Celebrate the magic of the holidays in East Peoria with our detailed guide. Whether you're intimately familiar with East Peoria or just getting acquainted, this guide maximizes your seasonal joy.
One of the highlights of the season is the East Peoria Festival of Lights, where breathtaking light displays create a winter wonderland that captivates visitors of all ages. The Parade of Lights dazzles with its vibrant floats and festive atmosphere, providing a perfect kickoff to the holiday celebrations. And the Peoria Santa Claus Parade is something you definitely don't want to miss, featuring joyous community participation and a chance to see Santa himself! See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around East Peoria
- East Peoria Festival of Lights
- Parade of Lights
- Peoria Santa Claus Parade (Peoria)
- Kris Kringle Market (Peoria Heights)
- Christmas On Court (Pekin)
- Luthy Lights (Peoria)
- Annual Peoria Area Community Festival of Nativities: O Holy Night (Peoria)
- Santa’s Wildlife Express (Hanna City)
- Holiday Shop and Stroll (Peoria)
See these and even more events listed below!
East Peoria Holiday Light Displays
East Peoria Festival of Lights
What to Expect:
Drive-through display with various lighted floats.
Description:
The East Peoria Festival of Lights is a 40-year tradition featuring a drive-through display of lighted floats, including a train, space ship, dinosaur, Clydesdales, giant blue whale, paddlewheeler, and bear sled. The festival begins with the Parade of Lights and continues through early January.
Where: East Peoria | More Info: East Peoria Festival of Lights
Parade of Lights
What to Expect:
Spectacular LED-lit floats along a two-mile route.
Description:
The East Peoria Festival of Lights Parade features 40 floats shaped by bright, colorful LED lights, including a 70-foot Clydesdale horse team float, a 95-foot Chinese dragon, and a 160-foot Steam Engine Train. The parade route spans approximately two miles along East Washington Street and Taylor Street, offering spectators a festive holiday experience.
Where: East Peoria | More Info: Parade of Lights
East Peoria Holiday Markets and Shopping
Kris Kringle Market
What to Expect:
Local vendors selling handmade crafts and gourmet foods.
Description:
The Kris Kringle Market in Peoria Heights features a variety of local vendors selling handmade crafts, gourmet foods, and unique gifts. The event takes place at Tower Park and includes a visit to the Soderstrom Castle for an enhanced experience.
Where: Peoria Heights | More Info: Kris Kringle Market
Christmas On Court
What to Expect:
Family-friendly holiday shopping experience with live music and Santa visits.
Description:
Christmas On Court is a quintessential holiday event in Downtown Pekin, featuring live entertainment, Santa appearances, and diverse shopping opportunities with local vendors.
Where: Pekin | More Info: Christmas On Court
Holiday Shop and Stroll
What to Expect:
Free horse-drawn carriage rides and balloon art.
Description:
Explore East Peoria's original downtown during the 11th annual Folepi's Gifts Galore Shop and Stroll. Visit unique, locally-owned businesses featuring handcrafted items, vintage clothing, and jewelry. Enjoy lunch at the Emerald Tea Room and participate in activities like free horse-drawn carriage rides, balloon art, and visits with Santa.
Where: Peoria | More Info: Holiday Shop and Stroll
East Peoria Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Peoria Santa Claus Parade
What to Expect:
Longest running holiday parade in the country with a rich history dating back to 1888.
Description:
The Peoria Santa Claus Parade is a long-standing holiday tradition featuring costumed characters, novelty walking units, decorated floats, and marching bands, all celebrating the "Hometown Holidays" theme.
Where: Peoria | More Info: Peoria Santa Claus Parade
East Peoria Other Holiday Activities
Annual Peoria Area Community Festival of Nativities: O Holy Night
What to Expect:
Unique collection of over 750 nativities from around the world.
Description:
The Peoria Area Community Festival of Nativities: O Holy Night features over 750 nativities from around the world, live musical performances, and a live Nativity scene. The event celebrates the 800th anniversary of the first crèche exhibit and offers activities for kids.
Where: Peoria | More Info: Annual Peoria Area Community Festival of Nativities: O Holy Night
Luthy Lights
What to Expect:
Tropical conservatory and diverse theme gardens.
Description:
Luthy Botanical Garden is a 5-acre oasis in Glen Oak Park, featuring a tropical conservatory, 15 theme gardens, and seasonal floral shows like the Poinsettia Show.
Where: Peoria | More Info: Luthy Lights
Santa’s Wildlife Express
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration in a zoo setting with animal interactions and festive activities.
Description:
At Santa's Wildlife Express, guests embark on a holiday adventure through the Enchanted Forest, visiting animal ambassadors and participating in games, crafts, and activities. The event culminates with a train ride to the North Pole, where they can decorate cookies, write letters to Santa, and enjoy hot chocolate and coffee. The event also features a children's musical recital and opportunities to meet Santa.
Where: Hanna City | More Info: Santa’s Wildlife Express
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Peoria (2 miles)
- North Peoria (4 miles)
- Pekin (8 miles)
- Normal (33 miles)
- Bloomington (33 miles)