MT. VERNON — The Experimental Aircraft Association AirVenture Cup Race takes off from southern Illinois this weekend, and there will be plenty of free, family-oriented events in Mt. Vernon leading up to the start of the race.

Chris Collins is the manager at Mt. Vernon’s Outland Airport. He says there will be plenty of unique airplanes for plane lovers of all ages to check out at this special event.

Before the race takeoff on Sunday, the airport will host an open house Saturday from 10 to 5 p.m., and an EAA Young Eagles Event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. where kids between the ages of 8 and 17 will get to experience airplane rides. All activities are dependent on the weather.