Suffering from information overload after the first two weeks of school?

Work stressing you out?

Do not fret, Labor Day weekend is upon us and I’m here to provide you with some relief to that stress.

Advertisement

There is always something to do in Carbondale. The city and surrounding area are teeming with life, what better way to spend the weekend than exploring all it has to offer with friends and family.

Here are five things to make the weekend the best it can be. By no means is this everything going on in Carbondale this weekend, but it can serve as a reference for you when planning your festivities.

5. SIU vs. Taylor 

If you are looking to start off your weekend a little early, the SIU men’s football team opens its season this year on Thursday against Taylor University at Saluki Stadium. Head coach Dale Lennon and the rest of the Saluki football team want to improve after coming off a winning record of 7-5 last season. The Salukis begin the year ranked 26th in the FCS. The game begins at 7 p.m. For students, simply show your valid student I.D. card at the game to receive your ticket. If you are not a student, visit www.siusalukis.com for ticket information or the ticket office located at the front of the stadium. Tailgating has moved to the south parking lot in between the arena and stadium.

4. Shawnee Hills Wine Trail 

The Shawnee Hills Wine Trail is one of the gems of the region. What better way to spend the day than by traveling through the beautiful rolling hills of southern Illinois, enjoying good food and drink along the way. The wine trail began with three wineries, Alto Vineyards, Pomona Winery and Owl Creek Vineyard in 1995. It has since grown exponentially, now comprised of 12 vineyards and wineries. Any of the 12 providing the perfect opportunity to kick back, relax and enjoy some of the great wines of southern Illinois. For more information, visit www.shawneewinetrail.com.

3. Get Outdoors 

Advertisement*

If there is one aspect of southern Illinois that could be called the biggest selling point, it is the amount of outdoor recreation. The natural beauty of the Shawnee National Forest stretches across approximately 280,000 acres and nine counties. The forest is home to a flourishing ecosystem full of natural plant and animal life. The trail system stretches more than 1,250 miles, making each adventure an opportunity to find something you have never seen before. For more information and help planning your next outdoor excursion, visit www.theshawneenationalforest.com.

2. Du Quoin State Fair 

The annual Du Quoin State Fair concludes on Labor Day this year. If you haven’t gotten a chance to check out the fair yet, this is your last opportunity! The grandstand still has some heavy-hitters left to play including .38 Special on Thursday, Rodney Atkins on Friday, and KC & The Sunshine Band on Saturday. Get out there, have some fun and win your significant other that stuffed animal they always dream of. You can find a daily schedule of events at www.agr.state.il.us/dq.

1. Live Music 

If you are having a conversation about Illinois and let’s say, your friend asks where the hot spots for live music in the state are, Carbondale would probably make the top-five list. Live music is a staple of the city’s culture. Hangar 9, Pinch Penny Pub, Copper Dragon, Cali’s, Tres Hombres, PK’s, The Grotto, Curbside and Key West are all bars in or around Carbondale, which provide venues for national and local musical acts. Most of the wineries in the area also provide live music for patrons. Whatever your tastes are musically, Carbondale is sure to satisfy them.

There is much more to Carbondale than just these five suggestions. I hope this article offers you a few suggestions.

Carbondale has a lot to offer. Get out and explore!