Collinsville is located in southwestern Illinois in Madison County just east of St Louis along Highway 159 near Horseshoe Lake and the Mississippi River. The population estimate for July 1, 1998 was 23,308, an increase of 884 since 1990.
The town is best known for its production of horseradish--two-thirds of U.S. production of the plant happens here. The annual "International Horseradish Festival", held the weekend after the 4th of July, celebrates the town's status. In addition, "Italian Fest" which is usually held 2 weekends after Labor Day, honors the heritage of local immigrants and their descendants.
For golfers, the town offers the Fairmont Golf Course & Driving Range. Other diversions include parimutuel betting at Fairmount Park Racetrack.