One thing we know about families in Central Illinois: They are willing to drive for a family friendly fall festival
Fall festivals we think are noteworthy outside the Champaign-Urbana area
Pumpkins and apples and barbecue, oh my! Fall in Champaign-Urbana is full of some of our favorite things and if you’re willing to drive more than an hour for some truly unique fun, one of these might be a great weekend trip for you.
From Centralia to Peoria, these fall festivals are all special. Pumpkins to planes and parades to polka, these festivals have something for everyone. As a note, we consider “fall” to be between Labor Day and Thanksgiving. (Click here for fall festivals closer to Champaign-Urbana.)
What: Morton Pumpkin Festival
When: Wednesday, Sept. 11 through Saturday, Sept. 14
Where: Morton
How much: Entertainment and some activities free. Cost for carnival rides and other activities, food available for purchase.
Highlights: Did you know — 85 percent of the world’s pumpkin is processed in Morton. Don’t miss the Pumpkin Festival parade on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 10:30 a.m, pumpkin pancake breakfast and pumpkin EVERYTHING to kick off fall.
Our pick for day to visit: Saturday
What: Peoria Oktoberfest
When: Friday, Sept. 20 through Sunday, Sept. 22
Where: Peoria
How much: Last year, admission was $5-8 for a single day or $15 for a weekend pass. Still waiting to hear what the cost will be for 2024.
Highlights: We haven’t seen the official 2024 schedule but typically this family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration includes non-stop live music, log sawing contests, a parade, carnival rides, a kids zone and lots of food and beer. Wear your lederhosen!
What: BalloonFest at Lake Shelbyville
When: Annually held the weekend of Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Where: Shelbyville
How much: Free entry; some activities free, others require a fee.
Highlights: This is a festival for those who love to be up in the air. If it is just like last year, there will be young eagles flights first thing Saturday morning, food vendors, live music, a kids zone, and more. Don’t miss the evening balloon glow on Saturday, weather permitting.
Our pick for day to visit: Saturday
What: Centralia Halloween Parade and Fall Festival
When: Saturday, Oct. 26
Where: Centralia
How much: Free children’s games and activities.
Highlights: Traditionally, there’s a lot to experience at this Halloween-themed festival. Enjoy free games and activities during the day or peruse the flea market. Then the Annual Halloween Parade kicks off in the evening.
Find everything related to fall in Champaign-Urbana:
- 17+ Pumpkin Treats to Try Around Champaign-Urbana
- Spooky and Fun Halloween Yard Decor in Champaign-Urbana
- Where to Trunk or Treat in Champaign-Urbana and Beyond
- Champaign-Urbana Area Trick or Treat Hours
- 10+ Places to See Fall Colors in Champaign-Urbana (and a Fall Trail Map)
- Where to Take Fall Family Photos in Champaign-Urbana
- Fall Leaf and Yard Waste Collection in Champaign-Urbana and Beyond
- Halloween Events at Zoos Near Champaign-Urbana
- Haunted Houses and Where to Get Scared in Champaign-Urbana
- Champaign-Urbana Area Halloween Events and Activities
- 21 Things to Do During Fall (on a Budget) in Champaign-Urbana
- Four Fantastic Fall Festivals in Central Illinois
- Fall Parades in Champaign-Urbana
- Champaign-Urbana Area Fall Fairs and Festivals
- Apples, Pumpkins and Corn Mazes in Champaign-Urbana
- Fall Fun for Families in Champaign-Urbana
- Where to Pick Apples Near Champaign-Urbana
- Outdoor Concerts in Champaign-Urbana and Beyond
