The Gillespie Public Library invites the community to its 13th annual Night of Trivia and Games, a popular evening of competition, camaraderie, and cash prizes. The event is set for Saturday, March 28, 2025, with doors opening at 6:15 p.m. and play beginning at 7 p.m. at the Gillespie Civic Center.

Attendees can expect a safe, social night out as organizers have arranged tables to accommodate social distancing, ensuring guests can enjoy the fun in a comfortable setting. The evening features prizes for first, second, and third place, along with a 50-50 drawing and other assorted cash games and prizes.

In keeping with the event’s lighthearted spirit, there will be no silent auction. Organizers emphasize that the goal is “Only laughs and fun,” with a chance to win money while enjoying a friendly competition format.

Entry is a $100 team fee, with a maximum of 10 players per team. Participants are encouraged to pre-register by March 25 to guarantee a table. Registration options include mailing a form to Gillespie Public Library, 201 W Chestnut, Gillespie, IL 62033; calling the library at 217-839-3614; or contacting Steve Joyce at 217-839-2839.

For those interested in joining or learning more, team captains should designate a contact person and provide a reachable phone number during registration.

A milestone in American road history is coming to Gillespie as the town marks Route 66’s 100th anniversary with a Roaring ’20s–themed night of food, music, and dancing. The 100th Anniversary Route 66 Chicken, Beer & Dance, organized by Grow Gillespie, invites residents and highway enthusiasts to gather for an evening that nods to the era when diners, roadhouses, and neon signs defined America’s Main Street.

The event will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Gillespie Civic Center located at 115 N Macoupin St, Gillespie with doors opening at 5:00 PM and the event starting at 5:30 PM. Attendees are encouraged to dress in Roaring ’20s attire to match the spirit of the night.

The family-friendly evening features a two-part live music lineup. Hank Greenwalt will play from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM followed by the Glendale Riders from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The event promises a lively soundtrack for dining and dancing, with a distinct mid-century vibe that honors Route 66’s heyday.

Advance tickets are required and cost $40 per person or $75 for a couple. Tickets include a catered dinner, beer, and live music. Tickets can be purchased online here or by contacting Grow Gillespie event leaders Jody Carpani at 217-710-1109, Shannon Sarti at 217-556-4152, or emailing gillespieholidaysparkle@gmail.com. Sponsorships, which include complimentary event tickets, are also available by contacting Grow Gillespie.

The night blends nostalgia with contemporary community spirit. Guests will enjoy a catered dinner, a dedicated dance floor, and live performances that span the evening. The Roaring ’20s theme invites festive costumes and costumes-friendly photography, making it a memorable weekend activity for families, Route 66 fans, and history buffs alike. Proceeds and participation benefit Gillespie Holiday Sparkle and the holiday decorating efforts.

The annual Hiltop Coin Club coin show will be held Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Gillespie Civic Center from 9 AM to 3 PM.  Admission is free and open to the public.  The show is southern Illinois’ largest coin show with over 50 dealer tables, buying, selling and trading U.S., world coins, currency, gold and silver, U.S. eagles and bullion. 

Attendees may bring coins, medals or tokens to be identified and appraised by the dealers at the show.There will be a free door prize drawing every hour. Lunch items will be available for purchase.

The Hiltop Coin Club meets the last Wednesday of the month at the Challacombe House in Hillsboro at 7:30 PM.  There is a coin auction at each meeting. Everyone is welcome. 

For more information, email hiltopcc@yahoo.com or by mail at P.O. Box 22, Gillespie, IL  62033.