Chester is located in southwestern Illinois in Randolph County (of which it is the county seat) southeast of St Louis between Red Bud and Murphysboro along Highway 3 overlooking the Mississippi River. The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 7,639, a decrease of 565 since 1990.
Chester is the birthplace of Elzie Segar, the creator of the cartoon character "Popeye, the Sailor Man". A statue stands next to the Chester Bridge as a tribute. In addition, the annual "Popeye Picnic" is held the weekend following Labor Day.
02/18 Coming to The area Belleville Art on the Square Belleville IL May17-19 Lower Town Arts and Music Festival Paducah KY May17-19 The Lower Town Arts and Music Festival in Paducah, Kentucky is THE regional Festival for Western Kentucky and the surrounding area. The Festival's mission is to celebrate the cultural richness of this part of the country. International Horseradish Festival Collinsville IL May31-June2 Admission is always free, parking is always free and musical entertainment is always free at the Horseradish Festival. Gathering of the Juggalos Cave-In-Rock IL August7-11 The Gathering of the Juggalos is unlike anything you have ever experienced before. It is not simply a show, a concert, a music festival, or anything of that nature. It is an EXPERIENCE. The Gathering of the Juggalos features the entire roster of Psychopathic Records plus over one hundred bands and rappers performing on multiple stages throughout the entire event. Hot August Blues Festival Hardin KY August23-24 Like we always say, if you've never been you don't know what you're missing. It's not about the music; it's not about the lake...it's all about having a good time!! Everything else is just a bonus! Bring your coolers (no glass bottles please), lawn chairs, sunscreen and ponchos, cause the festival is held rain or shine! Italian Fest Collinsville IL September20-21 For over 25 years, Collinsville IL has been celebrating the Italian culture and heritage that our city was built on. The Fest is a family friendly event and there really is something for everyone.
