HEROD, Ill. — Cryptid enthusiasts turned out to the Garden of the Gods Outpost in Herod, Illinois, in celebration of “Bigfoot Day,” an event combining mystery, entertainment, and fun for visitors of all ages.

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A photo opportunity for a sasquatch family.

Drayton Charlton-Perrin

Owners of the Garden of the Gods Outpost, Jessica and Andrew Hoffman said that Bigfoot is a well-known and beloved legend for the area. Andrew said that with the business being local and family-owned, that they like to support the community by selling various products from the community, and by sharing a special day of celebration.

The ownership duo said that while they weren’t familiar with the origins of the interest in the legendary monster, they said that it was already a trend when they moved to Herod. “When we showed up a few years ago, it was just everyone was talking about it,” Jessica said. “There’s people who take it really seriously, go Bigfoot hunting, chasing.”

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Jessica and Andrew Hoffman, owners of the Garden of the Gods Outpost.

Drayton Charlton-Perrin

As part of the event, attendees could take pictures with a dressed-up Bigfoot cosplayer. Guest speakers who had allegedly seen the cryptic were also present, sharing stories of their encounters and adventures with the beast.

While this was the first time the Hoffmans said they’d hosted this event, Andrew said they were pleasantly surprised with the turnout, despite having yet to bear witness to Bigfoot yet themselves. The Hoffmans said they hope to host more similar events in the future, with Andrew adding “we’ll see what comes from there,”

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A life-sized Bigfoot statue at the Garden of the Gods Outpost.

Drayton Charlton-Perrin

For more information on the Garden of the Gods Outpost, visit the business’ Facebook page, or show up in person at Karber’s Ridge Road and Garden of the Gods Road in Herod, Illinois.

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