Let's Get Festive

Rural celebrations, events, and festivals bring out the best in our communities. Discover our festive spirit and a rich culture that’s overflowing with music, food, harvest goods, the arts, and handmade crafts. There is no shortage of festivals and events in and around Mt. Morris, including our free front porch music festival, Porchfest!

National Straw Sculpting Competition

This annual event draws artists from around the region to fill the campus uptown with fun, creative and surprising creations made from straw. You’ll be amazed at the whimsical yet detailed displays.

Mt. Morris, Illinois is home to the annual National Straw Sculpting Competition and draws people from all over the region

Let Freedom Ring

Our July 4th festival, is the best of small-town America featuring a parade, music, food, fun, and fireworks. We honor veterans, soldiers and the nation with a patriotic program followed by a bell ringing. Mt. Morris has the official Freedom Bell for the state of Illinois proudly displayed on the campus. It is rung at 1 p.m. on the holiday to commemorate the tolling of the Liberty Bell of Independence Hall in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, proclaiming the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Former President Ronald Reagan (then, an actor) was one of the first to help ring the bell when it was dedicated in 1963.

Mt. Morris is home to the Let Freedom Ring Festival held every July 4th and commemorating the founding of our country

Ogle County Fair

To truly appreciate the rural Midwestern spirit and culture take in a classic county fair. The Ogle County Fair has 4-H animals and displays, grandstand entertainment, thrilling Midway attractions, and iconic fair food. Summer also brings out the area’s farmers’ markets and artisan fairs where you can shop for one-of-a-kind local goods and products. Some markets include food trucks and entertainment – all the elements of a street party!

Sing welcoming guests to the Ogle County Fair. A Mt. Morris attraction

Autumn on Parade

In neighboring Oregon, is the largest festival in Ogle County, attracting tens of thousands for a weekend of races, re-enactments, food, music, streets full of vendors, historic celebrations, and a large parade.

Annual Ogle County event held in nearby Oregon, Illinois is a fun traditional attraction when visiting Mt. Morris, Illinois

Holiday Charm

Holidays highlight the charm and hospitality of small communities, complete with twinkling downtown décor, glistening snow, and festive cheer. We light up the campus and bandshell with miles of lights, a tree decorating contest, lots of hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa. Ask any local for the best drive-by light displays in town – we love festive light shows.

Mt. Morris is home to the best free summer concert series in the region. Visit CONCERT SERIES or see the COMMUNITY CALENDAR for details.