MARION (WSIL) -- It's no surprise that may of those in our region love to be outdoors.
That's why thousands of people attend the Southern Illinois Boat and Fishing each and this year should be no different.
The event is totally free from parking to admission and boasts one of the largest selections of tackle, boats and RV's under one roof!
It's put on by the VisitSI and Black Diamond RV Superstore with proceeds from vendor fees going toward two charities.
Those include Gum Drops which provides at-risk children in southern Illinois with food, as well as, the Veterans Honor Guard that gives local heroes a proper burial.
Shannon Wiesenmayer, CEO of VisitSi, says these donations make a big impact on the organizations.
"They are very grateful every year and do something a little bit different," she explains. "We really like to focus on children and our veterans."
New this year is a canned food drive benefiting Johnston City Man of Mission, Herrin Community Pantry and the Marion Ministerial Alliance.
Those who donate are entered into the raffle to win an Angler's Kayak and Adventure from Gander Outdoors and if you donate on Friday your chances are doubled.
There will be live entertainment, speakers including The Turtle Man and seminars with pro-Angler fishermen, a Crappie guide and Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Also new this year is a Kid Zone (Saturday only) with a rock climbing wall, rock painting and a fishing simulator with Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge.
The event takes place at the Pavilion in Marion.
-February 7th, 3-8 p.m.
-February 8th, 9 a.m - 6 p.m.
-February 9th, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
More information can be found .
