CATLIN — The Village of Catlin is ready to welcome residents and visitors to its Bicentennial Celebration for Vermilion County.
According to a release from the village, there will be a full day of activities on Saturday, Aug. 1 honoring the 200th anniversary for Vermilion County.
The Celebration of the Vermilion County Bicentennial will begin with a 10:00 a.m. parade and continue throughout the day with live music, a community vintage baseball game, a cruise-in and car show, museum programs, historic reenactments, cemetery walks, children’s activities, food trucks, vendors, and more.
From longtime residents to first-time visitors, the celebration is designed to showcase the people, places, and traditions that have shaped Catlin and Vermilion County over the past two centuries.
“This celebration is about bringing people together,” said Wanda Schmidt, Commissioner of Public Health & Safety for the Village of Catlin. “Whether you’re here for the parade, the music, the vintage baseball game, or simply to spend time with family and friends, we hope people leave with an even greater appreciation for our village and Vermilion County.”
One of the day’s featured historical presentations will be offered by the Vermilion County Museum in partnership with the Catlin Heritage Museum, highlighting Catlin’s unique place in Vermilion County’s history.
The program will explore why Catlin was once considered as a potential county seat and how those early decisions helped shape the county we know today. Additional museum activities throughout the afternoon will include tours, historic demonstrations, children’s activities, and cemetery walks.
“Catlin holds a unique place in Vermilion County’s story,” said Sara Cast, Director of the Catlin Heritage Museum. “Many people don’t realize that Catlin was once considered for the county seat. The bicentennial gives us the opportunity to share those stories, celebrate our local history, and help people better understand how our community helped shape Vermilion County over the last 200 years.”
Organizers are also inviting community members to become part of the celebration by participating in several featured events. Registration is currently open for:
The Bicentennial ParadeCommunity Talent ShowCruise-In & Car ShowCornhole TournamentCommunity Vintage Base Ball Game against the Vermilion Voles (ages 16+)
In addition to these featured events, visitors can enjoy live performances throughout the day, including a Barbershop Performance, In Bloom, Bob Schiffo, and an evening performance by 90’s Daughter, along with local food vendors, family activities, shopping, and entertainment throughout Catlin.
The Celebration of the Vermilion County Bicentennial is free to attend.
For the full schedule, registration information, and event updates, visit the official Catlin Celebration of the Vermilion County Bicentennial Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1LmeoiamaB/