As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, the Peoria area transforms with seasonal charm! Swap your sun-soaked pool days, leisurely river strolls, and breezy sandals for heartwarming get-togethers, cozy flannels, and a hint of holiday magic around the corner.
FESTIVE FLAVORS
From pumpkin spice to cinnabun, these coffee shops have all the seasonal flavors you’ve been craving.
Dar Al Coffee in Peoria – Warm hospitality and rich flavors are staples of Peoria’s first Yemeni cafe. With premium coffee beans sourced from Yemen, you can’t go wrong with something simple or a seasonal favorite, like White Pumpkin, Pumpkin Cinnabun or Pumpkin Banana Bread.
Eli’s Coffee Shop in Metamora, Morton, and Tremont – A calm oasis in the middle of your busy day. Eli’s serves carefully brewed coffee and espresso as well as homemade treats and a great deli selection. Their Autumn Menu features Campfire Cold Brew, Candy Apple Twist, Banana Brulee and lots of tasty pastries to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Faire Coffee in Eureka and Washington – Cultivating community and forming meaningful connections is made simple over a cup of coffee at Faire Coffee. Their seasonal menu includes creative flavors like Oatmeal Cookie Latte, Buttermallow Macchiato, and Southern Pecan Cold Brew.
Kickabrew Coffee Co. in Kickapoo – With their small-town charm, Kickabrew Coffee Co. is the perfect stop for a cozy treat. Roasting their own beans and offering signature blends named after nearby streets, you’ll feel right at home here. Try flavors from their fall menu like Apple Cider Donut, Pumpkin Spice, and Candied Pecan.






GRATEFUL GATHERINGS
Warm your soul at these spots perfect for bringing people together.
Art At The Bodega in Washington – Tap into your creative side in this fun filled, laid-back environment for beginners, seasoned artists, and everyone in between. Stay out of the cold while you paint or craft something beautiful. You can attend a themed class or simply walk in and let your imagination take over.
Generations Candle Company in Peoria Heights – Create a signature scent or design the perfect gift for a loved one. Explore different fragrances, before choosing your favorites to create a one-of-a-kind candle, perfect for warming up those chilly nights.
Matilda’s Cocktail Lounge in Peoria – This cozy bar nestled in downtown Peoria is perfect for the colder months. With a warm atmosphere and cocktails for each season, it's the perfect place to gather indoors. Order a signature drink and snag a table for game night with friends!
Peoria Rivermen Game – Bundle up and catch a Peoria Rivermen game! Bring the family to the Peoria Civic Center to enjoy a fun night out that's full of energy. Grab a snack and something to sip and cheer for the home team as they hit the ice.
Smokin Notes BBQ in East Peoria – There’s nothing better on a chilly day than hearty comfort food. Smokin Notes BBQ serves up hearty portions and makes you feel like you’re sitting with your family around the dinner table, but no one has to cook!


SEASONAL SHOPPING
Get a start on your holiday shopping, for yourself or others!
Book Nook in Washington – There’s nothing cozier than getting lost in a good book. Pick out a used book from the ever-changing selection at the Book Nook! Once you find something for yourself, browse the gift section to find something perfect for the bookworms in your life.
Cabbages And Kings in Peoria Heights – Upgrade your next game night with something new from Cabbages and Kings. Not sure what to play next? The friendly staff will help you find the perfect game from their selection for all ages and skill levels.
Cranberry Creek in Chillicothe – Curate the ultimate fall vibe with cozy home touches, including hand-poured soycandles, seasonal decor, and bath and body essentials. Whether you’re sprucing up your own space or looking for the perfect hostess gift, you’ll find something special here.
Leaves 'n Beans Coffee in Morton, Pekin, and Peoria Heights – Get your caffeine fix with high quality coffee beans! Smell the coffee roasting while you browse a huge selection of coffee beans roasted in house. Keep an eye out for their seasonal flavors.
So Chic Boutique in Morton and Peoria Heights – Dress for the season with a new look from So Chic! This boutique offers trendy women’s apparel, adorable baby clothes, and must-have gift items. Now’s your chance to update your own wardrobe or look for a trendy gift for a loved one.



HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
Celebrate the magic of the season with these Peoria area holiday events.
Christmas In The Village at the Peoria Riverfront Museum – Step into a festive Christmas market on December 5 & 6 at the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Warm up with hot chocolate and holiday cocktails, view Peoria’s largest live christmas tree, and check a few names off of your holiday shopping list.
East Peoria Festival of Lights – Light up the season with dazzling displays and twinkling lights, all from the warmth of your car! Watch the Parade of Lights on November 22 and continue the magic through early January with Folepi’s Winter Wonderland drive through experience.
Nikolausmarkt in Chillicothe – Head over to Chillicothe on November 21-22 for a family-friendly, German Christmas market with food trucks, festive music, carriage rides, local artisans, and more!
Peoria Ballet’s The Nutcracker – Step into a world of magic and wonder on December 13 or 14 as you watch this timeless classic come to life at the Peoria Civic Center. Kick off your holiday celebrations with this festive show!
Santa Claus Parade in Peoria –– Don’t miss the longest running holiday parade in the country! The 138th Annual Santa Claus Parade will take place Downtown Peoria on November 28. Celebrate the many milestone anniversaries in the area with the “Decades of Holiday Celebrations” theme.



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