Central Illinois is a region in the state of Illinois, covering almost a third of the state. Because of its central location, it has been dubbed as the heart of Illinois. It is mainly composed of the flat prairie with small towns and cities. Being the place where Abrahan Lincoln grew up, there are several historic places and structures dedicated to the memory of Lincoln. Central Illinois is mainly an agricultural region and is the leading producer of soybeans and corn. Several fairs and festivals are held to promote Central Illinois. Witness the different festivals that have attracted tourists to the region. Visit Central Illinois during one of the festivities to see and enjoy these events. To help you decide what festival to see, check our list of the popular festivals in Central Illinois, Illinois.
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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
Posted by Mackinaw Valley Winery on Monday, 23 December 2019
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]
2014 IWHA Fall Festival Open Model Champion England's Crowned Victory aka Jewel
Posted by Steve Whitmer on Monday, 8 September 2014
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
Crowd is gathering to hear 7eveth Time Down at Bagelfest. Free concert starts at 8pm. Not to late to join us. #lifeinasmalltown #lovemattoon #bagelfest19 #7eventhtimedown
Posted by Mattoon Bagelfest on Thursday, 18 July 2019
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]
The weather is perfect, the drinks are cold, the food is hot, and the Jazz is silky smooth. Come on down and join us for...
Posted by Peoria RiverFront Events / CEFCU Center Stage @ The Landing on Saturday, 8 June 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)
German Sommerfest Featuring Soccer and German Car Cruis'n Saturday, June 9th kicks of the Sport Verein’s annual...
Posted by German American Central Society Inc on Thursday, 7 June 2012
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
This Sunday FREE From 1-4pm Springfield Illinois YMCA the Gus and Flora Kerasotes Branch come to the 4th annual Hispanic...
Posted by Springfieldmoms.org on Wednesday, 27 September 2017
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
Plan now for the 2019 edition of the festival!
Posted by Lincoln's Festival on Route 66 on Thursday, 6 June 2019
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]
Kudos to the Peoria Heights Chamber of Commerce for a successful Duryea Festival last Saturday. One of the highlights of...
Posted by Hometown Community Banks on Thursday, 25 June 2015
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]
Posted by Decatur Celebration DC on Friday, 3 August 2018
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.
History
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