10 Popular Festivals In Central Illinois, Illinois

1. Illinois State Fair

The Illinois State Fair is one of the biggest fairs in Illinois. It is held 11 days in the mid-week of August at the Springfield Fair Grounds in Springfield, the capital of the state of Illinois. Every year, hundreds of thousands come to be part of the fair. It started as an event to promote agriculture in the area but as years passed, some changes have been implemented. Aside from exhibits of the best agricultural products, the latest farming machinery was showcased. As people’s preferred activities changed, so did the events in the fair. Today, the Springfield Fair Grounds turn into a busy place with pavilions sprouting every year. During the fair, people flock to the fairgrounds to watch the colorful parade, enjoy the rides, watch concerts, listen to music, drink beer, and have fun.

Illinois State Fair

Address: Springfield Fair Grounds, Springfield, Illinois

Website: Illinois State Fair

Takes place: August

2. International Music, Wine and Craft Beer Festival

Experience the International Music, Wine and Craft Beer Festival, which is held every month of May. at Mackinaw Valley. There are live bands, concerts, and other live performances for your entertainment. For wine and craft beer lovers, this event is a must. With more than 50 wines and 50 craft beers showcased during the festivities, you will have a great time tasting all. A tasting table for high-end wines is added to this year’s celebrations. Have fun while sipping the best wines and gulping craft beer that Illinois is proud of.

International Music, Wine and Craft Beer Festival

Address: Mackinaw Valley Vineyard & Winery 33633 State Route 9 Mackinaw IL 61755 1-309-359-9463

Website: International Music, Wine and Craft Beer Festival

Takes place: May

Price: 10 USD

3. IWHA Fall Fesival [Last event in October 2018]

The IWHA or Illinois Walking Horse Association Festival is held every October to promote the Tennessee Walking Horse, a breed of horse that is famous for its flashy and gaited walk. This breed has been used in the farms and plantations in the southern regions of the United States of America. Walking horse breeders and enthusiasts love to show off their horses during the festival. Since this is a family-oriented event, there are competitions for all age groups in trail riding, horse show, and rodeo.

IWHA Fall Festival

Address: Illinois State Fair Grounds, Illinois, USA

Website: IWHA Fall Festival

Takes place: October

4. Mattoon Bagelfest

Mattoon Bagelfest commemorates the generosity of the owner of a newly opened bakery in Mattoon, Illinois. During the opening day, Mr. Lender gave everyone in the city free bagels for breakfast. That act of kindness evolved into the Mattoon Bagelfest, which is celebrated every month of July. During the festivities, 100 vendors display their wares in Mattoon. There are live bands, concerts, parades, dancing, carnival, and other activities that are related to bagels. During the festivities, spectators can have a taste of the delicious Lender’s Bagels.

Mattoon Bagelfest

Address: 500 Broadway Ave Mattoon, Illinois

Website: Mattoon Bagelfest

Takes place: July

5. Peoria Riverfront Jazz and Art Festival [Last event in 2019]

Music and art lovers flock to the Peoria RiverFront Jazz and Art Festival to listen to jazz music played by popular musicians and view the art exhibits. The lovely summer days and nights and the scenic riverfront add to the glamour of this event. Through the festival, young artists and musicians will be able to showcase their talents and share there music and works of art with the public. This event is sponsored by the Central Illinois Jazz Society and the Peoria Art Guild.

Peoria RiverFront Jazz and Art Festival

Address: Peoria, Central Illinois, USA

Takes place: June

6. Sommerfest (Dunlap)

Sommerfest is celebrated every month of June, usually at the start of the summer season to promote and preserve the culture of the German communities in Illinois. The two-day festivity is held at the Hickory Grove Park in Dunlop, Illinois. This event features games such as German soccer, car and bike cruising, German arts and crafts, German cuisine, and entertainment. There are events for visitors of all ages. This is a family-friendly event so don’t hesitate to bring your kids to enjoy and experience this festival.

Sommerfest (Dunlap)

Address: Hickory Grove Park, Dunlop, Illinois

Takes place: June

7. Hispanic Heritage Family Festival

Witness the gathering of all Latinos and Latinas in Illinois during the Hispanic Heritage Family Festival held in September. The festivity, which is held in Springfield features Latin dances, music, and food. Through these activities, the Springfield and Latin communities aim to understand the differences in their culture and heritage as well as recognize the contributions of the Latin and Hispanic people in America.

Hispanic Heritage Family Festival

Address: Springfield, Illinois

Takes place: Usually held in September

8. Lincoln's Festival in Bloomington

Lincoln’s Festival in Bloomington, a festival held every month of July, commemorates the life of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States of America and his excellent relationship with the community of Bloomington. He was known as a good lawyer and for his wit and humor especially in the courtroom. As an attorney, a congressman, and a representative, he advocated the construction of the railroads. Because of this, the festival was extended to Route 66, considered as the Mother Road of America.

Lincoln's Festival in Bloomington

Address: Bloomington, Illinois

Website: Lincoln’s Festival in Bloomington

Takes place: July

9. Duryea Festival [Event has passed]

Duryea Festival commemorates the history of Peoria Heights, a village that is located in Peoria County in Illinois. Among the most awaited event is the High Wheel Bicycle where riders peddle bikes with high wheels. Listen to live music rendered by local bands. Savor delicious foods and beverages in the different food stalls. Find something unique to buy in the stalls that offer a wide range of merchandise. Learn more about Peoria by taking a guided tour of the different historic places in the area.

Duryea Festival

Address: Tower Park 1222 E Kingman Ave, Peoria Heights, Illinois 61616

Takes place: June

10. Decatur Celebration [Event has passed]

Join thousands of people that flock to Decatur to be part of the Decatur Celebration during the month of August. This event is one of the biggest family street festivities. The celebration lasts for three days with several stage shows, live performances, concerts, and live music lined up to entertain the revelers. Savor delicious regional delicacies in the food stalls that fill the street. There are events for people of all ages, from kids to the older ones who want to imbibe the Decatur Celebration spirit.

Decatur Celebration

Address: 160 E Main St #200, Decatur, IL 62523, United States

Website: Decatur Celebration

Takes place: August

Price: 15 USD

Experience the popular festivals in Central Illinois, Illinois

Central Illinois celebrates several festivals each year. The events are attended by thousands of visitors from Illinois and the neighboring states. These festivals center on historical events as well as celebrate the culture and heritage of the different communities in Illinois. Come and join these popular festivals in Central Illinois, Illinois and have fun.