2. Granite City Days

The Buzz -- Formerly known as the Wheels, Wings and Water Festival, this much-anticipated community event has been a summertime favorite for decades. First-day festivities take place at SCSU; subsequent ones are held throughout town at various venues. Food and drink are prominent, as are arts and crafts, music performances, a five-mile foot race, and parade. Heritage events, family-fun activities, and even a strong-man competition are slated as well.