PASTport to Washington Adventure

*** DOWNLOAD YOUR PASTPORT TO PRINT *** Take a stroll through 200 years of Washington history -- one stamp at a time!  Pick up your PASTport t......More

*** DOWNLOAD YOUR PASTPORT TO PRINT *** Take a stroll through 200 years of Washington history -- one stamp at a time!  Pick up your PASTport to Washington and visit local businesses to uncover historical markers, get your stamps, and enter to win prizes! Support local, learn something new, and celebrate our bicentennial in a fun, family-friendly way!  How to Participate in the PASTport to Washington Adventure 1. Pick Up or Print Off Your PASTport Grab your official Pastport to Washington booklet at the Washington Park District office or download a one-page printable HERE. 2. Visit Local Stops Explore Washington by visiting participating businesses and organizations. Each location features a unique historical marker from our city’s 200-year history. 3. Get Your Stamp Show your Pastport at each location to receive an official stamp. Some locations will instead require a written description or drawing of the historical marker. No purchase necessary—just stop by and enjoy the history! 4. Complete Your Journey Visit as many locations as you can! The more stamps you collect, the better your chance at winning a prize. 5. Turn It In Submit your completed (or partially completed!) PASTport to the Washington Park District by Wednesday, August 27th. Don’t forget to include your name and contact information on the back page. 6. Win Prizes Participants who turn in a PASTport will be entered into the prize drawings!

All throughout Washington, IL

Ledgestone Open Disc Golf Tournament

Thousands of spectators, passionate volunteers, and the world's top-ranked pros come together each August for a week of competition, community, and celebration. Whether you're a competitor or a fan, the Ledgestone Open offers an unforgettable experience.

Brookhill Garden Railway

Open House at Brookhill Garden Railway at 607 Avon Court, Washington, hosted by Bob Lee

607 Avon Court

Music on the Patio at Tres Rojas Winery

Enjoy the Lion's Club Grill every 1st Sunday. Look for other food trucks attending on their Facebook page -- or bring your own food! No Outside beverages allowed.   

Tres Rojas Winery 1774 E Cruger Rd. Washington, IL 61571

Bags, Balloons, and Bottles

Enjoy all-day jams from Kirk Wessler, Joshua Allen, and Scott Hendryx!   Grab delicious bites from the First Responder Food Truck and sweet treats by The Baking Baer.   Toss bags in our Cornhole tourney or join us for a vineyard tour and tasting.   …t......More

Enjoy all-day jams from Kirk Wessler, Joshua Allen, and Scott Hendryx!   Grab delicious bites from the First Responder Food Truck and sweet treats by The Baking Baer.   Toss bags in our Cornhole tourney or join us for a vineyard tour and tasting.   …then watch two hot air balloons light up the night sky! What a great photo op!

1774 E Cruger Road Washington, IL

Bark-Centennial

Bark-Centennial: Dogs Welcome! Cookies/Treats, Balloon Artist, Face Painter

Washington Dog Park in Meadow Valley Park https://www.washingtonparkdistrict.com/foundation/dog-park

Bicentennial Music on the Patio with Joshua Allen

Joshua Allen brings his amazing vocals and creative, heartfelt songwriting to the patio at 4pm! Enjoy the First Response Food Truck and The Baking Baer Dessert Truck! All ages welcome! We have non-alcoholic slushies and beverages available. NO OUTSIDE BEVERAGES -......More

Joshua Allen brings his amazing vocals and creative, heartfelt songwriting to the patio at 4pm! Enjoy the First Response Food Truck and The Baking Baer Dessert Truck! All ages welcome! We have non-alcoholic slushies and beverages available. NO OUTSIDE BEVERAGES - we reserve the right to check coolers. Tres Rojas offers Butch's pizzas, cheeses, dips, crackers and chocolates. We are picnic friendly, so feel free to bring your own foods! Outside Seating is first come, first served. You're welcome to bring your own lawn chairs and shade! Enjoy our vineyard space!

1774 E Cruger Rd, Washington, IL, United States, Illinois 61571

S'more Jesus

Bring the whole family to join us for S'more Jesus- an evening of s'mores and worship out at the fire pit by our lake. All ages are welcome and s'mores are provided- just bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on!

1420 N. Main St. Washington, IL 61571

Bicentennial Music on the Patio with Scott Hendryx

Welcoming Scott Hendryx to the patio for the first time! Enjoy the First Response Food Truck and The Baking Baer Dessert Truck! All ages welcome! We have non-alcoholic slushies and beverages available. NO OUTSIDE BEVERAGES - we reserve the right to check coolers. ......More

Welcoming Scott Hendryx to the patio for the first time! Enjoy the First Response Food Truck and The Baking Baer Dessert Truck! All ages welcome! We have non-alcoholic slushies and beverages available. NO OUTSIDE BEVERAGES - we reserve the right to check coolers. Tres Rojas offers Butch's pizzas, cheeses, dips, crackers and chocolates. We are picnic friendly, so feel free to bring your own foods! Outside Seating is first come, first served. You're welcome to bring your own lawn chairs and shade! Enjoy our vineyard space!

1774 E Cruger Rd, Washington, IL, United States, Illinois 61571

Tots & Tunes

Get your groove on at the library! Music, party lights, and bubbles- what’s not to love?! Ages: 0-4

Washington District Library Main Library Meeting Room

Pokémon Club

Calling all Pokémon trainers! Come join us for an afternoon of fun with themed games, crafts, and a time to trade cards on the 3rd Monday of the month. Ages: 5-12

Sunnyland Branch 16 Sunnyland Plz, Washington, IL 61571

Beard Contest Judging to select semi-finalists

Beard Contest Judging to select top 5 semi-finalists in each of 3 categories (including "creative"). NOTE: Fan Favorite Facebook Judging of the semi-finalists is online August 18-22.

Washing Bicentennial Headquarters (ground floor of Historical Society)

The Story of Ricky Walker and His 'Ralston Rocket'"

The story of Washington’s own Ricky Walker and his “Ralston Rocket” is almost too much to believe. In 1953, 10-year-old Ricky Walker entered a contest sponsored by Ralston Purina to win a huge “rocket” just like the one featured on the wildly-popular television and radi......More

The story of Washington’s own Ricky Walker and his “Ralston Rocket” is almost too much to believe. In 1953, 10-year-old Ricky Walker entered a contest sponsored by Ralston Purina to win a huge “rocket” just like the one featured on the wildly-popular television and radio show, Space Patrol. The contest, announced on September 19, 1953, asked kids to name “Planet X,” home of the show’s arch villain. Ricky liked to enter contests, and so, like children all over the country, he entered this one. And….he won! The next steps were incredible: a visit to his house from executives from Ralston Purina, news media coverage from across the globe, a feature story in Life magazine, and a local holiday dedicated to the arrival of the rocket known as “Ricky Walker Day” in Washington. This incredible story has it all: the thrill of a local boy winning a national contest, a community rallying around this improbable event, and all the nostalgia of the 1950s (cereal contests! Space! Television!). Clearly, this is a story that needs telling, and Mary Penn has told it! Lifelong Washington resident Mary Penn has written and illustrated a delightful children’s book all about Ricky Walker and his rocket. The program will be led by Mary (and hopefully an appearance by Ricky himself!) and will be all about the story of Ricky Walker and his rocket. She will tell not only his story, but the story of the connection between Ralston Purina and Space Patrol, the picture of life in the 1950s, and even the personal story of how the retelling of the events of 1953 / 1954 on the Historical Society’s social media in 2021 December newsletter reunited Rick Walker and his brother with Washington and with two long lost childhood friends who used to play in Ricky’s rocket with him. And of course, Mary will read her new book to those assembled!

Washington Historical Society 128 Washington Square

Teen Night: Crystal Suncatchers

Get creative at the branch by making a crystal suncatcher. Grades: 6-12; Drop Off Event; Registration Closes: August 17 @ 11:45 PM Call (309)745-3023 to register.

Sunnyland Branch 16 Sunnyland Plz, Washington, IL 61571

Fall Leaves Door Mat

Washington District Library

Fall Leaves Door Mat

Spruce up your porch this August by making an un-be-leaf-able DIY door mat! Supplies and door mats provided. Ages: 18+; Registration Closes: August 18 @ 11:45 PM Call (309)444-2241 to register.

Washington District Library Main Library Meeting Room

Kidz Zone

Join us for a variety of fun activities after school on the 3rd Thursday of the month! Have a snack, make an ice cream cone art picture, and play some summer Bingo. Ages: 5-12

Sunnyland Branch 16 Sunnyland Plz, Washington, IL 61571

Bicentennial Bites: Celebrating 200 Years of Local Businesses

🎉 Bicentennial Bites: Celebrating 200 Years of Local Businesses 🎉 📅 Thursday, August 21st | 5:00 – 8:00 PM 📍 Countryside Banquet Facility | 659 School St, Washington, IL 61571 Join us for an evening of fun, flavor, and hometown pride as we celebrate Washington’s......More

🎉 Bicentennial Bites: Celebrating 200 Years of Local Businesses 🎉 📅 Thursday, August 21st | 5:00 – 8:00 PM 📍 Countryside Banquet Facility | 659 School St, Washington, IL 61571 Join us for an evening of fun, flavor, and hometown pride as we celebrate Washington’s 200th anniversary in style! Bicentennial Bites brings the community together for a family-friendly festival honoring the businesses, stories, and spirit that have shaped our town over the past two centuries. 🍴 Savor a “Taste of Washington” with bites from local eateries and food vendors 🛍️ Shop and connect with local businesses and makers 🎶 Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the evening 🎨 Take part in games, family activities, and historical displays This event is more than a celebration—it’s a tribute to the local businesses that make Washington unique. Whether you're indulging in delicious eats, discovering hometown favorites, or dancing to lively tunes, Bicentennial Bites is the perfect way to honor the past and celebrate the future of our vibrant community. ✨ Come hungry, bring the family, and celebrate 200 years of Washington! ✨

Axes & Snaxes

Are you a fan of podcasts like Crime Junkie and Killer Queens? Do you have a not-so-secret crush on Keith Morrison? Then we have a group for you! Join us on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 6:30 PM to discuss true crime documentaries, podcasts, cold cases, and more! ......More

Are you a fan of podcasts like Crime Junkie and Killer Queens? Do you have a not-so-secret crush on Keith Morrison? Then we have a group for you! Join us on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 6:30 PM to discuss true crime documentaries, podcasts, cold cases, and more! Snacks & drinks provided. Ages: 18+

Washington District Library Main Library Meeting Room

Five Points Friday - Bicentennial Edition

Five Points Friday: Bicentennial Edition Join us for a special Bicentennial Edition of Five Points Friday on Friday, August 22 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Five Points Washington! This family-friendly celebration is part of Washington’s year-long bicentennial festiviti......More

Five Points Friday: Bicentennial Edition Join us for a special Bicentennial Edition of Five Points Friday on Friday, August 22 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Five Points Washington! This family-friendly celebration is part of Washington’s year-long bicentennial festivities and promises an evening full of fun for all ages. 🎶 Enjoy live music by Sista and the Misters, and explore a wide variety of activities, including: Petting Zoo Kiddie Tractors Bike Parade Car Show Food Trucks Cash Bar 🚴‍♀️ Don’t miss the Bike Parade at 7:00 p.m.! Kids are encouraged to decorate their bikes and ride—there will be prizes for the best decorated entries! Whether you’re coming for the music, the activities, or just to soak in the community spirit, this is one summer event you won’t want to miss. Come celebrate 200 years of Washington with us!

Five Points Washington 360 N Wilmor Rd. Washington, IL 61571

Great Breakfast

Great Breakfast! Join us for a Delicious Morning!

Washington VFW 9016 300 Zinser Place

Bi(ke)Centennial 200 Family Bike Ride

Seeking 200 riders to celebrate 200 years for Washington. Prize to first 200 signups. 5-mile historic route with a rest stop.

Washington Bicentennial Antique Tractor Pull

Antique Tractor Pull Rules from "Ag of the Past" 2022-1 https://agofthepast.org/2022-1 Trophies for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in each of the classes Will have 10,500-12,500 pull After 5,500 class Please no cut tires-must have 3 ¾ inch clevis for sled hook

1841 Washington Road (former site of La Gondola)

Ceremonial planting of 200th Tree and Time Capsule

Ceremony for the planting of the official 200th tree of the "200 Trees by 2025" initiative in Washington Park and placement of the commemorative plaque in memory of Mary Kerr. Ceremony celebrating the time Capsule Vault in Washington Park to celebrate the Bicentennial a......More

Ceremony for the planting of the official 200th tree of the "200 Trees by 2025" initiative in Washington Park and placement of the commemorative plaque in memory of Mary Kerr. Ceremony celebrating the time Capsule Vault in Washington Park to celebrate the Bicentennial and placement of the commemorative plaque.

Washington Park near the new Washington sign between the helicopter and the tennis court area.

Washington Bicentennial Food Truck Frenzy and Custom Car & Bike Show

Custom Car & Bike Show A judged show: Top 50 30 Best of Show Awards Bicentennial trophies.

Connect Center, 1750 Washington Road

Alpacas and Clay Connection @ The Clay Den

Join us for a truly unforgettable experience combining creativity and cuteness! This special event includes a guided hand-building clay project—perfect for all skill levels—and the chance to meet and spend time with live alpacas. Pet them, snap some adorable photos, and......More

Join us for a truly unforgettable experience combining creativity and cuteness! This special event includes a guided hand-building clay project—perfect for all skill levels—and the chance to meet and spend time with live alpacas. Pet them, snap some adorable photos, and enjoy the calming charm of these gentle, fuzzy creatures while you create your own ceramic masterpiece.

2409 Washington Rd Washington, IL 61571

Washington Bicentennial Worship Celebration

Join Shawn Degenhart and the GospelFest Singers and Choir for the "Washington Bicentennial Worship Celebration!" On Saturday, August 23, 7 p.m., the rafters at Five Points will be ringing with hymns and worship songs as we celebrate the Lord’s faithfulness… songs like “......More

Join Shawn Degenhart and the GospelFest Singers and Choir for the "Washington Bicentennial Worship Celebration!" On Saturday, August 23, 7 p.m., the rafters at Five Points will be ringing with hymns and worship songs as we celebrate the Lord’s faithfulness… songs like “Great Is Thy Faithfulness,” “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” and “The Goodness of God.” Pastor Adam Kipp, chairman of the Washington Ministerial Association, will deliver a short devotional reflecting on the Lord’s goodness to us. This is a free event and a love offering will be taken.   This event is hosted by the Washington Ministerial Association, Washington Chamber of Commerce, and GospelFest Ministries, as part of Washington’s Bicentennial Celebration.

Five Points Washington 360 N Wilmor Rd. Washington, IL 61571

Music on the Patio at Tres Rojas Winery

Enjoy the Lion's Club Grill every 1st Sunday. Look for other food trucks attending on their Facebook page -- or bring your own food! No Outside beverages allowed.   

Tres Rojas Winery 1774 E Cruger Rd. Washington, IL 61571

Lego Club

Use library-supplied Legos to build original creations on the last Tuesday of the month. Creations will be displayed for a whole month in the children's department! Ages: 5-12

Washington District Library Main Library Meeting Room

CrafTEEN: Mosaic Tile Tray

Sign-up to make a different craft on the last Tuesday of the month! Grades: 6-12; Drop Off Event; Registration Closes: August 24 @ 11:45 PM Call (309) 444-2241 to register.

Washington District Library Main Library Meeting Room

Sunnyland Craft Night: Framed Pressed Flowers

Come join us at the Branch to make your own pressed flowers displayed in a frame. Ages: 18+; Registration Closes: August 24 @11:45 PM Call (309)745-3023 to register.

Sunnyland Branch 16 Sunnyland Plz, Washington, IL 61571