Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Agriculture has introduced an online registration system for camping at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, coinciding with the upcoming total solar eclipse. The Eclipse Weekend package offers a four-night stay from April 5 to April 9 for $100 at a campsite measuring 50 feet by 20 feet.

Located within 20 miles of the eclipse's path of totality on April 8, the fairgrounds provide a strategic spot for viewing the celestial event. "The eclipse is expected to last four minutes and nine seconds, but the regional economic impact is far greater," stated Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. He highlighted that southern Illinois offers an ideal setting for observing the eclipse and emphasized the convenience and affordability of their camping accommodations.

In collaboration with Southern Illinois University (SIU) Carbondale and other local organizations, the fairgrounds aim to attract global visitors and promote southern Illinois. SIU Carbondale will host the Southern Illinois Crossroads Eclipse Festival in partnership with NASA, featuring various events leading up to Eclipse Day at Saluki Stadium.

Sarah Vanvooren, Director of Events and Outreach at SIU and co-chair of the Eclipse Steering Committee, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming visitors. "We look forward to offering numerous events, outreach programs and research initiatives on the SIU campus," she said.

Camping reservations can be made through dqf.illinois.gov. More information about the festival is available at eclipse.siu.edu.