Ready for an epic Labor Day weekend in Peoria? From soulful blues on the riverfront to the delightful chaos of a grape stomp at Mackinaw Valley Vineyard, there’s no shortage of unique experiences. Will you be dancing to the rhythm or getting your feet purple this holiday?
Labor Day weekend in the Peoria area promises a vibrant array of festivities, offering residents and visitors alike an opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture and exciting events. This annual celebration of the unofficial end of summer is traditionally marked by community gatherings, live music, and unique experiences designed to create lasting memories. Among the highlights this year are two distinct, highly anticipated Peoria events that cater to diverse interests, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the holiday weekend unfolds.
Kicking off the weekend’s celebrations is the much-awaited Peoria Blues Festival, officially known as the 34th annual Peoria Blues & Heritage Music Festival. This renowned event is set to electrify the Peoria Riverfront Festival Park, transforming it into a dynamic hub of musical prowess. Attendees can expect a world-class lineup of artists spanning the rich tapestry of blues, roots, funk, and soul, promising captivating performances that resonate with both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.
Scheduled to run from August 29-30, the festival provides two full days of unparalleled musical talent against the picturesque backdrop of the Peoria Riverfront. Trumpeter and vocalist Jennifer Hartswick, for instance, is slated to perform with her band, adding to the stellar roster of artists. This convergence of exceptional musicianship makes the Peoria Riverfront a prime destination for those seeking an unforgettable auditory experience, reinforcing its status as a cultural hotspot.
For those looking for a different kind of festive fun, the Mackinaw Valley Grape Stomp and Harvest Festival offers a delightfully unconventional experience. This annual event, hosted at Mackinaw Valley Vineyard, invites participants to engage in the time-honored tradition of grape stomping. Imagine the joyous mess and friendly competition as individuals or pairs vie for grape-stomping glory in two large bins, all while enjoying the scenic vineyard surroundings.
Taking place on Sunday, August 31, from noon to 6 p.m. at 33633 Illinois Route 9, Mackinaw, this festival is more than just grape stomping. It’s a full sensory experience where attendees can savor wine flights available throughout the day, providing a perfect complement to the lively atmosphere. Live music by Shipwreck Kelly will further enhance the festive mood, creating a relaxed yet energetic environment for all ages.
Adding a touch of playful nostalgia, the Mackinaw Valley Grape Stomp also includes a Lucille Ball look-alike contest, encouraging participants to channel their inner “I Love Lucy” for a chance to win. This unique element, coupled with the opportunity to stomp grapes and enjoy local wines, makes it one of the most distinctive Labor Day weekend activities in the region. Admission is set at an affordable $5 per person, with children 12 and under enjoying free entry.
Whether one’s preference leans towards the soulful rhythms of the blues or the lighthearted chaos of a grape stomp, Illinois festivals in the Peoria area this Labor Day weekend are poised to deliver memorable experiences. These diverse Peoria events not only celebrate the end of summer but also highlight the community’s rich cultural offerings, inviting everyone to partake in the vibrant local scene.
