Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Decatur, IL

This six-day spectacle draws people from all over Illinois (and even from neighboring states), thanks to a variety of...

This six-day spectacle draws people from all over Illinois (and even from neighboring states), thanks to a variety of family-friendly activities. In keeping with tradition, the fair features pageants, livestock competitions, a carnival, a petting zoo and even chainsaw-sculpting demos. If those aren't enough to grab your attention, check out the live elephant show and antique tractor display. There are enough tasty eats to keep your belly full the whole week, and to entertain crowds, the fair books popular local bands and dance companies.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Tue, Jun 5, 2012 Wed, Jun 6, 2012 Thu, Jun 7, 2012 Fri, Jun 8, 2012 Sat, Jun 9, 2012 Sun, Jun 10, 2012

Decatur Celebration bills itself as one of the area's largest free street festivals. Since it draws some 300,000 people...

Decatur Celebration bills itself as one of the area's largest free street festivals. Since it draws some 300,000 people each year, the claim seems more than valid! Activities and spectacles at the three-day, family-friendly festival include a parade, live music, arts and crafts, an entire block of kids' activities, an always-popular chili cook-off, and high-speed carnival rides. The riveting Illinois Washer Tossing Tournament -- always a must-see -- rounds out the eventful weekend. Visitor information booths can be found at Franklin and South Park Streets.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Fri, Aug 3, 2012: 5pm - 11pm Sat, Aug 4, 2012: 10am - 11pm Sun, Aug 5, 2012: 11am - 9:30pm

Live jazz warms the blood during Decatur's winter months thanks to this annual music festival, which started in 1975....

Live jazz warms the blood during Decatur's winter months thanks to this annual music festival, which started in 1975. Music ranges from ragtime to traditional Dixieland, so fans are assured of finding jazzy numbers to suit any aficionado's palate. Special events associated with the festival include a New Orleans-style umbrella parade, a night of swing dancing and a Sunday jazz brunch.

Hours: Fri, Feb 1, 2013: 5pm - 10pm Sat, Feb 2, 2013: 10am - 2am Sun, Feb 3, 2013: 10am - 5pm