Explore More

The Springfield Park District's Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon offers a diverse lineup of musical programming that brings the beauty of bell music to the heart of Springfield. From daily concerts that fill Washington Park which rich melodies to special performances, themed recitals, and the internationally acclaimed International Carillon Festival, there are endless opportunities to experience this unique instrument. Whether you're a music enthusiast or simply looking of a one-of-a-kind cultural experience, the Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon provides an unforgettable auditory and visual journey. 

 Weekly Carillon Concerts

Description

The Springfield Park District's Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon is one of the largest and finest of the worlds carillons. Located in historic Washington Park, the Rees Carillon is the site of numerous free public concerts, exciting community events and the world-renowned International Carillon Festival held each year. Throughout the year, you can find Carlo van Ulft, the Park District's carillonist and his assistants, playing a wide variety of classical, folk and popular music. Enjoy the beauty of Washington Park and the adjacent Botanical Garden with the unique accompaniment of carillon music. Free half-an-hour concerts with a wide variety of music. Bring lawn chairs or blankets & picnic.

MORE INFORMATION

Carve for the Carillon

Description 

Carve for the Carillon was founded by former Rees Carillon Society Board Member Brenda Poston. 

During the Carve for the Carillon, we invite the Springfield community to participate in the tradition of carving thousands of pumpkins to be displayed at Jack-O-Lantern Spectacualr! We will supply the pumpkins, while supplies last. Please bring any special carving tools you may requore.

We are seeking pumpkin donations, volunteers and sponsors. For more information, please contact jols@ameritech.net

MORE INFORMATION

Carillon Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular 

Description 

The annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular was founded by former Rees Carillon Society Board Member Brenda Poston. The Rees Carillon Society's annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular differs in that everyone in the community is invited to participate in carving their own pumpkin during Carve for the Carillon. All 2,000 pumpkins carved at Carve for the Carillon will be illuminated at Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular and displayed around the Carillon and Washington Park Botanical Garden grounds. This is a family friendly event for all ages. Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular will feature special Carillon music, lighting, sound effects, and food vendors. 

We are seeking volunteers and sponsors. For more information, please contact jols@ameritech.net

MORE INFORMATION

Carillon Art Spectacular 

Description 

Art Spectacular is a multi-experience festival of art, music and children's programs. Founded by Rees Carillon Society Board Member, Barb Walker, Art Spectacular is a professionally juried fine art and craft show featuring collector and museum-quality works of art and crafts. Over two days, Art Spectacular attracts approximately 5,500 to 6,500 attendees. The 50 participating artists are among the region's and nation's most recognized artists and artisans. 

This event features hourly carillon and other performances by local musicians along with features patron bucks, food vendors, gift basket raffle, silent auction, kid art sale and a Kids Place.

MORE INFORMATION

Caroling at the Carillon

Description 

Sing holiday carols accompanied by the Carillon next to a roaring bonfire. The Trinity Wind Ensemble will provide us with seasonal interludes. Cookies and hot chocolate plus a special visit from Santa courtesy of the Rees Carillon Society. 

MORE INFORMATION