It’s America 250 and the Village of Metamora is excited to join our country’s birthday celebration. Historic Metamora has a milestone of its own – 190 years of being an official village in the heart of beautiful Woodford County. Originally named Hanover, the Village was put on the map June 7, 1836. American 250 Illinois is showcasing the best in art, entertainment and innovation and Metamora is excited to honor those who represented the best of us.
In the arena of entertainment, we honor “The Rockin’ R’s” – Metamora’s original rock stars. By 1959, these legendary musicians had their rebel sound on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand putting Metamora, Illinois on the national radar. Later, they were inducted into the Rockabilly Hall of Fame. Local author, Jonathan Wright’s book Punks in Peoria reminds us that we know how to make a scene.
To illustrate the art culture and history in Metamora, we honor DePauw Studios. Multiple generations of extraordinary artists worked from the studio on Davenport Street, which was Hanover’s first official street established in May, 1836. Robert DePauw created the official Village logo in the 1970’s and often featured the Metamora Square Park and Lincoln Courthouse in his work. Sons Greg and Doug continued his legacy of service to community through their work locally with the Art Rod Foundation, the Sun Foundation and the Peoria Art Guild.
Showcasing innovation, we honor Gray’s Garage. While not technically in the Village proper, Gray’s Garage is synonymous with Metamora’s reputation for speed, performance and artistic expression. Gray’s Garage is responsible for the custom “Art Rod” hot rod built for quadriplegic artist Greg DePauw and the Art Rod Foundation. Thanks to Gray’s Garage, Greg was able to share art education in style with a custom car made just for him.
Come join us in Metamora where we will honor the past while celebrating the future of art, entertainment and innovation proving once again, all roads lead to Metamora. Join us June 3rd, June 5th, June 6th, and June 7th for a lineup of exciting events—each day paired with a theme song that perfectly captures the spirit of the celebration. You’ll find the full schedule of events for each day below. This webpage will be updated regularly as new details and events are added, so be sure to check back often for the latest details!
Calendar of Events
Dinner on the Bricks
Time & Location: 4 – 7 p.m. on the Metamora Square
Big Papa Jake’s and River City Sweets and treats will be serving dinner and dessert. Cheese Nuts and Hanover’s will have specials for this night!
Entertainment
Time & Location: 5 – 7 p.m. on the Metamora Square
Jordan Zimmerman with Just Right Entertainment will create the perfect ambiance on the Square as guests dine, enjoy dessert, and explore local art.
Tiny Art Show
Time & Location: 5 – 7 p.m. at Village Hall
In honor of DePauw Studios, this Tiny Art Show features local artist and educator Erin Foster and is sure to spark childhood nostalgia and hometown pride.
Friday Night Concert
Time & Location: 7 – 8:30 p.m. on the Metamora Square
Come enjoy the Jim Markum Band best know for their screamin’ bass and wailin’ saxes. The Jim Markum Band has been a fan favorite on Friday nights in Metamora, so you won’t want to miss it. Dessert for the evening is to be determined.
Euchre Tournament
Time & Location: 4 – 6 p.m. at Hanover’s Beer Garden
Who doesn’t love a game of euchre? The Kiwanis Club of Metamora is hosting a tournament as part of Hanover 190—more details will be announced soon! If you have questions or would like additional information, please email the Kiwanis Club at info@metamorakiwanis.com.
Hanover’s Beer Garden
Time & Location: 4 – 9 p.m.
Hanover’s has all your beverage needs covered during Hanover 190! Their infamous beer garden will be open during the euchre tournament and the Luke Maurer concert, offering plenty of seating, cold drinks, and a great place to relax and enjoy the festivities.
Punks in Peoria Book Signing
Time & Location: 4 – 6 p.m. on the Metamora Square at the Gazebo
This book by Jonathon Wright and Dawson Barrett dives into the Peoria performance scenes in the 1980s and 1990s. Come on out and get a signed copy from Jonathon Wright!
Luke Maurer Concert
Time & Location: 6 – 9 p.m. on the Metamora Square
Nothing says “American Saturday Night” like a hometown boy singing country music! Come on out and enjoy music by the always popular Luke Maurer and his band.
Schnetzler Family Entertainment
Time & Location: 3 – 4 p.m. on the Metamora Square at the Gazebo
In the spirit of those who came before us, the Schnetzler family will embrace the sound of local rock-a-billy legends “The Rockin’ R’s” while keeping it cool and acoustic.
Underground Railroad Film
Time & Location: Airing One: 1 p.m.; Airing Two: 3 p.m. at the Stevenson House
The Metamora Association for Historical Preservation will present a film highlighting Metamora’s connection to the Underground Railroad at the Stevenson House. The film will be shown twice throughout the day, giving attendees two opportunities to learn about this important piece of local history.
Dunk Tank with Metamora Police
Time & Location: Time TBD on the Metamora Square
We may be a little partial, but we think we have some of the best police officers around! Make a splash and help our officers cool off in the dunk tank.
Madison Vancil
Entertainment
Time & Location: 4 – 6 p.m. on the Metamora Square at the Gazebo
Madison Vancil brings her own spin on the Metamora music scene. Just a girl and her guitar blending modern and vintage.
Lincoln in Metamora Talk
Time & Location: Tours: ALL DAY; Talk: 4 – 5 p.m. at the Metamora Courthouse
Step back in time and experience a piece of Metamora history! Sue Knepp and the Friends of the Metamora Courthouse will kick off a special talk series exploring Abraham Lincoln’s ties to Metamora. The historic Metamora Courthouse will also be open for tours all day, and beginning at 3:00 p.m., keep an eye out for a special guest—Abraham Lincoln himself—walking the Square and courthouse grounds!
Lawn Games with IPDPL
Time & Location: Time TBD on the former American Legion Lot
Get ready for some classic backyard fun! Illinois Prairie District Public Library will be bringing yard games for all ages to enjoy throughout the day. From friendly competition to laid-back family fun, it’s the perfect way to relax, play, and make memories together.
Metamora Fire Department Grilling
Time & Location: Time TBD on the Metamora Square
This day is meant to feel like a classic small-town family picnic—and what’s a picnic without great grilled food? The Metamora Fire Department will be firing up the grill and serving all the favorites you won’t want to miss.
Community Art
Time & Location: Time TBD on the Metamora Square
Get ready to add a splash of color to the Square! Thanks to sidewalk chalk generously sponsored and donated by Crayola and Hallmark, the sidewalks will become a canvas for creativity for anyone wanting to participate. Our vision is for each sidewalk square to be transformed into a unique piece of chalk art, filling the Square with color, imagination, and community spirit.