There’s something magical about summer in Central Illinois. The sun stays up longer, the music gets louder, and the scent of food trucks and fresh flowers fills the air. From small-town squares to riverside stages, the Greater Peoria area is bursting with ways to spend your days (and nights) outdoors. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, stargazer, or weekend wanderer, we’ve rounded up the best outdoor activities happening this Spring/Summer.
Food + Drink
When the weather warms up, our communities come alive with the best smells and tastes of the season. Think farmers markets bursting with just-picked produce, food truck festivals with bold flavors, and summer evenings sipping local brews while live music plays in the background. These events are all about flavor and fun in the fresh air.
- Peoria Riverfront Market: Every Saturday, May 24–Sept 27, 8 AM–Noon. Find farm-fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, local art, and live music right along the river.
- Canton Farmers Market: Saturdays starting May 31. Live music, baked goods, crafts, and free coffee each week at Jones Park.
- Morton Farmers Market N' More: Tuesdays in June–August, with fresh food, flowers, and treats in the heart of town.
- Pekin Farmers Market: Thursdays, June 5–Aug 28, 3:30–6:30 PM. Local vendors, produce, baked goods, and community vibes.
- East Peoria Farmers Market: Fridays, June 6–Aug 29, 4–7 PM in the Levee District.
- “Parks on Tap” Series (Various Spots): Traveling beer garden with food trucks, lawn games, and live music—July 17 at Grandview Drive Park.
- Sweet Corn Festival (Chillicothe): July 19. Corn dinners, carnival rides, live music, and all the butter your corn can handle.
- Fiesta en el Rio (Peoria): July 26 on the Riverfront. Celebrate Latin culture with live music, dancing, food vendors, and family-friendly fun.
- For more farmers markets, click here!
- For more festivals in Greater Peoria, click here!
Music + Movies Under the Stars
Nothing says summer like an outdoor concert or movie night. From toe-tapping tribute bands to movies on the lawn with popcorn in hand, these events bring together music, community, and perfect golden-hour vibes.
- CEFCU Center Stage at the RiverFront:
- June 6 – River City Soul Fest Presents: Dexter O’Neal & The Funk Yard Mico Wave
- June 21 – Heartache Tonight: A Tribute to the Eagles
- Aug 1–2 – River City Soul Fest: Gospel on Friday, R&B/Soul on Saturday with food trucks and family activities
- June 6 – River City Soul Fest Presents: Dexter O’Neal & The Funk Yard Mico Wave
- Party in the Park (Chillicothe): June 7 at City Park. Bouncy houses, knockerball, petting zoo, and more.
- Metamora Summer Concert Series: Friday and Saturday evenings all summer long. Free community concerts on the town square.
- Movies in the Park (Various Spots): Keep an eye out for pop-up outdoor movie nights hosted by local park districts. Blankets and snacks encouraged!
Nature + Stargazing Adventures
If your idea of summer fun includes fresh air, scenic trails, or looking up at the stars, you’re in luck. Greater Peoria offers peaceful escapes and cosmic experiences for those who like their entertainment a little more down-to-earth—or way up above.
- Northmoor Observatory Public Nights (Peoria): Every cloudless Saturday night from early May through late October, volunteers are available from sunset to midnight to guide you in exploring the wonders of the night sky. Private group visits can also be arranged by appointment outside of regular hours!
- Scenic Trails, Disc Golf, Hiking and River Access (Various Spots): Enjoy Detweiller Park, Forest Park Nature Center, or Grandview Drive, Jubilee State College, Wildlife Prairie Park, Emiquon National Wildlife Refuge for hikes, river views, fishing, disc golf, wildlife viewing, or a chill picnic.
- Canoeing + Kayaking on the Illinois River: Local outfitters offer rentals or bring your own for a relaxing paddle along Central Illinois waterways.
Whether you're hunting for the best sweet corn, dancing along the riverfront, or watching constellations twinkle above a quiet park, there's no shortage of unforgettable outdoor moments waiting in Greater Peoria. This summer, make it your mission to soak up the sunshine, support local events, and discover something new just beyond your doorstep.
