Arcola Broom Corn Festival

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Arcola, Illinois is located in the East Central part of the state, celebrated its heritage as "broom corn capital of the world" with the renowned Broom Corn Festival this weekend.

Attending this festival was quite an eye opening experience for me. In the "Broom Tent", I watched the demonstration on how a broom was made in the old fashion way. Also, there was the "Kiddie Tractor Pull" contest. I was actually really curious about this event and wanted to participate. Unfortunately, my age does not qualify me for the contest. Of course, beer and food are must for a festival.

The other interesting thing I learned this weekend is the Amish culture. Around Arcola and Arthur areas are the heart of Amish settlement. They are very friendly and are willing to share their experiences. This older gentleman spend half an hour introducing me " The Art of Rug Making" (of course, in the old fashioned way).

Some fun facts:
Amish men start growing their beards when they are married.
An Amish horse & buggy travels about 11 m.p.h.
Amish children only attend school to the eight grade and their school year is only 8 months long.

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Photos

Shop
Historic Main St. at Arcola, IL

Tracktor Pull Contest
Country Singer, Jake Owen, started the contest

Museum
Raggedy Ann & Andy created by Johnny Gruelle. Arcola was his home town

Antique Medicine
Antique shop at Arcola

Amish Style Meal
Rockome Restaurant, the apple butter is to die for

Amish Style Meal
Rockome Restaurant, a delicious, hearty meal

Rockhome Garden
Look at the butterflies!!

Comments

[mary schuetz]

the good life
a group of friends from alton, brighton il. area have enjoyed the festival for the last 19 yr..this is our 20th yr.we our so looking forward to continuing our memories with the special people we meet every yr. there our (8)of us. thank you