Prairie State Wire

The Illinois State Museum will host a family program at Dickson Mounds Museum in Lewistown on Saturday, Oct. 5. The event, called "Festi-fall," will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is free for all ages.

"Dickson Mounds Museum is excited to host a family day to show the community what the museum has to offer," said Logan Pappenfort, acting director of Dickson Mounds Museum. "The museum serves as a vibrant gathering space for our community to engage and learn, and we eagerly anticipate doing so on Oct. 5."

"Festi-fall" will feature arts and crafts such as leaf-rubbing and fish-printing, timed nature walks, and guided gallery tours with Illinois State Museum staff. Attendees will also have the chance to meet artist Kevin Veara, whose exhibit "Kevin Veara: Exult" is currently on display inside the museum. Visitors can also preview the museum's new exhibit.

Staff from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources will offer archery opportunities outside, while Illinois Conservation Police will provide an educational trailer for visitors to explore. A food truck with refreshments for sale will be available on-site.

Additional partners include the Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge.

For more information about activities, visit online. The Illinois State Museum-Dickson Mounds Museum is located at 10956 N. Dickson Mounds Road in Lewistown and operates from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is always free.

Established in 1877, the Illinois State Museum aims to inspire exploration of Illinois' past and present to enrich everyday life and promote stewardship of cultural and natural resources. Headquartered in Springfield with branches in Lewistown and Lockport, ISM is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and is a member of the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience.