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. 10 through Saturday, Sept. 13
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. 13 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. 19 through Sunday, Sept. 21
Where: Peoria
How much: Admission is $7-$10 for a single day or $18 for a weekend pass.
Highlights: This family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration includes non-stop live music, log sawing contests, a kids zone and lots of food and beer. Wear your lederhosen!
What: BalloonFest at Lake Shelbyville
When: Friday, Oct. 10 through Sunday, Oct. 12
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. Find updates on Facebook.
Our pick for day to visit: Saturday
What: Centralia Halloween Parade and Fall Festival
When: Saturday, Oct. 25
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:
- Champaign-Urbana Area Trick or Treat Hours
- Where to Trunk or Treat in Champaign-Urbana and Beyond
- Helping Kids with Allergies, Autism or Special Needs Enjoy Halloween
- Spooky and Fun Halloween Yard Decor in Champaign-Urbana
- Champaign-Urbana’s Favorite Pumpkin Treats
- Where to See Stunning Fall Colors in Champaign-Urbana
- Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Negangard Pumpkin Patch with Kids
- Fall Leaf and Yard Waste Collection in Champaign-Urbana and Beyond
- Halloween Events at Zoos Near Champaign-Urbana
- Where to Take Fall Family Photos in Champaign-Urbana
- Haunted Houses and Where to Get Scared in Champaign-Urbana
- Fall Fun in Chicago: Free Days at the Best Museums
- Champaign-Urbana Area Halloween Events and Activities
- Four Fantastic Fall Festivals in Central Illinois
- 21 Things to Do During Fall (on a Budget) in Champaign-Urbana
- Fall Parades in Champaign-Urbana
- Champaign-Urbana Area Fall Fairs and Festivals
- Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Okaw Valley Orchard with Kids
- Fall Fun for Families in Champaign-Urbana
- Fall Favorites in Champaign-Urbana: U-Pick Apples, Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes
- Where to Pick Apples Near Champaign-Urbana
- Champaign-Urbana Area Farms with Activities for Kids
- Find the Ultimate Outdoor Adventures with Kids in the Champaign-Urbana Area
- Outdoor Concerts in Champaign-Urbana and Beyond
