MT. VERNON, IL — Two Mt. Vernon restaurants are showing their community spirit by turning a night out to eat into an opportunity to support one of the community’s signature celebrations.

El Rancherito of Mt. Vernon and JJ’s Sports Bar & Grill recently hosted Dine to Donate Nights benefiting Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc., with proceeds helping support the organization and the upcoming Mt. Vernon Fall Fest.

During the Dine to Donate events, patrons had the opportunity to enjoy a meal at a local restaurant while helping raise funds for the festivals and community events that bring residents and visitors together throughout the year. Representatives from both restaurants recently presented their donations to Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc.

“We are extremely grateful to El Rancherito and JJ’s Sports Bar & Grill for choosing to support Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc.,” said Angela Schrum, Mt. Vernon Tourism & Festivals Director. “Partnerships like these are a great example of local businesses and community members working together. Every person who participated simply by going out for a meal helped support Fall Fest and the free activities and entertainment our organization works to provide for the community.”

Mt. Vernon Fall Fest brings thousands of people to downtown Mt. Vernon for a weekend of live entertainment, food, vendors, family activities and community fun. Support from local businesses, sponsors and fundraising events helps Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. continue to offer a quality festival experience while keeping many Fall Fest activities and attractions free for attendees.

Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. extends its appreciation not only to the owners, management and employees of El Rancherito and JJ’s Sports Bar & Grill, but also to everyone who dined at the restaurants during their respective Dine to Donate Nights.

“When our local businesses support community events, and our residents support those businesses in return, everyone benefits,” Schrum added. “We appreciate El Rancherito and JJ’s for investing in Mt. Vernon and helping us continue to make Fall Fest an event our entire community can enjoy.”

Additional information about the upcoming Mt. Vernon Fall Fest, including entertainment, activities and event schedules, will be announced as the festival approaches.

Representatives from El Rancherito of Mt. Vernon and JJ’s Sports Bar & Grill present donations to Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. following Dine to Donate Nights held at the two local restaurants. Funds raised will help support Mt. Vernon Festivals, Inc. and the upcoming Mt. Vernon Fall Fest.