The Pekin Marigold Festival will return to its pre-COVID version with the 2021 theme “Marigolds Shine On” Thursday, September 9 through Sunday, September 12 at Mineral Springs Park and the surrounding area. The festival is hosted by the Pekin Chamber of Commerce in the Marigold Capitol of the World.
On Thursday, night the Carnival will offer unlimited ride bracelets from 5 – 11 pm for $25. The carnival continues on Friday from 5 – 11 pm, Saturday from 11 am – 11 pm and Sunday from 11 am – 5 pm. Also on Thursday night, a Wine Tasting Event beginning at 5 pm at the Pekin Country Club will feature a variety of locally produced wines. Membership in the club is not necessary. Tickets are $10.
Art in the Park is one of the largest vendor shows in Central Illinois offering hand-crafted or personally created products running on Saturday from 9 am – 6 pm and on Sunday from 9 am – 5 pm.
Marigold Mile begins at 10 am down the same route as the Parade which follows immediately after the race. Over 100 floats and community organization participants begins at the intersection of 14th and Broadway.
The Festive Food Court, a fundraiser for community non-profit organizations, runs from 9 am – 6 pm on Saturday and 9 am – 5 pm on Sunday. A drive-through service is available.
From Noon – 5 pm on Saturday & Sunday, the Kids Experience will offer activities, freebies, fire trucks and more. Admission is free.
A free fishing clinic will run from 2 – 5 pm on Saturday at the Mineral Springs Park Lagoon on the main dock in front of the pavilion. Participants of all ages will learn how to cast, basic techniques, tying knots and more. No license is required and equipment will be provided.
The Showcase stage will feature the Pekin Notables Show Choir, Lee Hall as Elvis, Brothers & Friends, Vine and Jonny Quest on Saturday and the Miss Marigold Queen & Court Talent performances, The Parke, Nicbeats and the Corn Wolves on Sunday.
The Lagoon Glow will happen on Saturday beginning at 7:30 pm. Support your Pekin Firefighter’s Local #524 with the purchase of a lantern to float on the Lagoon to celebrate your hero. Minimum donation is $10 and you may decorate your lantern to make it special for your hero.
Marigold Movie Night will feature The Goonies in Pekin Community High School’s Football Stadium on Saturday starting at 8:30 pm for $5 per person. Concessions will be available.
The Marigolden Breakfast will take place on Sunday beginning at 8 am featuring pancakes, sausage and coffee for $5 per person. Dine-in and curb side service will be available at the Miller Center with all proceeds benefitting TCRC and the Miller Center programs.
A community worship service will be held beginning at 9 am on Sunday in the park. Featuring music from By the Book, local musicians, various voices in scripture, testimony and a special kids message, the service will be inclusive of all denominations of Christianity and are all welcome.
Also on Sunday, area artists will participate in the Chalk Walk from Noon – 4 pm where they will decorate sidewalk blocks around the lagoon. Cost is $10 per block and artists must bring their own supplies.
For full details about the Festival, visit https://pekinchamber.com/pekin-marigold-festival
Visit the ExplorePeoria.com Calendar to find event information for Peoria area events & entertainment.
