MT. VERNON, IL — Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. invites the community to downtown Mt. Vernon for the first Market Days of the season on Saturday, March 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at The Commons. The event will feature a wide variety of vendors, food, and family-friendly entertainment, along with special Easter-themed activities happening throughout downtown.

A highlight of the event will be the Community Easter Egg Hunt, hosted by United Way of South Central Illinois, beginning promptly at 12:00 p.m. at The Commons. The free egg hunt is open to children ages 12 and under and will feature thousands of candy- and prize-filled eggs. Families are encouraged to arrive early and bring baskets for collecting eggs.

The Easter Bunny will make special appearances throughout the day, greeting families at The Commons at 12:00 p.m. and also visiting the Shriners Children’s Screening Clinic, taking place downtown from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 124 N. 10th Street.

Hosted by Ainad Shriners and Mount Vernon Lodge #31, the complimentary screening clinic invites families with children who may have orthopedic concerns or who are seeking a second opinion. Children will be evaluated to determine if their bone, muscle, or joint condition may be treatable at Shriners Children’s St. Louis.

Following the egg hunt, Eastwood & The Prairie Wolves will take the stage, performing live until 2:30 p.m., providing a lively soundtrack to the afternoon’s festivities.

“Market Days is all about bringing people together and creating memorable experiences in downtown Mt. Vernon,” said Angela Schrum, Festival Director,  “With the addition of the Easter Egg Hunt, live music, the Golden Egg Quest, and other activities happening throughout downtown, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as we kick off the season.”

Adding to the excitement throughout the month of March is the Downtown Golden Egg Quest, an interactive promotion designed to encourage exploration of local businesses. Participants can pick up a Golden Egg Passport and visit participating downtown locations in search of hidden golden eggs.

Here’s how it works:

Participants who complete their passport will be entered to win a DMDC Golden Basket filled with downtown goodies.

“This is a wonderful way to bring families into downtown and connect them with our local businesses,” said Natalie Shook, Director of United Way of South Central Illinois. “We’re excited to be part of a day that combines fun, community engagement, and opportunities to support families in meaningful ways.”

The Golden Egg Quest will wrap up during the Market Days celebration and Easter Egg Hunt on March 28 at The Commons.

Market Days continues to be a staple event in Mt. Vernon, offering a unique shopping experience with vendors featuring antiques, handmade goods, baked items, produce, and more.

For more information about Market Days or upcoming events, visit www.enjoymtvernon.com.

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About Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc.
Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Mt. Vernon, Illinois by creating vibrant community events and experiences. Through signature events such as Market Days, Fall Fest, and seasonal celebrations, the organization brings residents and visitors together while supporting local businesses and showcasing the charm of downtown Mt. Vernon. Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. works collaboratively with community partners, volunteers, and sponsors to foster economic growth, tourism, and community pride throughout the year.