November in the Midwest means crisp air, golden leaves, and the comforting smell of pumpkin pie in the oven. Here in Iowa and Illinois, Thanksgiving isn’t just a meal, it’s a weekend of family traditions, hometown football games, and a reminder of everything we’re grateful for.

Whether you’re hosting for the first time or continuing long-held traditions, here’s your guide to a warm, welcoming, and worry-free Thanksgiving season.

October in the Midwest is pure magic — crunchy leaves, chilly nights, and just the right amount of spooky charm in the air. From haunted mansions to eerie folklore passed down through generations, Iowa and Illinois are rich with ghost stories, mysterious legends, and Halloween traditions that make you glance over your shoulder just a little longer.

Here’s your guide to the most haunted places, urban legends, and Halloween superstitions that give the Midwest its ghostly glow.

When one of Central Illinois’ most iconic landmarks needed a modern lighting solution, Peoria County turned to QC Lights, trusted experts in permanent outdoor lighting across the Midwest. Now, the Peoria County Courthouse glows beautifully at night, blending historic architecture with smart, energy-efficient Gemstone Lighting technology.

Fall in the Midwest is short but spectacular! The air turns crisp, the trees ignite with color, and weekend road trips become a must. Whether you’re a leaf-peeper, hiker, or family looking for an autumn adventure, Iowa and Illinois offer some of the most stunning fall foliage in the country.

In this guide, you’ll find the best scenic drives, park destinations, and timing tips for catching peak color. Plus, how to bring that same golden glow home with QC Lights.

Fall in the Midwest is beautiful, but it comes with its own set of challenges. As the weather shifts from summer heat to crisp autumn air, families in Iowa and Illinois face everything from sniffly fall allergies to late-season storms and outdoor maintenance.

Here’s what to watch for this season — and how to keep your home and family prepared.

In the Midwest, fall isn’t just a season — it’s football season! From Friday night high school rivalries to Saturdays packed with Big Ten matchups and Sundays devoted to the NFL, families across Iowa and Illinois come together to cheer on their teams.

Here’s a look at what makes football so special in the region, the storylines fans are watching this year, and how you can bring the game-day glow home.

There’s nothing quite like fall in the Midwest. From crisp mornings and golden leaves to pumpkin spice everything, Iowa and Illinois know how to celebrate autumn. Whether you’re searching for the best pumpkin patches, apple orchards, or simply want ideas to make the most of the season, this guide has you covered.

Back-to-school season is exciting, but it also comes with new routines, expenses, and responsibilities. Whether you’re a parent sending your child off to kindergarten, a teacher preparing for a busy semester, or a college freshman moving into a dorm, fall in Iowa and Illinois brings unique challenges — and opportunities.

Here’s your guide to making the back-to-school season smoother, safer, and more affordable.