There's a small town in Illinois that is home to an unusually large population of albino squirrels. Residents of this kooky place hold these critters so sacred, it's a crime to kill one.
How did these squirrels become so sacred? Scroll on to learn the full story of how the town of Olney became known for these fluffy white animals.
Tucked away in the southern-central portion of the state, the town of Olney sits right on the edge of East Fork Lake in Richland County.
It is a small town of just over 8,000 people that was founded in 1841. Residents love living here for the calm and peaceful atmosphere and well as for the nearby lakes, parks, and other natural oases.
The town was even voted one of the 50 best places to live in Illinois in 2016 by RentApplication.com.
Olney's claim to fame is its unusual population of albino squirrels that live in the neighborhoods, parks, and forests around town. Each year, residents volunteer to help count how many of these cute critters still remain in the area.
For three weekends in a row in October, volunteers strategically observe the entire town and report sightings of white, gray, and fox squirrels. This has been going on since 1977 and is accompanied by a community celebration. About 40 volunteers are needed each week during the count.
The amount of squirrels unfortunately seems to dwindle each year. At their height, there were more than 800 albino squirrels in the town in 1941. Residents' best guess is that about 70 are still around today.
That's a ratio of about 12 grey squirrels to every one white squirrel. It is believed that hunters, cats, and other animals are to blame for their endangerment. The town fines anyone to runs one over in the street $750. Olney is not messing around.
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The story of how Olney became a haven for white squirrels has two sides, but it is known that these critters eventually went on display at Jasper Banks Saloon before being released into the wild in 1910.
One account says that the squirrels were brought to the saloon after a hunter killed their mother, while another tale states that the white wonders were captured and bread before being handed over to the saloon. Either way, it's how Olney got its mascot.
Next time you find yourself skimming the east side of Illinois, stop into this fun small town and see if you can spot a puff of white. Best viewing times are in the early mornings and evenings.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year (or at least that’s what Andy Williams croons about each and every holiday season). Whether you are trying to get yourself into the Christmas spirit or you turn into Elf the minute holiday festivities come around, then you need to take a little time away from your holiday shopping to enjoy the magic of some of the most festive and charming Christmas towns in Illinois that are certainly full of the holiday spirit! There are so many enchanting places to celebrate the holiday season around the state. Let's have a look:
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Red barn with Christmas wreath on snowy midwestern day
1. Tuscola
Did you know that there is a Christmas town right in the middle of Illinois? If you are already chomping at the bit to get into holiday festivities then it’s time to kick off the season in Tuscola the first weekend of December. Pick up something special for that special someone at their homemade craft fair. Enjoy breakfast with Santa at the Douglas County Museum or run off some of those Thanksgiving goodies by participating in the Santa Chase 5K. You can also go ice skating. Visit the Tuscola website for more information. This is one of the most festive Christmas towns in Illinois.
2. Chicago
Chicago, Illinois, USA
Chicago at Christmas is nothing short of magical. While it might seem obvious that this toddlin’ town would be full of festive holiday magic, there is something for everyone here in the Second City and it’s well worth battling a little holiday traffic. Take in one of the many amazing shows like Joffrey Ballet’s Nutcracker or the Goodman Theatre’s A Christmas Carol. Head to the Daley Plaza for a commemorative ceramic boot full of mulled cider while shopping around the popular Christkindlmarket (open until December 24th). Or bundle up with some hot cocoa and listen to local choral groups belt out holiday favorites at Cloud Gate (fondly referred to as "The Bean") before taking in a few laps on the McCormick Tribune ice rink. Visit the Choose Chicago website for a list of Chicago holiday events.
3. Galena
If you dream of an old-fashioned Christmas just like the ones you used to know (see what we did there?) then it might be time to book a weekend stay at one of the historic B&Bs and enjoy one of the most idyllic Illinois Christmas towns - Galena! If you are looking to do some antique shopping, this is certainly the town for you. Christmas festivities start just after Thanksgiving and continue throughout December. Take a peek at some of the stately decorated homes during the Holiday Housewalk, or watch the streets and sidewalks come alive with candle-lit decorations and beautifully festive storefront displays while enjoying the sites in a horse-drawn sleigh. Take a step back in time this Christmas season and head to the historic town of Galena. It's one of the best Christmas towns in Illinois. Head to the Visit Galena website for a calendar of events.
4. Naperville
If you just can’t stomach the hoards of holiday shoppers in Chicago, head to Naperville. Naper Settlement is hosting a Holly Jolly Days event on select dates in December. Take a trolley tour in downtown Naperville to see the holiday lights. Participate in the Holiday of Cheer - House Walk, Holiday Market, & Tea event to visit four homes all decked out for the season. Then you can go shopping at the Holiday Market while enjoying cookies and tea (you'll even get to keep the cup). In early December, you can also see your favorite storefronts come to life with holiday lights and displays. If you're looking for things to do at Christmas in Illinois, Naperville is the place to visit. Head to the Visit Naperville website to learn more.
5. Rockford
With the culturally diverse background of Rockford’s residents, it’s no surprise that the festivities celebrate this winter season with a plethora of different heritages. With Heritage Holiday exhibits at the Ethnic Heritage Museum, a children’s choir with traditional Swedish and English songs to welcome in the Christmas seasons, a Victorian Holiday Celebration, and more, there is something to warm even the Grinchiest heart.
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And whether you love a good cocktail during the holiday or you can drink your weight in hot chocolate, then you may want to spend time enjoying Rockford’s 12 Bars of Christmas Pub Crawl. Take in some of the hot spots in Rockford while celebrating the holidays with friends. Head to the Go Rockford website for more information.
6. Galva
The spirit of Christmas is alive and well within this small western Illinois town. If you are looking for Christmas festivities just like the ones you used to know then start it off right with breakfast with Santa, ornament making, carriage and train rides, a chocolate fair (Yum!), and even a candy cane hunt. Enjoy holiday entertainment at night as the whole of downtown Galva is lit up with the glow of a thousand lights. Visit the Galva Chamber of Commerce Facebook page for more information.
7. Cambridge
If you still have some gifts to get and you’re looking for something unique then head over to Cambridge’s holiday crafting fair. Take some time to meet Santa and tell him what you want for Christmas (hope you’ve been nice this year!). Enjoy the merry holiday music while "Oohing" and "Ahhing" over the Tour of Lights in this historic western Illinois town. And don’t miss the tour of the B&B Toy Museum, where you get to see toys across the decades (maybe you’ll even see ones that you received as a little one on Christmases past). It's one of the best places to spend Christmas in Illinois. Visit the Village of Cambridge Facebook page to learn more.
8. Bishop Hill
Do you wish to go back to a simpler time this holiday season? If so, then how better to do it than to partake in the authentic Scandinavian Christmas market Julmarknad? Enjoy festive specialty foods, antiques, and handmade chocolates while taking in the beautiful sights and sounds of the holiday. The festival is the last weekend of November and the first weekend of December. Head to Bjorklund Hotel to make edible ornaments with the kiddos during the early afternoon and wait until the sun goes down to enjoy wandering around Bishop Hill as it’s illuminated by the glow of warm candlelight in Lucia Nights Celebration. If it snows, you’ll be in for a real treat as you enjoy taking in the 19th-century village under a beautiful blanket of snow. Visit the Bishop Hill Heritage Association website for more information.
If mansions decorated to delicious holiday splendor are your cup of tea then you don’t want to miss the two Deere family mansions in Moline starting the first weekend of December. Besides taking in these fabulous historic homes and perhaps getting some holiday decorating tips of your own, you can also enjoy living history events, activities for the little ones, choral performances, and even a visit by Santa Claus. Head to the Visit Quad Cities website to see a calendar of events.
10. Woodstock
While this town may be known for its infamous Groundhog Day festivities it doesn’t mean that this town doesn’t know how to do Christmas right. Take in holiday festivities at the Woodstock Opera House, revel in the lighting of the square, and get in the holiday spirit with a Christmas Parade and Cookies & Milk with Santa. Caroling, carriage rides, and a Christmas Tree Walk will make visiting this quaint, majestic town well worth it this holiday season. Visit the City of Woodstock website to learn more about one of the best Christmas towns in Illinois.
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11. Carlinville
During the first weekend in December, it’s time to find out what more than 10,000 visitors have enjoyed about this Carlinville Christmas tradition that is now over 25 years old. Take a guided historic tour in a Victorian-style trolley. Arts and crafts, dazzling ice sculptures, sleigh rides, and carolers make the holidays come alive in Carlinville this season. It's one of the best places to spend Christmas in Illinois. Visit the Christmas in Carlinville website for more information.
Are there any towns that we missed that embody Christmas through and through? If so, we would love to hear about them in the comments. It’s amazing how much the state comes alive with the feeling of the holiday season and we want to celebrate as many of these festive Christmas towns in Illinois as you can.
Are you on the hunt for unique holiday gifts for your loved ones this year? Check out our Gift Guide for ideas!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
