EVENTS & TOURISM
The Village of Makanda welcomes all visitors to visit Makanda and the surrounding Southern Illinois area. Makanda has a lot to offer. Visit the unique shops in downtown Makanda. Enjoy nature and the many rock formations at nearby Giant City State Park and Shawnee National Forest. Have dinner at the ever-popular Giant City Lodge. Stay at many of the nearby cabins or bed-and-breakfasts. Enjoy the Southern Illinois Wineries on the Wine Trail. The possibilities are endless.
Below are several links to help you plan your Makanda and Southern Illinois experiences
RESOURCE LINKS:
Upcoming Events
Spring Makandafest
Makanda Springfest is evaluated each spring, depending on the weather. Check back for updates.
For questions and additional information, please email makandafestevents@gmail.com.
VultureFest 2025 Scheduled for October 18th and 19th
Each fall, vultures soar and glide over Makanda and the surrounding areas, signaling the beginning of fall and the arrival of the incredible fall colors of Makanda and southern Illinois. Vulture Fest features live music, food, shopping, and art by local artists for purchase.
For questions and additional information, please email makandafestevents@gmail.com.
B.C. Ross Community Center
Located at 230 Makanda Road, near Downtown Makanda.
Building capacity and seating for 100 people. A full kitchen is available. No alcoholic beverages are allowed in the building or on village property.
Rental fee for Village of Makanda residents: $75/8 hrs. Plus a $60 deposit.
Rental fee for non-residents: $100/8 hrs. Plus a $60 deposit.
Contact Trustee Elaine Ross at (618) 457-7940 or per1956@myfrontiermail.com.
Welcome to America’s Eclipse Crossroads
Makanda, Illinois, with a population of just 547, held the rare distinction of lying directly under the paths of two total solar eclipses within seven years: the first on August 21, 2017, and the second on April 8, 2024. This small, historic railroad village in southern Illinois became a global attraction, drawing thousands of eclipse enthusiasts who gathered to experience totality under Makanda's central position in the moon's shadow. Visitors enjoyed a weekend of art, music, and food, celebrating the celestial event with souvenirs and local fare. Although the weather varied wildly in early April, the excitement of totality brought eerie dim light and darkness, reminding all attendees of the power of these rare astronomical events.