These 5 spring metro-east festivals offer antiques, street food, stuff for kids & more
Sunny, temperate spring weather has made its way to Southwest Illinois, and if you’re looking for a fun weekend plan, there are several upcoming festivals to enjoy.
For those interested in a more relaxed setting to hang out, Belleville also abounds with patio seating options for drinks and dinner. It’s also that time of year for another popular spring pastime, visiting local farmers markets.
While Belleville has had its share of thunderstorms this April, Saturday should be mostly sunny with a high near 75 degrees, the National Weather Service St. Louis office forecasts.
Here’s a roundup of five spring festivals in the metro-east.
St. Louis Antique Festival
This year will mark the 60th St. Louis Antique Festival, a two-day event advertising unique finds such as vintage clothing, estate jewelry, mid-century modern items, artifacts and more.
Admission is $6, and parking is free. Another 2026 show will be held Sept. 5 and 6.
When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 25 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 26
Where: Belle-Clair Fairgrounds & Exposition Center
Belleville Strawberry Fest
The second annual Strawberry Fest in Downtown Belleville will take place on Main Street this year. Individual businesses sell strawberry-themed goods like earrings, salsa, temporary tattoos, home decor and treats.
When: Saturday, May 2 beginning at 9 a.m., individual business hours vary
Where: Downtown Belleville Main Street businesses
Belleville Woofstock
The “grooviest dog festival of the year,” Belleville Parks & Recreation’s “Woofstock” event, will feature a cutest dog contest, pet parade, a children’s dog show, “barks & crafts,” food trucks and live music. Admission to the festival is free.
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 9
Where: Rotary Dog Park (110 N. 6th St. in Belleville)
Art on the Square
One of Belleville’s most popular annual events is the juried fine arts show Art on the Square, held the weekend after Mother’s Day. This year’s event will include a Local Artist Tent, and typically hosts about 100 artist tents in total.
When: Friday, May 15 to Sunday, May 17, with hours 4 to 9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Where: Belleville’s Public Square
Edwardsville Route 66 Festival
Edwardsville’s Route 66 Festival includes a variety of activities, such as a 10K race, live music and a children’s zone with bounce houses, face-painting and a petting zoo. The Roadside Market will feature artisan vendors, as well as Route 66 memorabilia, and there will also be a classic car show, history exhibits and $5 trolley tours.
When: 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Saturday, June 13 (See event schedule for activity timing.)
Where: City Park (101 S. Buchanan Street in Edwardsville)
Do you have a question about recreation and things to do in the metro-east or Illinois for the News-Democrat? We’d like to hear from you. Fill out our Metro-east Matters form below.
