Prairie Land Chautauqua: "Route 66"
Looks like this event has already taken place.
Fri, Sep 04 – Sat, Sep 05, 2026 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm
110 Holkenbrink Drive, Jacksonville, IL 62650
Experience the history and music in the big tent September 4 & 5, 2026 as Prairie Land Chautauqua returns to Nichols Park Pavilion. The theme this year is “Route 66.”
On August 21, 1912, the first Chautauqua took place at Nichols Park. The big tent went up, music played, speeches and lectures took place on a wooden stage. For a whole week, hundreds of people came to see and experience the show while camping on the grounds. We are bringing back tradition.
Friday, September 4th:
- 6:00 PM – Joel Baker-American Giants
- 7:00 PM – Chris Vallillo
Saturday, September 5th:
- 12:00 PM – Lunch
- 1:00 PM – Jim Hinkley – History of Route 66
- 2:00 PM – John Cooper
- 3:00 PM – Leslie Gooddard – Food of Route 66
- 4:00 PM – Condy Boelke
- 5:00 PM – Dinner
- 6:00 PM – Bucky Halker
This is a free event that is open to everyone, with family-oriented entertainment for all ages. Fun for the whole family will be provided. As we take a glimpse into the history of the Jacksonville Chautauqua and our host, Nichols Park.
Places to stay nearby...
Knights Inn & Suites
Jacksonville
If you are looking for a locally owned hotel, stop by Knights Inn for your stay.
Read more about Knights Inn & Suites
Super 8 - Jacksonville
Jacksonville
A great lodging option for travelers in Jacksonville.
Read more about Super 8 - Jacksonville
Pathway Servies Unlimited, Inc.
Jacksonville
The Pathway Community Room is an excellent place to host your next event. It is conveniently located near restaurants, shopping, and hotels.
Read more about Pathway Servies Unlimited, Inc.You might also be interested...
Ron Milton Race of Champions
Jacksonville Speedway • Oct 02 @ 6PM
Get to the racetrack for the Ron Milton Race of Champions.
Read more about Ron Milton Race of Champions
Ron Milton Race of Champions MOWA Sprints
Jacksonville Speedway • Oct 02 @ 7PM
Ron Milton Race of Champions at Jacksonville Speedway is a premier dirt track event featuring top regional drivers in Modifieds, Street Stocks & more. High-speed action…
Read more about Ron Milton Race of Champions MOWA Sprints
The Vignette Bazaar
The Soap Co. Coffee House • Oct 03 @ 5PM
2nd Annual Vignette Bazaar Art Fair at The Soap Co. Coffee House! Shop local art, enjoy music & refreshments, add to the community wall & watch…
Read more about The Vignette Bazaar