As the leaves begin to turn and the chill of autumn creeps into the evening air, the Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site prepares to illuminate the past with its annual candlelight walks happening this October. Visitors are invited to traverse the historic grounds from Oct. 3-5, Oct. 10-12, and Oct. 17-19, where they can step back into the world of 19th-century Illinois, according to a news release by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
The well-received event, as noted by Troy Gilmore, acting superintendent of Lincoln’s New Salem, has been stretched to nine nights to better accommodate the increasing number of visitors drawn to what is dubbed as the state's most visited historic site with more than 100 volunteers each evening to make these candlelight walks a reality, the experience promises a glimpse into the past with site staff and volunteers in period attire available to share tales of yesteryear amidst the over 200 candle lanterns that will line the pathways.
Open from 5 to 7:30 p.m., the event is free to the public, cherishing donations at the visitor center with free hot chocolate on offer while supplies last—foodies can also indulge in treats from Railsplitter Gifts and Eatery, as well the Leo’s Pizza food truck and Theater in the Park concessions on selected dates, revealing that even historical events can cater to contemporary taste buds.
For a trip beyond the candlelit walks Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site, located at 15588 History Lane in Petersburg, provides more than just an evening stroll with its historically furnished buildings and the extensive park grounds that feature hiking trails a campground picnic areas, and playgrounds, as detailed on Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ website—making it a perfect fall getaway for solo adventurers, families, and history buffs alike.
The year 2025 is also significant for the IDNR as it marks a century of conservation and service in Illinois—the department now manages an array of sites across the state including state parks, and works in various domains such as wildlife, water allocation, conservation police, and even operates the World Shooting and Recreational Complex, more details about their work and history can be found on their official website.
