May is the month that nature blooms, and so does Galena with all its exciting outdoor events. As the warm summer weather draws us all outdoors, you’re encouraged to head to Galena to enjoy the weather, the views, and the events that are sure to help cure any lingering winter blues.
Spend Saturday, May 4 from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., immersing yourself into an extraordinary view of Galena with your bicycle. For $30, you can follow varying lengths of paths to see the rural beauty of Galena Country, which is technically Jo Daviess County, IL. The $30 admission gets you a map and cue sheets, so you don’t get lost, as well as Support and Gear (SAG), which includes food, drinks, and homemade cookies along the routes. With varying lengths of routes at 32 miles, 52 miles, or 63 miles, you’re sure to have a great day feasting your eyes, your stomach and your muscles.
Galena Main Street Sidewalk Sale
If shopping is more of your M.O. than exercising, then Galena’s Main Street Sidewalk Sale is perfect for you. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 10 through May 12, Galena’s Main Street merchants will be offering sales along the sidewalks and inside of the stores. Once you’re done taking advantage of the sale racks, you can stay on Main Street and eat at one of the many unique restaurants.
Bring your family to Galena for the 2nd Annual Kiwanis Club of Galena’s River Trail Run from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. on May 18. This forested Galena River Trail winds south to Galena Junction and the backwaters of the Mississippi River, making it a perfect, scenic out-and-back racing course. The event has a variety of distances you can participate in, including a half marathon, a 5K, and a Kids Fun Run for children under 10. Online registration for the event closes on May 16 and package pickup will be held on May 16-17 from 4-6 p.m. at Illinois Bank and Trust in Galena. You are also able to pick up your registration package the day of the race from 6:30 – 7:30 a.m. If you plan to walk the trail you must start at 7 a.m. rather than the scheduled 8 a.m. start time.
Another outdoor activity taking place on May 18 is the Galena Sky Trail Race on the hills of Chestnut Mountain Resort. It starts at 8 a.m. and goes until 4 p.m. There is an 8-hour race option as well as a 4-hour race option, which starts at 12 p.m. This event is a little more unique in the fact that you’re encouraged to dress up as Nordic Viking Warriors. The best costume of the day will win a Warrior Prize. This is a looped course that brings you back to the finish line, and a party that including live music, food, and prizes. If running isn’t your thing, don’t worry, there are activities available at Chestnut to keep you entertained that day as well.
Galena River Wine & Cheese Inaugural Portfolio Tasting
If you’re more interested in drinking wine and eating cheese, head over to the Gateway to History on South Main Street to taste 70+ wines, artisan cheeses and even some craft beers selected by Galena River Wine and Cheese. The event starts at 3 p.m. and goes until 6 p.m. on May 18th and tickets start at $25. If you plan to attend as a designated driver only, you can purchase tickets for $10. Tickets are limited, so register early! The tasting is hosted by and proceeds will benefit the Galena Jo-Daviess Historical Society. You must be 21 to attend this event, which will take place rain or shine!
Mother’s Day Brunch
Celebrate your mom with a Mother’s Day Brunch at the Sunset Grille. On May 12 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., Chestnut Mountain Resort will host a brunch celebrating all the mothers out there. Not only will you get breathtaking views of the Mississippi, there will also be a champagne fountain, prime rib, made-to-order omelets, and so much more. It’s the perfect brunch for the whole family to enjoy. Adults will be charged $29.95, children aged 6-12 are charged $15.95, and kids under 6 are free. Reservations for the brunch are requested and can be made by calling 800-397-1320 or by visiting their website.
