The City of Monticello will be celebrating their 175th anniversary this year.

Monticello will use 2012 to showcase and celebrate the history of their city and also highlight the many things that make Monticello a great community. On top of that, Mayor of Monticello, Chris Corrie says this year they will be expanding on many yearly events to celebrate the city. The Mayor explains they will be turning their 4th of July activities into a week long celebration.

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The biggest event of the year will also be a part of their summer events, in fact, the August event will wrap up the string of activities for Monticello. Corrie explains their Monticello Celebration is annual event that tends to be the transition from summer to fall activities.

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On February 10th, the city will hold their annual "Chocolate Fantasy" to get the 175th Celebration officially started. You can purchase tickets for that event by visiting Monticellomainstreet.org.

Also, at the end of May the city will highlight their "May Market" where they allow folks to sell their goods.

More information on all these events and other plans for Monticello's 175th anniversary are available at monticellomainstreet.org or by calling 217-762-9318.