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Pere Marquette 2025 Events Brochure
Pere Marquette Bald Eagle Days
2024/2025 Eagle Tours:
December 26 | Janaury 30, 31 | Febraury 4, 7, 11, 21, 24, 26, 28 | March 7
Pere Marquette State Park will be presenting informative programs about bald eagles this winter. Visitors will learn to distinguish between immature and mature bald eagles, what eagles eat, why they spend winter months in the area, and much more. All programs will begin at the park’s visitor center at 8:30 A.M. (The program is free however, reservations are Required. Call 618-786-3323 to reserve your spot.)
December 13 | January 10 & 17 | Interpreter-Guided Winter Night Hikes
Join us for a guided 2.5-mile hike starting at 7 PM to explore winter ecology and park history. The hike will take approximately 1.5 hours. The Visitor Center will open at 6:30 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.)
January 1st 2025 | First Day Hike at Pere Marquette State Park
Start the New Year off right with a First Day Hike at Pere Marquette State Park, part of a national effort to welcome the new year in nature!
Join thousands of people across all 50 states taking part in the First Day Hikes, a tradition supported by the American Hiking Society. This is your chance to explore the beauty of Pere Marquette on a self-guided hike. Stop by the Visitor Center to check in, grab your map, and enjoy the park’s trails at your own pace.
Take lots of photos along the way and share your adventure! We’d love to see them! Start 2025 with a hike and celebrate the beauty of nature together. More information can be found here:
https://dnr.illinois.gov/calendar/page.first-day-hikes-at-illinois-state-parks.html
March 1st 2025 | Star Party at Pere Marquette State Park
Join the St. Louis Astronomical Society for a star party at Pere Marquette State Park on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Visitor Center (13112 Visitors Center Ln, Grafton, IL). Led by Simone Williams, this event offers views of the waxing crescent moon, planets like Mars, Jupiter, and Venus, and constellations such as the Big Dipper, Cassiopeia, and Orion. Telescopes will be provided for viewing opportunities.
Reservations are recommended. To reserve your spot, email Menachem Smolianski at menachem.smolianski@illinois.gov or call 618-786-3323. It’s a great opportunity for stargazing and learning about the night sky. More information can be found here:
St. Louis Astronomical Society | Pere Marquette Star Party | Night Sky Network
March 8th 2025 | From Sap to Syrup, Maple Syrup Making
Join us March 8th at Pere Marquette State Park for Sap to Syrup Maple Syrup Day—it's going to be sweet! Enjoy live demonstrations, tastings, and a sugar maple hike at 11 AM. No registration needed. Dress for the weather and join the fun!
March 22nd 2025 | Namaste with Yogi Marilyn
Join us on March 22nd at 11:00 AM at Pere Marquette State Park for a special event combining nature and relaxation. Begin with a guided hike to the stunning McAdams Peak, followed by a peaceful 40-minute yoga session led by Yogi Marilyn. Open to all ages and skill levels, this free event is a perfect chance to connect with nature and unwind in a breathtaking setting. Meet at the Visitor Center, and don’t forget to RSVP by calling 618-786-3323 or emailing menachem.smolianski@illinois.gov to reserve your spot!
April 11th & 19th 2025 | Spring Has Sprung Trail Run
Join us for the Spring Has Sprung Trail Run at Pere Marquette State Park on April 11 and April 19 at 10:30 AM! This 3.5-mile run on the scenic Inner Loop is open to all skill levels—run at your own pace and enjoy the beauty of spring. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to explore the park, this event is for you. RSVP is required, so call 618-786-3323 or email menachem.smolianski@illinois.gov to reserve your spot today!
June 13 | August 15th 2025 | 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!
