By Cassie Yoder, Director of Marketing & Development, Green Mill Village

By Cassie Yoder, Director of Marketing & Development, Green Mill Village

By Cassie Yoder, Director of Marketing & Development, Green Mill Village

By Cassie Yoder, Director of Marketing & Development, Green Mill Village 

By Cassie Yoder, Director of Marketing & Development, Green Mill Village

By Cassie Yoder, Director of Marketing & Development, Green Mill Village

Summer in Central Illinois is all about bringing people together, and there's no better place to do that than Green Mill Village. On Friday, August 7 , Green Mill Village will once again transform into a destination for families, friends, and visitors from across the region during Ben Franklin Fest —an evening packed with exciting activities, local entertainment, great food, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're looking for a unique family outing, planning a summer road trip, or simply searching for something fun to do, Ben Franklin Fest offers something for everyone. Experience One of Central Illinois' Most Unique Summer Events From the moment you arrive, you'll find activities happening throughout the evening designed to entertain guests of all ages. Watch history in the making as Big Al's Lemon Shake-Ups attempts an American record, cool off during the exciting Foam & Flight foam party, and enjoy a variety of delicious offerings from local food trucks. Families can also get creative by making their own mini broom , inspired by Arcola's rich broomcorn heritage, or decorate miniature lawn mowers with the Future Lawn Rangers , celebrating another beloved local tradition. Take Flight with Tethered Hot Air Balloon Rides One of the evening's biggest attractions returns as Midwest Balloon Rides offers tethered hot air balloon rides from 6:00–8:00 p.m. Watching the colorful balloon rise above Green Mill Village is an incredible sight, and experiencing the ride yourself creates a memory unlike any other. Whether you're taking your first balloon ride or simply enjoying the view from the ground, it's an experience that captures the excitement of summer. Live Weather Coverage with Kevin Lighty Guests will also have the opportunity to experience WCIA's Weather on the Road as meteorologist Kevin Lighty broadcasts live throughout the evening. Visitors can stop by to watch the live weather segments, meet Kevin, and become part of the excitement as Green Mill Village is showcased across Central Illinois. More Than an Event—A Community Celebration Ben Franklin Fest is about more than entertainment. It's a celebration of community. Green Mill Village is proud to bring together local businesses, organizations, families, and visitors for an evening centered around connection, laughter, and creating lasting memories. Whether you're visiting Arcola for the first time or you've attended previous celebrations, you'll discover why this event continues to grow each year.

Where Living, Working, and Visiting Meet 

At Green Mill Village in Arcola, Illinois, every gathering is more than just an event—it’s a chance to connect, celebrate, and create memories that last a lifetime. From weddings and reunions to corporate meetings and community celebrations, our Event Center is designed to bring your vision to life.