Fall Events in Central Illinois
Fall is right around the corner and I’ve compiled the ultimate fall bucket list for Central Illinois! Covering Morton, Peoria, Dunlap, Washington, Eureka, and more, get your calendar out because you won’t want to miss the fall fun! Scroll down to see the local list of pumpkin patches.
Morton, Il Fall Events
Morton Pumpkin Festival-the annual event is celebrating Libby’s 100th anniversary this year! From September 10, 2025 to September 13, 2025 enjoy a variety of events including pumpkin decorating, carnival rides, pumpkin drive thru, pumpkin glow foam party, arts and craft market, pumpkin festival parade (Saturday the 13th at 10 am) and much more!
Cider and Ale Festival-The Morton Arboretum-on October 4, 2025, enjoy seasonal ciders and beers from over 30 local breweries. Must purchase ticket.
Peoria, Il Fall Events
Oktoberfest 2025-an entire weekend of Oktoberfest on the Peoria Riverfront, co-sponsored by the German American Central Society. Held on September 19-21, 2025. Must buy tickets!
Witches Walk-a family friendly event at the Fon Du Lac Farm Park, this Halloween-themed walk around the park includes photo ops, trick-or-treat stops, and a showing of It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. 4 opportunities to enjoy: October 17, 18, 24, 25. Must purchase tickets to attend.
Zootober at the Peoria Zoo-held from 6-9pm multiple evenings in October, this event is family friendly and free for members!
Fall Foliage Walk at Forest Nature Park-September 27th from 10-11:30 am. Free for members, or $5 for nonmembers. Registration is required.
Hayrides and Hot Dogs-enjoy a hayrack ride through the countryside and roast your own hot dogs and s’mores! October 2, 9, 16 from 5-7pm.
Visions of Kyoto, Annual Chrysanthemum show at Luthy Botanical Gardens-enjoy the beautiful quintessential fall blooms on display at the gardens! October 10-November 2, 2025.
Haunted Hike at Forest Park Nature Center-enjoy a spooky evening walk. Costumes encouraged, registration required.
Washington, Il Fall Events
Fall Fest 2025-Sponsored by So Chic Boutique, this fall event with over 50 vendors also has live music, food, and a photo backdrop! Held on September 27, 2025 from 10-3pm.
Dunlap, Il Fall Events
Fall Festival at Wheels O’Time Museum-for the transportation loving person in your life! Held during regular hours on October 12th, the events features folk music, corn shelling and other seasonal displays and events.
Fall Family Fun Fest-free admission for this family event on September 27, 2025 that includes pumpkin painting, scavenger hunt, photo booth, and more.
Events in the Greater Central Illinois Area
Pear Picking at River Hills Farms in Chillicothe, Il-email to inquire about u-pick days during harvest season!
Apple picking at Tanner’s Orchard, Speer, IL-check their website for specific info on u-pick dates and prices. A must visit!
Apple picking at Arends Orchards, in Laura, Il-open July 1-December 15 for upick!
Crafts on the River at Fall Craft Show-local vendors and artisans, food, and live music in Chillicothe. Event takes place on Saturday September 13, 2025 from 9-4pm.
Lacon Fall Market -on Saturday, October 18th from 10-2pm, enjoy crafters, vendors, and food.
Central Illinois Pumpkin Patches
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the pumpkin patch, and luckily we have so many to choose from!
