Move Over Pumpkin Spice, It's Still Margarita Season!

As summer slips into fall, and the crisp mornings remind us that the seasons are changing, it can be easy to lean into the idea of pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and warm candlelight. But wait, summer doesn’t end until September 22^nd! Don’t let those Spirit Halloween stores fool you into a false fall. Kankakee County is still bustling with warm weather activities. Get your last dose of sunny days and outdoor recreation before it’s too late!

Reed’s Canoe Trips offers weekend kayaking and canoe adventures through September and into early October. Get the family together and explore scenic views on the Kankakee River. You might even get lucky and see a bald eagle or hawk catch its lunch right out of the river. Now that’s a cool story for show and tell!

September is also the perfect time to lace up those hiking shoes and hit the trail. With cooler mornings and shorter days, you’re sure to hit your goal when hitting the trail. You’ve been preparing for this all summer. It’s time to put those calves to the test and hike longer and further than you have all season. The cool breeze will have your back as you finally complete your chosen trail at the Kankakee River State Park.

After your hike, settle into your family’s favorite campsite. Haven’t picked a favorite yet? Check out these campgrounds located in Kankakee County. Most of them stay open until October 31. The cooler September evenings are perfect for building a campfire, roasting marshmallows, and talking about the excitement of the new school year. The reflection of the milky way and illuminated moon on the river can put you into a dream-like state. Don’t stay up daydreaming too late though, you don’t want to be tired for your fun filled day of horseback riding through the Kankakee River State Park. Guided trail rides and carriage rides are offered year-round (weather permitting).

Are you already planning your family’s Christman vacation? Maybe you will be heading someplace tropical and warm with sandy beaches, coral reefs, and opportunities for SCUBA diving. Don’t worry, Kankakee County has your SCUBA lessons covered. Haigh Quarry offers a variety of classes for every skill level. And just because school has already started doesn’t mean your family can’t participate in some weekend extra credit. Haigh Quarry stays open on weekends through October.

Hiking, camping, and SCUBA oh my! But what about unique dining that the whole family will love?! At Locavore Farm, summer hugs the land with golden light and warm winds. A 100-foot-long dinner table awaits you and dozens of other diners, all nestled within the farm’s picturesque landscape. Are you looking for the perfect farm to table dinner? Locavore Farm’s signature dine on the land experience is a step above. Throughout the evening, guests will enjoy live music, dancing on the grass, and reconnecting with friends and family. There are even farm animals for the kids to discover and enjoy.

Kankakee County is known for its outdoor recreation, but if you identify as more indoorsy, we have the perfect trail for you. The Kankakee County Taco Trail features local restaurants that specialize in tacos and other delicious delicacies. The Taco Trail can be completed by anyone with a zest for scrumptious treats.

After finding your favorite taco spot, check out the Kankakee County Craft Beverage Trail. This trail highlights local establishments that have a flair for fancy libations. Choose between coffee, tea, boba, locally brewed beer, cocktails and mocktails. This trail has it all!

Outdoorsy or indoorsy, Kankakee County has a place for you.

Are you still pining for one more fest before the leaves fall? Don’t worry, Kankakee County has you covered.

• The Kankakee River Valley Regatta is the place to be this Labor Day weekend. From August 30^th to September 1^st the Kankakee River will feature racers from the APBA. Live music, food trucks, craft vendors, a beer garden, and kid’s activities will be happening all weekend long.
• Shoe Fest camping and music festival is also taking place over Labor Day weekend. Get out your dancing shoes and boogy down at Camp Shaw on Rock Creek from August 30^th to September 1^st.
• Music, history, and architecture is all in one place at Wright at Twilight. Experience Frank Loyd Wright’s B. Harley Bradley House while enjoying live music and refreshments. This annual event takes place on September 5^th.
• Grant Park is hosting their annual Fall Fest on September 7^th and 8^th. There will be plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
• The Village of Bourbonnais is not done with their summer concert series yet! Check out the Grove for their Fridays at 5 live music event featuring The Way Down Wanderers on September 13^th.
• Are you a craft beer lover with a soft spot for lederhosen and German food? Then Knack Brewing and Fermentations has the perfect event for you. Come to Knacktoberfest on September 14^th.
• Sun River Terrace is also hosting their annual Sun River Terrace Village Fest on September 14^th. Live music, food trucks, and kids’ activities will be available all day.
• How about an all-day music and arts festival featuring local and regional talent? The Kankakee Estival Festival is an all-ages event, and free to the public! All genres of music will be represented. Estival Festival takes place on September 21^st.
• And to wrap up a summer of fun, Manteno is hosting the 26^th Annual Manteno Oktoberfest. Come for four days of music, memories, and fun! There will be live music, a carnival, parades, and so much more! The Manteno Oktoberfest takes place September 26-29^th.

As the summer sun begins to set, Kankakee County comes alive with vibrant activities perfect for savoring those final warm days. From picturesque riverfront parks to charming local festivals, there's no shortage of outdoor adventures and community events to enjoy. Whether you're exploring the scenic Kankakee River by kayak, hiking through lush nature trails, or indulging in fresh farm-to-table delights at local eateries, Kankakee County offers the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable end-of-summer escape. Don't miss out on the seasonal celebrations, live music, and unique cultural experiences that make this area a hidden gem in the heart of Illinois.