Planning an at-home Independence Day celebration in the Peoria area? Whether you're firing up the grill or relaxing on the patio, the Greater Peoria region is packed with locally owned shops to supply everything you need. From butcher counters and farm-fresh produce to bakery treats and festive decor, you can support small businesses while prepping for your backyard BBQ.
Here’s your friendly guide to shopping local for a DIY Fourth of July in Greater Peoria!
Grill-Ready Goodness: Where to Buy the Best Meats
Nothing says Independence Day like the sizzle of high-quality meats on the grill. Skip the big-box stores and check out these local favorites instead:
Alwan & Sons Meat Company (Peoria) – A family-owned grocer often called “Central Illinois’ premier butcher shop.” Alwan’s is known for its 88-foot meat counter offering hand-cut beef, pork, chicken, and lamb. Their full-service deli and old-fashioned service make this stop a must for serious grillers.
Raber Packing Co. (West Peoria) – A Peoria-area staple since 1954, Raber began as a place for local farmers to process livestock and evolved into a beloved retail meat market. After a devastating fire in 2018, Raber reopened in a brand-new facility in 2021 – complete with a larger retail store, event space, and deli – but kept all their traditional recipes and quality intact. This multi-generation family business still offers all the old favorites (famous homemade sausages, pork burgers, ribs, etc.) that locals love.
Pottstown Meat & Deli (Peoria) – For a classic neighborhood butcher vibe, Pottstown Meat & Deli has you covered. This popular shop has been family-owned by the Barth family for four generations, spanning over 100 years! They specialize in high-quality Midwestern beef, pork and chicken (all-natural and locally raised) along with deli meats and homemade smoked products. Stop by for expert butchery and a friendly, old-school atmosphere.
Echo Valley Meats (Bartonville) – Craving something special? Head to Echo Valley, a specialty meat store founded by third-generation cattleman Dave Alwan in 1998. This family-run market has become a local favorite for farm-to-table quality. Echo Valley offers an “old-fashioned” style retail experience (you may recognize them from Shark Tank fame) and a huge assortment: hand-cut steaks, award-winning hams, sausages, snack sticks, cheeses, and even a daily lunch counter with sandwiches and soups.
Beecham’s Market (Tremont) – Worth the short drive, Beecham’s is a 100-year-old, fourth-generation butcher offering top-notch brats, flavored burger patties, and house-made sausages. It's a small-town shop with big-time flavor. A throwback shop that prides itself on quality over quantity.
Make It A Farm-Fresh Feast
Side dishes are the soul of a July 4th cookout. These local markets help you load up on fresh produce, homemade salads, and pantry staples:
Haddad’s Market (West Peoria)– A true neighborhood grocer that has been family-owned since the 1920s, Haddad’s is a one-stop shop for fresh foods. With offerings like fresh fruits and vegetables, deli salads, baked goods, and more—all in one easy stop. You’ll find local produce in season and even home delivery options.
Lindy’s Downtown Market (Washington) – Lindy’s is a small-but-mighty neighborhood supermarket that offers a full produce section, Boar’s Head deli, fresh bakery, and specialty groceries. It's perfect for picking up last-minute cookout supplies.
Sous Chef (Peoria) – This charming shop supports local farmers and vendors. Stock up on organic produce, cheeses, farm eggs, fresh bread, wild mushrooms, and more. Looking for unique extras like fermented pickles or microgreens? Start here.
Farmers Markets & Stands – If you’re shopping closer to the holiday weekend, visit one of the many region’s farmers markets like the Peoria RiverFront Market (Saturdays) or the Metro Centre Farmers Market (Open daily except Sundays). Both feature local growers selling sweet corn, tomatoes, berries, baked goods, and more. You’ll also find fresh-cut flowers and honey to add flair to your celebration. Prefer roadside stands? Keep an eye out for cantaloupes, peaches, or watermelons on summer weekends!
Don’t Forget The Sweet Treats
No July 4th gathering is complete without buns, pies, cookies, or cupcakes. Here are some sweet spots to visit:
Trefzger’s Bakery (Peoria) – Trefzger’s is Central Illinois’ oldest bakery, established in 1861, and it’s famous for quality baked goods. They make everything from sandwich buns and breads to decadent pies, cakes, and cookies – all from scratch. With over 160 years in business and awarded an Illinois Made Maker of 2021, this family bakery’s products are a Peoria tradition that will add a sweet touch of nostalgia to your holiday table.
LeBakery (Peoria) – Another local favorite, LeBakery has been whipping up the tastiest treats for decades and has operated in Peoria’s Metro Centre since 1985. They bake from scratch, so you can grab freshly baked sandwich rolls, croissants or pastries for your brunch, and beautifully decorated cupcakes, brownies or patriotic-themed cakes for dessert.
Other Local Favorites – Greater Peoria has a sweet batch of local bakeries and home bakers worth checking out. Baked Blessings by Lisa (Morton) creates custom cookies and cupcakes that would be fun for July 4th, and Ardor Breads & Provisions (Peoria) offers artisanal loaves and rolls if you’re going gourmet. Jonah’s Market & Bake Shop (East Peoria) combines a deli with fresh baked goods, great for grabbing a side dish and dessert.
Celebrate with Hometown Pride
Every dollar you spend at a local business is a vote for your community. By shopping small this 4th of July, you’re getting top-quality products and excellent service—while supporting the people and places that make Greater Peoria special.
So whether you're biting into a perfectly grilled burger, serving up a farm-fresh salad, or sharing a slice of pie under the fireworks, do it with pride. Your celebration will be full of hometown flavor—and heart.
Happy Independence Day!
