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Welcome to

The DeSoto Dispatch

October 2024

From

The DeSoto House Hotel

"Illinois' Oldest Operating Hotel"

Since 1855

Stay with us at the DeSoto House Hotel and enjoy all the fun of fall in Galena!


Our Annual Halloween Dinner!

Murder and Mayhem: In a Mining Town

Back by Popular Demand with a few new Twists

Friday, October 25, 2024


For all details and to book your tickets through

Eventbrite click here.


Join us for this special event!

Plan now to join The Galena Generals for a night of dinner, dancing, music and fun with Galena's nine Civil War Generals at the historic DeSoto House Hotel in Downtown Galena.


Help support one of Galena's most unique and celebrated organizations.


Request to be seated with your favorite General!


Period Dress encouraged but not required.


Tickets available by calling the Desoto House Hotel at:


815.777.0090 


This Event Will Sell Out!


Have Thanksgiving Dinner with us!

Call 815.777.0090 to make reservations now!

October Packages:

Midweek Dinner Package

Sunday - Thursday

One-night stay

$50.00 Dinner coupon

$274.00


Generals' Restaurant Dinner Menu


Subject to availability

Prices good through October 31, 2024

Midweek Breakfast Package

Sunday - Thursday

One-night stay

Breakfast for two

$254.00


Courtyard Restaurant Breakfast Menu


Subject to availability

Prices good through October 31, 2024

Midweek Breakfast & Dinner Package

Sunday - Thursday

One-night stay

Breakfast for two

$50.00 Dinner coupon

$299.00


Courtyard Restaurant Breakfast Menu

Generals' Restaurant Dinner Menu


Subject to availability

Prices good through October 31, 2024

History Museum Package

Sunday - Thursday

One-night stay

Breakfast for two

Tickets to the Galena Grant History Museum

$274.00


Courtyard Restaurant Breakfast Menu


Subject to availability

Prices good through October 31, 2024

Trolley Package

Sunday - Thursday

One-night stay

Breakfast for two

Two tickets for the Galena Trolley

$274.00


Courtyard Restaurant Breakfast Menu


Subject to availability

Prices good through October 31, 2024

Everyone loves a cocktail or two...

Stay with us Sundays through Thursdays and enjoy a complimentary cocktail in one of our fabulous restaurants.


Then join us for dinner!

Upcoming Events:

Galena Farmers Market


Every Saturday, 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM

May 18, 2024 - October 26, 2024


City Hall Parking Lot

(Behind the DeSoto House Hotel)

101 Green St.

Galena, IL 61036


Experience the bounty of local agriculture and artisanal crafts at the Galena Farmers Market.


The market comes alive with the vibrant colors and aromas of freshly harvested produce, fruits, and organic foods.


The market is a celebration of the region's agricultural richness, showcasing an assortment of specialties from local farmers and artisans. Whether you're looking for juicy heirloom tomatoes, freshly baked bread, or handmade artisanal crafts, you're sure to find something that catches your eye.


The Galena Farmers Market is the perfect destination for those seeking a taste of local flavor and a chance to support the community's farmers and artisans.

~~~

Berning Acres Dairy Farm Tour


Monday - Saturday

May - October, 2024


11:00 AM - 12:30 PM


Berning Acres

8850 N Menominee Rd.

East Dubuque, IL 61025


Get a unique behind-the scenes experience of real life on a 21st century dairy farm lead by a farmer!


We love to welcome people to our farm, and cannot wait to share the wonderful hands-on experience of farm life with you!


On our 60-90 minute FARM TOUR, we'll lead you through our working dairy farm, where you’ll get the opportunity to milk a cow, feed a calf (calf selfies encouraged!) and learn about innovative technologies used on our farm. Of course, you’ll enjoy a tasty ice cream treat at the end of your tour, too!


For more information, tickets and other events click here.

~~~

Belden School Open House

The Return of the 1800s Organ


Saturday, October 5, 2024

Saturday, October 19, 2024

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM


52 Heatherdowns Lane

Galena, IL 61036


Come out and witness the return of the original restored 1800s organ to Belden School! 


Built in 1859, the one-room, limestone schoolhouse served the area’s school children until 1943. From then it sat silent in the woods until 2009 when it was restored and reopened.


Located in the Galena Territory, today the charming Belden School offers a historic and lively look into schooldays of yesteryear.


Students of all ages can experience the schoolhouse and its programs on chosen Saturdays and at special events June through October.


Docents are available to explain the past, present and future of this historically restored one-room limestone schoolhouse.


The school was named after Thomas Belden, an early settler and a school trustee. The structure is located on a thickly wooded hillside flanked by a steep gully on the downhill side.


For more information and to see other events click here.

~~~

Scenic Art Loop's Monthly Art Drive


Friday, October 4, 2024 - Sunday, October 6, 2024

(See downloadable map below for specific times)


Various Artist Galleries

Galena, IL 61036


Drive the hills and valleys of the Driftless Region’s most scenic counties. Take a laid back self-guided tour experiencing art from inception to fulfillment.


Visit talented artists in their studios & galleries, while enjoying artisan libations such as food, wine craft brews, and spirits, and discover the region’s hidden talent. Interact and enjoy with unique individuals along your personal tour.


Each month our artists come together to host the Scenic Art Loop by ARRT’s Monthly Art Drive.


Join us on the first full weekend of each month for a new experience. A new map is created monthly to ensure artists’ availability.


For a downloadable map and more information click here.

~~~

Glow in the Dark Mini Golf



Friday, October 4, 2024

7:00 PM - 11:00 PM


Lil' Generals Mini Golf Course

11357 US Hwy 20 W.

Galena, IL 61036


Play at The Lil' General 18 Hole Championship Miniature Golf Course, featuring cascading waterfall, rapids, streams, water fountains and beautiful landscaping. Participate in their special “Glow in the Dark Golf” events throughout the summer season. 


For more information click here.

~~~

The First Ladies of the Theater

Presented By: The Women of

Courage and Commitment


Sunday, October 6, 2024

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

1 Prairie Ridge Drive, Galena


Join the Women of Courage and Commitment as they introduce you to early ladies of the theater. Learn about the life and times of these legends of the stage. The show will be presented on Sunday, Oct. 6 at Prairie Ridge, in the activity room.


Women Presented: Simone Baroche, Laura Keene, Kate Condon, and Lillie Langtry.


Cost: $10



~~~

Country Fair Craft Show

Saturday, October 12, 2024

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sunday, October 13, 2024

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Grant Park


Indulge in handmade creations and delicious treats at Galena Country Fair weekend featuring over 100 vendors offering high-quality original art, crafts, and food items. Browse a diverse selection of products, including home decor, clothing, toys, jewelry, photography, and gifts, while enjoying live music, a children's game area, and more. Savor pork chop sandwiches, brats, walking tacos, hand-cut fries, baked potatoes, frozen custard, and homemade fudge. Quench your thirst with domestic and local craft beer, cocktails, and a Gazebo Wine Garden serving Galena Cellars' selection of red, white, and sangria. Bring the family and indulge in a fun-filled weekend!

Free parking at three remote lots. Complimentary shuttle service available from 8:00am - 6:00pm both days.


Suggested Donation: $3 at the gate


For more information, please click here.


~~~

Star Gazing



Saturday, October 26, 2024

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM


The Galena Territory Association Owners’ Club

2000 Territory Drive

Galena, IL 61036

 

The Galena Territory Association and The Galena Astronomical Society holds its public observation sessions in the parking lot of The Galena Territory Association Owners’ Club.


Share your knowledge or start your star-gazing adventure.


Check out the stars and night objects with a telescope.

A clear sky with no prominent moon, once properly dark-adapted, is a beautiful thing.


Depending on the time of year, a subtle band of smoky light constitutes the outline of our galaxy, and away from bright town and city lights is a showy splendor with bright spots, voids, and intricate rivers of light.


Dress warmly and bring a blanket or comfortable chair as you enjoy the beauty of The Territory’s night skies.


Bring your telescope or share one of ours.


This event is weather dependent.

People of all ages are invited to attend.


For more information click here.

~~~

Hoof'n & Groove'n

Live Music + Bonfire + Goat Trek



Saturday, October 5, 2024

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Saturday, October 19, 2024

Saturday, October 26, 2924

Saturday, November 2, 2024 (weather permitting)

Saturday, November 9, 2024 (weather permitting)

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM


Hoof It Goat Treks

616 S Devils Ladder Rd

Galena, IL 61036


Star-filled skies, a roaring bonfire, gooey s’mores, live music, and goats! Life is good!


Join us on an evening trek as the sun sets and the light fades from the forest. Return from the trek to a roaring bonfire, s’more baskets, and live music.


Book now to ensure you are part of this experience.

Space is limited.


Bring a blanket or lawn chairs (picnic tables provided) to stretch out under the stars and enjoy the music. BYOB, snacks, or order pizza delivery from Cannova’s or take out from your favorite location.


For more information, other events and to register click here.

~~~

17th Annual Galena Oktoberfest


Saturday, October 5, 2024

11 AM - 10 PM


Galena's Oktoberfest features live music all day long, German-style Food and Beer, family fun, and wiener dog races. This day long event will have you entertained from start to finish.


This event is hosted by the Lions Club - all proceeds go back into the community.


For a full list of entertainers and activities, click here.

~~~

20th Annual Midwest Health & Fitness 5K Fun Run/Walk


Saturday, October 5, 2024

To benefit the United Churches of Galena Food Pantry.


Open to all ages, pets and strollers are welcome. Registration fee is $30 with a shirt or $20 without a shirt. There will be great door prizes that will be raffled off (must be present to win), refreshments and snacks will be served following the event.

Registration includes admission to the Galena Oktoberfest Celebration following the 5K.



Day of Registration:

Check in starts at 8:00AM at the Galena River Trail. 5K begins at 9:00AM. A Kid’s Race starts at 8:30AM, registration for children is free.


Enjoy a beautiful scenic run/walk on the Galena River Trail!


~~~

The Other Side of the Anvil


Saturday, October 19 and Sunday, October 20, 2024

Stillman Mansion, Galena


Over two days, experience hands-on blacksmithing with historic demonstrations. Learn the techniques by using traditional methods at the hands of experienced teachers. Get a chance to make a one of a kind item you get to keep, including a bottle opener or S hook.


All ages welcome. Food trucks available on site each day.


For more information, click here.


44th Annual Halloween Parade & Festival


Saturday, October 26, 2024

Parade Starts at 6:30 PM


The largest, longest, and spookiest Parade and Festival in the Tri-State Area!


This extraordinary display features spectacular floats, marching bands, costumed participants, prizes, and treats for guys and 'ghouls' of all ages. Take the kids to the Kids Fest and grab a bite to eat before the parade at the Food Festival.

Free shuttles will be provided from parking areas to Main Street. 


Make your Generals' Restaurant Reservation Now!

In addition to browsing through Galena’s 19th-century downtown with more than 100

storefronts, here are some other ways to enjoy our beautiful area:

The Galena River Trail offers 8.0 miles (one way) of scenic hiking, biking or cross-country skiing.


Galena River Trail

Enjoy scenic outlooks with views across three states at the Horseshoe Mound Preserve.


Horseshoe Mound Preserve

Enjoy panoramic views of the Mississippi River from Casper Bluff Land and Water Preserve.


Casper Bluff Land & Water Reserve

Be sure to visit the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation website for a list of more places to see under the "Visit Our Preserves" tab.

Other great places to visit in addition to our local historic attractions and museums are:

National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium


The Shenandoah Riding Center


Dubuque Symphony Orchestra


Dubuque Museum of Art


Diamond Jo Casino

Take a break and stop by our Quiet Room on the Main Street level of the hotel to view these videos:


The DeSoto House Hotel

"The Largest Hotel in the West"

~~~

Galena: Steamboat Capital of the Old Northwest


Both videos are about 15-20 minutes in length and run continuously.

You can learn more about the history of the DeSoto House Hotel here.

There's always plenty to do in scenic, historic Galena!

Create your dream wedding...

Call to make your dreams come true!


815.777.6818

Sales Department

Reserve your getaway now!


Make your reservations by calling

815.777.0090 or 800.343.6562


Check out our website . . . DeSotoHouse.com

Consider us your home away from home!

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DeSoto House Hotel Gift Certificates

make perfect gifts!

Michael Steinhoff

General Manager

null

230 South Main Street

Galena, IL 61036

815.777.0090 or 800.343.6562