Fantastic Fall Festivals Beyond Champaign-Urbana

One thing we know about families in Central Illinois: They are willing to drive for a family friendly fall festival!

We feature some fall festivals we think are noteworthy to consider outside the Champaign-Urbana area

Pumpkins and apples and BBQ, oh my! Fall in Champaign-Urbana is full of some of our favorite things and if you’re willing to drive further than an hour for some truly unique fun, one of these might be a great weekend trip for you.

Chambanamoms thanks the Arcola Broomcorn Festival for presenting this article.

This year’s Arcola Broomcorn Festival will be held on Sept. 9-11 in Arcola

Arcola celebrates its heritage as the “Broomcorn Capital of the World” with the renowned annual Broomcorn Festival. Visitors can see broom making in their Broom Tent, enter into the National Broomcorn Sweeping contest, shop with arts and crafts vendors, take in the free entertainment, run or walk the 5K/10K race, explore all the great food, bring the kids for the carnival and a gigantic parade featuring their own famous Lawn Rangers! 51 years and still sweeping!

For More Information: website or Facebook

broomcorn festival arcola — The famous Lawn Rangers at the Broomcorn Festival parade.

From the closest (Decatur) to the furthest (Peoria), these fall festivals are all special. From pumpkins to planes to parades to polka, there’s something for everyone. As a note, we consider “fall” to be between Labor Day and Thanksgiving.

What: Morton Pumpkin Festival
When: Wednesday, Sept. 14 through Saturday, Sept. 17
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. 17 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. 16 through Sunday, Sept. 18
Where: Peoria
How much: Adults and teens, $8 on Friday or Saturday, $5 on Sunday; $15 for a weekend pass.
Highlights: We haven’t seen the official 2022 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. We will update here once we know exactly what is planned.

What: BalloonFest at Lake Shelbyville
When: Friday, Oct. 7 through Sunday, Oct. 9
Where: Shelbyville
How much: Free entry; some activities free, others require a fee.
Highlights: This is a fest for those who love to be up in the air! 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. 29
Where: Centralia
How much: Free children’s games and activities.
Highlights: Traditionally, there’s a lot to enjoy 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.

Fantastic Fall Festivals a Short Drive from Champaign-Urbana

One thing we know about families in Central Illinois: They are willing to drive for a family friendly fall festival!

We feature some fall festivals we think are noteworthy to consider outside the Champaign-Urbana area

Find everything related to fall in Champaign-Urbana: