Greater Peoria fairs and festivals offer affordable, family-friendly fun year-round. Discover the newest art, crafts, music, and film. Enjoy live rock, folk, country, bluegrass, and jazz music. Shop for one-of-a-kind Illinois-made products. Taste a variety of local fare like pumpkin pancakes, cheesecake, strawberry pie, fresh hot pretzels, tenderloin sandwiches, barbecue, craft beers, and wine. Classic cars, the Illinois River, and seasonal agriculture are Greater Peoria’s favorite festival themes. Take a fun peek into world cultures at German, Celtic, Latino, Indian, Polish, Lebanese, and Global celebrations.
To find information on these events and more, visit our Events Calendar
WINTER
Big Picture Film Festival {Peoria} // November // The 2024 Big Picture Film Festival will welcome local and regional filmmakers for a weekend of panel discussions, content and idea exchanges, and ultimately, film screenings and awards for best film submissions.
Elmwood Christmas Walk {Elmwood} // December // Take a carriage ride, hear carolers, get your picture with Santa, and greet your community for the holidays at Elmwood’s Central Park! An Elmwood tradition gets the whole family in the Christmas spirit.
Festival of Lights and Parade of Lights {East Peoria} // November-December // With over three million lights depicting everything from animals to holiday items, this drive-through spectacle is a must-see for all ages. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting on Monday - Thursday.
Santa Claus Parade {Peoria} // November // The Santa Claus Parade is the longest-running holiday parade in the nation. This Peoria tradition takes a magical journey through the downtown streets of Peoria with more than 100 decorated floats and characters. Stay for "Yule Like Peoria" after the parade
Christmas On Court {Pekin} // December // Explore the charming historic Downtown Court Street with local retailers and Pop-Up Markets for a unique shopping experience. Indulge in delicious food and drinks, and check out the community Christmas Tree, a tribute to Pekin's First Responders.
Kris Kringle Market {Peoria Heights} // December // Meet Kris Kringle as Peoria Heights celebrates the annual lighting of their Christmas tree at Tower Park. Visitors to this open-air market can expect to cross hot chocolate, cocktails, and live entertainment off their Christmas list.
Christmas Tree Lighting {Princeville} // December // The quintessential hometown tree lighting ceremony will commence, where 130 trees will light the night sky. Enjoy strolling through the wonderland of lighted trees throughout the holiday season.
Yule Like Peoria {Peoria} // November // Featuring downtown holiday cheer in the historic warehouse district. Start the night with the tree lighting at Kelleher's Irish Pub. Then roam around as many local businesses will have refreshments, crafts, and Santa!
SPRING
Shorty's Strictly Bluegrass Festival {East Peoria} // March // Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant Bluegrass music scene at Stoney Creek Inn in East Peoria, where passionate fans, talented artists, and enthusiastic bands from across the Midwest come together to jam and perform live in the ballroom.
Spring Craft + Vendor Show {Peoria} // April // Discover unique and beautiful handmade crafts and products at the upcoming Spring Craft and Vendor Show in Peoria. From one-of-a-kind artisanal items to a wide selection of quality goods, you will surely find something that catches your eye while supporting local vendors.
Music Wine and Craft Beer Festival {Mackinaw} // May // Enjoy live music from a diverse lineup of talented artists while sipping on local wine and craft beer. Food trucks and vendors will also be on-site, so come hungry and ready to celebrate summer!
Peoria Heights Fine Art Fair {Peoria Heights} // May // Promoting the development, establishment, and expansion of the Arts in Peoria Heights, the Peoria Heights Fine Art Fair is a juried art show featuring ceramics, digital art, drawing, fiber/textiles, glass, jewelry, metal, mixed media, painting, photography, sculpture and more.
Summer Camp presented by Solshine Reverie {Chillicothe} // May // Join thousands of music lovers at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe for a legendary music festival featuring top acts like John Summit and Umphrey's McGee. With a diverse lineup and unpredictable weather, make sure to pack accordingly.
SUMMER
Farmers Market {GPA} // May-September // Visit Peoria's Riverfront for an outdoor farmers' market showcasing local produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, fresh flowers, baked goods, and more. Enjoy live music, art, and demonstrations each week. Don't miss out on this pet-friendly market, and bring your reusable bags! Keep an eye on our Peoria Area Farmers Market Blog for all your locally sourced re-stocking needs.
Parks on Tap {Peoria} // May-September // A traveling taphouse that brings the party to you! From 4 pm until dusk, enjoy live acoustic music, delicious food truck fare, and a variety of beer and non-beer options, all from a nearby Peoria Park District park!
Peoria Bach Festival {Peoria} // June // Celebrate the joy, pathos, and beauty of the music of Bach! The community is invited to participate as performers or spectators in various events curated for all ages.
Canton Art on Main Fine Arts Festival {Canton} // June // Support your local Canton art scene by visiting various artist booths, exhibits, and demonstrations. Enjoy live music and free art activities to keep the kids engaged, with plenty of local food and wine options.
Chillicothe Days {Chillicothe} // June // Bring your family to the carnival at the Chillicothe Days festival, where a vendor fair and sidewalk sale will keep you entertained for hours. Enjoy a fish fry, games, tournaments, and the Mr. Chillicothe contest and Miss Chillicothe pageant.
Juneteenth {Peoria} // June // Juneteenth is the only holiday commemorating enslaved Africans' emancipation throughout the United States. Peoria hosts special programs bringing awareness to Freedom Day by gathering and celebrating through music, history, food, education, culture, and community.
Moss Avenue Sale and Festival {Peoria} // June // Peoria’s most popular garage sale takes over eight blocks of historic Moss Avenue. You’ll find antiques, refinished and repurposed furniture, hand-crafted items, and food vendors here.
Sommerfest {Peoria} // June // Celebrate the beginning of summer the German way with this unique festival featuring German food, car and bike shows, arts and crafts, and entertainment. Play games and shop for the perfect Father's Day gift with a vast selection of imported items from Germany.
Strawberry Festival {Elmwood} // June // This annual festival celebrates a love for strawberries and brings together local crafters and vendors to fund the betterment of Elmwood. Treat yourself to any of the delectable strawberry desserts!
Princeville Heritage Days {Princeville} // June // Visit the beautiful Stevens Square in downtown Princeville for various family fun and entertainment. This carnival showcases the best of Princeville, with excellent vendors, games for the kids, and, of course, the tractor pull and parade!
Turkey Festival {Tremont} // June // This community summer celebration feels like home, where you can explore the wares at the craft and antique booths, sip a lemonade shake-up, and watch various performances, including the Miss Tremont pageant. Come hungry and try the famous turkey legs!
Watermelon Festival {Spring Bay} // June // The Watermelon Festival is an annual carnival sponsored by the Spring Bay Legion. Enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts, and fun for the entire family.
Washington Good Neighbor Days {Washington} // June // Washington's annual festival is the perfect way to experience community spirit at its finest! Enjoy five days of live entertainment, food and drinks, and family-friendly activities, culminating in a spectacular fireworks show.
Heart of Illinois Fair {Peoria} // July // This expansive showcase of the best of Central Illinois will have you seeing everything from live concerts to motorsports. Catch an exciting ride at the amusement park, or play games with your family and friends.
Art and Wine Festival {Mackinaw} // July // A showcase of local and regional artists in the world of oil and watercolor paintings, woodworking, jewelry, metalwork, ceramics, and glass. Sip on wine all day while you browse and wander through the car show to admire the hottest rides in Mackinaw.
Fiesta en el Río {Peoria} // July // This high-energy music festival at the Peoria Riverfront celebrates Hispanic and Latino cultures. Enjoy this diverse experience with many types of music, dance, authentic food, and fun.
Marshall-Putnam Fair {Henry} // July // Celebrating over 100 years, the Marshall Putnam Fair festival has many activities and events. From Dueling Pianos to wine-tasting, kids activities, and pageant performances, this celebration will keep you entertained for days.
River City Pride Weekend {Peoria} // July // You’re invited to celebrate Peoria's annual River City Pride Weekend. Several festivals and events will unite people, stirring the mind, creating safe spaces, and fostering inclusivity, equality, respect, and awareness.
Red, White + Boom! {Peoria} // July // Peoria's largest fireworks display, Red, White, and BOOM, is a "pyro-musical" that combines stunning fireworks and patriotic music synchronized to light up the night sky. This spectacular display is visible from both sides of the Illinois River and specific areas of Peoria Heights.
Spoon River Days {Wyoming} // July // This year's event will kick off with a 5K and pancake breakfast, followed by Several activities at the fairgrounds. Vendor Fair, Bags Tournament, Beer Garden, Water Balloon Fights, Kids Activities. And to end the evening live music provided by Run Forrest Run.
Brimfield Old Settlers Days {Brimfield} // August // The annual Brimfield Old Settlers Days festival is a three-day event filled with games, music, and carnival rides. Enjoy many food and drink options, and camp out early to get a good view of the parade.
Illinois Oz Festival {Mapleton} // August // Join Dorothy, Toto, and friends in the jolly old land of Oz. Meet all your favorite characters, take trolley rides, and even have storytime with Auntie Em while you take your journey down the Yellow Brick Road.
India Fest {Peoria} // August // Enjoy authentic Indian cuisine served by local Indian restaurants at this exciting festival on the Peoria Riverfront. From Bollywood-style entertainment to arts and crafts, lessons, and more, you won’t want to miss this spicy cultural experience.
Marshall County Old Settlers Days {Lacon} // August // This summer festival promises a fun-filled weekend packed with events for the whole family to enjoy. Sign up for the 5K run, be amused by stage entertainment and the Grand Parade, and get lunch from one of many delicious food trucks.
Peoria Irish Fest {Peoria} // August // This annual festival on the RiverFront features live music, dancing, Highland Games, exhibits, and interactive sessions. Enjoy the culture, food, and fun!
River City Soul Fest {Peoria} // August // Enjoy Peoria’s original celebration of soul and R+B music. This three-day festival features local house DJs and gospel performance groups for an exciting live entertainment experience.
AUTUMN
Autumn Market {Chillicothe} // September // This market features local farmers and artisans. Shop produce, baked goods, sweet treats, hand-crafted goodies, and more! Enjoy music by the Roundstone Buskers and snacks from food trucks like El Zarape Taco Truck and Swanee's Soft Pretzels.
Bridge to Bridge River Drive {Peoria Heights > Chillicothe > Henry > Lacon > Spring Bay} // September // This charming festival takes place in five of Greater Peoria’s quintessential river towns along the Illinois River. Stop along the route from Peoria Heights to Chillicothe to Lacon to Henry to Spring Bay and experience art fairs, vendor markets, live music, family games, fishing, food, and more!
Keefy Cannafest: Highly Connected {West Peoria} // September // Keefy Cannafest is the premier cannabis event of the summer in downstate Illinois. This consumption event celebrates music, cannabis culture, and community. A vibrant vendor market, delicious food trucks and an exciting lineup of artists.
Corn Festival {El Paso} // September // Visit El Paso for the annual corn festival, featuring three fun-filled days of carnival, food, and free entertainment. Set up camp early for the best view of the parade!
Elmwood Fall Festival {Elmwood} // September // Come for the fantastic vendors, stay for the fabulous parade. Elmwood Fall Festival is held in historic downtown Elmwood, and it features live music, games and prizes, and carnival rides.
Grape Stomp + Harvest Festival {Mackinaw} // September // Channel your inner Lucy and get your feet wet in this juicy and one-of-a-kind wine-making experience. With wine flights all day and a Lucy-Look-alike contest, you’ll be stomping to the beat of a great time!
Havana Oktoberfest {Havana} // September // Havana Oktoberfest is a fantastic weekend filled with culture and fun. Get ready for food and drinks, vendors, live music, a carnival and parade, contests, a polka pace race, and fun!
Labor Day Parade + Picnic {Peoria} // September // This Labor Day Parade supports various trade unions beginning their march from the Monroe Street Fire Station to the courthouse. After the parade, enjoy a picnic at the Riverfront Festival Park, where food and beverages are on-site.
Manito Popcorn Festival {Manito} // September // Ditch that microwave popcorn and bring the family to this poppin' Labor Day weekend festival in Manito. Enjoy craft booths, vendors, a parade, and the best popcorn in town.
Pumpkin Festival {Morton} // September // Celebrate fall in the Pumpkin Capital of the World! This four-day festival is a pumpkin lover's dream come true. Events include the Pumpkin Boxcar Derby, the Pumpkin Princess pageant, and the Pumpkin Classic 10K. Don't miss the famous Pumpkin Pancake Breakfast, but arrive early!
Peoria Art Guild Fine Art Fair {Peoria} // September // This nationally recognized event features original works from national, regional, and local artists in various mediums. From jewelry to ceramics and everything in between, there's something for every art lover to enjoy.
Peoria Blues + Heritage Festival {Peoria} // September // Enjoy a world-class lineup of artists from blues, roots, fun, and soul, and everything in between. Downtown Peoria comes to life in this event that stretches off the waterfront into bars, venues, and local businesses.
Peoria Oktoberfest {Peoria} // September // With Oompah music, lederhosen, and dirndls, the Peoria Oktoberfest festival is a great way to experience German culture and heritage. This party on the Riverfront features live music, beer samples, Nagelspielen tournaments, and even a catholic mass.
Stark County Fall Festival {Wyoming} // September // A community event with craft food and beverages from local vendors. Plenty of kids activities include inflatable bounce houses, pedal pull, arm wrestling exhibition, and much more.
Taste of Canton {Canton} // September // The streets in downtown Canton will be closed off for this local food festival!! Expect a variety of tastings from local restaurants and food trucks, a wine and beer garden, live music and inflatables for the kiddos. Oh, and don't forget the pie-eating contest!!
Haunted Houses {GPA} // October // Central Illinois has scary opportunities to face your fears and seek a spooky thrill. Keep an eye on our Haunted Attractions blog for the most terrifying haunts in the Greater Peoria Area.
Peoria Food + Wine Festival {Peoria Heights} // October // The Peoria Food and Wine Festival is perfect for foodies and wine connoisseurs as the festival showcases local food and wines! Every year, the Peoria Food + Wine Festival benefits local charities.
Schlachtfest {Dunlap} // October // Schlachtfest is a combined celebration of German-American Day and a kick-off to German-American Heritage Month. The event features classic German music, beer, food, activities, and an art and craft fair.
Spoon River Drive Fall Festival {Fulton County} // October // Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive Fall Festival celebrates arts, history, and culture throughout Fulton County. Each community participating (Astoria, Bernadotte, Canton, Duncan Mills, Lewistown, Smithfield, and more) displays many arts, crafts, flea markets, foods, history, and heritage.
Marigold Festival {Pekin} // September // The Pekin Marigold Festival is a can't-miss community event featuring local vendors, artists, music, athletics, and more. Celebrate Senator Everett Dirksen with a parade, carnival, and the crowning of Miss Marigold in the Marigold capital of the world.
Play in Peoria {Peoria} // September // Say goodbye to summer with one last party! Discover Peoria's vibrant art scene, live music on the riverfront, and innovative advances in technology + healthcare.
