Father’s Day lands on Sunday, June 21, and Greater Peoria is ready to help you celebrate the father figures in your life. Whether Dad prefers BBQ, craft beer, classic cars, or nature walks, this guide has everything you need for a memorable weekend.
Events
- Peoria City Soccer on Saturday, June 20 at Shea Stadium vs. Sunflower State FC.
- 27th Annual Juneteenth Father’s Day Choral Celebration on Sunday, June 21 at 3 p.m. at Illinois Central College Performing Arts Center.
- Fathers & Floats at Peoria Zoo on Sunday, June 21. Dads receive free admission with a paid child admission and a free root beer float.
- Peoria Chiefs Father’s Day Game on Sunday, June 21 at Dozer Park with Father’s Day promotions.
- Peoria Municipal Band Concert on Sunday, June 21 at 7 p.m. at Glen Oak Park.
BBQ Stops
Peoria’s BBQ game is strong. Head to The Blue Duck Barbecue Tavern for slow-smoked meats in a renovated train depot on the riverfront, where ribs, brisket, pulled pork and cornbread never disappoint. Slow Hand Craft BBQ is another hit with house-made sauces, while Hickory River Smokehouse brings Texas-style barbecue to the table with smoked meats and hearty sides. If your dad’s more of a steak guy, Alexander’s Steakhouse lets him grill his own cut, while William B’s Steakhouse at Par-A-Dice offers a polished steakhouse dinner for a night out.
Brews + Burgers
For beer-loving dads, Obed & Isaac’s Microbrewery offers house brews, hearty fare, and a bocce-friendly beer garden. At Industry Brewing, enjoy cold IPAs, pizza, and possibly live music. Over in Peoria Heights, Pour Bros. Craft Taproom lets Dad pour his own beer, and Rhodell Brewery even lets guests brew their own!
Brunches + Sweet Treats
For a brunch, try Bloody Mary Brunch Co. for bold dishes like chorizo skillets and a DIY Bloody Mary bar. For something classic, Childers Eatery, Le Peep and Egg Republic serve up breakfast favorites, from pancakes and omelets to skillets and hearty brunch plates. Prefer something sweet? Grab apple fritters from Trefzger’s Bakery, pastries or fresh-baked bread from Ardor Breads & Provisions, or coffee and locally made bites from Zion Coffee Bar. Sweet tooth? Treat Dad to Yeni’s Palarte ice cream or make Father’s Day extra nostalgic with the root beer float at Peoria Zoo’s Fathers & Floats event.
For more restaurants, click here!
Sports & Outdoors
Into golf? Hit WeaverRidge Golf Club or try a unique putting experience at The Putt Club in East Peoria. Love spectator sports? Catch a Peoria Chiefs game at Dozer Park or plan for a future match. Outdoorsy dads will love hiking at Forest Park Nature Center, casting a line at Banner Marsh, or taking a drive along Grandview Drive for scenic views.
For more Father's Day Weekend events, click here!
Local Finds
Support local shops while finding something special:
- Acme Comics – Perfect for comic or sports card lovers.
- Black Band Distillery – Grab a bottle of small-batch whiskey and enjoy a cocktail together.
- Bushwhacker – Great for hiking, camping, and biking gear.
- Presley’s Outdoors – Hunting, fishing, and archery heaven.
- Rambler – A stylish outdoors boutique for unique gear.
- RC Outfitters – Top-tier gear for runners or cyclists.
- Tickets & Experiences – Think ahead: gift tickets (or season tickets) to a Chiefs, Rivermen, or Peoria City Soccer game. You could also sign up for a summer golf league or a father-child rock climbing session.
- The Modern Gentlemen & CS Menswear – Refresh his wardrobe with a fun tie, shirt, or even a custom experience.
- For more local shopping, click here!
From BBQ to bocce, classic cars to nature hikes, Peoria has your Father’s Day plans covered. Make it a full weekend: grab BBQ on Friday, explore on Saturday, then enjoy brunch and a concert on Sunday. Whether it’s a grand outing or a quiet morning with donuts in the park, the key is simple—spend time with Dad and make him feel appreciated.
Happy Father’s Day!
You must be logged in to post a comment.