The Wait is Over: Canton Bicentennial Events Revealed!

By: Forgottonia Times™ Report

A once-in-a-lifetime celebration is coming to Canton, Illinois, as the city marks its bicentennial with a weeklong festival from June 20 to June 29, featuring historic tours, concerts, and community events that highlight the city's rich past and vibrant culture. Here are just a few of the highlights to look forward to:

The festivities begin on Friday, June 20 with a Cruise In Car Show downtown from 4 to 8 p.m., followed by the Bicentennial Opening Ceremony outside the City Building at 6:30 p.m. History enthusiasts can explore the Salute to Fulton County Farms exhibit at the Historic Train Depot from 4 to 7 p.m.

On Saturday, June 21, a Historic Bus Tour of Canton departs from Alice Ingersoll Gymnasium while the Salute to Fulton County Farms exhibit continues. At 4 p.m., Greenwood Cemetery Revisited at the Canton Area Heritage Center will honor the city's notable figures.

At 6:30 p.m., on Monday, June 23, a rare moment in history unfolds with the Reveal of the 1925 Time Capsule at the Canton Area Heritage Center, offering a fascinating glimpse into the town's past century.

One of the most immersive experiences, Stepping Back in Time on the Square, takes place on Wednesday, June 25 at 5 p.m. in Jones Park, featuring the Bicentennial Community Band, a historical scavenger hunt, and shopping.

On Friday evening, Music lovers will enjoy the highly anticipated performance of The Ultimate Doors at Canton High School from 7 to 9 p.m. (tickets sold out in record time), celebrating the sounds of a legendary era.

The second weekend kicks off with a Bicentennial 5K and 1 Mile Run & Walk at Greenwood Cemetery on Saturday, June 28, followed by a grand Parade of History at 10 a.m. Evening entertainment includes a Monster Lane Band performance and Ice Cream Social in Jones Park from 6 to 9 p.m.

The celebration concludes on Sunday, June 29, with a Bicentennial Birthday Bash featuring Clayton Shay in Jones Park from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m., followed by the Bicentennial Closing Ceremony at 4:30 p.m. outside the City Building.

For a full list of events and more information, visit the City of Canton's website on their Canton Bicentennial page (www.cantonillinois.org/canton-bicentennial-information/).