Welcome to I Like Illinois

Apple watch: Illinois orchards and their origin

• Apple Orchards
• Johnny Appleseed
• John Chapman

Illinois is preparing to head into autumn, which is the busiest time of the year for apple orchards. This month, many different types of apples are in season, from Gala to Fuji to Empire. It is also the time of year when many fall festivals take place, usually featuring apple cider, hayrides and other fall-related activities.

Across Illinois, there are 102 apple orchards in 80 cities – everywhere from Papa’s Sweet Corn & Honeycrisp Apples in Northern Illinois to the Ryder Family Farm in Southern Illinois.

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Exploring Illinois State Symbols

While many Illinoisans know the red crest of the Northern Cardinal as the state bird, there are a variety of unique symbols that tell the story of our state. The tradition of state symbols began over two centuries ago after the state was admitted to the Union in 1818, and the collection of symbols have continued to evolve throughout history. 

A road trip through the state reveals endless cornfields, so it’s no surprise the state snack is popcorn. It became the state snack as a result of a student-led civic project at Cunningham Elementary School in Joliet. The students wanted to learn how a bill became a law, so they researched Illinois agriculture and chose popcorn due to the economic importance of popcorn in Illinois. It caught the attention of Illinois legislators, which resulted in the passage of Senate Bill 1051 in 2003.

A second niche state symbol is the state pie. While pumpkin pie is commonly associated with Thanksgiving, pumpkin has a rich history in Illinois as well. Illinois produces about 85% of processed pumpkins used nationwide. Similar to corn, pumpkins are central to the agricultural identity of the state. A bill was signed into law in 2015 officially recognizing pumpkin pie as a state symbol.

Just as important as fueling the body, cycling was named the state exercise on Jan. 1, 2018 to reflect the state’s commitment to public health and the safety of cyclists. Illinois already had a strong reputation for bike-friendly policies. In 2017, the League of American Bicyclists ranked Illinois as the top state in “Legislation and Enforcement” in cycling policy. To further back up the legitimacy of cycling being named the state exercise, there were three bicycle laws that went into effect on Jan. 1 to further promote bicycle safety.

Whether you’re savoring a bite, enjoying a treat, or breaking a sweat, these state symbols celebrate the unique spirit that keeps our community moving.

The 25th Annual Route 66 Mother Road Festival is coming to Springfield!

This weekend, Springfield, Illinois is hosting the 25th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival from September 25-27! This year, the festival celebrates 100 years of Route 66.

Route 66 was first constructed in 1926 but was far from complete and only had around 800 miles of paved road. The road was finished and completely paved in 1938, and it now stretches from Chicago all the way to Los Angeles. It passes through eight states and is one of the Unites States’ first continuous highways.

The event is an annual classic-car show held in downtown Springfield, featuring cars, music and fun for all ages! Several retro and custom cars will be available for viewing, many led by Dave Kindig and Dennis Gage, two designers known for their custom and classic car builds.

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How pumpkin patches became an Illinois fall tradition

• Tourism
• agriculture

Although the weather reflects otherwise, fall is right around the corner and farmers across the state are gearing up to share agricultural experiences with Illinoisans.

Visiting a pumpkin patch is a staple fall activity for many, but the agritourism experience is relatively novel.

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