Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) — One of Springfield’s signature summer programs is back for its 17th year, bringing the city’s rich history to life through interactive tours, performances and educational experiences.

History Comes Alive, organized through a partnership of local, state and federal organizations, officially begins this week and runs through Aug. 8. The program features more than 60 events and activities designed to connect visitors and residents with Springfield’s local history.

Darrin Thurman, tourism manager for Visit Springfield, said the program was originally created by a heritage tourism group in Illinois with the goal of making Springfield’s history more immersive and engaging.

“There’s a lot of people involved to make it happen,” Thurman said during an appearance on the WTAX Morning NewsWatch. He credited partners including the National Park Service, the state of Illinois, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and the City of Springfield.

“Groups coming together to put something together that we are so proud of,” Thurman said.

Over the past 17 years, organizers have worked to keep the program fresh by highlighting new stories and finding different ways to engage audiences.

“We try to uncover new stories and new ideas and ways,” Thurman said. “People are always learning differently, especially youngsters, and we find ways to connect to them the most.”

One new feature this year focuses on William H. Butler, a prominent African American leader who worked in the Old State Capitol and advocated for equality and civil rights. During Living History Nights on Saturdays at the Old State Capitol, visitors can take a guided tour while learning about Butler’s contributions and the role he played in advancing change in Illinois.

Programs begin as early as 8 a.m., with activities scheduled daily throughout the summer.

Another popular feature returning this year is the free trolley service, which transports visitors between Springfield’s historic sites and attractions.

“Visitors love it — even locals love it,” Thurman said. “You can go all the way to the tomb and visit around all of the sites.”

History Comes Alive also coincides with celebrations surrounding the upcoming 100th anniversary of Route 66. Thurman called the historic highway “a very important part of our local history,” noting that several events this summer focus on preserving and sharing its legacy.

Among those events is the Route 66 Submerged Boat Tour, offered Mondays and Fridays from the Lake Springfield Marina. The 45-minute tour explores a section of the original Route 66 that now lies beneath Lake Springfield.

According to Thurman, it is the only place in the country where visitors can learn about a portion of the historic roadway that is underwater.

Lincoln Land Community College is also partnering with History Comes Alive for the fifth consecutive year to present History Cooks. The 10-week cooking demonstration series takes place Fridays at noon at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site.

This year’s theme centers on Route 66, with each week featuring recipes inspired by destinations along the historic highway. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample the featured dishes following each demonstration.

Another long standing tradition returning this summer is the Civil War-era flag-lowering ceremony. The event has been held every summer since 1969 and concludes with the presentation of the ceremonial flag to a member of the audience.

Thurman described the ceremony as “a great tradition.”

A complete schedule of History Comes Alive events is available through the Visit Springfield website.