facebook.com/GC.ParkDistrict
Admission: Free
Hosted by the Granite City Park District and offered to children 0–10 years. Bring your containers for the egg hunt and your camera to snap those memorable photos.
Dinner & Dance | by Effervescent Studios
March/April | Given Saturday
Where: Various selected locations.
Facebook: Effervescent Studios
Admission: $30.00 | but may vary
Get ready to have a blast with Effervescent Studios Annual Dinner & Dance! The event promises a night of fun, delicious food, and great company. I recommend purchasing your tickets early to ensure you don’t miss out on this fantastic night of giving and dancing.
Additionally, Effervescent Studios regularly hosts dance parties and classes throughout the year, so be sure to check their page for upcoming events.
To purchase tickets, contact Effervescent Studios at: EffervescentstudiosGC@gmail.com or 618-558-6305
MSLQMRA “Metro St. Louis Quarter Midget Racing Association
April – October
Where: Tri-City Junior Speedway | Next to Tri-City Speedway
Website: https://www.mslqmra.com/
Facebook MSLQMRA
They may be a quarter of the size, but they’re 100% fun. With drivers ranging from 5 to 13 years old, Quarter Midget Racing provides an exhilarating experience for all ages. These midget-sized cars, averaging 45mph, deliver thrills and chills that will leave a lasting impression.
So why not witness the excitement of pint-sized racing for yourself at the Tri-City Quarter Midget Racing Association?
Tri-City Speedway | Dirt Track Racing
Early April – November
Where: Tri-City Speedway
Website: https://www.tricityspeedway.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TriCitySpeedway
A 3/8 mile oval dirt track features automobile racing from midgets to sprints cars. Including the notorious “World of Outlaws.”
- Opening Day April
- April: Winter Meltdown
- June: Outlaw Showdown, Summer Nationals,
- August: Dirt Racing Experience: Drive laps in a dirt racecar. Choose from a Legends Modified, Late Model, UMP Modified, Big Block Modified, or Sprint car.
- October: Trunk or Treat | Kids get to go into the pits and trunk or treat with the drivers. September: Mod Mania
- Kids Power Wheel Challenge: Ages 3-9 years (Free Entry) Provide your own 12-volt power wheel. All kids receive a trophy. Past events occurred in May, June, July, August, and September.
Are you ready for some high-speed fun in Granite City, IL? Look no further than the Tri-City Speedway, a 3/8 mile semi-banked dirt oval track that promises excitement for all who attend. With classes ranging from Street Stock to Super Late Models, there’s no shortage of heart-pumping action. So come on out for some high-octane fun!
Annual Golf Scramble Steve Ficker Memorial College Scholarship Fund
Late April – Early May
Where: Arlington Greens Golf Course
Facebook: SteveFicker Memorial College Scholarship Fund
The Steve Ficker Scholarship celebrates the memory of an exceptional individual. It offers scholarships to students from Granite City and Highland High Schools who are part of the bass clubs and will attend a trade school. Steve believed in finding joy in everything and made having fun a priority in life.
In 2022, the scholarship fund spread joy by supporting various causes. They donated $3,500 to local high school fishing teams for the SandMark Big Bass Chase and also gave $500 each to Granite City’s Shop with a Cop and the Billie’s Kids program, which provides Christmas gifts to children in need. In addition, they co-sponsored a kids’ fishing derby with the Village of Maryville, where food and prizes were provided with help from the Steel City Bassmasters.
Sissy’s Earth Day Celebration
April
Where: 1310 21st. Street | Downtown Granite City
Facebook: Sissy’s Space
Admission: Free
Hosted by Sissy’s Space. This event will be offering a wide variety of unique handmade, eco-friendly, and fair trade items.
Baseball Parade | Granite City Park District
May
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GC.ParkDistrict
Parade Route: Post office on Madison Ave., concluding at Diamond #1 with opening ceremonies.
Features all the baseball teams that play for the Granite City Park District.
Garden Bros Nuclear Circus
May
Where: Tri-City Speedway
Ticket Sales Here, click the St. Louis Tab for more dates and times.
Website: https://www.tricityspeedway.net/
Facebook Tri-City Speedway
Experience the astonishing GARDEN BROS NUCLEAR CIRCUS with mind-blowing special effects, concert-style lighting, and thrilling acts such as the Human Cannonball, Wheel of Death, and Motorcycles in the Sphere of Fear.
You’ll also enjoy hilarious comedy for the whole family and incredible performers like the Olate Performing Dogs from America’s Got Talent and Cossack Riders. And that’s just the beginning!
Join the 1.5 hours of non-stop excitement and fun under our gigantic, climate-controlled Big Top Arena. Free children’s tickets are available at local elementary schools, preschools, daycare centers, churches, and sponsoring businesses.
Download your free tickets HERE.
Acoustic in the Park
May – October
Where: Randall D. Dalton Veterans Park | Pontoon Beach
Website: Pontoon Beach Calendar
Admission: Free
Get ready to relax and unwind under the open skies with a night of soulful acoustic melodies! The Village of Pontoon Beach has just the thing to soothe your soul – an Acoustic Music Jam at Dalton Park on a given Thursday night. And the best part? It’s completely free!
So, grab your lawn chairs or blankets and head on down to Dalton Park, where the music will begin at approximately 6:30 p.m. Spread out your blankets on the lush green grass or kick back in your comfy lawn chairs and let the soulful melodies wash over you.
You don’t need to worry about getting parched either because you can bring your own cooler filled with your favorite drinks and snacks. Just make sure you’re comfortable because the music is sure to take you on a relaxing journey that you won’t want to miss.
And if you want to sing along, feel free to do so! The Acoustic Music Jam at Dalton Park is the perfect opportunity to unwind and enjoy an evening under the stars with your loved ones. So join in, and let the music transport you.
Spring Fling Market
May
Where: St. Elizabeth Catholic School
Admission: Free
Prepare for a delightful day at the St. Elizabeth School Spring Fling market! This event is the perfect opportunity to indulge in unique, handcrafted treasures.
But that’s not all – the market also features a selection of local vendors, each showcasing its unique offering. And don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with a tempting array of treats and snacks available throughout the event.
The Melting Pot Food Festival
May | 1st Saturday of the month
Where: Downtown – Civic Park
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MeltingPotMarket
Admission: Free
The Melting Pot Food Festival is an open-air market that is a fun and engaging way to experience the vibrant culture of our community. It features talented crafters and vendors, live music, and mouthwatering cuisine. So enjoy the outdoors and discover new flavors, find unique gifts, or soak up the festive atmosphere – there’s something for everyone at this event!
Melting Pot Market
May – October | 1st Saturday of the month
Where: Downtown – Civic Park
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MeltingPotMarket
Admission: Free
One of the most beloved community events is the Melting Pot Open-Air Market, where you can discover various objects and artworks made locally. The market is set up downtown on the 1st Saturday morning of the month.
Farmer’s Market | BACDEK Farms and Old Six Mile Museum
May – November | Every other Thursday
Where: Old Six Mile Museum | 3279 Maryville Rd
Facebook: Farmer’s Market
Admission: $5.00 donation encouraged
Access fresh organic fruits and vegetables at the peak of the growing season. This means produce is at its freshest and tastes the best. Other items that may be found at this farmers market include produce and meat producers, vegan/vegetarian products, and organic handmade goods.
Summer Carnivals
- Elk Fest | Elks Lodge #1063 | usually in May
- 4801 Maryville Rd
- Elizabeth Catholic Church Carnival | Usually in June
- 2300 Pontoon Rd
Winter in Granite City can be a real drag, but we put up with it because we love the summers! And what’s more fun than a summer carnival? You’ve got it all: heart-pumping rides, live music that makes you want to dance, mouthwatering food, and even face painting. Remember the kid zones and family-friendly entertainment at many of these events.
Civic Park Concert Series
June – September | Every Wednesday 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Where: Civic Park – Downtown – The Mill
Facebook: The District in Granite City, IL
Admission: Free
The Summer Concert Series is a vibrant tapestry of sounds, sensations, and shared experiences. Get there early and visit your favorite shops, restaurants, and bars throughout the city, then enjoy these free public concerts!
As the musicians take to the stage, the park comes alive with a palpable buzz of excitement. The beats and melodies fill the air, drawing you in and lifting your spirits. People of all ages and backgrounds move to the rhythm, swaying and singing along with the music.
Of course, no concert is complete without a few creature comforts, which is why you’ll want to remember to bring your lawn chair. As you settle in and take in the scene, you’ll be grateful for the support of the City of Granite City and the sponsoring businesses that make these concerts possible.
Big Band Concerts
June | 7:30 pm. On various Thursday nights throughout the summer.
Where: Centennial Pavilion | Wilson Park
Website: https://gcparkdistrict.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GC.ParkDistrict
Admission: Free
Grab your lawn chairs because it’s time to jazz it up in the park! With the infectious rhythms of the big band filling the air, you’ll be tapping your feet and swaying to the beat in no time.
Movies Under the Stars
June | 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm on given Fridays.
Where: Sykes Field | Wilson Park
Website:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GC.ParkDistrict
Admission: Free
Event sponsored by GCS Credit Union. Get ready for a movie night under the stars. Bring your favorite blanket and comfiest pillow, and prepare for a night of cinematic magic. The best part? You’re in a beautiful park, enjoying the fresh air and scenery with friends and family. And don’t forget, it’s free!
Concessions are open during this event.
Patriots in the Park
Around July 4 | Behind Coolidge Middle School
Admission: Free to the fireworks display | Food and Beverages available for purchase.
https://www.facebook.com/GC.ParkDistrict
https://www.facebook.com/GraniteCity62040
Happy Birthday, America! Granite City celebrates the nation’s birthday with a weekend-long celebration that includes:
- Community patriotic house decorating contest
- Live entertainment
- Softball and mud volleyball tournaments
- 5K Run
- Carnival rides
- Car show
- And ends with one of the largest spectacular fireworks displays in the St. Louis Area.
At this special event, the red, white, and blue will be on full display in Granite City as the city gets set to celebrate the nation’s birthday with a weekend-long extravaganza.
Get ready for a community patriotic house decorating contest that will inspire awe and pride in the hearts of all who witness it. Live entertainment will have you tapping your toes and humming along to the beat. And if sports are your thing, be sure to catch the softball and mud volleyball tournaments, where the action is sure to be fast and furious.
The festivities also include a 5K run, carnival rides, and a car show that will have automobile enthusiasts revving their engines. But it all culminates in one unforgettable display of pyrotechnic magic, with one of the largest and most spectacular fireworks displays in the St. Louis Area.
So grab a blanket or lawn chair, and head outdoors for an unforgettable weekend of fun and fireworks. Don’t forget the bug spray, and get ready to celebrate America in style!
Party at the Beach
August
Where: Randall D. Dalton Veterans Park. 5111 State Route 111
Website https://www.pontoonbeachil.com/159/Party-at-the-Beach
Admission: Free Concert | Food and Beverages available for purchase.
The event features:
- Carnival rides
- Crafters
- Food
- Cold beverage vendors
- Local and national music acts.
Prior parties have featured national acts of Night Ranger, The Charlie Daniels Bank & The Little River Band.
The Village of Pontoon Beach has been bringing the heat every August since 2012 with their two-day event, “Party at the Beach”! And let me tell you; it’s lit! This family-focused festival has got everything you need to have an epic time with your crew – from crazy rides to sick live music.
But here’s the best part: it’s all thanks to the local businesses and organizations who sponsor the event. They know what’s up when it comes to giving back to the community, and they’re making sure that “Party at the Beach” is bigger and better every year.
When you step onto the festival grounds, you’ll feel the good vibes all around you. Kids running around, parents chillin’, and everyone enjoying the carnival rides, games, and delicious food. And let me tell you, the live music is straight fire – it’ll have you dancing like there’s no tomorrow.
So grab your crew and head on down to “Party at the Beach” – it’s gonna be an epic time you won’t forget!
Labor Day Parade
September on Labor Day at 10:00 am.
Facebook: Greater Madison County Federation of Labor AFL-CIO
Admission: Free
Parade route: Edison and Niedringhaus to Wilson Park.
A continued tradition of supporting local workers and unions. The Greater Madison County Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, holds its annual Labor Day parade. The event features live music, speeches, food, refreshments, and kids’ activities.
September Fiesta
September
Where: Historic Lincoln Place – 1801 Spruce Street
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MHCFiesta
Admission: Free | Food and Beverages available for purchase.
The Mexican Honorary Commission hosts an annual recognition and celebration of the Hispanic culture. The fiesta is a vibrant celebration incorporating delicious food, lively music, and colorful decorations. From the sounds of mariachi music to the taste of traditional Mexican cuisine, the fiesta is a beautiful opportunity to experience the richness of Mexican culture and celebrate with those around you.
Relleke Pumpkin Patch / Fall Festival
(September – October)
Where: 519 Sand Prairie Road
http://www.rellekepumpkinpatch.com/
Admission: Free | Food and Beverages available for purchase.
Parking: Free
Farm family fun: start the pumpkin season with good food, live music, and activities such as picking your pumpkin, finding your way through the corn maze and the 5-acre jungle maze, camel rides, hay rides, face painting, pumpkin painting, petting zoo and so much more! Activities and rides require tickets, and some rides have restrictions.
Magic and Mayhem
October | Every Saturday in October
Where: Downtown Civi” Park – “The “District”
Facebook: The District in Granite City, IL
Admission: Free | Food and Beverages available for purchase.
Prepare yourself for a thrilling month-long celebration of community events every Saturday throughout October! Enjoy exciting activities, including music, beverages, and vendors, from the Creepy Crawl Parade to the Nightmare on Niedringhaus. So make sure to plan ahead, wear your costume, and join in on a month filled with history, haunts, and a touch of magic.
- Creepy Crawl Parade| 4:00 pm
- Parade Route: Granite City High School ends in “The District.”
- Monster Mash Dance Party to follow the parade for some dancing in the streets. DJ, food, and fun from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
- Scavenger Hunt | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
- The Great Inflatable Race
- Chili Cook-off
- The Ghouls Night Out! | 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
-
- Live Band Concert
- Food and drinks available to purchase
- Nightmare on Niedringhaus | 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Kids Costume Parade and Contest
- Prizes, Candy, and a DJ
Sissy’s Hip Halloween
October
Where: 1310 21st. Street | Downtown Granite City
Facebook: Sissy’s Space
Admission: Free
Cheer on the Hometown Teams
Website:
Facebook: Granite City CUSD #9
Cheering on our hometown athletes. From tailgates to pep rallies to Friday night lights, attending these events can be a blast for everyone involved!
When we attend these games, we not only encourage and motivate our young athletes to keep striving for greatness but also foster a sense of pride and unity within our school and our community.
Attending their events shows them that we admire their persistence, tenacity, preparation, and hard work. Our presence shows our appreciation for their dedication and lets them know they have our unwavering support.
Coaches and kids need our support, just as we need them to do well.
Veteran’s Concert
November | Date to be announced
Where: Grace Baptist Church | 2600 Edwards Street
Website: Granite City Community Band
Facebook: Granite City Community Band
Admission: Free
The Granite City Community Band: Enhancing Civic Enjoyment of Music for 35 Years
As a salute to the nation, The Granite City Community Band (GCCB) performs at the Veteran’s Concert as a tribute to America’s military veterans and active duty troops.
GCCB is a not-for-profit corporation that has been serving the community for over three decades. Their purpose is to promote the enjoyment of music through quality concerts, encouraging youth to play instruments, and enabling former musicians to participate in musical community functions. GCCB is dedicated to enhancing the cultural life of the community, and their efforts have been recognized and appreciated by the local residents.
You can also enjoy The Granite City Community Concert and Swing Band throughout the year at various announced functions.
Santa’s Cabin
December | Opens at the end of the Candy Cane Parade
Where: Granite City Cinema | 1423 Niedringhaus Ave.
Facebook: The District in Granite City, IL
Admission: Free to speak with Santa | $10.00 for a photo (last known)
Hours: Thursdays & Fridays 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Saturday & Sundays 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm | 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
During the week of Christmas, the cabin is open from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
More days and hours may be added depending on when Christmas falls. Please visit the website for the available days and hours just before Christmas.
Winter Wonderland Festival
December | 1st Saturday
Where: Downtown Civic Park – “The District”
Facebook: The District in Granite City, IL
Admission: Free | Food and Beverages available for purchase.
Old-weather magic is front and center, featuring a winter festival in “The” District.” So, pull yourself away from the fireplace and grab your mittens for a fun day in Granite City. This special event is guaranteed to be a source of joy, featuring a lively parade, engaging contests, a vendor market, and even a visit from Santa himself.
The festivities end with the beautiful lights of Civic Park being lit. So don’t miss out on the magic of winter at this heartwarming event.
- Candy Cane Parade: 2:30 pm
- Route: Granite City High School ending at Civic Park
- Elf Walk: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
- Follow the clues and see if you can where Santa’s Elves are hiding.
- Ugly Sweater Contest
- Mistletoe Market: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm | Granite City Township Hall
- Christmas Tree Display Contest | Granite City Cinema
- Santa’s Cabin: Opens at the end of the Candy Cane Parade
Christmas Miracle on 21st Street
December
Where: 1310 21st. Street | Downtown Granite City
Facebook: Sissy’s Space
Admission: Free | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Conclusion
Whether you’re a Granite City resident or a curious visitor, prepare for some serious fun! This spirited Illinois town offers many exciting events, from the festive Labor Day Parade to the explosive Fourth of July celebrations and beyond that! So, what are you waiting for? Join the party and experience all the joyful vibes.
May also be interested in “Granite City Eats,” showcasing the yummiest local spots in Granite City, IL.
or
Maybe: Things To Do In Granite City
