East Peoria Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in East Peoria and surrounding areas
Around the city center East Peoria rolls out the holiday season with festive events and things to do along the riverfront and in the downtown area. Attractions range from seasonal celebrations to family-friendly highlights like Folepi's Winter Wonderland that offer hands-on holiday activities. Explore illuminated displays, shop local holiday markets, enjoy Santa visits, concerts and parade festivities, and take part in seasonal activities that create warm community memories along the river and Main Street.
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Christmas Markets
11 eventsPeoria's largest live Christmas tree and community festival
Christmas Shows
5 eventsAnnual Nutcracker production with live orchestra and professional dancers
Christmas Activities
11 eventsLongest-running Santa Claus Parade in the USA
Editor's Picks (6)
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East Peoria Festival of Lights
Annual Festival of Lights with parade and winter wonderland
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Peoria's 138th Annual Santa Claus Parade
(Peoria)
Longest-running Santa Claus Parade in the USA
- Old Capitol Holiday Walks (Springfield)
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Christmas in the Village
(Peoria)
Peoria's largest live Christmas tree and community festival
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Downtown Springfield Christmas Parade
(Springfield)
Annual community Christmas parade
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Winter Old Capitol Farmers Market at Springfield Union Station
(Springfield)
Central Illinois' largest producer-only farmers market
Events Happening Soon (6)
Christmas Lights Near East Peoria
Additional holiday activities and unique Christmas experiences in East Peoria.
Folepi's Winter Wonderland
Experience the magic of Folepi's Winter Wonderland, a captivating drive-through light display. Journey...
View full details →East Peoria Festival of Lights
East Peoria's 41st Annual Festival of Lights promises a magical holiday season. The...
View full details →Christmas Parties Near East Peoria
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in East Peoria.
Women's Christmas Celebration
This annual Women's Christmas Celebration offers a heartwarming start to the holiday season....
View full details →East Peoria Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near East Peoria
Christmas Events Road Trips & Weekend Getaways
Worth the drive for more holiday events near East Peoria!
East Peoria Christmas FAQ
East Peoria is known for its vibrant holiday celebrations, often featuring spectacular Christmas light displays and community gatherings. While specific events can vary, the city consistently offers a festive atmosphere throughout the season.
East Peoria often embraces traditions centered around its stunning holiday light displays and community spirit. Residents take great pride in decorating their homes, creating a magical ambiance that defines the local holiday experience.
Many residential neighborhoods throughout East Peoria are renowned for their elaborate Christmas light displays. Driving through various streets, especially those known for community participation, will reveal the most dazzling displays.
You can discover Christmas markets and local makers at various community centers, event venues, and sometimes pop-up locations throughout East Peoria during the holiday season. These markets are perfect for finding unique, handcrafted gifts.
Enjoying the extensive neighborhood Christmas light displays is a fantastic free activity. Additionally, many community events like tree lightings or parades offer budget-friendly fun for the whole family.
Families with kids will love exploring the dazzling Christmas light displays and seeking out opportunities to meet Santa Claus. Many local events and markets also offer kid-friendly crafts and entertainment.