Events

Get ready for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration at Rend Lake! Hosted by Benton City Hall, and partnering with Whippoorwill Rodeo Company, this action-packed event brings the spirit of the American West to Rend Lake with thrilling rodeo performances, patriotic pride, and spectacular fireworks lighting up the night sky.

Join us on July 3rd and 4th, 2026, for heart-pounding rides, skilled cowboys and cowgirls, and family-friendly entertainment set against a backdrop of red, white, and blue celebration. From bucking broncos to community festivities, this rodeo promises excitement for all ages.

Mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and come celebrate freedom, tradition, and hometown pride at one of Southern Illinois' most anticipated summer events!

Purchase tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ranger-rodeo-tickets-1311963430939

Beavers are nature's engineers! Build and test your own beaver dam!

This program is designed for children 5 years old and younger, but all ages are welcome. Each program includes a story, activity, and craft. Free and family friendly! Large groups (>10) must pre-register by calling the Rend Lake Project Office/Visitor Center: 618-724-2493. Availability is first come/first serve.

Explore the butterfly life cycle, then catch butterflies!

This program is designed for children 5 years old and younger, but all ages are welcome. Each program includes a story, activity, and craft. Free and family friendly! Large groups (>10) must pre-register by calling the Rend Lake Project Office/Visitor Center: 618-724-2493. Availability is first come/first serve.

Experiment with natural ways to dye fabrics!

This program is designed for children 5 years old and younger, but all ages are welcome. Each program includes a story, activity, and craft. Free and family friendly! Large groups (>10) must pre-register by calling the Rend Lake Project Office/Visitor Center: 618-724-2493. Availability is first come/first serve. 

Trick-or-Treat the Visitor Center on October 27 from 10am to Noon!

Join us for a spooktacular day of family-friendly fun at the Rend Lake Visitor Center!

Enjoy:

A live snake program starting at 10am

Trick-or-treating & candy with residents of Heritage Woods of Benton and treats and resources with Crosswalk Community Action Agency

A glow-in-the-dark scavenger hunt (fun for kids of all ages) in the Exhibit Hall

Halloween-themed sensory activities courtesy of Seeking Sensory

Costumes are encouraged, and all ages are welcome!